best beaches to visit january

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• 1 Carílo, Argentina
• 2 Waimea Bay Beach Park, Oahu, Hawaii
• 3 Paternoster, South Africa
• 4 South Beach, Miami, Florida
• 5 Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
• 6 Byron Bay, Australia
• 7 Pigeon Island National Park, St. Lucia
• 8 Ko Phi Phi Le, Thailand
• 9 Playa Peña Blanca, Puerto Rico
• 10 Arraial do Cabo, Brazil

10 Best Beaches to Visit in January

Is it cold enough for you yet? Warming up from the winter storms of January is as easy as hopping the next flight to paradise. Jetsetter rounds up some of the most relaxing beaches on earth to kick off 2019 right.

See recent posts by Kathryn O'Shea-Evans

Carílo, Argentina

The Argentine 1% flock to Carílo, a three-hour drive south of Buenos Aires, for its lush pine forests and idyllic beaches, not to mention hip hangouts like Parador Neruda , a waterfront seafood restaurant and spa that opened in October. Put on your helmet and harness to traverse the lofted wood walkway through the forest canopy at Bosque Aereo Carilo , go for a reiki massage at Carilo Village Apart Hotel & Spa , or simply laze about on the beach: the average temperature here in January is a perfect 80 degrees.

Waimea Bay Beach Park, Oahu, Hawaii

The average January high temperature on Oahu is over 80 degrees—and what better place to enjoy it than Waimea Bay Beach Park? Big Wave surfing supposedly started here in the 1950s, and it’s still the coolest place to watch pros ride the up-to-30-foot waves. You might also spot locals cliff jumping , but there’s no shame in opting for more chill activities, like visiting the centuries-old temples at Pu’u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site or checking out the 45-foot waterfall and gorgeous gardens in Waimea Valley . End your days B&Bing it up at Waimea Gardens Cottage Bed and Breakfast , Oahu's coziest hidden oasis.

RELATED: 10 Best Hotels in Hawaii

Paternoster, South Africa

With its whitewashed cottages, lobster-filled restaurant menus, and verdant hillsides, Paternoster, about 90 miles north of Cape Town, feels like a slice of Greece in South Africa. Explore the 1936 lighthouse at Cape Columbine Nature Reserve Tietiesbaai ; rent one of the sailboats or yachts bobbing in the marina at Club Mykonos (where hotel rooms face the turquoise sea); and tuck into a Noma-esque meal at Wolfgat , with a seasonal tasting menu that often includes local seaweeds, venison, and produce from the restaurant’s own garden.

South Beach, Miami, Florida

Florida is filled with tourists during the holidays—but come January 2, the crowds return to cooler climates. South Beach gets decidedly more relaxed and is the perfect level of “scene.” Stop by the brand-new Stubborn Seed restaurant from Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford for green curry lobster, then check into the just-opened Iberostar Berkeley hotel, with its throwback Albert Anis-designed Art Deco exterior still intact and all the modern amenities you'd expect on offer, including showers with triple-filtered water and an outpost of BLT Steak in the lobby.

RELATED : 8 Best Restaurants in South Beach

Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

January is “dry season” in this lush country, and Manuel Antonio National Park’s beaches may just be the most extraordinary place to soak up the Costa Rican sun. The half-mile, crescent-shaped Playa Manuel Antonio beach encircles a hidden cove, but should you tire of the sand, the area's wildlife spotting is incredible with more than 184 species of birds and 109 mammals (including sloths and squirrel monkeys). Make your base Los Altos Resort , which features an infinity pool that looks out over the Pacific Ocean and rainforest, a spa, and cooking classes.

RELATED: The Best Hotels in Costa Rica

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica hotels

Byron Bay, Australia

In boho-chic Byron Bay, it's all about sublime beaches, epic surf breaks, lazy afternoons, and eating seriously well . Foodies love the breezy Halcyon House , where Australian-born, Noma-alum chef Ben Devlin runs the hotel's standout restaurant Paper Daisy (we hear the scorched kangaroo with lychee is delicious). Work off your meal by climbing the 19th-century Cape Byron Lighthouse , or sign up for a workshop on sustainable agriculture at The Farm ; the beekeeping class is a favorite and fills up quickly.

Pigeon Island National Park, St. Lucia

January is the “coldest” (read: less visited) month in St. Lucia, with an average high temperature of over 80 degrees . If that’s cold, sign us up. Pigeon Island National Landmark , a 44-acre islet on St. Lucia’s northern arm, feels like your own private island—with plenty of secret coves, reefs, and verdant areas ripe for exploration, for just an $8 entrance fee. Stay as close as you can by booking a room at The Landings Resort & Spa and never miss out on the action.

Ko Phi Phi Le, Thailand

With hidden lagoons and lush cliffs that tumble down to the sea, Ko Phi Phi Le island could very well be your dream escape—the problem is, it’s also high on other peoples' travel wish lists. To get the isle all to yourself, make sure you get an early start. The January low temps hover around 72 degrees, which makes Ko Phi Phi Le an ideal place to laze about on a sugary beach even in the morning. We recommend you do just that followed by a snorkeling trip to Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park with an expert guide from ++Nuditours++ (ask them to take you to Phi Ley Lagoon, which is so eye-poppingly blue it will blow up your Instagram).

RELATED: 7 Jaw-Dropping Places to See This January

Playa Peña Blanca, Puerto Rico

Yes, Hurricane Maria devastated a still-struggling Puerto Rico. But with some 75 percent of Puerto Rico’s hotels operating as usual—with fewer than normal visitors—this may be the best time to visit and show your support with a much-needed cash-infusion. In the northwest coast in the county of Aguadilla (a two-hour drive from the San Juan airport), the powdery Playa Peña Blanca is a favorite beach among locals thanks to its volcanic cliffs, towering trees that form natural shelters from the sun, and nearby reefs teeming with technicolor fish. Bring your snorkeling gear, pack a picnic, and set up shop for the afternoon. Spend your nights sleeping soudly at A La Bella Noni B&B , our favorite relaxing beachside spot in the area.

Arraial do Cabo, Brazil

Picture sand so white and sparkly it looks like glitter, water so clear and blue it makes your eyes ache, and seafood so fresh you'll never want to eat anything else. Welcome to Arraial do Cabo, a simple fishing town a hundred miles east of Rio with big (ahem) lures. Forno Beach is often called the prettiest on the planet and it takes just a short hike to get there. Spread out your towel, take out your beach read, and stay for as long as the salty sea air beckons. Once hunger strikes, we recommend the family-run Pimenta Rosa Gastronomia , a local go-to for its laid-back vibe, just-caught fish, and lemon mousse dessert.

What to Wear on Your Beach Vacation

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10 Best US Beaches to Visit in January

‍ Winter season may not seem like the ideal time for a beach vacation, but in certain parts of the US, January is the perfect month to escape the cold and enjoy some sun, sand, and sea. This guide will take you through the 10 best warm beaches to visit in the US in January, offering you a combination of beautiful coastlines, vibrant culture, and exciting outdoor activities.

1. Malibu, California

A. overview.

Malibu, a beachfront city along the Pacific, with an average January temperature of 53°-68°F, is a year-round tropical oasis that offers the perfect winter getaway. This destination is known for its bright white sand made of pure Appalachian quartz, which stays cool even in the sun and gives the water its unique emerald hue.

B. What to Do

Malibu offers a variety of activities for visitors. You can taste the day’s fresh catch at local restaurants or engage in deep-sea fishing. For those interested in art, Malibu is home to the Getty Villa, a museum housing a stunning collection of Greek and Roman art. You can also hike the Point Dume Cliff Trail along the cliffs for breathtaking ocean views.

C. Where to Stay

The Shade Hotel is a great accommodation option in Malibu. It offers a comfortable stay with Gulf views and direct beach access.

2. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and spiritual significance, offers an average January temperature of 34°-59°F. This red-rock city is a winter destination that offers a healing outdoor experience amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.

While in Sedona, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as attending the Chamber Music Sedona’s annual Winterfest, which hosts a variety of concerts and recitals. Nature lovers can hike through the red-rock cliffs and valleys or shop for Native American crafts at the Kachina House.

Sky Ranch Lodge offers stunning views of the Koolau Mountains and the sparkling Kaneohe Bay. They also offer free kayak and snorkel equipment rental so that you can make the most of the water.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is known for its world-class entertainers, opulent hotel casinos, and vibrant environment. With an average January temperature of 28°-59°F, it’s an exciting winter getaway that offers a multitude of entertainment options.

In Las Vegas, you can enjoy the city’s nightlife, attend memorable shows like the WOW Vegas Spectacular or Cirque du Soleil, or catch one of your favorite musicians in concert. Besides entertainment, outdoor spots like the Lake Mead area or Red Rock Canyon can be explored for a refreshing hike.

Stay at the Desert Club Resort for a relaxing stay. The resort offers a tranquil pool, a swim-up bar, and a 17,000-square-foot spa where you can unwind with a Thai herbal massage.

4. Key Largo, Florida

Nestled between Key West and Miami, Key Largo is a secluded stretch perfect for a serene getaway. With an average January temperature of 54°-72°F, it’s an ideal destination for those who love to explore the underwater world.

Key Largo offers a plethora of activities including deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. You can explore the beautiful underwater world around the Spanish shipwreck, which is home to a variety of marine life like sea horses, lobsters, turtles, and colorful tropical fish.

Stay at the Playa Largo Resort to enjoy direct beach access, a tranquil pool, and a variety of dining options.

5. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, also known as the “Garden Isle”, boasts lush landscapes, pristine bays, and an average January temperature of 54°-72°F. With fewer crowds during this time, it’s one of the best warm places to visit in the US in January.

Kauai offers a variety of activities from snorkeling and surfing to hiking through the Na Pali cliffs. Animal lovers can visit the seals and sea lions at La Jolla Cove or kayak through one of the many sea caves.

Stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai for a luxurious stay. The hotel offers ocean views, a spa, and a variety of dining options.

6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach , with an average January temperature of 34°-59°F, is an easy escape from the cold. This South Carolina stretch offers 60 miles of beautiful coastline, vibrant boardwalks, and world-class golf courses.

While in Myrtle Beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as playing golf, shopping, dining, or simply lounging on the beach. The city also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.

Stay at the family-friendly North Beach Plantation located on a 7.5-acre oceanfront complex. The resort offers five pools, a swim-up bar, a lazy river, and a 17,000-square-foot spa.

7. South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is a popular spring break destination that offers a serene escape during winter. With an average January temperature of 34°-66°F, it’s an ideal place for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

While in South Padre Island, you can enjoy activities such as parasailing, boating, fishing, and walking along the island’s picturesque nature trails. For wildlife lovers, the island offers exciting opportunities for dolphin-watching and bird-watching.

Stay at The Inn at South Padre for a comfortable and relaxing stay. The hotel offers a swimming pool, free breakfast, and is just a short walk from the beach.

8. Laguna Beach, California

Laguna Beach, located just north of San Diego, offers an average January temperature of 53°-68°F. Known for its rocky cliffs, white sand beaches, and vibrant culture, it’s one of the top warm places to visit in the US in January.

While in Laguna Beach, visitors can take a walk along the boardwalk or explore the coastal canyons, enjoying the endless views of the Pacific Ocean. The town is also home to high-end restaurants, art galleries, and trendy shops.

Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel for a luxurious stay. The hotel offers stunning views of the Pacific from the comfort of your room.

9. St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida

St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida boasts an incredible 361 days of sunshine per year, making it an ideal beach destination in January. With an average temperature of 53°-72°F, it’s the perfect place to enjoy warm sunshine and soft-sand beaches.

Visitors can lounge on the sandy beaches, check out the numerous craft breweries and restaurants, or visit nearby museums. For those looking for some adventure, the area offers a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.

Stay at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach for a family-friendly resort experience. The resort offers Gulf views and direct beach access.

10. Destin, Florida

Destin, once a sleepy fishing village, now attracts visitors with its bright white sand and clear blue waters. With an average January temperature of 39°-66°F, it’s one of the top warm places to visit in the US in January.

In Destin, you can indulge in a variety of activities such as deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The city also offers a variety of local dining options, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Stay at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa for a luxurious stay. The resort offers a variety of amenities including a spa, golf course, and several dining options.

From the sunny beaches of California and Florida to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, these are the best US beaches to visit in January. Each offers a unique blend of sun, sand, and sea, ensuring that your winter getaway will be a memorable one.

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Escape the cold at the best 6 beaches to visit in January in the USA

January: the excitement of the holidays is over, and you’re left with cold, gray weather and nothing more to look forward to over the next few months. We get it, but it doesn’t have to be that way. You worked hard over the holidays, and now you deserve to reward yourself with a relaxing tropical getaway. There are plenty of beaches across the country that you can escape to during this month ; so many, in fact, that it can be hard to tell which are the best beaches to visit in January in the USA.

But that’s why we’re here. In this guide, we’ve outlined the best beach vacations to take in January from east to west and beyond, including important information on things to do and see during your trip. To help you plan your visit, you’ll also discover the closest SIXT locations to each destination. Let’s dive right in.

• St. Pete Beach, St. Petersburg, Florida
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West, Florida
• Domes Beach, Rincón, Puerto Rico
• Isla Blanca Beach, South Padre Island, Texas
• Mission Beach, San Diego, California
• Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

1. St. Pete Beach: One of the best beaches in Florida in January

Location: St. Petersburg, Florida

Av . Temperature January: 70°F

Av. Water Temperature January: 65°F

Av. Days of rain: 5

Special: Ideal for beginner surfers

St. Petersburg, Florida, is a small island off the western coast of the state, just south of Tampa. There are plenty of beaches to explore here, but St. Pete Beach stands out as one of the best Florida beaches in January. This beach is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, with average temperatures of about 70°F and average water temperatures of 65°F in January. While the water may be a bit chilly, it’s made up for by the fact that St. Petersburg only sees about five days of rain in January , so you can rest assured you’ll have a sunny vacation. 

St. Pete Beach is known for its powdery white sand and shallow waters, making it perfect for young children dipping their toes into the sea for the first time. Beginner surfers will also find the waves here to be ideal for their skill level. If you’re looking for a little more adventure, take a short ferry ride to Shell Key for even more swimming and snorkeling, and to encounter sea turtles . 

There are plenty of bike trails surrounding the area if you feel like enjoying the warm weather without heading to the water. This beach town also boasts plenty of unique shops , like the Merry Pier bait and tackle shop and the Corey Avenue Sunday Market . 

When you arrive in St. Petersburg via Tampa International Airport (TPA), the SIXT branch at the Tampa airport will have your rental car waiting for you. Book it before you arrive to make sure that the one you want will be available. 

2. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: One of Florida’s southernmost beaches

Location: Key West, Florida

Av . Temperature January: 75°F

Av. Water Temperature January: 71°F

Av. Days of rain: 4

Special: Perfect for swimming and snorkeling

Heading further south down Florida’s west coast, we arrive at Key West. While there are plenty of beaches throughout the Florida Keys, the one at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park dominates the southwestern tip. The average January temperature here is about 75°F and the average water temperature is about 71°F, making it one of the warmest beaches in January in Florida . In addition, it only sees about four days of rain, making for an even sunnier trip than St. Pete. 

The Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach Area is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or lounging in the sunshine. You can rent lounge chairs, umbrellas, and snorkeling equipment for a small fee. Those who decide to snorkel will experience the diverse marine life that abounds where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Atlantic. You’ll come face to face with parrotfish, corals, lobsters, and more. Just remember your water shoes, as this is a hard coral beach.

Fort Zachary Historic State Park is home to more than just a beach. You can take a tour of the park and visit the historic fort , Civil War cannons, and the Key West Shipping Channel. As a result, this is among the best beaches to visit in January in the US for history lovers . There are also plenty of biking and nature trails winding through the park. When you’re done exploring, have a cookout at one of the public grills.

The closest SIXT branches are at the Miami International Airport (MIA) and the Miami Coral Gables/Miracle Mkt . With a vast selection of cars, from SUVs, sedans and family cars to convertibles, you can explore everything Key West, and the other Florida Keys, has to offer.

3. Domes Beach: One of the warmest beaches in winter

Location: Rincón, Puerto Rico

Av . Temperature January: 86°F

Av. Water Temperature January: 81°F

Special: Ideal for surfers

Heading further southeast of Florida, we’ll next explore Puerto Rico. The West Coast is home to some of the most beautiful and popular beaches on the island, such as Domes Beach. With average temperatures around 86°F and average water temperatures of about 81°F, this is one of the best beaches to visit in January in the USA simply because it’s one of the warmest . It also only sees about four days of rain, so you’re guaranteed to have plenty of sunny beach days. 

Domes Beach in winter is the perfect destination for surfers. The waves here can sometimes get up to 20 feet high , so it’ll really challenge your skills. Lessons are also available for beginners. Those not looking to catch a wave can enjoy sunbathing on the golden sand or swimming or snorkeling close to the shore. Diving tours are also available . If you have young children or are a beginner swimmer, this beach is also within walking distance to several other calmer beaches. 

For those who’d rather look at the water rather than actually get in it, you can enjoy parasailing, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding, and more. The Punta Higuero Lighthouse is nearby for those who want to explore a bit of history, as well. 

You’ll find several SIXT locations in Puerto Rico when you’re ready to start your adventure and explore the island. But perhaps it’s more convenient to start your trip by renting a car from the SIXT location at San Juan Airport (SJU) .

4. Isla Blanca Beach: One of the best beaches in January in the USA

Location: South Padre Island, Texas

Av . Temperature January: 69°F

Av. Water Temperature January: 68°F

Av. Days of rain: 8

Special: Huge variety of beach activities

Heading back up to the mainland, South Padre Island is located on the western shores of the Gulf coast, just a short trip north of Mexico. Isla Blanca Beach, one of the most popular beaches to visit in January in Texas, is located on the southern tip of this island. Isla Blanca Beach boasts average temperatures of 69°F and average water temperatures of 68°F. It might be cooler than some of the other destinations we’ve mentioned, but there’s nothing like an invigorating dip in some chilly water to make you feel alive. South Padre Island experiences only eight days of rainfall in January, so you can be sure the sun will be shining.

Isla Blanca Beach is more than a mile long, so there’s plenty of space for sunbathers and beach sports lovers to spread out. Engage in a friendly game of beach volleyball or head into the water for a quick dip. Swimming, snorkeling, and even kitesurfing opportunities abound and there are plenty of waterfront restaurants, cafes, and snack shops waiting for you when you get hungry. The marina also offers opportunities for fishing and fly fishing.

When you’re done on the water, you can head to South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center . The five-story watchtower here provides amazing views of the migrating birds. You can also opt to go on a boat tour with the South Padre Island Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center to learn more about the local marine life.

The closest SIXT location to South Padre Island is the one in San Antonio International Airport (SAT) , as this is the closest major airport and how most people will choose to travel to this area. Make sure you choose your car rental, from the branch’s selection of SUVs, sedans, family cars, or luxury cars to find the one that suits you the best and book it online before your arrival.

5. Mission Beach: One of the best beaches for surfing in January

Location: San Diego, California

Av . Temperature January: 65°F

Av. Water Temperature January: 60°F

Special: Known for best waves in the area

Heading over to the West Coast, San Diego is one of southern California’s most popular beach destinations all year round. In January, though, Mission Beach is one of the best beaches in the USA to visit, as it’s one of the warmest in California. Located in the northern part of the city near Mission Bay, Mission Beach boasts average temperatures of about 65°F and average water temperatures of about 60°F. San Diego only experiences about four days of rain in January, so you’ll have plenty of sunshine. 

Mission Beach is known for having some of the best waves in the area , so it’s especially popular with surfers and kiteboarders. If you don’t want to partake, you can watch from your sunny spot on the sand. There are plenty of calm areas on the beach, as well, so swimmers and families need not worry. Fishing opportunities are available from the Mission Bay jetty. Mission Beach is a classic boardwalk beach town, so you’ll also encounter lots of runners and rollerbladers on the paths near the sand.

After your time at the beach, Belmont Park is the perfect place to visit. Belmont Park is home to roller coasters, arcade games, bumper cars, and more to keep visitors of all ages entertained. The USS Midway Museum and the renowned San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park are also nearby. 

The SIXT location in San Diego International Airport (SAN) makes it easy for you to explore everything this beach town has to offer. If you fly in San Diego, SIXT provides a free shuttle, so you can arrive hustle-free to the airport branch and pick up your car rental.

6. Waikiki Beach: One of the most popular beaches to visit in January

Location: Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Av . Temperature January: 81°F

Av. Water Temperature January: 74°F

Av. Days of rain: 7

Special: Variety of water activities like kayak, canoe, paddleboard

The Hawaiian Islands are famous for their pristine beaches and pleasant weather year-round, so we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention this beach. The southernmost and most remote on this list, Waikiki Beach is one of the hottest beaches to visit in January. With average temperatures of about 81°F and average sea temperatures of about 74°F, stepping into the water here is like stepping into a warm bath compared to some of the other beaches. Honolulu experiences about seven days of rainfall in January, so you’ll be sure to stay dry most of the time. 

Waikiki Beach is located on the southeastern tip of the island and is famous for the surrounding luxury resorts . Celebrities and locals alike flock to this beach year-round, and for good reason. The soft golden sand is ever so inviting, and dozens of options for seaside accommodation give you easy access to the water. It’s a popular surfing beach , so even if you’re not hopping on a board yourself, you’re sure to have some entertainment as you watch from your lounge chair. You can also opt to rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard if you’re looking for a less intense water activity. 

After your beach day, you can visit the Honolulu Zoo , home to Komodo dragons and peacocks. Or, you can head to Kalakaua Avenue and shop at the designer stores, rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous. For a cultural experience, catch a hula show at nearby Kuhio Beach . For a nightcap, there are plenty of seaside seafood restaurants and cocktail bars for you to explore. 

Honolulu has virtually no public transport, so your ticket to explore the area will be one of the SIXT branches in Honolulu . With SIXT conveniently located in Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) you can have a car rental ready for you when you arrive. If you decide to stay at the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach , you can find a SIXT representative in the hotel lobby. 

Reward yourself after the stress of the holiday season with a relaxing beach vacation in January. Now that you know the best beaches to visit in the USA in January, it’s time to start planning your trip. Whether you want to explore the beaches on East Coast , West Coast , or somewhere in between, there is a perfect January beach getaway for you. You can even consider renting a car and taking a beach road trip. What are you waiting for? Plan your January beach getaway now. 

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13 Great Beaches for Winter Sun

Warm up this winter on some of the world’s best stretches of sand, from close-to-home shores to more exotic beach destinations around the globe..

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Benguerra Island, off the coast of Mozambique, is known for its white-sand beaches and abundant marine life, including dugongs, marlins, and dolphins.

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

As winter temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, it’s natural to start craving warmer climes. Luckily, those in need of a vitamin D boost have their pick of a whole host of fantastic beach destinations that either remain blissfully warm and sunny year-round or are currently in the throes of a Southern Hemisphere summer. Here, 13 of the world’s beaches that are particularly lovely from December through February.

Benguerra Island

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

The second-largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, off the coast of Mozambique, Benguerra Island is part of a national marine reserve where you’ll regularly encounter tiger sharks, manta rays, humpback whales, and Africa’s last viable population of dugongs, cousins of manatees. The biodiversity is so rich—everywhere from its inland lakes and gently sloping sand dunes to its seagrass beds and coral reefs—that the archipelago has been called the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean.

Onshore, expect a laid-back vibe at resorts like Kisawa Sanctuary , which made it onto our 2022 Stay List of best new hotels in the world. The resort sits on hundreds of acres of beach and coastal forest and features bungalows constructed with local timber and decorated with 3D printing, a method also used to create artificial coral for reef restoration in the area. While it’s tempting to sit back and enjoy the powdery sand here, Kisawa also partners with the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies , a nonprofit that offers guests the chance to help with research projects like tagging sharks and marlins.

Sand volleyball is unsurprisingly a popular sport on Moreton Island, one of the biggest sand islands in the world.

Photo by Nicholas DeRenzo

Moreton Island

Queensland, Australia

Queensland is famed for its Great Barrier Reef, but right in Brisbane’s own backyard is an island destination that’s much more easily accessible and highly underrated: Moreton Island. Reachable by a 75-minute ferry ride from the city, it is the third-largest sand island in the world, a former whaling station that has been reimagined as an adventure destination and national park. It’s home to the highest coastal sand dune in the world, at more than 900 feet (sand-tobogganing down it is fun but not for the faint of heart), and ringed with beaches that are calm on the western side and surfable on the east.

By day, you can snorkel or “sea scooter” among the Tangalooma Wrecks, a collection of 15 sunken vessels that attract sea turtles, dugongs, and bottom-dwelling wobbegong sharks. By night, you can paddle over the wrecks in an illuminated kayak or wade out into the surf to hand-feed a habituated pod of wild dolphins. If you’re staying overnight at the Tangalooma Island Resort , stop into one of the beachside restaurants and look for Moreton Bay bugs, a species of slipper lobster that is a local favorite.

Rocky and rugged Punta Cometa is the southernmost point in the state of Oaxaca.

Courtesy of Ara CG on Unsplash

Oaxaca, Mexico

With beach-friendly temperatures all year, Mexico’s coast attracts its fair share of visitors in the winter. Avoid the crowds by going to the small coastal town of Mazunte, where three sandy beaches—Mermejita, Rinconcito, and San Agustinillo—are backed by thatched shacks selling seafood and cocktails.

This area is home to the National Mexican Turtle Center , where there’s an aquarium open to the public and baby turtles are released into the ocean. If you feel like getting active, hike out to the wild Punta Cometa headland for views back along the sand and a number of secluded coves. The rugged cape is Oaxaca’s southernmost point, and it’s a favorite place for watching migrating whales from clifftops or taking in the sunset.

Get two vacations in one at Manuel Antonio Beach, where the sands border a national park.

Photo by Shutterstock

Manuel Antonio Beach

Manuel Antonio Beach sits on the fringes of an eponymous protected forest, which is home to some of the country’s most exciting wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, armadillos, and toucans. White-sand beaches and rugged headlands butt up against crystal-blue waters, ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.

Don’t miss a sundowner at the nearby El Avión bar. It’s set inside an old Fairchild C-123 cargo plane 500 feet high in the hills beyond the beach, and it has the best views out across the forest toward the glittering coastline. It’s dry season in this part of Costa Rica from December through April—prime time for days lounging on the sands.

Hulopoʻe Beach is a favorite for its teeming tide pools and charismatic spinner dolphins.

Photo by Russell deJetley/Shutterstock

Hulopo ʻ e Beach

Lānaʻi, hawai‘i.

A perfect swimming beach on the southern coast of Lānaʻi , Hulopoʻe is a pretty patch of yellow sand backed by leafy vegetation and flanked by rocky outcrops. When the tide is out, you’ll often find small hermit crabs, sea stars, limpets, and tiny fish in the pools that form between the volcanic rocks onshore. (It’s a protected site, so you’re not allowed to take any natural souvenirs with you.)

Come December, the waves are ideal for surfing or bodyboarding and the weather is dry and warm. The nearby Four Seasons Resort is the place to go for lunch, with several restaurants, including a Nobu outpost and the poolside Malibu Farm, which overlooks the bay.

Situated north of Dubai, less-visited Ras Al Khaimah is home to several golden-sand beaches with shells.

Photo by Siarhei Tsesliuk/Shutterstock

Ras Al Khaimah

United arab emirates.

Skip the glitzy, expensive beaches of Dubai and head north to Ras Al Khaimah, a little-visited emirate that’s home to several beaches with golden sand and shells; it also has a slightly cooler climate than its neighbors, averaging 77 degrees throughout January.

You’ll find all-out luxury at the Waldorf Astoria , which has its own private beach. For something completely different, you can also camp on any of the public stretches of sand. For another kind of adventure, drive to the top of Jebel Jais, a mountain that spans the border of Ras Al Khaimah and Oman and includes the highest point in the United Arab Emirates. On a clear day, from up here in the Al Hajar mountains, you’ll often have views out to the Persian Gulf.

The beaches on Harbour Island get their pinkish hue from the shells of microscopic organisms called foraminifera.

Photo by Zoe Esteban/Shutterstock

Pink Sands Beach

The bahamas.

The sand at this beach on the eastern side of Harbour Island really is a striking pastel shade of pink, thanks to the remains of the foraminifera, microscopic organisms that wash up on the shore.

Temperatures in December and January average a comfortable 78 degrees, and the sand remains cool underfoot. Minimal rainfall at this time of year makes it perfect for long days spent sunbathing or partaking in more active pursuits, including horseback riding in the surf or snorkeling around nearby Man Island, which reveals an underwater world of octopuses and sea cucumbers.

An aerial view of Australia’s thriving Ningaloo Reef that’s ripe for snorkeling and diving

Photo by Darkydoors/Shutterstock

Ningaloo Reef

Western australia, australia.

It’s the height of summer in Australia from December through February, but the country’s west coast sees far fewer travelers gracing its shores than the east does. Ningaloo is the highlight of this wild coastline, with a thriving coral reef just offshore that’s ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Stay at the luxury campsite Sal Salis to the north, and spend your days lounging on the sand or out in the water. Don’t miss the opportunity to see turtle hatchlings wend their way into the surf from January through March. Farther inland, you can explore the Outback wilderness on guided walks.

The Kenyan coast is known for its traditional Swahili dhow sailboats, which fishermen use to navigate through the reefs.

Photo by Sarika Bansal

Diani Beach

Combine a winter sun-and-beach break with an unforgettable wildlife experience at Diani Beach . This slice of white sand, backed by palms and lapped by Indian Ocean waves, sees temperatures hover around the mid-80s throughout December and January. Adding to the picturesque setting are the camels strolling along the surf, the sand bars that emerge from the brilliant turquoise water at low tide, and the kitesurfers dotting the horizon.

Diani is also home to Colobus Conservation , where you can join a primate eco-tour to meet a habituated troop of vulnerable Angolan colobus monkeys as well as the cheeky Sykes’ and vervet monkeys that call these coastal forests home.

Elephant Rock, at the edge of a surfer-friendly cove, offers memorable views of the sunset over Arugam Bay.

Photo by Shanti Hesse/Shutterstock

Arugam Bay Beach

November through March is a great time to visit Sri Lanka , but it can get crowded. Arugam Bay, on the southeast coast, is a far cry from the busier resorts on this teardrop-shaped island’s west side, which are packed at this time of year.

With its chilled, hammock-swinging vibe, excellent beachfront restaurants (don’t pass up the fish curries at Ranga’s Beach Hut ), and superb surf, Arugam Bay is a wonderful place to get a taste of true Indian Ocean life. For true seclusion, visit Elephant Rock, a small outcrop at the edge of a cove that’s beloved by beginner surfers; there’s no road access here, so you’ll have to take a tuk-tuk and then either walk, wade, or scramble over the rocks. The sunset views are very much worth the effort.

Come nightfall, the waters off Vaadhoo Beach erupt in a bioluminescent display.

Courtesy of Hamman Mohamed on Unsplash

Vaadhoo Island

Raa atoll, maldives.

The Maldives is famous for its perfect beaches, all wispy white sands and light blue waters. But after the sun sets, some of the archipelago’s beaches take on a rather different look.

Vaadhoo Island is renowned for its nocturnal show of bioluminescent plankton, which means you can spend your days here enjoying the winter sun, sea, and sand and be mesmerized at night when the waves glow bright blue as they crash onto the shore. In these parts, that bioluminescent display is nicknamed the “Sea of Stars” for the way it mimics the brilliance of the night sky above.

Clearwater Beach offers access to the warm, calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Photo by Margaret.W/Shutterstock

Clearwater Beach

With highs regularly hitting 71 degrees in December and January, Clearwater Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast offers all the sunshine and spectacularly white sand you could want, with the bonus of big-city vibes and lots of craft beer. More than 35 small-scale breweries in Clearwater and St. Petersburg make a fantastic ale trail .

Don’t miss a day out on the water spotting dolphins, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Sundowners are essential here: The westward-facing beach’s location on the Gulf of Mexico means that the fiery sunsets here are the stuff of dreams.

In the middle of Senegal’s Petite Côte, Saly is a wonderful destination for families.

La Petite Côte, Senegal

The 60-plus-mile-long stretch of white sand that makes up Senegal’s Petite Côte is blissfully quiet. Here, you’ll find small fishing towns and villages where Portuguese and French influences mix with the energetic West African culture, plus low-key holiday resorts popular with Europeans in the summer.

Saly is the center of the action, with plenty of beachfront hotels and resorts for all budgets ( Le Lamantin is exceptional). It’s an excellent destination for families, thanks to an abundance of water sports, as well as the fascinating Île de Fadiouth—a curious island made almost entirely of shells—just off the coast.

This article originally appeared online in November 2018; it was updated on December 11, 2023, to include current information.

The 14 best places to visit in January

Editor's Note

If you're starting to feel the itch to plan a getaway in the New Year, January can be the perfect month to embark on a new adventure. Whether you're looking to escape the chilly winter weather, experience unique cultural festivals or simply explore a new destination, there are many options to satisfy your travel cravings.

For those who prefer to embrace the cold and snowy conditions, there are destinations renowned for their winter sports and stunning icy landscapes. Imagine bundling up in cozy layers, gliding down powdery slopes or sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire. It's a winter wonderland waiting to be explored.

On the flip side, if you're eager to trade snowflakes for sunshine, there are plenty of warm-weather havens that boast beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant local cultures. Picture yourself lounging on sandy shores, exploring tropical rainforests or immersing yourself in lively street festivals — the perfect antidote to the winter blues.

No matter what type of adventure you're seeking, January's diverse travel options offer something for everyone.

But where should you go? Here are the 14 best destinations to visit in January.

If you're contemplating a trip to the Lone Star State, you might want to set your sights on Fort Worth. Often dubbed the "Modern West," Fort Worth has emerged dynamically from the shadow of its more famed neighbor, Dallas. It's a city that marries modernity with its classic Texas twang.

In fact, 2023 saw Fort Worth crowned as the fastest-growing city, outpacing even trendy Austin, with a population growth rate nearly four times faster. With such growth, there's an exciting surge in hotel openings on the horizon and an abundance of new eateries that further solidify its status as a burgeoning boomtown.

Why should you visit in January? Well, that's when the city plays host to the much-anticipated Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, kicking off on Jan. 13. This world-renowned event is set in the newly revamped $540 million Dickie's Arena and offers attendees a thrilling spectacle of bull riding, barrel racing and much more. With carnival rides, live music and an assortment of food and drinks, it's a Texas-sized extravaganza.

TPG Tip : The city's very first Kimpton Hotel, The Harper, is the perfect jumping-off point to experience all the city has to offer; it's centrally located in downtown Fort Worth. Book for 32,000 IHG points, or $200 per night.

Related: The top Kimpton Hotels across the world, according to IHG Diamond members

If you're looking for a unique way to ring in "El Ano Nuevo," or the new year, experience unique Mexican traditions. When the clock strikes midnight, many Mexican families will run around with empty suitcases to bring in new travels, eat 12 grapes to beckon luck or sweep coins on the floor out of their homes to bring good fortune and prosperity in the new year.

Of course, no New Year's celebration would be complete without fireworks, which many Mexicans see as a way to frighten evil spirits and ring in the New Year.

TPG tip : Perched between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon, Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa has nearly a dozen on-site bars and restaurants as well as five pools, including a rooftop infinity pool, providing endless ocean views. Book for 29,000 World of Hyatt points or around $470 per night.

Related: The best all-inclusives in Mexico

January is a great time to visit Panama as the area is still in its dry season, and travelers can expect plenty of sunshine, making it the perfect beach destination. The weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities such as the Feria de las Flores y del Cafe (Flower and Coffee Festival), one of the world's grandest celebrations of flowers. From Jan. 11 to 21, travelers can enjoy lush flower displays, food stands, live music, amusement rides and handicrafts booths.

TPG tip : Opened under The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in April 2022, travelers can experience three different eras of Panama history that come to life at Hotel La Compania . Book for around 20,000 World of Hyatt points or $294 a night.

Winter in Denver ? It's the perfect mix of city vibes and snowy adventures — absolutely magical. Imagine sipping hot cocoa at Union Station and strolling through the Dairy Block, all decked out in twinkling lights — it's like stepping into a winter wonderland. The best part is you can spend your day hitting the slopes and then come back to enjoy Denver's nightlife.

Getting here is a breeze, too, thanks to Denver International Airport (DEN) and its whopping 1,600 flights a day. That number is much higher than most ski spots offer.

Also, don't miss the National Western Stock Show from Jan. 6 to 21. It's the biggest horse show, packed with rodeos, livestock and a Western trade show. Plus, it's been a Denver staple since 1906, attracting more than 700,000 visitors yearly. Get ready for some top-notch bull riding, bronco busting and a parade through Downtown Denver that's just bursting with cowboy spirit.

TPG tip : The parade passes directly in front of the Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, giving guests a prime, uncrowded view of the spectacle. Book for about 9,000 World of Hyatt points or $165 a night.

Related: The best Denver hotels to experience when staying in the Mile High City

For travelers looking to immerse themselves in a true winter wonderland without the holiday crowds, Montreal is the ideal destination to visit for snow-filled fun in January.

This charming city offers a wide range of attractions in the late winter months, including festivals, shopping, outdoor activities and more. Montreal is also central to some of the best ski destinations in eastern Canada, including Mont Tremblant and L'Escapade, for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The city is also filled with more than 260 outdoor rinks for ice skating; options include Beaver Lake Skating Rink or the Old Port of Montreal's Bonsecours Basin, which is transformed into a lively winter village during the colder months.

Related: Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel

TPG tip : There's history around every corner in Montreal, and Hyatt Centric Ville-Marie Montreal — available for around 9,000 World of Hyatt points or $213 a night — is no exception.

January in Aruba is not just about soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches: It's Carnival season, the island's most vibrant and exciting time of the year. This celebration isn't just a weekend affair — it spans a whole two months of parades, music, dancing and colorful costumes. Imagine the streets filled with lively day and night parades, the air buzzing with Caribbean tunes and people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate.

You'll get to witness incredible music contests, partake in the excitement of queen elections and dance along with the spontaneous jump-ups.

TPG tip : Book Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino for 102,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or around $1,003 a night.

Related: Best all-inclusives in Aruba for a perfect Caribbean vacation

Montgomery, Alabama

Montgomery, Alabama, known for its profound role in the American Civil Rights Movement, continues to reinvent itself as an essential destination for purposeful travelers seeking ways to connect to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this January.

In addition to the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebrations, visitors can walk in his footsteps through many historic landmarks. Visit the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where King first preached his message of love and brotherhood, or experience the city's profound exhibits, memorials and museums. They include the nationally noted Anarcha, Lucy, Betsey Monument; the Equal Justice Initiative's Legacy Museum; the National Memorial for Peace and Justice; and the stunning Civil Rights Memorial designed by Maya Lin.

TPG tip : The city's first luxury boutique hotel, Trilogy Autograph Collection Hotel, which opened in May of 2023, features thoughtful design that celebrates the region's multicultural heritage. Book for around 20,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or around $156 a night.

Paradise Coast, Florida

For those seeking much-needed winter sun, Florida's Paradise Coast offers a tropical getaway all winter long. Florida's Paradise Coast (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades) is tucked into Southwest Florida and features miles of white sand beaches , diverse wildlife, luxurious resorts and various nature trails for guests to explore.

January is the ideal time for travelers to sneak away from the cold and get a taste of paradise. Enjoy a relaxing winter along the Gulf at stunning Naples Beach, or get up close and personal with some of the state's natural beauty and wildlife on a tour through the famed Everglades National Park.

TPG tip : This January, guests can enjoy the newly reopened The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, for around 120,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or around $1416 a night.

Reggae lovers from all over the world visit year in and year out to the cultural stylings of the Rebel Salute reggae festival on Jan. 19 and 20. This family-oriented event is renowned for its respectable environment free of alcohol, weapons and offensive lyrics.

Every January, Organic H.E.A.R.T Group of Companies hosts the annual musical festival, which was birthed by international reggae superstar Tony Rebel. Described as a modern Indigenous work of art that goes from dusk until dawn for two days, the festival focuses on displaying Jamaican music in all forms — roots reggae, dancehall, ska, mento, rocksteady — before the largest and most discerning audience of any music festival in the Caribbean.

Complemented by a diverse lineup of performing acts from all over the world (including England, Germany and African states), Rebel Salute boasts a massive cultural food village, a Jamaican arts village and the famous Herb Curb.

TPG tip : Book the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa for 90,000 Hilton Honors points or around $435 a night.

Related: The best all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, from honeymoon hot spots to family-friendly resorts

Marquette, Michigan

Tucked away in one of the snowiest parts of the east, Marquette County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is a winter adventure haven with activities for everyone. Save the date for Jan. 26-27, 2024, for the 26th Annual Noquemanon Ski Marathon — an event loved by both elite and casual cross-country skiers from all over. It takes off from Ishpeming's Al Quaal Recreation Area and finishes at the NMU Superior Dome.

After the race, dive into Marquette's winter adventures, top-notch dining and amazing craft beer scene, or hit the trails for some snowshoeing and skiing.

TPG tip : Book the Fairfield Inn & Suites Marquette for 25,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Book the Hampton Inn Marquette/Waterfront for 69,000 points or $175 per night.

This Southern California city is always a good choice for a winter getaway. Not only will you still get temperatures in the high 60s, but some special events in January make it worth a trip.

The 13th annual San Diego Brew Festival takes place in NTC Park in Liberty Station on Jan. 6 and will feature more than 70 breweries, 200 beers, 10 of San Diego's best food trucks, bands and more.

Other popular events in San Diego include the Monster Jam, the Borrego Springs Film Festival and the San Diego Lunar New Year Festival.

Additionally, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to the lagoons of Baja California in January, when the females give birth to their calves. San Diego is an ideal destination for viewing this impressive spectacle, with 70 miles of coastline set along the migration path.

San Diego (along with Tijuana, Mexico) has also been designated the World Design Capital for 2024 . The World Design Organization accolade recognizes cities that enhance their residents' economic, social, cultural and environmental quality of life through design. It's the first time that two cities will simultaneously celebrate the designation through unique experiences, from events and festivals to exhibitions and summits.

TPG tip : Perched on a hilltop above the beachy hamlet of Carlsbad, the Park Hyatt Aviara feels like a classic California resort. There are plenty of on-site amenities including a Splash Pool Deck that's great for families, an expansive fitness center, tennis courts and rounds at the Aviara Golf Club; there are also nearby hiking trails along the Batiquitos Lagoon. Rates from $552 or 21,000-29,000 points per night.

Related: The best hotels in San Diego

January is one of the most popular months to visit St. Barts, and it's easy to see why.

The weather is perfect, and the beaches are sparkling. Also, the island hosts the 40th annual St. Bart's Music Festival on Jan. 6-15. The festival is a music connoisseur's dream.

Related: The best Caribbean resorts in 2023

It brings some of the world's most prominent classical, opera, ballet and jazz stars from Montreal, Boston, New York, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, London and Paris, as well as from the Juilliard and Curtis schools of music.

TPG tip : Stay at the luxurious Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf from $969 per night or 100,400 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Khao Yai, Thailand

If you're considering visiting Thailand , January is the time to do it.

Once you land in Bangkok, venture about three hours to Khao Yai National Park. Established as Thailand's first, and currently one of its largest, national parks, Khao Yai is a serene landscape of forest and grassland that offers an escape from the outside world.

As one of the richest conservation areas in Thailand, the UNESCO-protected preserve encompasses miles of hiking and biking trails, picturesque waterfalls and nature in its purest form. You may encounter varied wildlife — from wandering elephants and hornbills to gibbons and bears.

TPG tip : Transporting guests back to the golden age of rail travel, the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort takes historical inspiration from King Rama V's reign in the late 1800s. Rooms are available for around $199 or 33,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Park City, Utah

For powderhounds, Park City is the ultimate winter escape. In January, the snow is at its prime, ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

If you don't want to shred some powder, this month also marks one of the biggest Hollywood events. The Sundance Film Festival is when lots of A-listers descend on the charming ski town to show off their new films, lead discussions with fans and throw some epic parties.

While there, discover Utah Olympic Park, explore the buzzing Main Street, book a spa treatment at Westgate Park City and have an apres experience with Alpine Distilling. It's hard to find a reason not to visit in January.

TPG tip : The AC Hotel Park City — available from $307 or 32,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night — is a sleek hotel less than 10 minutes from the ski slopes and 15 minutes from downtown. If you want to splurge on more polished quarters along with ski-in and ski-out access, the Waldorf Astoria Park City is in a prime location close to the slopes and amenities of Canyons Village. Rates start from around $1,500 per night during ski season, making Hilton Honors points redemptions a fantastic option. If you act fast, there's currently plenty of availability for 110,000 points per night in January and March.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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10 Best Places to Travel in January 2024

Here are 10 of the best places to visit in January in the United States and around the world.

Best Places to Travel in January in the United States

• Best Places to Travel in January Around the World

graphixel/Getty Images

Whether you’re looking forward to ski season or aiming to escape to someplace warm to kick off 2024, we have ideas for you. Those seeking sunshine might travel to Panama, the Maldives, or the Caribbean, while snow sports fans can find their fun in Vail or Switzerland. Travelers who appreciate off-season deals might consider Monaco or Savannah, Georgia, and for more stateside history and beauty, consider a trip to Alabama. 

Wherever your January takes you, we hope it will be the beginning of a year of travel to new destinations and favorite places. Here are 10 of the best places to travel in January in the United States and around the world. 

Stephen Poff/Alabama Tourism

The birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, Alabama is an inspiring destination during the month of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. In Montgomery, visitors can experience landmarks like Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached his message, as well as the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Civil Rights Memorial designed by Maya Lin. Stay in Montgomery, and if time allows, head south to Alabama’s beaches , where it’s pleasant to be outside even in the winter months. The Gulf Shores area is located along the Mississippi Flyway migration route, and birdwatchers flock to the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail to spot species they rarely see.

Where to Stay: Stay at the conveniently located luxury boutique Trilogy Autograph Collection Hotel in Montgomery. 

Vail, Colorado

miralex/Getty Images

Ski season is prime time to visit Colorado, and Vail is a great spot to hit the slopes. The quaint town is modeled after a Bavarian village, with pedestrian streets, world-class restaurants, shops, cafés, and luxury hotels. Vail is perfect for skiers who visit for its nearly 200 trails and for non-skiers who enjoy apré-ski activities without ever going out in the snow. Vail’s public art collection includes paintings, sculptures, and murals, ideal for a pleasant stroll through town. After a long day on the slopes, we recommend checking into one of the luxe spas at the many high-end hotels. You can fly into Denver and drive about two hours to Vail, or take a flight into the nearby Eagle County Regional Airport .

Where to Stay: Top places to stay in Vail include Grand Hyatt Vail , The Arrabelle , The Lodge at Vail , Antlers at Vail , The Sebastian-Vail .

Temecula, California

skodonnell/Getty Images

About 90 miles south of Los Angeles and 60 miles from San Diego, Temecula Valley is a popular Southern California wine destination with nearly 50 award-winning wineries. Hot air ballooning, hiking, horseback riding, and golf are great local activities. You can also go wine tasting or visit area breweries and distilleries. Old Town Temecula has a historic feel and a community theater that hosts comedy shows, tribute bands, jazz concerts, and more. 

Where to Stay: Hotels, vacation rentals , and Pechanga Resort & Casino are among places to stay. For a particularly unique experience, stay at Europa Village , where you can enjoy the atmosphere of Spain, France, or Italy without dusting off your passport. Accommodation options here include casitas and suites with easy access to wine tasting. 

Related: 12 of the Best Wineries in Temecula Valley 

Savannah, Georgia

joe daniel price/Getty Images

Take advantage of off-season prices by booking a getaway to Savannah in January. Crowds at city attractions will likely be thin — this is usually Savannah’s coldest month, though temperatures rarely fall below 40 degrees and often reach the 60s. And there are plenty of things to do in Savannah , from museum visits to meals at popular dining spots. Explore the riverfront, browse unique shops, and find a place that serves fresh seafood. 

Where to Stay: If you’d like to stay along the river, consider the sophisticated Thompson Savannah , set in the Eastern Wharf district. Or choose Perry Lane Hotel in the heart of historic downtown Savannah. For a unique Savannah experience, visit Cohen’s Retreat , set in a restored century-old building that now features a restaurant, bar, live music nights, and a boutique that showcases the work of local artists. You can even stay nearby at one of their cottages. 

T+L Backpack Quiz

Best places to travel in january around the world .

Maria Avvakumova/Getty Images

Summer crowds are gone, and while temperatures in the 50s likely mean no swimming or sunbathing, there’s still much to enjoy in Monaco during this time of year. In addition to exploring Old Town, where you will see the 13th-century Prince’s Palace of Monaco and the Baroque 17th-century Museum of the Chapel of the Visitation, you can shop and stroll in Monte Carlo, on the same streets where Formula One cars speed during the famed Monaco Grand Prix. From Jan. 19-28, the 46th Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo comes to Monaco with thousands of international circus acts. A range of hotels offer attractive prices in the off-season, too. 

Where to Stay: Consider a luxe stay at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo , Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo , or Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo , all part of The Leading Hotels of the World .

The Maldives

January weather is dry and warm in this nation of more than a thousand islands, about 200 of which are inhabited. Clear seas, coral formations, and marine life make it a favorite destination for divers and snorkelers, and the destination’s overwater bungalows and remote location make it a honeymoon haven. No matter your reason for visiting, you’ll want to experience the beaches and beautiful scenery. Many resorts cater to families, groups, and solo travelers. 

Where to Stay: Places to stay include all-inclusive resorts , budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and liveaboards. For a wellness-focused visit, consider Joali Being or Velaa Private Island with its Wellbeing Village. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru , Dhawa Ihuru , and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offer kids’ activities, making them great for families. 

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Didier Marti/Getty Images

This volcanic archipelago is known for its fascinating wildlife, including many species unique to the islands. January is an ideal time to see land birds nesting and sea turtles laying their eggs on the beaches. The seas are relatively calm in January, and comfortable water temperatures allow for swimming, though there may be some rain as the wet season begins. Most visitors tour the islands via cruise ; operators include Hurtigruten Expeditions , Ecoventura , and Integrity Luxury Yacht , among other cruise lines. 

Where to Stay: Another option is to stay on land at Pikaia Lodge, Relais & Châteaux , located on Santa Cruz Island. The luxury property features both land tours and yacht day cruises, so guests enjoy the comfort of the lodge with opportunities for hiking, diving, fishing, and wildlife spotting.  

Pawel Toczynski/Getty Images

Warm and dry in January, with average temperatures in the high 80s (except in the highlands, where the weather is cooler), Panama is a great destination this time of year. Thanks to the country’s varied landscapes, you can take your pick from cities, deserts, rainforests, islands, and beaches on the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Wildlife enthusiasts might visit Panama’s national parks, while others may want to learn about the Panama Canal — a feat of engineering — with a trip to Miraflores Visitors Center, just outside of Panama City. Music fans may want to time their trip for the annual mid-January Panama Jazz Festival . You’ll also have the chance to enjoy some of the world’s best coffee when you visit Panama.

Where to Stay: If you’re staying in Panama City, consider The Santa Maria , where the 2024 Latin American Amateur Golf Championships will be held in January, or Hotel La Compañia , formerly a 17th-century convent and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also Buenaventura Resort in beachside Riviera Pacifica and Isla Palenque , a resort set on a private island.

Turks and Caicos

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Turks and Caicos is made up of two island groups with eight major islands; most people stay on Providenciales, the most inhabited island. Providenciales offers stunning beaches, resorts, and vacation villas, plus Providenciales International Airport, ideal for those arriving by air. (Cruise passengers typically arrive at Grand Turk Cruise Center ). You can spend your days lounging on the beaches, fishing, boating, and windsurfing, or go beyond the shores to hike through nature reserves and spot local wildlife. End sun-soaked days with a visit to local bars to enjoy the destination’s music scene and nightlife. 

Where to Stay: Beachfront escapes abound in Turks and Caicos. On beautiful Grace Bay Beach, stay at The Palms , The Somerset , or Grace Bay Club , or choose from boutique properties like Rock House , Wymara Resort & Villas , or The Shore Club .

Switzerland

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Ski season is underway in Switzerland come January, so winter sports fans will find plenty to do. Epic Pass holders can ski Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis , where they’ll find a traditional mountain village, deep powder, and steep slopes. Or, experience the Alps without skis by booking an excursion on Jungfrau Railways that ends at the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 11,332 feet. A thrilling ride on the 10-passenger aerial gondola from the mountain resort town of Grindelwald offers another way to take in the snowy scenery. And in Bern, Switzerland’s historic capital, you can explore the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in the 12th century. 

Where to Stay: Stay near Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis at The Chedi Andermatt for a luxury experience with a relaxing spa, indoor pool, and heated outdoor pool. Ski at Zermatt and enjoy Matterhorn views with a stay at Mont Cervin Palace or Hotel Schweizerhof . In Bern, stay at Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa for its luxe spa and classic atmosphere.

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Best Beaches in United States in January

These are the best beaches in United States in January , based on average sunshine, sea temperature, rainfall and temperature. Though many factors can come into play when choosing your beach destination, the beach weather will often be a deciding factor. Here we list the top beaches based on the average weather conditions and sea temperature.

• ← December
• February →

Best Beach Destinations in United States in January

South Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 25°C (76°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 81% making it very sunny and pleasant with blue skies most of the time. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.7hrs making the days long and bright. January has total rainfall of 3.4cm (1.3inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 7.8 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a great time for sunbathing in South Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in South Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

North Beach, United States

It is a great time for sunbathing in North Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in North Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Mid Beach, United States

It is a great time for sunbathing in Mid Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Mid Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Hollywood Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (76°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 81% making it very sunny and pleasant with blue skies most of the time. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.7hrs making the days long and bright. January has total rainfall of 4.9cm (1.9inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 8.3 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a great time for sunbathing in Hollywood Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Hollywood Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Ft Lauderdale Beach, United States

It is a great time for sunbathing in Ft Lauderdale Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Ft Lauderdale Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Sunny Isles Beach, United States

It is a great time for sunbathing in Sunny Isles Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Sunny Isles Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Crandon Park Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 25°C (76°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 73% making it sunny and pleasant most of the time. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.8hrs making the days quite long and bright. January has total rainfall of 3.4cm (1.3inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 7.8 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a great time for sunbathing in Crandon Park Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 23°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Crandon Park Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Key Biscayne, United States

It is a great time for sunbathing in Key Biscayne. Sea temperatures are a warm 23°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Key Biscayne with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Pompano Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (74°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 81% making it very sunny and pleasant with blue skies most of the time. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.6hrs making the days long and bright. January has total rainfall of 4.2cm (1.6inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 9.7 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a great time for sunbathing in Pompano Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Pompano Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Bahia Honda State Park, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 70% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.5hrs making the days quite long and bright. January has total rainfall of 4.4cm (1.7inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 8.7 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Bahia Honda State Park. Sea temperatures are a warm 23°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Bahia Honda State Park with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Smathers Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 70% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.5hrs making the days quite long and bright. January has total rainfall of 4.8cm (1.9inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 6.6 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Smathers Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 23°C (73°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Smathers Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Sunset Cove, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 73% making it sunny and pleasant most of the time. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.8hrs making the days quite long and bright. January has total rainfall of 2.8cm (1.1inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 9.3 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a great time for sunbathing in Sunset Cove. Sea temperatures are a warm 23°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Sunset Cove with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Kua Bay, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 27°C (81°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 50% making it quite sunny but with regular periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 5.5 hours of sunshine per day. January has total rainfall of 4.3cm (1.7inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 6 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Kua Bay. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Kua Bay with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Hapuna Beach State Park, United States

It is a good time for sunbathing in Hapuna Beach State Park. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Hapuna Beach State Park with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Na Pali Coast, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 26°C (79°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 54% making it quite sunny but with occasional periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 5.9 hours of sunshine per day. January has total rainfall of 4cm (1.6inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 8.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Na Pali Coast. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Na Pali Coast with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Kee Beach, United States

It is a good time for sunbathing in Kee Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 25°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Kee Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Polihale Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 26°C (79°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 51% making it quite sunny but with occasional periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 5.6 hours of sunshine per day. January has total rainfall of 4cm (1.6inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 8.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Polihale Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Polihale Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Palm Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 70% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.5hrs making the days quite long and bright. January has total rainfall of 5.8cm (2.3inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 7.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Palm Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (74°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Palm Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Polihua Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (76°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 50% making it quite sunny but with regular periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 5.5 hours of sunshine per day. January has total rainfall of 1.1cm (0.4inches) making it mostly dry but with short lived occasional showers. There are only 11.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Polihua Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Polihua Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Hulopoe Beach, United States

It is a good time for sunbathing in Hulopoe Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 25°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Hulopoe Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Fort Myers Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 68% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.2hrs making the days quite long and bright. January has total rainfall of 5.9cm (2.3inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 7.2 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Fort Myers Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 21°C (70°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Fort Myers Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Diamond Head, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 27°C (80°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 50% making it quite sunny but with regular periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 5.5 hours of sunshine per day. January has total rainfall of 8.9cm (3.5inches) making it mostly dry with only intermittent light showers. There are only 12.2 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Diamond Head. Sea temperatures are a very warm 25°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Diamond Head with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Waikiki Beach, United States

It is a good time for sunbathing in Waikiki Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 25°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Waikiki Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Clearwater Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 21°C (70°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 68% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.2hrs making the days quite long and bright. January has total rainfall of 6.7cm (2.6inches) making it mostly dry with only intermittent light showers. There are only 11 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Clearwater Beach. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (75°F) . January is a good month for swimming in Clearwater Beach with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Kailua Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 26°C (78°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 50% making it quite sunny but with regular periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 5.5 hours of sunshine per day. January has total rainfall of 9.5cm (3.7inches) making it often dry with only light showers. There are 19.3 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the clear days.

It is not an optimal time for sunbathing but it is possible on clearer days in Kailua Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Kailua Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Lanikai Beach, United States

It is not an optimal time for sunbathing but it is possible on clearer days in Lanikai Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Lanikai Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Hanauma Bay, United States

It is not an optimal time for sunbathing but it is possible on clearer days in Hanauma Bay. Sea temperatures are a very warm 25°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Hanauma Bay with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Halona Cove, United States

It is not an optimal time for sunbathing but it is possible on clearer days in Halona Cove. Sea temperatures are a very warm 25°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Halona Cove with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Three Tables Beach, United States

January has average maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F) which is nice and warm and makes sunbathing pleasant on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 50% making it quite sunny but with regular periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 5.5 hours of sunshine per day. January has total rainfall of 7cm (2.8inches) making it often dry with only light showers. There are 17.8 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the clear days.

It is not an optimal time for sunbathing but it is possible on clearer days in Three Tables Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Three Tables Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Papailoa Beach, United States

It is not an optimal time for sunbathing but it is possible on clearer days in Papailoa Beach. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . January is an excellent month for swimming in Papailoa Beach with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

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27 Best Florida Beaches In January!

by waynekask | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog , Travel Tips | 0 comments

Last Updated on March 31, 2024

Are you on the hunt for the best Florida beaches in January?  Or even warm Florida beaches in January?!

If so, you’ve landed on the right article. Florida beaches are my passion.

I’ve spent lots of time researching and traveling through the Sunshine State in order to find you the warmest swim spots to visit during the winter months.

January is the perfect time of year to visit Florida’s warm, white sand beaches because the average temperature of the water is between 69º and 77ºF.

The sunny days and warm weather will be a welcome break from ice, snow, and gloom.

In this post, I’ll cover the top 27 most beautiful beaches for snowbirds and Floridians alike. Let’s go!

Best Beaches In Florida In January!

1. South Beach Park, Vero Beach

If you enjoy waves and the challenge of stronger currents, South Beach Park in Vero Beach, in Central Florida, is a great spot to visit.

Enjoy time on a barrier island. Relax on the white sands, play on the volleyball courts, and have fun riding the waves in the Atlantic Ocean

South Beach Park offers excellent amenities, including manned lifeguard stations, picnic areas, walking paths, restrooms, and grassy areas.

You can even try your hand at fishing.

📌 Address: 1702 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963, United States 

2. Higgs Beach, Key West

If you’re looking for tranquil sandy beaches in Key West, look no further than Higgs Beach.

This lovely spot is a perfect place to relax, read a book, and take a dip in the emerald water.

If you have the gear, you can even go snorkeling along the barrier for a chance to see colorful fish, small sharks, and conches.

Palm trees rise gracefully along the edge of the beach, making it even more picturesque.

You can also play beach volleyball and fish from the small pier.

📌 Address: 1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

3. Lovers Key State Park, Fort Myers

Nature lovers and those who enjoy water activities will have a blast at Lovers Key State Park near Fort Myers.

This secluded collection of barrier islands is a paradise consisting of mangroves, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful scenery.

Lovers Key faces the Gulf of Mexico and is one of the best places to kayak through mangroves.

Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and shorebirds.

This state park is a popular destination at any time of year, whether you visit in December or the summer months.

📌 Address:  Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931, United States

4. Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel Island

Turquoise waters, sand dunes, nature trails, and great amenities make Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island one of the best Florida beaches to visit in January.

One of my personal favorite beaches in southern Florida, Bowman’s Beach isn’t surrounded by hotels and condos. Instead, it features sweeping views of the coastline.

Stake out on the sand, go shelling, and set up a hearty lunch spread at one of the picnic tables.

Note:  There is no food or water available for sale here, so be sure to bring your own.

If you enjoy water sports, Bowman’s Beach is the right place to be.

Use the canoe or kayak launch to get into the water.

Want to explore more beaches in the area? Head over to nearby Captiva Island for extra beach time.

📌 Address:  1700 Bowman’s Beach Road, Sanibel, Florida

5. Clearwater Beach, Clearwater Beach

Escape the cold weather farther north and treat yourself to the warm waters of the Gulf Coast.

Clearwater Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the United States.

As you can guess from the name, this is a great place to enjoy crystal clear waters, sugary white sand, and serenity.

Once you’ve enjoyed the beach, check out Pier 60 and  go on a dolphin tour .

📌 Address: 704 Eldorado Ave, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States

6. Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Beach in Southwest Florida is a mecca for outdoor activities, from swimming and snorkeling to paddle boarding and surfing.

Besides warm temperatures, one of the best things about this Atlantic Coast destination is the abundance of amazing restaurants, luxurious hotels, and fun beachfront promenades.

Relax on the sand, people-watch, go rollerblading, and treat yourself to mouth-watering seafood.

📌 Address:  1100 Seabreeze Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316, USA

7. South Beach, Marco Island

If you’re looking for a beautiful place for a beach day, South Beach on Marco Island could be perfect.

This is a favorite spot on the Island, so be sure to get there early to secure parking.

One of the best times to go is before 10 a.m. Enjoy the calm waters and swim out to a sandbar when the tide is low.

This beach is a wonderful place to go shelling.

In January, the average high temperature is around 74ºF.

📌 Address: 870 County Rd 951, Marco Island, FL 34145, United States

8. South Beach, Miami Beach

If you’re looking for a perfect place to enjoy gorgeous beaches, water parks, golf courses, and Art Deco architecture, look no further than South Beach in Miami Beach.

This South Florida gem is a wonderful place to enjoy a relaxing vibe, eat delicious Miami cuisine, and enjoy an evening walk.

Swim, take your kids to the playground near 3rd Street, and soak in the sunshine.

Note that this beach does get quite busy, especially on Saturdays and Sundays.

📌 Address: Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States

9. Smathers Beach, Key West

If you’re in search of warm Florida beaches in January, Smathers Beach could make for a great time.

This is one of the most popular beaches in the Florida Keys–an area known for rocky shores. 

Fortunately, Smathers Beach is kept well stocked with white sand.

The blue-green water, dancing palm trees, and beautiful vistas of the Atlantic make this a prime place to spend a day.

You’ll want to wear water shoes due to the rocks near the shore.

📌 Address: 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, United States

10. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key

Siesta Beach on Siesta Key is another one of the best beaches in Florida in January.

You and your family will love the playground, tennis courts, and careful vigilance of the lifeguards.

The real stars, though, are the uber-fine quartz sand and the luscious greeny-blue water.

Stock up on food and drinks at the concession stand, make use of the public restrooms, and stop by the gift shop for a bit of shopping.

📌 Address:  Sarasota, FL 34242, United States

11. Cocoa Beach, Cocoa Beach

Surf’s up! If you love surfing or want to give it a shot, Cocoa Beach is ready and waiting.

This lovely beach offers perfect waves for surfing.

It’s also got a great sandy bottom, plenty of places to rent boards, and surfing instructors available for hire.

There are lifeguards during the high season, umbrellas and beach chairs for rent, and electric beach bikes.

Take extra water to rinse off with after your time in the ocean.

📌 Address: N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931, United States

12. Sandspur Beach, Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park has two great beaches. The first is Calusa Beach, which is right next to the Bahia Honda Bridge.

It’s an ideal place to snorkel, though you have to watch out for jet skiers.

The other, Sandspur Beach, features one mile of sand and is narrow and tranquil.

Sandspur Beach is not usually crowded and features warm water and sand that’s cool underfoot.

There is plenty of parking, a snack shop, and clean bathrooms.

You might even find some sea urchin shells, seashells, and bits of coral.

Note: watch out for blue bottle jellyfish in the seagrass.

📌 Address: 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, United States

13. Panama City Beach, Panama City Beach

Enjoy a beautiful 27-mile-long beach in Panama City Beach.

The beach, which shares its name with the city, is a great option for fun activities such as snorkeling, swimming, parasailing, jet skiing, and spotting dolphins.

This beach is clean with gorgeous turquoise water and cotton-white sand.

Keep in mind that you may have to travel a ways to find restrooms.

📌 Address:  9900 S Thomas Drive, UNIT 1106, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, United States

14. Manatee Beach, Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island’s Manatee Beach is an amazing beach featuring pillow-soft quart sand and expansive vistas of the Gulf of Mexico.

Sunbathe, swim, order a drink at the tiki bar, or indulge in a delicious ice cream.

Manatee Beach has great amenities, including bathrooms, showers, a playground, picnic tables, grills, and bike racks.

There are umbrellas and loungers for rent if you can’t bring your own.

There’s plenty of room for everyone, but if you want your own space, you might need to walk a little way out from the parking lot and its respective amenities.

📌 Address: 4000 State Road 64 and Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, United States

15. St. Pete Beach, St. Petersburg

If you like the sound of a resort city, St. Pete Beach could be the perfect destination.

Enjoy the fabulous oceanfront, then explore the shops and restaurants. Finish off with  a sunset boat cruise.

St. Pete Beach is a great clean beach with beautiful water and nice sand.

The waves range from mild to medium and are usually fine for young kids.

Parking is easy, as there is plenty of room.

Keep in mind that if you get hungry, you may have to cross the street to find drink and snack options.

📌 Address : Park at the public beach access by 4700 Gulf Boulevard, St. Petersburg

16. Crescent Beach, St. Augustine

Crescent Beach is just south of St. Augustine and features a lovely half-moon-shaped shoreline.

The sand is hard-packed, making it perfect for riding bikes, playing frisbee, working out, or even driving on the beach.

You can also go swimming, tanning, or try metal detecting.

This is also a prime spot for boogie boarding, boating, and surfing.

You can even ride horses here if you apply for a special permit.

If you go in January and fancy a drive on the beach, you can do so free of charge.

Just make sure you follow the driving rules to keep all the beachgoers safe.

📌 Address: Ocean Trace Rd, St Augustine Beach, FL 32080, United States

👉 Tip: If you’d rather head north from St. Augustine, check out Amelia Island.

17. Ocean Reef Park, West Palm Beach

Explore the underwater world at Ocean Reef Park in West Palm Beach.

This park is an incredible place to snorkel and free dive.

The coral reefs are quite close to the beach and feature 700 feet of marine life and coral beds.

If you prefer not to get wet, this is also a lovely place to walk or jog in the morning or evening and to check out the sand dunes from the boardwalks.

Amenities at Ocean Reef Park include shaded picnic areas, grills, restrooms, parking, and boardwalks. 

📌 Address: 3860 N Ocean Dr, Riviera Beach, FL 33404, United States

18. Delray Public Beach, Delray Beach

Delray Beach is one of the most festive beach towns around. It’s extra walkable and has a fun vibe.

Build sandcastles, swim, bury each other in the powdery sand, swim in the ocean, and enjoy people-watching.

This beach is a favorite among locals who come for kitesurfing, parasailing, or drinking in the vistas.

Be sure to stop by the historic downtown to check out the restaurants, entertainment, and art shops.

📌 Address: 400 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483, United States

19. Cannon Beach, Key Largo

If you’ve set your sights on Key Largo, Cannon Beach is one of the best beaches in the area.

It is located inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Although it is a bit rocky (water shoes are recommended), people do enjoy swimming here.

There’s even an old Spanish shipwreck some visitors swim out to.

This beach isn’t quite up to the white-sand crystalline-water standards of Miami’s beaches, but for the Keys–which tend to be rocky rather than sandy–it’s a nice spot. 

While you’re in the park, you can camp, go birding, and hike the nature trails.

📌 Address: 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, USA

20. Tigertail Beach, Marco Island

Some of the best beaches in the world are located on Marco Island. And chief among these is Tigertail Beach.

It gets its name from its thin curving shape which resembles a tiger tail.

This beach is ideal if you like long walks, shelling, and watching the sunset.

Everything is very clean, and there is a place for picnics as well as restrooms.

Sand Dollar Spit, at the northern tip of the beach, is a great place to search for shells and sand dollars.

📌 Address: 430 Hernando Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145, United States

21. Red Reef Park, Boca Raton

Red Reef Park in Boca Raton is another fabulous place to visit in January.

You can surf, fish, snorkel, swim, and check out the nature center.

In total, the park contains 67 acres laced with boardwalks, gazebos, barbecue grills, green spaces for playing and picnics, and playgrounds.

The shallow waters of the beach make it perfect for kids.

There’s even golf, a Marine Biology lab, and nature trails.

📌 Address: 1400 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432, United States

22. Grayton Beach State Park, Santa Rosa Beach

Visitors from all across the US congregate in Grayton Beach State Park–and for good reason.

This 2,000-acre park is an amazing place to enjoy the glories of Santa Rosa Beach.

Beautiful sand, rolling dunes, and plenty of hiking and biking trails make this a destination in its own right.

The park is a vibrant habitat for Choctawhatchee beach mice, who make their home among the dunes.

Birds and sea turtles lay nests in the sand. Swim, relax in the sunshine, or go exploring.

📌 Address: 357 Main Park Rd, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, United States

23. Delnor Wiggins State Park Beach, Naples

The beach at Delnor Wiggins State Park is a bustling spot for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the beauties of nature.

Although there used to be more amenities, the park is still recuperating from a hurricane, so things are a bit more basic than they used to be.

The water is great for kids, and parking is conveniently located close to the beach. No long treks here! 

Note: You might have to wait for parking if you go on a busy day, as the rangers can only let in so many cars at a time.

Swimming, snorkeling, and watching the sunset are three of the top things to do here.

📌 Address: 11135 Gulf Shore Dr, Naples, FL 34108, United States

24. New Smyrna Beach, New Smyrna Beach

If you’ve been to Disney World in Orlando and fancy a beach day, New Smyrna Beach is an hour and 12-minute drive northwest.

The sand and water are beautiful, little fish dart around your ankles, and you might even see a turtle.

This is a perfect beach to relax, drink chilled root beer, chat with friends, or read a book.

Tip:  Head over before 10 a.m. on the weekend to increase your chances of finding parking.

📌 Address: N Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, United States

25. Blue Mountain Beach, Santa Rosa Beach

Warm water, gorgeous sunrises, and creamy white sand make Blue Mountain Beach another fabulous strip of sand to hit up in January.

Although there are limited parking spots, everything else about this beach–from the bathrooms to the beach stairs to the stunning views–is prime.

Notes:  Enjoy the water, but keep an eye on the flags.

Be sure to stay off the sand dunes as they are protected, and fill in any holes you dig in the sand so as not to hinder any sea turtles that come to lay eggs. 

📌 Address: 475 Blue Mountain Rd, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, United States

26. Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin

Taking a ferry ride out to Caladesi Island is a top-notch way to kick off a day of fun. 

This gorgeous island park is a paradise of white sands, fishing opportunities, crystal-clear water, boat tours, and picnic areas.

There are also restrooms, showers, a snack shop, and nature trails.

Tip: Take your own chairs and umbrellas to avoid costly rentals.

📌 Address:  Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698, United States

27. Fort Zachary Taylor, Key West

Possibly the best beach in Key West, Fort Zachary Taylor is a state park with an amazing beach  and  a pre-Civil War fortress.

Learn a little history, then rent a sunbed and relax on the gorgeous shoreline.

The water is deliciously warm, and the park has all of the amenities you could ask for.

There are restrooms, showers, picnic areas, a restaurant, a small shop, and grills.

Just be sure to outfit the whole family with water shoes because this beach is man-made and has a rocky bed.

📌 Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040, United States

Best Beaches In Florida In January FAQs

What is the warmest beach in florida in january.

Smathers Beach in Key West is one of the warmest beaches in Florida in January.

It has an average temperature of 77ºF which is perfect for lap swimming.

Other warm Florida beaches in January include: 

Higgs Beach 

Fort Zachary Taylor 

Tigertail Beach 

Bahia Honda State Park 

What Part Of Florida Is Best To Visit In January?

Both Clearwater and Marco Island are fabulous places to visit in Florida in January.

Clearwater has fantastic beaches, beautiful water, and fun activities like sunset cruises, dolphin tours, and kayak adventures.

Marco Island features comfortable temperatures in the low 70s in January, calm beaches, and lovely sandy shores.

Is January A Good Time To Go To The Beach In Florida?

Yes–January is a good time to go to the beach in Florida.

During the off-season, there are fewer crowds, comfortable daily temperatures, and cool beaches.

Where In Florida Can You Swim In January?

Because it’s in warm southern Florida, one of the best beaches to swim in Florida in January is on Marco Island .

The beaches here are fabulous, especially Tigertail Beach and South Beach.

Best Beaches In Florida In January: Final Thoughts

Heading to Florida’s beaches in January means avoiding crowds, soaking in the sunshine, and swimming in relatively warm water.

Whether you enjoy shelling, visiting historic forts, or working out on the beach, there is an amazing spot to do it.

Which of these best beaches in Florida in January do you plan to visit?

You may be interested in these related posts:

21 Amazing Beaches Near Clearwater Florida!

St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach: Which Is Better For Your Vacation?

15 Best Beaches In Tampa, Florida! (2022)

14 Best Beaches In Miami For Families!

12 Waterfront Restaurants- St Pete And Nearby To Try (2022)!

20 Best Beaches In The Florida Panhandle

16 Things To Do At The St. Pete Pier And Nearby

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Hi, I'm Wayne! I'm an inspired traveler looking for the best beaches, attractions, restaurants, and more.

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15 Warmest Beaches in Florida in January

Want to hit the beach in January while in the Sunshine State but not sure where to go? Then check out this list of the warmest beaches in Florida in January !

January is usually the coldest month in most states so it’s impossible to enjoy many of the country’s beaches during this period. 

Luckily, Florida is blessed with stunning coastlines, sandy beaches, and warm, crystal-clear waters.

Even in January, the state’s year-round average temperature of 72°F allows beach lovers to take a refreshing dip and engage in many water sports. 

Disclosure:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

To help you plan your New Year vacation, we’ve made a list of the warmest beaches in Florida in January.

From the iconic Siesta Beach with various entertainment options to the beautiful South Pointe Beach with its famous pier, and the nature-rich coastline of Delnor Wiggins State Park , check out this list of the best beaches in Florida in January.

Prefer to travel in December instead? You can check out our list of warm beaches in Florida in December instead.

Warmest Beaches in Florida in January

Read on to discover the warmest Florida beaches in January.

1. South Pointe Beach, Miami Beach 

Located in South Pointe Park, this public beach is one of Miami’s best family-friendly beaches , offering loads of activities for everyone.

At an average temperature of 76°F, it is also one of the warmest beaches in January in Florida so you can swim in the crystal-clear water under the watchful eyes of lifeguards.

Besides swimming, you can sunbathe, relax under the shady palm trees, soak in Miami’s skyline, or enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. 

People-watching is also a top perk here, as this tranquil beach is usually buzzing with laid-back locals and fun-loving tourists.

And when you want a little break from the water, you can soak up gorgeous views of Fisher Island on the 20-foot wide promenade that leads onto the South Pointe Pier. 

At this pier, you can fish, thanks to the recycling bins for fishing lines and different spots for cutting and cleaning your catch. You can also participate in water activities like kayaking and surfing or watch others from the viewing stations. 

Meanwhile, the park also has a motion-activated mini splash zone for children, an off-leash bark park for your furry friends, and two dining places: a casual cafe serving drinks and snacks and a Smith & Wollensky steakhouse serving mouth-watering steak and incredible oceanfront views. 

2. Smathers Beach, Key West

Located close to Key West’s airport, Smathers Beach is one of the warmest Florida beaches in January at an average temperature of 77°F thanks to the island’s year-round sunshine. 

Palm trees line Key West’s largest public beach and its calm and shallow waters are perfect for swimming and for kids to splash about.

Other popular things to do here include snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, playing volleyball, or simply renting chairs and umbrellas and gazing upon the Atlantic.

You’ll also find plenty of food trucks nearby alongside picnic tables for when your belly starts to rumble. And for your comfort, public restrooms and showers are also available.

3. Crandon Beach Park, Key Biscayne 

This beautiful, family-friendly beach boasts a picturesque setting with palm trees, sand dunes, walking and biking paths, and sea oats.

The two-mile-long beach in Crandon Beach Park is an excellent choice for families seeking adventure and relaxation. 

You can come here to kayak, kiteboard, and surf, amongst other water activities, or even swim since its clear blue waters have an average temperature of 77°F in January and are perfect for a refreshing dip, especially in the southern part of the beach where the water is calmer.

The beach also has a famous sandbar perfect for wading. Other amenities include beach wheelchairs, freshwater showers, and lifeguard services to ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable. You should, however, note that flotation devices are not permitted here.

After spending some time on the beach, you can explore the park’s marina, golf course, tennis center, family amusement center, and nature center.

Finally, you’ll find picnic shelters and concession booths at the park where you can purchase snacks and drinks and rent water sports equipment. 

4. Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale 

At an average temperature of 75°F, Fort Lauderdale’s largest public beach is one of the warmest beaches in Florida in January and has all the amenities for a relaxing day by the beach. 

Swimmers will love the calm crystal-clear waters, children will love the playground and the sugary sands to build sandcastles, picnickers will appreciate the picnic tables and charcoal grills, and sports enthusiasts will appreciate the volleyball and basketball courts for offshore activities, while the swaying palm trees are perfect for relaxing. 

You can also engage in other water activities like fishing, snorkeling, and surfing, but if you prefer to keep active off the beach, a palm-tree-lined promenade with an award-winning wave wall runs behind the shoreline.

You can stroll down this promenade and browse its many shops, restaurants, and sidewalk cafes. 

5. Delnor Wiggins State Park Beach, Naples

Hurricane Ian affected many Southwest Florida beaches , and Delnor Wiggins was one of them having suffered damages to some of its amenities, treelines, and dunes.

However, this beach has been reopened and still serves scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico. 

At an average temperature of 75°F, this family-friendly beach is one of Florida’s warmest beaches in January, and it offers plenty of relaxing sands and inviting blue waters to enjoy swimming, kayaking, fishing at the Wiggins pass , snorkeling (thanks to the hard bottom limestone reef), and sunbathing. 

Additionally, you can unwind and watch shorebirds or comb the beach for seashells.

And while there are no more picnic tables and grills, you can still bring your own food and water in coolers. Also, there are beach wheelchairs for those with reduced mobility. 

6. Bonita Beach Park Beach, Bonita Springs

Named after the Spanish word for “beautiful,” this beach might not look the same after Hurricane Ian, but it still draws beach lovers seeking warm water and a laid-back atmosphere.

Its crystal-clear waters are one of the warmest in Florida in January, with a temperature of 74°F, making it perfect for swimming, but be mindful of the debris still washing onshore. 

Lying adjacent to Bonita Beach Park, the beach’s white sands are perfect for shelling and beachcombing, while the volleyball court makes for an ideal offshore activity.

You’ll also find a playground for the kids and picnic areas surrounded by sand dunes and coastal vegetation. 

Meanwhile, the park also has many birding trails, so bring your camera along because you might spot a variety of bird species. 

7. Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach is one of the warmest beaches in Florida in January and a haven for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and capturing perfect Instagram photos.

This gorgeous public beach has an average temperature of 75°F in January, so its warm shallow waters are perfect for swimming.

Still, if you want more adventure, you can kayak or paddle along the Gulf Coast and parasail above the pristine waters. 

Another popular thing to do here is beach combing! Also, if fishing is your favorite pastime, you can cast a line over the beach’s pier, which has a bait shop. If you’re lucky, you might catch some bluefish or cobia.

Meanwhile, adjacent to the pier is Times Square , offering many dining, shopping, and entertainment options, alongside breathtaking sunset views if you linger on into the evening. 

8. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key

When putting together a list of the best Florida beaches in January, it’s impossible not to include the world-famous Siesta Beach .

Sought after by locals and visitors alike, this picturesque public beach has constantly been dubbed the best beach in America and one of the top in the world, and it’s easy to see why. 

Its 99% quartz white sand that remains cold under Florida’s hot sun is the first draw; then, its spacious stretch of coastline offers ample space to enjoy a heap of activities like sunbathing, watching marine wildlife, kayaking, and kiteboarding, among others. 

At an average temperature of 69°F in January, it might be a bit chilly to swim for Floridians but for folks from the North, it might still be ideal.

Around the beach, you will find two concessions: the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion , which sells snacks, healthy salads, and drinks, and the Siesta Sand Plaza concession stand for rentals.

The beach also boasts a shaded playground, volleyball courts, and additional amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers, and beach wheelchairs to ensure a comfortable visit for all visitors. 

The beach also holds a festive Drum Circle every Sunday (one hour before sunset), so make sure you don’t miss it.

9. Delray Public Beach, Delray Beach 

Also known as Delray Municipal Beach , this lesser-known gem is located near Atlantic Avenue, so it is perfect for foodies, shopaholics, and couples looking for secluded locations. 

The white-sand beach is wide, clean, and clear-watered, and with an average temperature of 73°F, it is one of the warmest places in Florida in January.

You can indulge in numerous water activities like swimming, skimboarding, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and surfing on the south side of the beach with fantastic surfing waves.

Or, you can watch people and wildlife from the gazebo with long benches, but if you want to add a romantic feel, rent a cabana. 

Meanwhile, the north side of the beach caters to people with reduced mobility by providing accessibility and beach wheelchairs.

Other beach amenities include volleyball courts and seasonal lifeguard services. 

10. Cocoa Beach Pier, Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a haven for surfers, thanks to its stellar and consistent waves. When you arrive here, you will see many professional surfers practicing their moves or waiting for a wave, even in January, thanks to the average temperature of 71°F. 

You can watch them as you stroll along the historic 800-ft-long pier that extends into the North Atlantic Ocean or even give it a try yourself.

No need to worry if you’re not a pro surfer! You can enroll in the onsite Cocoa Beach Surf School and take surfing lessons with lifeguards on standby or simply visit to cast a line and bask in the sun. 

Additionally, Cocoa Beach puts you in the heart of the action as the pier is lined with restaurants, shops, bars, and live musical entertainment.

And when the sun goes down, the beach comes alive with fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and beachfront concerts. 

11. Lovers Key State Park beach, Fort Myers 

After surviving the devastating Hurricane Ian, Lovers Key State Park beach has been reopened, and its quiet sands are perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. 

Kayaking and swimming (though no lifeguards on duty) are some of the fun-filled experiences visitors can enjoy at this beach, and with an average temperature of 75°F, you can also enjoy these activities in January.

But if you want more offshore activities, you can rent an umbrella from the concession, lounge in the sand, or pick shells along the shoreline. 

After spending some time on the beach, you can then explore the park. This 712-acre coastal park has lagoons and canals where you can spot many wildlife like manatees, bald eagles, ospreys, and marsh rabbits.

12. Spanish River Park, Boca Raton

For the perfect beach picnic, head to the family-friendly Spanish River Park in Boca Raton.

This scenic park has many picnic tables, grills, and pavilions, making it the perfect place to spend quality time with friends and family.

A river once flowed along the park’s west side and is now part of the Intracoastal Waterway, hence the park’s name, and you can fish in the waterway with a license. However, swimming in the waterway is not permitted.

But, you have access to the Atlantic Beach where you can swim even in January, thanks to its average temperature of 75°F. And for your safety, lifeguards are present all year round.

Then, after you are done exploring the coastline, don’t forget to hike the park’s nature trails. 

13. Sombrero Beach, Marathon

Located on the Atlantic Ocean, this quiet and secluded beach is excellent for a romantic or family getaway and offers visitors plenty of photo ops.

Sombrero Beach is Florida Keys’ deepest water, and you can launch kayaks and snorkel amongst tropical marine life even in January, thanks to the beach’s temperature of 75°F.

Beyond water activities, you can also enjoy volleyball courts and picnic pavilions with grills at the park adjacent to this beautiful sandy beach.

The park also has a shaded playground area, restrooms, and showers. Also, your furry friends can come along although you’ll have to keep them on a leash at all times.

You should note that Sombrero Beach is a turtle-nesting beach, so activities around these areas are limited during the active nesting season from April through October. 

14. Zachary Taylor State Park Beach, Key West

If your perfect beach vacation involves snorkeling and experiencing rich marine life while getting history lessons, then consider paying Zachary Taylor State Park a visit. 

At the south end of this park lies Key West’s favorite beach for snorkeling, paddling, fishing, and swimming, and with an average January temperature of 75°F, you can enjoy these activities all year round.

However, Zachary Taylor is a coral beach, so you will need water shoes because of the rocky sea bottom, but you can purchase one at the concessionaire in the park’s picnic area if you forget to bring a pair. You can also rent snorkeling equipment there.

While snorkeling, you might encounter parrot fishes, lobsters, yellowtail snappers, and corals. Also, fishing is allowed only on the park’s west side, along Key West Shipping Channel . 

But for some offshore activity, stroll the park to learn from the tour guides how Fort Taylor, built in the 1800s guarded Key West’s harbor during the Civil and Spanish-American wars.

Also, you will see the largest collection of seacoast guns here. Finally, the park has an oceanfront Cayo Hueso Café (open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) serving delicious local beach cuisine. You can also get beach wheelchairs here. 

15. North Ocean Park Beach, Pompano Beach

Located in Pompano Beach, this beach is the perfect destination if you’re seeking a tranquil atmosphere with enough activities to keep the entire family occupied. 

North Ocean Park beach is a serene stretch of beautiful golden sand framed by golden dunes and designed for wind-driven sports like kitesurfing.

Thanks to its warm temperature of 71°F in January, you will also find many visitors surfing, snorkeling, and diving. 

Long and wide, the beach is spacious and ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, wildlife watching, and birding. It’s also a nesting ground for sea turtles.

You’ll find amenities like a volleyball court, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables to heighten your experience.

Plus, the beautiful Hillsboro Lighthouse is visible from here and offers gorgeous photo ops. 

Final Thoughts on the Warmest Beaches in January in Florida

Florida takes its nickname “Sunshine State” very seriously, so when you need to escape from the cold weather in other states, this seaside wonderland has much to offer on its shoreline.

At these warmest beaches in Florida in January, you can sink your toes in the white sands, soak up views of the Gulf and the Atlantic, opt for a leisurely swim, and explore amazing stretches of coastline!

Which one of these warm beaches in January in Florida will you be visiting first?

But before you go, consider sharing these Florida warmest beaches in January   if you found the article helpful!

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17 top gulf coast beaches to visit.

This southern shoreline beckons with charming oceanfront locales.

(Getty Images) |

Fill up the car and head to these coastal destinations for an affordable beach vacation.

Naples, Florida

Mustang Island, Texas

Marco Island, Florida

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

St. Pete Beach, Florida

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Destin, Florida

Navarre, Florida

Siesta Key, Florida

Madeira Beach, Florida

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach, Florida

Sanibel Island, Florida

Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Captiva Island, Florida

Pensacola Beach, Florida

You might also be interested in:

• The Top East Coast Beaches
• The Top Beach Chairs
• The Top Beach Wagons
• The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure)

Posted on Published: September 3, 2022  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

Dreaming of a January getaway? From amazing beach vacations to exploring winter wonderlands, the winter is a fantastic time to travel! So if you’ve ever wondered what are the best countries to visit in January – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether your idea of the best place to visit in January is to escape the cold and look for sun or the beach, or you’re wishing for snowy adventures like skiing and ice castles, this list has a little bit of everything.

Some of these destinations are in the shoulder season, so you’ll find affordable pricing, which is always a bonus, too! From experiencing destinations with tons of culture to cities with amazing food scenes, you’ll find the perfect spot for your vacation in January.

Covering countries from all over the world, this list is going to inspire you to start searching for flights! Let’s dive in!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best countries to visit in January

From the Alps to the Caribbean and some underrated spots you haven’t thought of, this list covers a lot! Use this map as a visual to help you plan your vacation in January.

Pinch and zoom in to narrow down on a region that you’re considering, then check out the descriptions below.

Oh, and by the way, since I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list. I think you’re gonna love it.😉

Best countries to visit in January

January is a fabulous time to travel! Whether you’re looking to escape the winter cold and hit the beach, you’re up for adventure in a new city, or you’re wishing for a winter wonderland to enjoy, here’s some amazing destinations.

1. Costa Rica (one of the best places to visit in January for sun)

Average temp:  high 78, low 64 (varied by region) Fly into:  Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

If you’re looking for the best countries to visit in January, then Costa Rica absolutely needs to be on your radar! Zipline through cloud forests, watch monkeys and toucans dance around in the trees, dip your toes into luxurious sandy beaches and enjoy great food, Costa Rica has so much to offer visitors.

December through April is dry season, as it’s when you’ll see the best weather in Costa Rica. Although the temperatures vary based on which region you travel to, it’s still a great getaway than being stuck in the cold back home.

Visit the famous Arenal Volcano and enjoy the hot springs in La Fortuna. Still in the mountainous region, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde , including ziplining and walking the suspension bridges through the cloud forests.

For a perfect beach getaway, head west to Tamarindo, where you can hit the water surfing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. With hotels and restaurants sprinkled throughout the beach, it’s a great spot to spend a few days.

If you’re looking for more adventure, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can witness monkeys and sloths hanging about!

Be sure to spend some time at the best beaches in Manuel Antonio , including my favorite, Playa Espadilla Sur. There’s so many things to do in Manuel Antonio , you could spend an entire vacation just in this area.

Costa Rica is definitely one of the best places to visit in January for sun, and a destination you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Average temp:  high 37, low 27 (varies by region) Fly into:  Vienna International Airport, Schwechat

Austria is a landlocked country between Germany and Italy, located in Central Europe. The alps extend from the west to the east and create a perfect winter wonderland every year.

People come from all over the world to enjoy the warm and fun ski resort experience in the Austrian mountains. There is something for everyone, from skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, ice skating, snow walking, sledging to country cross skiing.

A mulled wine or a Jagertee warm up every cold heart! Villages and cities are decorated with wonderful lights, creating a magical dreamy environment, the perfect place for a vacation in January. This is the best time to relax body and soul in some of the most remarkable thermal baths and sauna villages in Central Europe.

Old traditions make Austria a unique place to be in January. They can still be experienced at the beginning of January, the Perchten run in the Tyrol region and the Glöckler run in Styria. The capital city Vienna, as well as other well-known cities such as Salzburg and Innsbruck, are for all those looking for classic inspiration and the vibes of a long gone empire.

Curious travelers can discover more  top places in Austria . Definitely check out Vorarlberg, a mountainous state in the west, including the charming Bregenzerwald, Austria .

The weather in Austria in January is usually between 0 and 50 Fahrenheit. The higher one travels, the colder it gets.

The best way to get to Austria is via the Vienna airport, located in the east. Other options include the Salzburg airport, Innsbruck airport or even the much larger Munich airport in Germany.

The Austria Trend Hotels provide the most comfortable and memorable stays in Austria. Budget-travelers will want to look out for homely vacation rental properties. Things can be a bit expensive in Austria in January, but your journey will be less costly than a stay in neighboring Switzerland.

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

3. Colombia

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  El Dorado International Airport, Bogota

The South American country of Colombia is a great destination in January – in fact, it’s one of the best weather times to visit of the entire year! In January, the sun is shining, the weather is warm (though there is a huge variety of average temperatures throughout the country), and the rain is low. 

In general, Colombia is a great place to visit, no matter the time of year. It’s a very inexpensive country to travel to, and there’s a wide variety of things to see and do. The capital city of Bogota has an old town filled with colonial architecture, cobblestoned streets, and a wide variety of historical buildings and world class museums. 

Or, you can visit the Coffee Region of Colombia, such as the little, colorful town of Salento. Here, you can visit the coffee farms of Colombia or go hiking in the Cocora Valley, a magical hike into the mountains, where you can see the famous wax palms of Colombia – the tallest palms in the world that grow up to 200 feet high!

Finally, a must visit spot in Colombia is the coastal city of Cartagena, a photogenic, absolutely gorgeous colonial walled city with colorful buildings covered in plants and flowers. 

As you travel throughout Colombia, you’ll likely take a quick plane ride between the different cities. Many people choose to start their Colombia adventure by flying into the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, and staying in Bogota at the Magdalena Guest House is a perfectly located spot to start your exploration of this gorgeous and varied country in South America. 

Colombia is one of the best places to visit in January for sun, culture and history!

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

4. Aruba (a favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 76 Fly into:  Queen Beatrix International Airport, Oranjestad

If you’re looking for a beachy escape from the clutches of old man winter, look no further than gorgeous Aruba! January is a fantastic time to visit not only to enjoy sunny skies and 80-degree weather, but it’s also a unique place to ring in the New Year .

Typically, New Year’s Eve is kicked off with loads of fireworks throughout the city (if you were planning to sleep – good luck 😉), from large displays over the water to traditional Pagara (long strings of Chinese firecrackers) throughout the streets; there’s no end to colorful and fiery displays.

After that, the party doesn’t stop! Throughout January and into February, there are countless parades like the nighttime Torch Light Parade and other festivities in honor of Carnival . The official start of Carnival is in November, but most of the festivities happen in January and February.

Because of these fun festivities, you should expect to pay a little more for accommodations. To get the best deal, book early!

Aside from a colorful party scene, Aruba is also known for mesmerizing white sand beaches like Palm and Eagle Beach. These are 2 great spots to kick back and relax with a fruity cocktail. They’re some of the best beaches in Aruba !

After relaxing, you’ll have an endless selection of dining options, including Dutch, Asian, African and it’s even one of the most  vegan-friendly Caribbean Islands!

Aruba is one of the best beach vacations in January, and a destination you’ll love.

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

Average temp:  high 37, low 26 (varies by region) Fly into:  Keflavík International Airport, Keflavik

If you’re looking for an epic winter adventure, consider visiting Iceland in January. 

While the days may be short here, you’ll get to enjoy Iceland’s spectacular scenery to yourself, given that the summer crowds have long departed. Better yet, you’ll likely get to see Iceland covered with glistening snow. This is a fantastic time to explore the country’s ice caves or go on a glacier hike!

People travel from all over the world to Iceland in January, given that it’s one of the absolute best months to see the spectacular Northern Lights, thanks to the long, dark nights.

You can either book a guided tour to try to find the lights or drive outside of major cities, away from light pollution, to spot them yourself. Patience is key- seeing the lights depends on whether there’s solar activity, as well as whether there’s clouds obscuring the night sky. 

Another excellent winter activity here is taking advantage of any of the geothermal hot springs you’ll find scattered throughout the country. The springs may be more natural, like the Hellulaug Hot Pool, which is just an organically-formed pool overlooking the ocean, or can be straight up swanky, like the recently opened Sky Lagoon, with an infinity pool and sauna with stunning views of Kársnes Harbour.

The easiest way to reach this tiny island country is to fly into Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport.  Iceland’s weather in January is cold, but not as chilly as its Northern location might suggest, thanks to the relatively warm water from the gulf stream- you can expect temperatures to generally range from 26 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. 

So be sure to include lots of warm layers on your Iceland packing list , like a base layer, parka, and gloves so you can actually enjoy exploring Iceland’s incredible landscape.

You’ll love visiting Iceland – perhaps absolute best place to vacation in January for adventure!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

6. Thailand

Average temp:  high 89, low 73 Fly into:  Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok / Phuket International Airport, Phuket

Thailand is an incredible place, and one of the best countries to visit in January. With a large variety of destinations to see within Thailand, you’ll need to decide what kind of experience you want to have, and plan your vacation accordingly.

If you’re looking for beautiful temples, rich in historic architecture loaded with history, then Bangkok or Chiang Mai might be the right spot for you. Stay in the city a few days to soak in the sights. Be sure to take a food tour, and if your’e in Bangkok, visit the floating markets.

If a beach getaway is what you’re after, you have a variety of choices as well. The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in all of Thailand. Or, you can opt for Krabi, where there’s a mix of beaches and historical sights to explore.

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, and for good reason. With beautiful white sand beaches and plenty of amenities and accommodations, there’s something for everyone.

Take a snorkeling tour or day trip to Coral Island Phuket to see the area. And with an international airport, it’s easier to get to Phuket than some of the other islands in Thailand.

January is a fabulous time to visit Thailand because it’s the dry season. With plenty of sunshine, culture, food and activities, you’re sure to have a great time in Thailand!

7. France (one of the best places to visit in January Europe)

Average temp:  high 56, low 37 (varies by region) Fly into:  Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, Nice

The month of January is a  great time to visit France because it is less crowded. Since it’s part of the low season, hotel and flight prices are more affordable.

Outside of the capital, Strasbourg in the north is a fantastic alternative. The Cathedral, art galleries, and taverns serving hearty plates of sauerkraut and local wines await visitors to this peaceful and unhurried city.

However, the French Riviera may be the best choice for people who prefer a warmer vacation in January. Also known as La Côte d’Azur (Azure Coast), it is accessible via the Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur which is the second busiest international airport in France next to Paris. The French Riviera is a good option for those who prefer milder temperatures. 

Visiting the French Riviera in January will show you a more laid-back side of France, free of curious tourists and offering more affordable rates. Fewer visitors mean you get a good deal in even the more expensive hotel rooms, as well as cheaper meals in the area’s top restaurants.

A highly recommended place to stay in the  Royal Antibes , a stylish modern hotel with a prime location on the beach. The price of a room with huge glass windows and great views starts at slightly over €100.

You can spend your days touring the Côte d’Azur in between taking in the breathtaking vistas of the sea and basking in the mild Mediterranean weather . Enjoy the crisp winter days hiking the French Riviera’s beautiful trails, including the spectacular route over Èze-village or the Baou above St. Jeannet, with superb views over the Var Valley.

You might also find mimosas in the village of Tanneron, which is also home to Europe’s largest mimosa forest, the Massif de Tanneron.

The town of Menton, meanwhile, is known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved old town center. The ancient walled city of Antibes is also well worth exploring. And if you want to experience a winter vacation like celebrities, you can also explore Cannes. 

Recommended by Christine of Journey To France

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

Average temp:  high 82, low 71 Fly into:  

Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles, in the American West Indies,  Antigua is arguably one of the prettiest Caribbean islands.  

Although it is a favorite destination for honeymoons and romantic escapes, it makes a perfect vacation for any kind of traveler that is not on a budget. 

It is in fact quite an expensive destination, especially if you choose to stay at one of the beautiful Antigua all inclusive resorts on the pristine Caribbean coast, which is very much recommended if you want to enjoy the island at its best. 

Antigua and Barbuda is actually made of the 2 namesake islands and many small islets, some of which are great snorkeling spots that you can visit by joining one of the boat tours available. 

Antigua is one of the best countries to visit in January because it’s dry season with less risk of rain. So expect a lot of sunshine and blue sky. But also it’s the most expensive time of the year to travel to Antigua, for the same reason, which is something to keep in mind as well.

Antigua is renowned for its incredible beaches (they say there are 365, one for each day of the year) and spectacular landscapes. Its home to gorgeous scenery with lush hills tumbling over the white sand beaches and the turquoise Caribbean sea.

Among the things you shouldn’t miss in Antigua, besides getting pampered in your gorgeous luxury hotel, are:

• Rent a car to explore all the spectacular beaches, including Darkwood beach, Dickenson bay and Half Moon Bay
• Dance at the sound of calypso music at Shirley Heights on a Sunday while watching the sun going down
• Try the local cuisine in one of the delicious restaurants on the beach
• Take a walk around the historical site of Nelson Dockyard at English Harbour and join one of the boat tours around the island. 

If you’re traveling on a budget you can also find more modest accommodations but keep in mind that the overall cost of living in the island is high. 

Recommended by Isabella of Boundless Roads

Best place to vacation in January

Can you believe this list? And we’re just getting started! Let’s keep exploring all the amazing winter getaways!

Average temp:  high 72, low 41 (varies by region) Fly into:  Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico City

If you’re looking for a sunny getaway this January, take a trip adventuring around Mexico. As a massive country, enjoy everything from the vibrant Mexico City to the stunning cenotes of the Riviera Maya to colonial cultural towns and ancient ruins.

With its close proximity to the equator, Mexico enjoys year-round warm weather, making it the perfect place to escape the cold. One of the best months to visit the country, January is in the midst of Mexico’s dry season when temperatures are excellent and rain levels are low.

Average daytime temperature hovers between 75°F-85°F, but differs from region to region. At this time, colder winds and temperatures hit northern Mexico compared to the higher humidity in the south.

Everyone celebrates Christmas in Mexico, and even though January is a bit late for the festivities, enjoy strolling around every town decorated to the brim with holiday decor. January also signals the start of amazing festivals like Merida Fest, Fiesta Grande de Chiapa de Corzo, and Carnaval Jiutepec in Cuernavaca.

Most international flights will land you in the capital Mexico City or other popular tourist hotspots like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. From there, a  fantastic public transportation system  can bring you to any neighboring cities and tourist attractions.

For those landing in Mexico City, book a stay in Hotel MX Centro as a starting point for your Mexico adventure!

Recommended by Catherine of Nomadicated

Average temp:  high 62, low 46 (varies by region) Fly into:  Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Malaga

If you are looking for a warm winter destination, the south of Spain and the Spanish islands are excellent options. Enjoy the mild temperatures and sunny days, discover beautiful landmarks and landscapes and immerse yourself in the food culture.

Travelling to the south of Spain or the Spanish islands in January is a smart choice to avoid crowds, extreme heat and high prices on flights and accommodation.

There are many incredible destinations in these parts of Spain, but a popular choice in the south of Spain is Malaga, the best destination for anyone that wants to escape the cold and rainy winter.

Many people believe that Malaga is a summer getaway, however, there are many reasons to visit Malaga in winter .

One of the reasons is the weather. Temperatures are mild and most days are sunny. The average maximum temperature in January is 16.8°C (62.24°F) which is ideal to do outdoor activities.

This time of the year is fantastic for sightseeing and exploring as the heat and humidity in the summer months don’t allow you to do so.  When visiting Malaga, you can’t miss attractions like the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress palace, the cathedral and Picasso Museum.  

However, if you love nature, you can also enjoy going on beautiful hiking trails. One of the best places to go hiking is Montes de Malaga Nature Park. 

Another good reason to visit Malaga in January is to experience the festive period as Christmas ends on the 6th of January. If you are in the city on the 5th, don’t miss the Three Kings Parade. 

Last but not least, January is the cheapest month to visit Malaga. If you travel from a European country, you will find amazing and budget-friendly flight fares and good accommodation rates too.

The nearest airport to travel to Malaga is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) which is 15 minutes from the city centre, and if you are looking for a hotel, Room Mate Valeria offers beautiful and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Southern Spain is a lovely winter getaway, and Spain is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in January.

Recommended by Cristina of The Little World of Travelling

Want more Spain travel inspiration? Check out a week in Mallorca – stunning!

11. Belize (another favorite for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 68 Fly into:  Goldson International Airport, Belize City

The small Central American country of Belize is a dream to visit if you’re looking for a sunny vacation in January. Offering a variety of things to do in Belize from picturesque islands to fun beach towns and ancient ruins to explore, there’s so much to experience!

January is a great time to travel to Belize because many of the holiday tourists are gone and it’s the dry season, so you’ll have gorgeous weather for exploring.

For a beach vacation, head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia. You’ll find beautiful beaches that aren’t overcrowded like they can be in Florida or other spots in the Caribbean.

If you’re looking for history and culture, head inland to San Ignacio and visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins . Learn the fascinating history of how the Mayans lived and operated their stone structures while climbing atop the largest in the complex, El Castillo.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation where golf cart is the preferred method to get around or you’re up for chasing waterfalls and seeing monkeys roam through the jungles, Belize has a destination perfect for you!

12. Maldives

Average temp:  high 80, low 77 Fly into:  Velana International Airport, Male

If you’re thinking of starting the New Year with a bang, what better way to do this than laying on a dreamy beach, with white powdered sand and sone of the clearest water in the world? A trip to the Maldives should be on everyone’s bucket list , and January is the perfect time to do it. 

Although it’s right in the middle of the season, January is perfect for a trip to the Maldives as it’s right after the holidays and just before Valentine’s Day, so the prices are really great during these times. You can even find some  affordable water villas  if you dig enough, and you can maybe score a nice room at  this resort that I’m sure you’ve seen on Instagram already.

Getting there is easy, as there’s one main airport used as a hub, located next to the Capital city of Male. From here, you reach your resort island by either speed boat, seaplane, or a combination of the two, but this is handled by the accommodation itself so you really don’t have to worry about anything while on your trip.

And if you usually have a long list of activities to do while on vacation, you’ll have to adjust when in the Maldives: here, you can only lay on a beach or float in the water.

Of course, you can do various water activities like snorkeling, diving, or going on sunset cruises, or you can lay on a sunbed, hammock, or on a massage table, but you get the point. There’s really no better place in the world to relax than this tropical paradise!

Maldives easily earns a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January!

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

13. Singapore

Average temp:  high 87, low 75 Fly into:  Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore is one of the best countries to visit in January for those looking for a warm and sunny getaway. The weather is hot and humid year round but January is one of the cooler months making it a great time to visit.

The temperature will still be hot so it is best to see indoor attractions during midday and early afternoon. The evening is a great time to walk around and explore as Singapore is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

One of the top and most unique  Singapore attractions  is Gardens by the Bay, a large nature park with both outdoor and indoor gardens and conservatories. Don’t miss Supertree Grove, made up of huge tree-shaped vertical gardens, that puts on free light and music shows every night.

Another must do is to walk along the waterfront promenade while enjoying skyline views and passing by landmarks including the ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge and the Merlion statue . Explore and dine at one of the many interesting city neighborhoods such as Kampong Glam, Little India, and Chinatown.

The beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens is also worth visiting. R ide the cable car to Sentosa Island for family friendly attractions and beaches.

Singapore is very easy to reach by air as it is home to Changi Airport, which is considered an attraction itself. Consider staying at a hotel with a rooftop pool such as the Marina Bay Sands , the iconic hotel known for its long rooftop infinity pool.

Recommended by Matilda of The Travel Sisters

14. Switzerland

Average temp:  high 38, low 28 Fly into:  Zurich International Airport, Zurich

Switzerland is definitely one of the best places to visit in Europe in January if you like snow! 

Since 60% of the country consists of the Alps, it’s designed for winter sport activities. Switzerland has an incredible number of famous ski resorts with a high amount of lifts and gondolas to take you into the beautiful winter wonderland. 

Impressive landscapes, exemplary service and snow reliability, you can expect great skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland. The Alpine country has a lot to offer when it comes to winter sports.

The mountain village of Zermatt, for example, impresses with a total of 360 kilometers (223+ miles) of slopes and over 60 lifts. It’s the largest ski area in Switzerland and one of the best ski resorts in the world.

Enjoy a little less hustle and bustle, a smaller but just as beautiful is Flumserberg  in central Switzerland or Samnaun in the east. No matter which of Switzerland’s many standout spots you choose, t raditional cheese fondue is available almost everywhere , often served in small, beautiful chalets or under open starry skies. 

South of the Alps, in Ticino, snow may not be guaranteed in January, but this region scores with the sunniest days in the country. So, if it’s raining or snowing elsewhere in the country in January, you can take a beautiful walk along Lake Lugano and enjoy the snow-covered Alpine peaks through your sunglasses in the bright and warm sun. 

Pro tip: come to Switzerland in January and bypass the school winter vacations, the country’s slopes are a little less busy. 

The biggest airport in Switzerland is Zurich and thanks to a great developed railroad network, you can reach almost any place in the country from Zurich in 3 hours. 

Recommended by Linda of Hiking the Alps

15. Guatemala (perfect for a low-key January getaway)

Average temp:  high 75, low 54 Fly into:  La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City

Guatemala is a great vacation in January as it’s the peak dry season. Enjoy warm weather, great culture and amazing adventures.

It’s a budget destination, so your money will stretch further here than in nearby countries such as Costa Rica and Panama.

Top travel destinations in Guatemala include Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Antigua is a beautiful Spanish colonial city with many things to do. In fact, it’s one of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the Americas.

The #1 attraction near Antigua is climbing Acatenango Volcano and witnessing its’ neighbour, Fuego (Fire) Volcano, erupting every 30-40 minutes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed!

A 3 hour drive from Antigua will take you to the central highlands and  Lake Atitlan . The lake is a magical place with a near-perfect mid-20s temperature (mid-70’s in Fahrenheit) all year round. Surrounded by 3 volcanoes, the views from Lake Atitlan are something special!

There are 12 towns surrounding Lake Atitlan, each offering something a little different and unique. San Pedro is a favorite for backpackers and San Marcos is a favorite for the hippy crowd. Wherever you end up visiting, travel between towns is quick and easy.

Travel between towns across the lake on little boats , known locally as Lanchas. The longest journey will be about 30 minutes and the cost less than $2.  

Free Cerveza in Santa Cruz La Laguna is an interesting place to stay. A glamping site with private eco-lodges and tee-pee style tents, there is always something going on.

Enjoy complimentary use of the facilities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Santa Cruz is one of the best places on the lake to swim and offers fantastic views of the volcanoes in the distance.    

Go for something a little different on your next holiday, go to Guatemala!

Recommended by Wes of Walk About Wes

Average temp:  high 30, low 13 (varies by region) Fly into:  Calgary International Airport, Alberta

So many destinations in Canada turn into the most magical winter wonderland during the month of January, and are sure to cure anyone’s post-holiday blues.

One of the most exciting places to visit is the Canadian Rockies region and Banff National Park. At Lake Louise, you’ll have the chance to skate across the frozen lake with a backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.

This outdoor ice rink has even been named the world’s best by CNN ! During the month of January, the entrance to the lake is surrounded by a beautiful ice castle , which will have you feeling like you’re in a snow globe in no time.

Through most of January, Canyon Lights puts on an amazing display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver. This bridge is one of the most scenic places to visit in Canada year-round, but when the bridge and surrounding park are aglow with thousands of twinkling lights, it’s even more amazing to experience. 

Heading over to the East Coast side of Canada, the best place to vacation in January is Old Quebec, a historic section of Quebec city. This area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and will have you feeling you’ve been transported to Europe.

Many of the picturesque streets will still have their holiday decor and lights up through most of January, and are especially magical after a snowfall. Visitors can enjoy rides down a toboggan chute, which has been operating for the last 135 years. 

To visit Banff National Park and Lake Louise, you’ll want to fly into Calgary, and from there, you’ll need to rent a car to get around. If you want to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights display, you can fly right into Vancouver, and rely on public transportation and ride share services to get around. Then to visit Old Quebec, the best airport to fly into is Quebec City Airport.

Canada offers a variety of experiences, and it’s definitely one of the best countries to visit in January.

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

More of the best countries to visit in January

Not even half done with the list. Do you have your January getaway picked out yet? Here’s more fabulous ideas ahead…

17. Australia

Average temp:  high 79, low 66 (varies by region) Fly into:  Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Sydney

One of the best countries to visit in January for sun is Australia . On the other side of the hemisphere, January is one of the warmest summer months.

Australia is an enormous country which means that temperatures can vary depending on where you go. From as warm as 89 F(32 C) degrees in Perth to as “cold” as 79 F (26 C) in Melbourne. 

Besides the sunny weather, Australia has a lot more to offer. With a 21,126 miles (34,000 KM) long coastline, you can find beautiful beaches and cliffs all around the country. This makes beach hopping and surfing 2 of the most popular things to do in the country.

Nature lovers will have no shortage of green scenery as Australia is the number one country when it comes to the most national parks worldwide (over 650). 

A good place to start your Australian vacation is Sydney. It’s home to the largest airport that has the most international flight connections. On top of that, Sydney is also just a beautiful and lively city with amazing beaches.

For outdoor lovers, its close proximity to the Blue Mountains National Park is perfect . And wine lovers will enjoy a day trip to the Hunter Valley to try some Australian wine and bring home a unique  Australian souvenir . 

For solo travelers, The Wake-Up Bondi hostel is a great place to stay. If you’re looking for a hotel, the Travelodge Hotel Sydney Martin Place is a good option too. 

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

Average temp:  high 75, low 59 Fly into:  Dubai International Airport, Dubai / Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking to soak in the warm winter sun, then the UAE makes for an amazing destination. This Middle Eastern country is home to 7 Emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most popular ones.

Both these glamorous Emirates have their own international airport and an array of hotels to choose from. From ultra-luxurious to boutique properties, from business hotels to glamping sites and from desert retreats to oceanfront suites, the accommodation offer is downright dazzling.

With daytime temperatures averaging 24°C or 75°F and nighttime temperatures averaging 15°C or 59°F, January is an excellent month to spend your vacation days outdoors without suffering from the scorching heat that affects the UAE most of the year .

You could choose to spend your days relaxing at a soft white sand beach, admire the view from the observation deck at the world’s tallest building, take an  adventurous desert safari from Dubai , soak up the atmosphere of the souks, visit the mesmerizing Abu Dhabi mosque , cruise the Arabian Gulf by speedboat, kayak through the mangroves or zipline between the most spectacular mountainscapes.

And fashionistas will certainly appreciate the Dubai Shopping Festival that takes place in January. So, when an action-packed winter vacation with a touch of glamour is what you’re looking for, then the UAE will not disappoint!

The UAE is one of the best places to visit in January for sun and adventure!

Recommended by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

19. Portugal

Average temp:  high 59, low 47 (varies by region) Fly into:  Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto

Portugal is a charming winter destination and is one of the top warm European places to visit in January. Portugal’s temperate climate is perfect for a wonderful vacation across the country.

Start your Portuguese adventure with the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto. It’s a city famous for its association with port wine.

From boat trips on the Douro River to discovering hidden architectural gems, there are plenty of  places to visit in Porto . The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Rumoured to be the inspiration behind the Harry Potter books, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the must-visit attractions in Porto.

Next, climb the Clerigos Tower for a stunning view over the city skyline. No visit to Porto is complete without taking a tour of its famous port wine cellars. You’ll find many of them in Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River.

Finally, head down to Matosinhos beach and Foz do Douro promenade for a day out by the beach. The closest airport to the city is the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which is well-connected to the city by public transport.

You can also add the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to your holiday itinerary. Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest cities, having received more days of sunshine than any other European capital.

When visiting Lisbon, be sure to check out the best things to do in Almada , too. You’ll love visiting Portugal. It’s deserving of a spot on this list of best places to visit in January (Europe).

Recommended by Moumita & Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

20. USA (so many can’t miss destinations for a vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 68, low 46 (in the southern region – varies greatly throughout) Fly into:  Denver International Airport, Denver / Kahului Airport, Maui / Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan

Similar to Canada, Mexico and Australia, the USA has a variety of climates and destinations perfect for January. And although it’s impossible to choose just one, these popular January destinations in the USA are all great for wintertime travel.

Vail or Breckenridge , Colorado offer some of the best ski resorts in the world! If you’re looking for a perfect winter getaway with fluffy white snow, consider the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Hawaii is an obvious choice if you’re looking for warm vacations in January in the US, since it’s average high temperatures hover around 80 degrees throughout the islands.

Watch the sunset on Haleakala in Maui , take a helicopter ride over the NaPali Coast in Kauai, visit the impressive Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to overlook Waikiki Beach in Oahu. Hawaii is full of adventure!

Another hot spot for a best place to vacation in January is Puerto Rico . There’s so many things to do in Old San Juan , including visiting the 500+ year old fort, El Morro. And if you’re looking for a perfect beach, head to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico on the nearby island of Culebra.

Without a doubt, the USA offers some spectacular January getaways!

21. El Salvador

Average temp:  high 85, low 64 Fly into:  San Salvador Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, San Luis Talpa

El Salvador is an underrated destination in Central America, and one of the best countries to visit in January. A great spot to visit in El Salvador is the town of El Tunco.

Located on the Pacific coast, El Tunco, El Salvador , is a great getaway in the middle of winter. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s. January is one of the best times to visit El Tunco because it’s the middle of the dry season, so the chance of a downpour is minimal.

The best things to see and do in El Tunco involve enjoying its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also sunbathe but some of the beach areas are a bit pebbly, especially right after high tide.

If you want a chill vibe, you can take some yoga classes and relax in a beach hammock. Or if you’re up for some adventure, you can explore the beach caves (low tide only) or go waterfall hiking.

There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the town. The best thing to eat in El Tunco is pupusas, the national food of El Salvador! These thick corn tortillas are filled with meat, cheese, and/or beans.

If you want to party 24/7, there are a number of party-focused hostels in town. If you want to get a good night’s sleep after going out but still be close to the action, stay at Eco del Mar Hotel .

El Tunco is easy to get to from the San Salvador airport. It’s just a short drive to the coast on well-paved highways. You can hire a driver in advance, rent a car, or just call an Uber at the airport.

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable vacation destination in January, El Tunco is definitely worth considering.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

Average temp:  high 39, low 28 Fly into:  Nikola Tesla International Airport, Belgrade

Serbia is the best place to vacation in January if you love Christmas and lengthened holiday seasons. As a country with Christian Orthodox as its major population, Serbia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. And on top of that, in addition to the New Year on January 1st, they also celebrate Serbian New Year based on the Julian calendar on the 15th. 

The best way to visit Serbia is to fly to Nikola Tesla International Airport in Belgrade, or you can easily travel by car from  the neighboring countries in Balkan . 

Serbia is quite small, so you can easily travel from the north to the south of the country for a week or two. Depending on the location, there are many things to do in Serbia in January. From enjoying the nightlife scene in Belgrade to spending your winter wonderland in popular ski resorts like Zlatibor or Kopaonik, there is always something for everyone!

For accommodation, you can easily find budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in each city. If you have a little extra budget for your accommodation, take a chance to stay at the Moskva Hotel in the heart of Belgrade. One of the most important landmarks in Serbia, the hotel has become a cultural heritage in the capital city since 1968. 

Recommended by Marya of The BeauTraveler

23. Philippines

Average temp:   high 86, low 74 Fly into:  El Nido Lio Airport, Palawan / Puerto Princesa International Airport, Puerto Princesa

With the dry season in full swing, the Philippines is one of the best places to visit in January for sun . You can expect the weather to be hot and humid, yet there will always be a beach nearby when you feel the need to cool off.

One of the best places to visit is the island of Palawan, which has been voted to be “the most beautiful island in the world” multiple times by Travel + Leisure’s Best of Awards . 

Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. In the northern part of the Palawan near El Nido you’ll find beautiful islands, turquoise-blue lagoons, and jagged limestone cliffs. Thus, island hopping is one of  the best things to do in Palawan !

If you don’t want to take the detour through Puerto Princesa – the capital of Palawan – you can fly to El Nido directly via Airswift from Manila. Some of the best places to stay in El Nido are Frendz Hostel and Blue Mango . 

If you’re adventurous, you can also venture out to other places on the island, like San Vicente and Port Barton. San Vicente is known for its 14-kilometer-long beach, whereas Port Barton is a small, laid-back town attracting travelers from all over the world. From here, you can hike through the jungle to get to low-key beaches and even a picturesque waterfall, kayak around the bay, or go snorkeling for sea turtles.  

As you can see, no matter where you go in Palawan, you can’t go wrong! You’ll have a wonderful vacation, perfect for a January getaway!

Recommended by Lena of Not Another Backpacker

24. Jamaica (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 74 Fly into:  Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

One of the best beach vacations in January is Jamaica. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, the hurricane season is over and the rush of holiday travelers is gone. However, January is one of the busiest months for visitors to the island, as many are trying to escape the winter back home.

Relax and rest in luxury at an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios. From family friendly options to adults-only resorts, there’s something for everyone. Although, make sure to save up for it in advance, as January has some of the highest prices.

Venture off the resort on a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, ziplining, bamboo rafting, take a sunset cruise or Blue Hole, Negril , amongst many others.

Or, rent a car and explore for yourself. Just be sure to ask your hotel which nearby areas to avoid, as there is some gang crime in Jamaica. And definitely get back before dark.

By the way, Jamaica is a great stop on some of the best young adult cruises , since it’s a destination with so much action and culture.

Whether you’re looking to sit on the beach for a week or soak in the amazing Jamaican food and culture, you’ll love a trip to this tropical paradise!

25. Morocco

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  Marrakesh Menara Airport, Marrakesh

January might just be the best time of year for a trip to Morocco. Avoid the hot sticky summer, avoid the busy season and make the most of the moderate temperatures in Morocco during winter. 

Marrakech, Essaouira and the Sahara Desert are just some of the destinations you’ll want to add to your Morocco itinerary.  

The beautiful chaos synonymous with Morocco is found right in the heart of the medinas of Marrakech.  And you can start your journey here with a flight into Marrakech Menara Airport.

Book the Riad Tizwa in Marrakech for a stay to remember, wander Jemaa el-Fna Square in the early evening, shop in the labyrinth of souks and stroll through the Jardin Majorelle. And be sure to dine at all the best restaurants in Marrakech while you’re in town.

But don’t forget to see what else Morocco has to offer in winter. Marrakech is the perfect base to arrange a Sahara Desert tour or a beach adventure to Essaouira. 

Book a visit to Merzouga or M’hamid, to see the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara. And on your way include a visit to Ouarzazate to admire the incredible kasbahs of this region.  The Kasbah Aït Benhaddou is possibly the most magnificent, made famous by the many movies filmed here.  

And finally, don’t miss a couple of days stay in Essaouira to finish your Moroccan adventure. This beach destination is a great little medina town that impresses all.  Book a beautiful riad  for a true Moroccan experience, ride horses on the beach, walk the ramparts and book a surf.  

Morocco vacation in January is always a good idea! 

Recommended by Sharon of My Free Range Family

Best countries to visit in January – continued

In the final stretch of this epic list! A few more fun cities and some of the best beach vacations in January yet, let’s wrap up this list with a bang!💥

Average temp:  high 33, low 26 Fly into:  Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Stockholm-Arlanda

If you’re looking for a vacation in January, then the beautiful country of Sweden is a fantastic option! With spectacular cities, unspoiled forests, and breathtaking lakes, it’s no surprise that over 7.5 million people visit every year. 

Sweden will take your breath away no matter what time of year you visit, but there’s something special about visiting in January! 

During this time of year, the ground is often covered in snow and temperatures will be well below freezing, although that’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a hot chocolate and a Fika!

Sweden is one of the best places to visit in January to extend that ‘festive feeling’ as many of the winter palaces might still be running, especially earlier in the month. 

Sweden’s largest airport is Stockholm Arlanda which is just 39 km (24 miles) from the capital city. This often means Stockholm is the first port of call, and you’ll find tons of fascinating things to do here – especially in January! 

First of all, you’ll have plenty of ice skating opportunities but the main spot to visit is Kungsträdgården ! Then, you can head to Hammarbybacken if you’re looking to ski or head out on a winter cruise of the archipelago! 

If you’re staying in the capital, there’s no shortage of accommodation options but one of the best hotels in the city is Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel .

Other fantastic places to visit in Sweden during January include Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park, Gothenburg, and Salen. 

Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling through Sweden during this time of year, you’ll need plenty of layers . You’ll also want to indulge in a warm drink at every opportunity and fill your belly with delicious Swedish meatballs!

Recommended by Jack & Abbie of A Couples Calling

27. Grenada (another awesome contender for best place to vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 74 Fly into:  Maurice Bishop International Airport, Grenada

The island of Grenada in the Caribbean is one of the best islands to visit in January. Located at the southern end of the chain of Caribbean islands, Grenada is still rooted deeply in culture and nature to experience, without a whole lot of big chain influences.

January is an amazing time to visit, as the temperature is roughly 86 degrees year round during the day, and the water stays nice and warm too! It’s the perfect getaway from the winter cold to enjoy warm water, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, a tropical climate and Caribbean culture.

The easiest way to get to Grenada is by flying into Maurice Bishop International Airport. Once you arrive, you can either grab a taxi (they look like small buses) or make your way to a shuttle if your accommodation offers transportation.

There’s a huge range of accommodation options, including many homestay options, more casual resorts, all the way to luxury all inclusives. My recommendation for an eco-friendly boutique hotel is the True Blue Bay Resort , while if you’re looking for something all inclusive, Spice Island Beach Resort .

January does fall within Grenada’s high season, so be prepared for more crowds than if you went during the rainy season (summer months).

Definitely visit one of Grenada’s Best Beaches while there, and try to take an island wide guided tour to experience waterfalls, sulphur springs, cocoa farms, local distilleries or more! Plus, the world-famous underwater attraction, snorkeling the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park is a must-do while visiting the island.

You’ll want to stay in Grenada at least a week to experience all there is to see and do! Grenada is one of the best countries to visit in January. It’s an amazing destination with the welcoming and vibrant Caribbean culture that you don’t want to miss!

Recommended by Taylor of Tea N’ Sea Travel

28. South Africa

Average temp:  high 83, low 63 Fly into:  Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town

South Africa is one of the best countries in the world for a January vacation. It’s the ideal spot to take a breath and enjoy life.

January in South Africa sees the weather at its best, particularly in the western regions. Summer below the equator is in full swing, and the air is warm and dry.

However you dream of spending your time, this sizable country is teeming with great adventures and awe-inspiring beauty just for you!  Come to South Africa to see the iconic wildlife, enjoy the most picturesque road trips of your life, or explore its astounding urban highlights. 

Or try a shark-cage dive off the coast! Whichever activity you choose, your options are countless. 

If this abundance of activities doesn’t earn South Africa a vote for the best countries to visit in January, maybe this will: all of these remarkable activities are accessible from the spectacular city of Cape Town. It’s the ultimate base for your South African vacation.

January in Cape Town provides you with the opportunity to attend the Kaapse Klopse . This colorful January 2nd street festival will give you stories to tell! You can also visit famous local treasures such as Table Mountain, the V & A Waterfront, and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, right in Cape Town . 

The Cape Town International Airport is just 20 km from the city centre, and services airlines that connect with all parts of the world. 

Finding the best home away from home for you is as easy as amazing vacation rental options. How does a seaview apartment or a country cottage sound? It’s all waiting for you!

Recommended by DJ of Introvert with Itchy Feet

29. England

Average temp:  high 45, low 35 (varies by region) Fly into:  London Heathrow Airport, London

England  is an underrated country to visit in January. It’s the perfect mix of winter wonderland and mild temperatures, depending on where you visit.

For example, Oxford and Birmingham typically see dustings of snow throughout January. You may even find enough snow a few days a year to build a small snowman!

But places like Brighton Beach will remain snow-less. There are even days London will be as sunny as in summer!

The mild temperatures attract visitors who are looking to escape the freezing cold of Canada or Scandinavia, but don’t want to pay the inflated prices of a beach vacation. Temperatures average 5C (41F).

Don’t forget to pack a light coat and some waterproof boots , as it can drizzle throughout January.

Luckily, the best things to do in the UK aren’t summer-based.

Having high tea in Covent Garden, touring Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford upon Avon, listening to live music at a pub, and enjoying British stand-up at local comedy houses are all great indoor activities to take advantage of.

There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying everything the country has to offer. For starters, take advantage of the many free museums and galleries.

You can also find cheap eats by avoiding tourist traps and sticking to local pubs. And finally, take advantage of the many cheap or free walking tours available in most cities.

The UK is easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

Major airports include London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Stanstead is another option, but then you’ll need to take a long train journey. 

To get around, take trains for cheap day trips from London to places like Bath and Oxford.

Recommended by Nina of Nina Out and About

30. India (an underrated one on this guide for warm vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 60 (varies by region) Fly into:  Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi / Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Bengaluru

While India may be on your travel bucket list , January is also a great time to cross it off!

January in India means it’s dry season, so you don’t need to worry about rain like you do during monsoon season. While India is a large country, narrowing down what you want to see and do will help determine what weather you’ll face and where to fly into .

The northern part of India is home to the famous Taj Mahal. Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal can be visited via day trip from Delhi. One of the new 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal’s grand and impressive architecture is stunning in real life!

In southern India, the popular towns of Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) is a busy city with so many things to do. Bangalore is famous for the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the Bengaluru Palace, Bull Temple and Cuban Park. Nearby Mysuru (aka Mysore) is a great day trip or weekend getaway from Bangalore. Be sure to watch the lighting of the Mysore Palace – stunning!

If you’re looking for a beach destination in India, Goa is the place to be. With gentle waves, swaying palm trees and beautiful, relaxing hotels, Goa is a great spot to relax and unwind in India. It’s truly a great destination, and one of the best countries to visit in January.

31. The Gambia

Average temp:  high 91, low 65 Fly into:  Banjul International Airport, Banjul

Perched on the west coast of Africa is a small but charming country known as The Gambia. The Gambia is renowned for its lengthy swathes of golden sand beaches, freshly caught fish and smiling locals.

The Gambia has 2 distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The dry season runs from November to May and is the best time to visit. The temperature at this time of year is pleasant – roughly 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) – and you can expect bright sunshine on most days.

January is also a great time of year to visit due to the country’s annual Banjul Demba Cultural Festival. Here, you’ll witness traditional music and dance performances in the country’s capital city.

The Gambia is a very small country and so only houses one international airport: Banjul International Airport.

Most visitors to The Gambia choose to base themselves in Serrekunda, a vibrant town set behind a glorious stretch of beach, fringed by lazy palm trees.

Serrekunda is a mere 30 minute drive from the airport. It’s easy to grab a taxi from the airport, or you can pre-arrange a taxi with your hotel or via a taxi company beforehand.

Alternatively, you can hire a car in The Gambia . I’d personally recommend pre-booking a taxi from a reputable company as some taxis at the airport are in questionable condition.

There are numerous hotels in Serrekunda for you to choose from but a personal favourite of mine is Luigi’s Complex. It has a very friendly and laid-back vibe and is only a short walk from the beach.

Recommended by Ella of Ella McKendrick

32. New Zealand (by far one of the best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 77, low 53 (varies by region) Fly into:  Auckland International Airport, Auckland

A bucket-list destination for many, New Zealand is at the top of its game in January. This summer month brings some of the warmest temperatures in the country, delighting visitors that enjoy sunny days at the beach.

New Zealand is a surprisingly large country – a fact that many people underestimate when planning a vacation. The amount of time you have will affect the places you are able to visit, however, these are some amazing summer spots in Aotearoa.

If you’re able to include them in your itinerary, you’ll be sure to come away happy. After all, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit in January!

Paihia is located in the Bay of Islands, and though it is beautiful at any time of year, it’s particularly vibrant during the summer season. Known for its stunning beaches, uninhabited islands, settled weather and marine life, this is a must-see in January. Kerikeri is the closest airport to Paihia, but many choose to fly into Auckland and drive up.

Moving down the North Island, the Coromandel Peninsula is another summer-time favourite for locals and visitors alike . Significant highlights include Hot Water Beach (where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand), Cathedral Cove and New Chums Beach, all of which are best enjoyed in the warmth of the summer season. Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga airports all service this region.

Finally, a summertime trip to Fiordland should be on your radar. Though this area experiences a lot of rain right throughout the year, this will be your best chance at seeing it on a nice day.

When the weather is still, the mirror reflection of  Milford Sound on the water really is incomparable. Queenstown is the closest airport to Milford Sound, though many choose to stay in Te Anau.

Haere mai and welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Recommended by Sarah of New Zealand Travel Tips

Average temp:  high 60, low 49 Fly into:  Malta International Airport, Malta

One of the best places to visit in January for sun is the European island of Malta . Actually, Malta is made up of 3 islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Compared to other European countries,  Malta in winter  is usually very sunny and in January temperatures can go up to 20 degrees Celsius which on a sunny day feels very pleasant.

One of the best things about going in January is that fewer tourists venture to the island which is mainly considered a summer destination. But what most people fail to realize is that it is the best time for going hiking and exploring the ancient towns.

Malta has a long history, and if you get rainy or windy days it’s perfect to explore underground where you can walk through the World War Two Shelters or discover the old catacombs in Rabat. On the other hand, if the weather is nice, you can easily go for a quick dip in the crystal-clear water.

There are numerous flights connecting Malta with the rest of Europe. In addition, you can take the boat directly from Sicily in Italy.

Getting around Malta by bus is easy, it costs 1.50 Euros for a ticket that lasts you for 2 hours (including bus changes.) On top of that, they have tap and pay so there is no need for cash.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

34. Turks and Caicos (another favorite on this list for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 82, low 74 Fly into:  Providenciales International Airport, Turks & Caicos Islands

Last but certainly not least is the dreamy island chain of Turks and Caicos. Definitely worthy of a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January, Turks and Caicos has unbelievable white sand beaches with the most turquoise water you’ll ever see.

A beach destination with the right mix of good food and water activities, Turks and Caicos is a laid-back island chain where the term ‘island time’ could have been created.

The whimsical nature of the island is perfect for a January getaway when all that matters is what time you should re-apply your sunblock . (By the way, be sure to use ocean-safe sunblock at all times to protect marine life.)

Staying on the main island of Providenciales doesn’t have to break the bank, either. It’s possible to do Turks and Caicos on a budget , without sacrificing a good time on the island chain.

While there, be sure to visit the best beaches on Turks and Caicos . Grace Bay Beach is the most popular, but moving away from the busy tourist spot will provide you with amazing views where you *might* just be the only one there.

Enjoy a dreamy island vacation in Turks and Caicos!

Whew! What a list! From the best beach vacations in January to frozen winter wonderlands, this was a fun guide to put together. So….are you ready to book your flights yet?

Let’s review that list one more time, in a more succinct fashion….

Best places to vacation in January

• Switzerland
• El Salvador
• Philippines
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Turks and Caicos

Related content to read next: 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold) 30 Best Countries to Visit in February (Fun Spots You Haven’t Thought Of) 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Destinations You Need to See 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 32 Awe-Inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

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Saturday 3rd of September 2022

Fabulous post Nikki! It just shows how many fantastic places there are for holidays in January. When I was younger I would have been tempted by the tropical islands... but now I have learned to ski, places like Austria and Switzerland for would be the best part - those snowy mountain views are beeeautiful!

Tuesday 6th of September 2022

Aw I love your comment, Josy! So glad you'd do a Switzerland or Austria getaway. Both looks so stunning in wintertime!

What a fantastic list! I’m lucky to live in one of the places but I’ll keep this lost for sure for winter holidays!

Ah yes Marga, I agree you're very fortunate! Glad you found some inspiration for new destination ideas, though!

Chelsea Messina

This is such a great list of places to visit in January! I have been dying to visit Costa Rica, but I live in Michigan. So I'll be ready for the Maldives by then!

Ha love it! Either of those places sound perfect during a winter in Michigan!

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The best holiday destinations in January

By Laura Fowler and Laura Chubb

Christmas is over, the New Year’s hangover is lingering and workdays and school hours are back on. From 1 January, reality kicks in, so why not book a new year getaway and escape the January blues? Post-Christmas and pre-Valentines, it's cheap – snap up an off-peak season deal across the globe, from one of the best Caribbean islands to the sunny neighbourhoods of Sydney and LA . Here, we round up the best places to go on holiday in January 2023.

Barbados, Caribbean

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

It’s the Caribbean island’s good-time vibes that keep regulars coming. Well, that and the pirate’s bounty of bleached-white, powdery beaches. The glam west coast might be all five-star luxury, but travel slightly south and the scene quickly skews more local. Lively town Oistins’ Friday Night Fish Fry brings the community out for an open-air party, with fresh-caught fish on the barbecue and booming reggae. Or, closer still, hit St Lawrence Gap, a strip of rambunctious rum bars. On the quieter east coast, pounding Atlantic waves draw surfers: Bathsheba is the closest Barbados gets to boho, with pro boarders and tattooed artists. In January, the dawn of dry season, it’s all appealing – drenched only in a daily average nine hours of sunshine.

Sustainable travel tip: The best way to benefit the Barbados community is to leave your hotel. Give back to the community by spending tourist dollars at Oistins Fish Fry, which benefits local businesses.

Where to stay: Cobblers Cove prides itself on being quietly elegant – an intimate, stylish country-house hotel situated on a white sand beach, with 40 spacious rooms which all open on to the luscious gardens. For more, see our picks of the best hotels in Barbados .

Thailand, Asia

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT +7

Thailand is heavenly in January. Yes, it's peak season, but the mayhem of the Christmas and New Year parties are over; Bangkok is just about as pleasant as it's ever going to get, and the islands on the south-western, Andaman Coast are just lovely: Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta . Over on the east side, the islands of Koh Samui, Phangan and Tao are wetter - if you're heading here, best to wait a couple of months til March ; but still, those monsoon-like rains blow in, pour themselves out, then an hour later everyone's back on the beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Thai sleeper trains are modern and comfortable, so consider an overnight rail adventure between destinations rather than internal flights. Similarly, when visiting islands, more often than not there’s a ferry option, so don’t head for the airport as a matter of course.

Where to stay: The Standard offers a peppy, high-energy experience in Bangkok’s tallest skyscraper. Families and those seeking the more serene should book into the whimsical railway-themed InterContinental Khao Yai Resort , with its charming suites all set up in vintage railway carriages, and an old-timey ticketing booth serving as a lobby. See our guide to the best hotels in Thailand for more.

Val d'Isere

Temperature in January: -1°C high; -10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

With New Year crowds gone and no school holidays on the horizon, January is a fine time to hit up the best ski resorts in Europe . And not only does French ski resort Val present the most reliable powder on the continent, but this St-Tropez-on-snow is only getting splashier. The spot is home to some of the best ski hotels and chalets in the region. And if Olympic downhills and Michelin-starred restaurants aren’t doing it, there are plenty more inventive ways to get your kicks. Who’s up for a circuit of BMW’s ice track?

Sustainable travel tip: Looking to offset all that Val d’Isère excess? Eurostar runs direct trains from London St Pancras to Bourg St Maurice during ski season; local buses then make the 45-minute trip from the station to Val.

Where to stay: Le Refuge de Solaise , once a cable-car station, is now a fun-loving ski hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, marking one of France’s highest places to bed down. We also love Le Yule , located right on the edge of the front de neige and the nursery slope. The rooms are decorated in minimalist Scandinavian style with natural colours, and have balconies overlooking the piste. For a private stay, seven-room Chalet Husky has a climbing wall, infinity waterfall and space for rifle shooting and archery – perhaps not so wise after a night at Dick’s Tea Bar.

Porto, Portugal

Temperature in January: 14°C high; 6°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 2 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

No doubt about it, Portugal is booming. While the country’s mild winters might not be scorching, they are quieter – and prices lower than usual, in a destination already beloved for being very affordable. Porto , Lisbon’s little sister, has undergone its own creative renewal. Once-decaying medieval streets buzz with kerbside cafés and retooled townhouses, transformed into stylish hotels by local designers. The food scene is fizzing, there’s more to Porto than sandwich shops and port wine tastings, from Michelin-starred menus to relaxed, wine-focused dining. And then there’s the terraced port vineyards of the Douro Valley, 100km inland.

Sustainable travel tip: Taking the train to Portugal is a much better idea than it might sound – and it only takes 24 hours. First, catch the Eurostar from London to Paris, then the high-speed TGV to Irun in Spain’s Basque Country, followed by the overnight Sud Express to Lisbon, which has sleeper cabins with private showers, and a cafe/bar. After a sophisticated night on the rails, there’s no shortage of direct trains to Porto. Felicidades!

Where to stay: Bijou design hotel Gran Cruz House pairs sorbet-toned rooms with a couldn’t-be-better location and a standout restaurant helmed by one of Portugal’s top chefs. On Rua das Flores, the 16th century Casa da Companhia building blends modern luxury with traditional touches, and hosts regular Port bottle ‘fire openings’ where you can learn about the city’s Port culture. See our guide to the best hotels in Porto for more.

Temperature in January: 23°C high; 8°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 11 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

The coast of Mexico is everything the British winter is not: light, colour, exoticism; warm and spicy and exuberant. Parties on the beach, yoga under the trees, a dip in dappled-light cenotes. We fell for the cosmic vibes of Tulum , and the little barefoot island of Isla Holbox , off the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula. For the haciendas and smart resorts on the Riviera Maya; for colonial Mérida . And over on the west coast, sunny, surfy Sayulita . The weather on both Atlantic and Pacific coasts is wonderful in January: hot but not-too-hot, with barely any rain at all. Required holiday reading: The Lacuna , by Poisonwood Bible author Barbara Kingsolver.

Sustainable travel tip: Where Tulum’s not-so-green practices have made headlines, and the Riviera Maya’s resorts are all about opulence, Isla Holbox’s modus operandi is small-scale and local. The lack of paved roads all but mandates getting around by bicycle; the most convenient way to arrive is by 30-minute ferry from the mainland; restaurants, bars and stores are owned by islanders; and single-use plastics have been banned since 2018.

Where to stay: Near the powdery white sands of Xpu-Ha, the secluded jungle hideaway of Hotel Esencia is a reprieve from bustling resorts and hedonistic eco-hotels. Five minutes from Huanacaxtle Beach, Susurros del Corazón offers an all-inclusive experience with a boutique hotel feel. The newly-revamped Rancho Pescadero is a great choice for the eco-conscious, with an on-site solar farm and a clean-air waste incinerator for both the resort and the local area. See our guide to the best hotels in Mexico for more.

Rwanda, Africa

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 9°C low Season: First dry period Travel time from UK: 10 hours 40 minutes (indirect with Rwandair or Egyptair) Time difference: GMT +2

There are many reasons to go to Rwanda . Its vibrant Kigali exudes an air of positivity from its extraordinarily resilient people. In Akagera National Park, still off-radar on the safari scene, lion and black rhino have been reintroduced, and you’ll spot elephants, giraffes and zebras roaming the savannah – but no other safari tourists. Trek through ancient rainforests, babble with monkeys – colobus, baboon, chimpanzee. But it’s Rwanda’s mountain gorillas that are the blockbuster draw. Not even 100 people a day are permitted to trek, accompanied by trackers, into the Virunga cloud forest of Volcanoes National Park, for a close encounter with the critically endangered creatures – a moving, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s possible any time of year – whenever you can get a coveted permit – but as the first dry period, January is one of the best months for trekking.

Sustainable travel tip : The income from carefully monitored responsible tourism funds the conservation of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Where to stay: Two of Africa’s most sensational lodges are found not far from Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the gorillas: Bisate , Wilderness Safaris’ thatched, curvaceous and exquisitely designed eco-lodge and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest .

The Japanese Alps

Temperature in January: 3°C high; –5°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +9

Most tourists miss Honshu’s mountainous Nagano Prefecture, which rewards the more intrepid traveller with unique experiences in this eternally surprising land. It is home to the drama and forested beauty of the Japanese Alps; the Nakasendo Way winding through the Kiso Valley and Kiso Mountain peaks which, in January, are white with snow. In Joshinetsu National Park, the ski resort of Shiga Kogen is massive – 51 lifts and dozens of hotels – but still little-known to overseas visitors, its slopes uncluttered. Apres-ski here is all about sushi feasts and restorative bathing in the natural onsen baths… perhaps even, in Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, surrounded by scarlet-faced macaques who wallow in the steaming pools to keep warm.

Sustainable travel tip : Stays at Zenagi support Nagano’s rural communities and the restaurant uses ingredients grown by local suppliers.

Where to stay: In Nagano’s Kiso forest – where forest bathing is said to have originated – Zenagi is a 300-year-old Kominka house, its traditional architecture offset by the exquisite modern restoration and furniture locally made by craftsfolk.

Andaman Islands

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 21°C low Season: Dry and cool Travel time from UK: 9 hours 50 minutes to Chennai; 2 hours to Havelock Time difference: GMT +5.5

A castaway fantasy of white-sand cays and lagoons of tropical blue, the Andamans are the Indian Ocean archipelago on which few have set barefoot. Surfers and backpackers seeking next-level undiscovered make the 60-hour voyage by basic boat from Kolkata or Chennai, to stay in shacks along its pristine shores. In the past decade or so, more luxurious digs have been set up: primarily the Taj Exotica , in five-star splendour on Havelock island; and the more boutique Jalakara , set up by an Englishman and his wife.

Sustainable travel tip : Experiences here are all-natural: swimming, snorkelling, surfing, nature trails and bird walks.

Where to stay: As well as Taj Exotica and Jalakara, Barefoot at Havelock is a rustic delight.

Kimberly Grant

Olivia Morelli

Connor Sturges

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 19°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 9 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Winter in Jamaica – when temperatures dip to a cool 30ºC by day – is a bright and balmy affair. This vibrant island dances to its own rhythms throughout January with music festivals from reggae (St Ann’s Rebel Salute) to rock’n’roll (Peter’s Players Winterfest). Jamaica’s music scene has always been world-leading, and never more so than right now. January is also one of the loveliest times to go for peak beach weather, the sea deliciously warm for swimming; and also for hiking – to waterfalls along the One Love Trail, or up through coffee plantations to the peak of the Blue Mountains.

Sustainable travel tip : Eco-forward Stush in the Bush serves delicious, homegrown plant-based Rastafari-Ital dishes – as well as gathering rainwater for the local community and generating solar power.

Where to stay: Ian Fleming’s former home GoldenEye is now one of several Jamaica boltholes owned by Island Records boss Chris Blackwell – and remains a legend. Its history is richly storied; Island Records brought Bob Marley to the world, and GoldenEye, in turn, has brought a string of musicians to the island, who have written songs in its waterside huts.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 13°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 4 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

It’s no secret the Canary Islands offer reliable winter sun – but it may surprise that there’s another side to Lanzarote. Skip the east coast’s gaudy mega-hotels and you’ll discover a very cool Canary. Much of the built landscape owes a debt to local architect César Manrique, who designed many of the islands must-see architectural feats: Jardín de Cactus, his magical cactus amphitheatre; or the home he designed for himself, where cave-like rooms are carved into lava bubbles (now home to the Fundacíon César Manrique). Speaking of which, the island’s volcanic landscape is its own art project. Timanfaya National Park presents a ravishing patchwork of rainbow-hued earth. If climbing a volcano doesn’t do it for you, get wet: dive underwater through the art park Museo Atlántico, or surf local favourite Famara beach, a dramatic stretch to the north.

Sustainable travel tip: There’s no slow boat to Lanzarote, but lots of budget airlines fly here – and a few are genuinely attempting to reduce emissions. EasyJet , in fact, is rather progressive as carbon-gushing corporations go.

Where to stay: Finca Malvasia is a four-apartment hotel in Lanzarote's central La Geria wine region that's packed with funky touches such as volcanic-stone walls and cactus gardens. for a private stay, bed down in one of our favourite villas in Lanzarote .

Silver Lake, Los Angeles

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

Now Venice has officially made the transition from edgy to upscale, where do you go in LA for more boho, less bling? Head east to Silver Lake. There might not be a beach, but the chilled neighbourhood vibe more than compensates. Houses spill down jungly hills to palm-lined boulevards jammed with vintage T-shirts and vinyl. Behold the surf shops and farmers' markets, street murals and food trucks, plus indie clubs that launched Foo Fighters and Foster The People. Think of it as an unending summer of hip, young cool – even in January. And, as with any self-respecting creative hub, it’s where food trends are born: see Trois Familia’s French-Mexican brunch, with beet-tartare tostada and churro French toast

Sustainable travel tip: LA traffic is notorious, and its subpar public transportation even more so, but you can do your bit by renting a hybrid car.

Where to stay: The Palihouse Santa Monica boutique beach lodge is in a Spanish Colonial Revival-style building, a range of suites with a home-from-home philosophy.

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 19°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: GMT -1

A smattering of volcanic islands 350 miles off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde seems a lonely prospect at first look, out in the mid-Atlantic. But there’s a reason it’s fast become a fly-and-flop favourite: miles of uninterrupted ivory beaches, impossibly pure surf and an intriguing lunar landscape. Not to mention its consistently sunny disposition: January’s average temperature is 25˚C. And finally, there’s a lovely little eco lodge to rival the big hotels and budget guesthouses. Run entirely on renewable energy, Spinguera is a restored fishing village with its own private beach on the north coast of Boa Vista island (translation: good view). Think charming, stone-hewn villas with bright yellow shutters, fresh, white bedrooms and lantern-lit sunset suppers. You could while away every day right here. Or go island-hopping to explore more of Cape Verde’s craggy beauty: from Sal’s red deserts and salt pans to São Vicente, the heart of its colourful Afro-Portuguese culture.

Sustainable travel tip: Try exploring the islands by ferry. Some routes are more regular and reliable than others, such as São Vicente to lush and mountainous Santo Antão, and Santiago to rugged Fogo (where there’s a vineyard in a volcanic crater).

Where to stay: At Odjo d'Agua Hotel , a small, locally owned hotel with a garden, a pool, anachronistically decorated rooms (antiques and curios, fishing equipment and so on) and an open-air restaurant-bar jutting out into the sea, where you can dine as the Atlantic rollers crash past.

Montreal, Canada

Temperature in January: -4°C high; -12°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 7 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

If a rave in sub-zero temperatures sounds appealing, Montréal is for you. The city’s annual January Igloofest tempts parka-clad party people outside with a line-up of world-class EDM acts. Elsewhere, the French château architecture looks fabulous with frosting, and you can go snowshoeing up Mount Royal for excellent city views (it’s more of a hill, really, right in the middle of town). Mile End’s hipsters have been replaced by good-looking young families, but its food institutions remain: warm up with classic smoked-meat sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli, or St-Viateur’s hot-out-the-oven, hand-rolled bagels (thinner and sweeter than New York ’s). For a comforting treat in the cold, poutine is considered a delicacy – try it at Au Pied de Cochon or Garnde Manger. If you need to come in from the cold, there’s the Underground City – a network of shops, museums and restaurants below downtown’s core.

Sustainable travel tip: In hip warehouse district Griffintown the Hôtel Alt Montréal , from Canadian-owned Groupe Germain, has been designed with sustainability in mind: think geothermal heating and energy-saving lighting.

Where to stay: Auberge du Vieux-Port , located on the riverfront in Vieux Montreal, has a restaurant and a rooftop terrace with views of the St-Lawrence River and the Old Port.

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 24°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: from 12 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Finding a photograph-worthy beach in Panama – a compact country with two long coasts – is easy. Finding a suitably chic stay to match is more of a challenge. Maybe that’s why this gem gets overshadowed by its rowdy neighbours, Colombia and Costa Rica. But that’s all starting to change, now, thanks to the Islas Secas . On a remote, private archipelago of the same name, just 20 miles off Panama’s Pacific shore, this retreat leaves you marooned in luxury: it's home to four individually designed Casita sites and three Tented Casitas, all located on one of the islands and sleeping up to 24 guests. Expect expert-led excursions to uninhabited islands and jungles, and complete silence come nightfall. Changing gears, the Panama Jazz Festival makes January the best time to visit for a musical party. Hole up in Central America’s first W hotel , or head for the Casco Viejo . Once controlled by gangs, the capital’s old quarter is now flooded with cool new outfits revitalising crumbling colonial buildings, including romantic boutique bolthole La Concordia.

Sustainable travel tip: Billionaire conservation philanthropist Louis Bacon bought the Islas Secas archipelago on the condition that 13 of its 14 islands would remain undeveloped. The whole retreat runs on solar energy, plus all water used gets recycled. Alternatively, choose a completely untouched beach getaway: the Caribbean coast’s San Blas Islands are protected by an indigenous Panamanian tribe, the Guna. No hotels, no big-name restaurants: just simple huts and hammocks on deserted sands. Pass on flying here – you can catch a speedboat just outside Panama City.

Where to stay: Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo , the former Union Club of Panama, with its waterfront infinity pool, immersive spa program and spacious personal terraces that overlook the glittering downtown skyline. For a pretty retreat on a coffee farm in the mountain area of Boquete, Los Establos has spacious suites, great views and plenty of activities on offer.

Paddington, Sydney, Australia

Temperature in January: 27°C high; 20°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 22 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +10

If Sydney is urban done right – laid-back, cosmopolitan and perpetually beachy – then Paddington is suburban perfection. Fashionable and well-heeled, it’s got all the buzz of a central district, but with the charm of a village. Colourful Victorian terrace rows flaunting wrought-iron balconies could be Notting Hill. Main promenade Oxford Street bustles with cafés, pubs and boutiques, while back alleys are home to cool galleries, design studios and cute bars. Nicky Zimmermann started out selling her designs at Paddington’s famous Saturday markets; find her spacious store on Glenmore Road. Or join the 'Paddo' foodies at Fred’s, where chef Danielle Alvarez’s kitchen cooks farm-to-table comfort food. January is quintessential Sydney summer, with balmy temperatures, and the Sydney Festival packing the city with music and art.

Sustainable travel tip: Though Qantas conducted a successful nonstop London to Sydney research flight in late 2019 – clocking in at 19 hours and 19 minutes – it isn’t yet commercially available. Which means getting to Oz still entails a carbon-heavy indirect route. But you can choose to eat and shop sustainably while you’re there. Sydney, in fact, offers a lot of innovative ways to leave a lighter footprint, from Paddington’s zero-waste fashion boutique EkoLuv, to 'rescued food' market Oz Harvest, and sustainable seafood restaurant Love Fish, in the waterfront Barangaroo development, designed to be Australia’s first carbon-neutral precinct.

Where to stay: The Dive Hotel , a groovy family-run guesthouse in Coogee, is about 8km southeast of central Sydney. A cursory glance at the crisp cotton sheets, polished floorboards and blue-tiled bathrooms reveals that this hotel doesn't live up (or down) to its name. Over in Surry Hills, Ace Hotel pays homage to the area’s creative roots with a diverse selection of music, talks, workshops and Pride parties, including a First Nations’ artist-in-residence program showcasing works from Aboriginal and other boundary-pushing artists .

Nicaragua, Central America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT -6

Warning: a youthful wanderlust may return when you read this feature about Nicaragua . Quite possibly the Central American country that has it all: tropical rainforests and untouched beaches, fringed with palms, distant cloud-capped volcanoes, and recently some extraordinarily special eco-lodges (see our sustainable travel tip). January has the double blessing of being the month with the best temperatures everywhere, and also the least rainfall (barely any at all) on Nicaragua's Pacific Coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Half the appeal of going to Nicaragua is losing yourself in the wild, and there are plenty of smart yet eco ways to do it. On the coast, Totoco Eco-Lodge is made up of private casitas, a pool and bougainvillaea-filled gardens but also has compost loos and works with solar power and recycled water; even your morning coffee is sourced from a neighbouring finca. Jungle-clad Jicaro Island Lodge is built from reclaimed mahogany and cedar wood, while idyllic seaside farmhouse Morgan’s Rock grows all its own food.

Where to stay: Los Patios Hotel , a five-bedroom gem with an indoor-outdoor approach to living, with scrubbed, Scandi-style interiors and open-air spaces designed for chilling out.

The coast of Brazil, South America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 12 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT -3

Worth splurging all your annual leave in January for. Spend your New Year's Eve in Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo and then stay on for a couple more weeks and head up the coast to any number of preposterously gorgeous, barefoot-n-bikini-chic beach havens. So many thousands of miles of empty, golden sand, and beautiful people drinking caipirinhas at the coolest beach parties. The kind of places that really get our travel clichés rolling. Trancoso , in Bahia, is the original and still one of the best. Surfy Itacaré, the no-car islands of Boipeba and Tinharé. Or Sao Luís and Jericoacoara, on the wild and stunning north-east coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Carbon emissions in the Amazon forest have rocketed in recent years due to a lack of enforcement of environmental protection policies. As well as a devastating increase in deforestation in the world's largest rainforest, uncontrolled wildfires have ravaged one of the most climate-important carbon sinks in a region of rich biological and cultural diversity. Give financial support by booking nature-based activities through Indigenous-owned businesses which support the forest folk on the frontlines. To reduce your own carbon footprint, choose a direct flight route, since it’s the taking off and landing parts that burn the most fossil fuels. Choosing an energy-efficient low-cost carrier also means less kerosene combusted per passenger – consider Norwegian Air, for example, from London Gatwick to Rio.

Where to stay: Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa . A ramshackle façade disguises this utterly fabulous hotel. Ten beautiful houses are set among high-growing gardens. Bathrooms have living walls of ferns, orchids and jasmine, and there's a spa and a pool lined with green aventurine stones.

Belize, Central America

Temperature in January: 28°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 16 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

It is hot and humid and it rains a lot in Belize, beset as it is by tropical storms and hurricanes. But don't let that put you off. It is the perfect Caribbean escape for those who like it rough and palm-fringed around the edges, with tropical jungly highlands, Mayan ruins and the most astoundingly beautiful beaches, just a handful of hippies and beach bums to share them with. January and February are the best months, only pleasantly hot and not too wet.

Sustainable travel tip: Those who sign up to a five-day diving trip with Much Better Adventures can be part of the conservation effort to protect the Belize Barrier Reef, spearing invasive lionfish, training in conservation work and helping with research.

Where to stay: Itz’ana , a hotel with a beautiful rattan- and plant-decorated restaurant and a bar with a great pool.

South Africa

Temperature in January: 26°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

So, so many reasons to go, but briefly: amazing food and wine , beaches, hotels. Sensational scenery, from the Garden Route and Western Cape to the Little Karoo . Completely thrilling wildlife encounters on safari, staying at the most incredible lodges; or along the coastline, in knock-out villas . January is one of the best months for all those things. Wine can be drunk all year round. And because it's in the same time zone, you don't even get jet lag once you're home again. Shame we can't say the same about hangovers.

Sustainable travel tip: When choosing a safari, make sure your money is poured back into supporting the park. The likes of Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, where rhino poaching is rife, need these funds for anti-poaching schemes.

Where to stay: At Silo Hotel , the best hotel in Cape Town for eclectic design and wraparound views. Its compact footprint packs a punch and includes the best rooftop bar and pool in the city.

Bruges, Belgium

Temperature in January: 6°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

For snow, beer and chips. The beautiful little Belgian city is one of those rare places that is just as enticing in the bleak midwinter as in summer: pretty in the snow, 'beautiful f**king fairytale stuff', to quote the film In Bruges (which is all the research you need). And the snow is an excellent excuse for holing up somewhere, because this city also has some of the most inviting reasons to stay indoors: interesting interiors, welcoming taverns full of good cheer and much Belgian beer, antiques and junk shops to poke around, gorgeous old guesthouses on the canals, candlelit bars and restaurants, moules-frites and cream-and-kirsch-laden puddings. A long weekend is enough time to see everything and put on a stone in weight.

Sustainable travel tip: Our friends in the north have an advantage when it comes to getting to Bruges sustainably – the overnight ferry from Hull. The good news for southerners: the Eurostar travels direct from London to Brussels in just two hours, and from Brussels there are trains to Bruges every 30 minutes that take just over an hour.

Where to stay: Number 11 , three 17th-century gable houses containing four wooden-floored bedrooms which combine antique and contemporary furniture, tactile fabrics, interesting prints and fresh flowers. Go for the deluxe suite, a ground-floor apartment with its own entrance, Champagne-stocked fridge and a bathtub for two.

Rajasthan, India

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 8°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 14 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +5.30

India's state of princes is spectacular in January. It's pleasantly warm, the holiday crowds have vanished and you can dance through its palaces as if on your own private Bollywood set. Don't miss the jewels in its crown - pastel-hued Jaipur , turquoise-speckled Jodhpur and romantically golden Udaipur - but leave room in your itinerary for a few forgotten treasures : serene Jal Mahal or the lost city of Bhangarh. January also provides the perfect weather for an Arabian Nights-style safari in Jaisalmer, where you can traverse the desert on the back of a camel and sleep under the stars.

Sustainable travel tip: Rajasthan’s train network is excellent and largely runs on time. But reserve well in advance to secure the more comfortable cabin classes – 1AC and 2AC provide bunks with privacy curtains, towels and bedding – because they get snapped up fast. You can book through the Indian Railways site, which requires a frustrating registration process but is doable if you’re the patient type, or else use the quick and easy online agency 12go.asia .

Where to stay: Lakshaman Sagar was originally constructed in the 19th-century as a hunting lodge, and has since been converted into a luxury getaway set over 32 acres of land in Raipur. The resort features 12 villas, private dining and lounging spaces, a spa, and swimming pool.

Top Florida Beaches to Visit in January: Your Ultimate Guide

Florida is a top tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. The state is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and diverse culture.

January is a great time to visit Florida, as the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds than during the peak season.

When it comes to beaches, Florida has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, secluded spot or a lively beach with plenty of activities, you’re sure to find it in Florida.

Some of the best beaches to visit in January include Boca Raton, Siesta Key, and Cocoa Beach.

These beaches offer warm weather, clear waters, and plenty of sunshine, making them perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in Florida.

Dubois Park, for example, boasts an archaeological site listed on the National Register of Historic Places and boasts 1,200 feet of coastline, a 100-foot swimming lagoon, and plenty of picnic areas.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a quiet spot to relax, Dubois Park is definitely worth a visit.

Best Florida Beaches to Visit in January

If you’re looking for a winter escape, Florida has some of the best beaches to visit in January. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, January is an ideal time to explore the Sunshine State’s coastline.

In this section, we’ll highlight the top 5 Florida beaches to visit in January and other great options to consider.

Top 5 Florida Beaches to Visit in January

• Clearwater Beach – With its white sand beaches and crystal-clear water, Clearwater Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. In January, the crowds are smaller, and the weather is mild, making it an ideal time to visit. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and attractions to choose from, including the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the Dolphin.
• Santa Rosa Beach – If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, Santa Rosa Beach is a great option. The turquoise waters of the Emerald Coast will make you feel like you found paradise. Enjoy the culture of the area, and visit the Gulf Place Town Center for an artistic exploration.
• Siesta Key Beach – With its powdery white sand and clear blue water, Siesta Key Beach is a top-rated beach in the United States. In January, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it an ideal time to visit. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants nearby, and the Siesta Key Village is a great place to explore.
• Boca Raton Beach – Boca Raton Beach is a great option for those looking for a luxurious beach experience. With its high-end hotels and restaurants, you can enjoy the finer things in life. The weather in January is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it an ideal time to visit.
• Grayton Beach State Park – Grayton Beach State Park is a beautiful and secluded beach located in the Florida Panhandle. With its sugar-white sand and emerald green water, it’s a great place to relax and unwind. In January, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it an ideal time to visit.

South Florida Beaches

If you’re looking for a warm and sunny escape from the winter blues, South Florida is the perfect destination. With its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, South Florida offers a variety of activities for beach-goers of all ages.

Miami Beach

Miami Beach is one of the most popular South Florida beaches, and for good reason. With its turquoise waters and white sand beaches, Miami Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

The beach is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to spend the day.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back beach experience, Key West is the perfect destination.

With its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, Key West is perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and diving. The beach is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to relax and unwind.

Siesta Key is another popular South Florida beach, known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. Siesta Key is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend the day.

Marco Island

Marco Island is a hidden gem in South Florida, known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

The beach is perfect for fishing, boat tours, and paddleboarding. Marco Island is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to relax and unwind.

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is another popular South Florida beach, known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. St. Petersburg is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend the day.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventurous day of kayaking, diving, and snorkeling, South Florida has something for everyone.

So grab your sunscreen, margaritas, and beach towel and head to one of these amazing South Florida beaches for a day of fun in the sun .

Gulf Coast Beaches

Florida’s Gulf Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With warm temperatures and sunny skies, January is the perfect time to visit these stunning beaches.

Here are some of the best Gulf Coast beaches to visit in January:

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, it’s no wonder why.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as kayaking, diving, and snorkeling. The fishing pier is a great spot for anglers to cast their lines, and bottlenose dolphins are often spotted swimming nearby.

Caladesi Island State Park

Caladesi Island State Park is a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Accessible only by boat, visitors can enjoy the pristine beaches and crystal-clear water without the crowds.

The park is also home to a wildlife refuge and nature trails, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is known for its beautiful shells and stunning sunsets. Visitors can spend the day collecting shells on the beach or exploring the island’s many nature trails.

Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities, and visitors may even spot manatees swimming in the water.

Playalinda Beach

Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Playalinda Beach is a secluded spot for those looking for a quiet getaway.

The beach is known for its clear water and soft sand, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the nearby nature trails and wildlife refuge.

Grayton Beach State Park

Grayton Beach State Park is a great spot for those looking to escape the crowds. The park is home to a beautiful beach and a variety of nature trails.

Visitors can also enjoy fishing and kayaking in the nearby lake.

Overall, Florida’s Gulf Coast is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking, diving, and snorkeling while taking in the stunning scenery.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or an action-packed adventure, the Gulf Coast has something for everyone.

Atlantic Coast Beaches

If you’re planning a trip to Florida in January, the Atlantic Coast beaches are a great place to start. Here are some of the best beaches to visit along the Atlantic Coast:

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers alike. Located on Florida’s Space Coast, this beach is known for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. In addition to surfing, visitors can also enjoy fishing, shopping, and dining in the nearby downtown area.

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a mix of relaxation and culture. Located on Anastasia Island, this beach offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the nearby St. Augustine Historic District, which is known for its charming architecture and rich history.

Vilano Beach

Vilano Beach is a hidden gem located just north of St. Augustine. This beach is known for its wide, sandy shores and calm waters, making it a great spot for families with young children. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the nearby Intracoastal Waterway.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a classic Florida destination that offers something for everyone. Known for its wide, hard-packed sand, this beach is a popular spot for driving and biking.

Visitors can also enjoy shopping, dining, and nightlife in the nearby Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier.

Pensacola Beach

Pensacola Beach is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re exploring the Atlantic Coast. Known for its crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand, this beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

Visitors can also explore the nearby Gulf Islands National Seashore, which is known for its unspoiled beauty and abundant wildlife.

Whether you’re looking for surfing, fishing, shopping, or just soaking up the sun, the Atlantic Coast beaches of Florida have something for everyone.

Florida Keys Beaches

The Florida Keys are a popular destination for beach lovers, and January is a great time to visit.

With average temperatures in the mid-70s, visitors can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without the crowds. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in the Florida Keys:

Key West is the southernmost city in the continental United States and is known for its lively atmosphere and colorful architecture. The city has several beaches, including Smathers Beach, which is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can also enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of beachside bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a margarita or a cold beer.

Islamorada is located in the middle of the Florida Keys and is known for its excellent fishing and diving. The beaches in Islamorada are less crowded than those in Key West, making it a great place to relax and unwind. Anne’s Beach is a popular spot for families, with shallow waters and plenty of shade. Visitors can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby reefs and see the colorful marine life.

Marathon is located in the heart of the Florida Keys and has several beautiful beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, with clear blue waters and soft white sand.

Visitors can also rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the nearby mangrove forests. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several beachside parks with picnic areas and playgrounds.

Big Pine Key

Big Pine Key is a quiet and laid-back island that is home to several beautiful beaches. Bahia Honda State Park is one of the most popular beaches in the area, with clear turquoise waters and soft white sand.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, or simply relax and soak up the sun. The park also has several hiking trails and picnic areas.

Key Largo is the northernmost island in the Florida Keys and is known for its excellent diving and snorkeling. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a popular spot for underwater adventures, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life.

Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several beachside parks with picnic areas and hiking trails.

Overall, the Florida Keys offer a variety of beaches and activities for visitors to enjoy in January.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the sand or an underwater adventure, there is something for everyone in this beautiful island chain.

Other Great Florida Beaches to Visit in January

There are plenty of other great Florida beaches to visit in January, including Bowman’s Beach, Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, Tigertail Beach Park, Fort De Soto Park, Delnor Wiggins State Park Beach, Caladesi Island State Park, and Sanibel Island.

Each of these beaches has its own unique charm and is worth exploring.

When planning your January beach vacation, be sure to consider the weather and crowds. January is a great time to visit Florida’s beaches , but it can still get chilly, especially in the evenings.

Be sure to pack accordingly and check the weather forecast before you go. Additionally, while the crowds are smaller in January, popular beaches like Clearwater Beach can still get busy on weekends and holidays. You can visit during the week to avoid crowds.

Overall, Florida has some of the best beaches to visit in January. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach getaway or a luxurious beach experience, there’s something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some warm florida beaches to visit in january.

Florida has many warm beaches to visit in January. Some of the warmest beaches in Florida in January include Cocoa Beach, Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island, and Sanibel Island. These beaches have temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s.

Which Florida city has the warmest weather in January?

Miami is one of the warmest cities in Florida during January. The average temperature in Miami in January ranges from the mid-60s to the high 70s. Other warm cities in Florida during January include Key West, Naples, and Fort Lauderdale.

What are the best Florida destinations to visit in January?

Florida has many destinations to visit in January. Some of the best Florida destinations to visit in January include Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and the Florida Keys. These destinations offer a variety of activities such as theme parks, beaches, museums, and outdoor adventures.

What are the top beaches to swim at in Florida during January?

Florida has many top beaches to swim at during January. Some of the top beaches to swim at in Florida during January include Clearwater Beach, South Beach, Panama City Beach, and Daytona Beach. These beaches offer clear waters, soft sand, and a variety of water activities.

Which Florida beach has the warmest water in January?

The Gulf of Mexico has the warmest water in Florida during January. Some of the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico with the warmest water in January include Sanibel Island, Siesta Key, and Anna Maria Island. These beaches have water temperatures ranging from the low to mid-70s.

What are some popular Florida destinations to visit during the winter?

Florida has many popular destinations to visit during the winter. Some of the popular Florida destinations to visit during the winter include Miami, Orlando, Key West, and St. Augustine. These destinations offer a variety of activities such as beaches, theme parks, museums, and outdoor adventures.

Florida is the perfect destination for a winter beach vacation. With its warmest beaches, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds, January is an excellent time to visit. Whether you are a world traveler or a local, Florida has something for everyone.

One of the best things about visiting Florida in January is that it is not peak season. This means that you can find great deals on hotels, tickets, and activities. Plus, you won’t have to deal with the crowds that you would during the summer months.

If you are looking for more than just a beach vacation, Florida has plenty of other attractions to offer. From theme parks like Disney World to world-class golf courses, there is something for everyone. And if you are looking for a night out, Florida has plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.

Of course, the main attraction in Florida is the beaches . With so many warm beaches to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go. Some of the top beaches to visit in January include Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key, and Cocoa Beach. These beaches offer everything from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and fishing.

If you are looking for a change of scenery, Florida is also a great base for exploring other destinations. You can easily take a trip to nearby destinations like the Bahamas, Mexico, or even Oman.

In conclusion, Florida is the perfect destination for a winter beach vacation. With its warmest beaches, mild temperatures, and plenty of attractions, there is something for everyone. So why not book your trip today and start planning your next adventure?

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12 Best Places To Visit for Beaches Each Month

Posted: May 1, 2024 | Last updated: May 1, 2024

Timing is critical when planning a beach vacation. Depending on the time of year, different beach destinations worldwide offer ideal weather and water conditions for sun-seekers. 

Whether you’re looking for pristine white sands or diverse watersports, there’s a perfect beach destination for you for every month of the year. From the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean to the remote shores of Southeast Asia, this article will guide you through the best places to visit for beaches each month. 

January – Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world , and January is an ideal time to visit. With temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C), you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days perfect for soaking up the sun and exploring the island’s natural wonders.

Ka’anapali Beach is among the island’s best. This picturesque beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. If you are into beach hopping, try the white sandy Makena Beach, also known as the Big Beach, Keawakapu Beach, Kihei Beach, and Polo Beach. 

January also marks the peak of the whale-watching season in Maui, as thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Hawaiian Islands to breed and give birth. It is a must-do activity when visiting Maui in January.

Read more:  Tropical Destinations To Visit

February – Fulhadhoo, Maldives

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or romance, Fulhadhoo offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable getaway. February brings mild temperatures and gentle sea breezes to this island, creating the ideal conditions for strolls along the shoreline or basking in the sun’s warmth. In addition, it’s the ideal time for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts eager to explore the underwater world . 

Spend your days on the island’s scenic beaches, including Fulhadhoo Bikini Beach, which is one of the most picturesque in the entire Maldives. 

Overwater bungalows and beachfront villas on this island allow guests to wake up to the gentle lull of the Indian Ocean and end the day with stunning sunset views.

Read also: Cheap Warm February Destinations

March – La Digue, Seychelles

La Digue holds a special allure for travelers seeking an escape into paradise . March in this destination is synonymous with perfect weather. The island transitions from the rainy to the dry season, making it ideal for visitors to enjoy warm temperatures, clear skies, and gentle sea breezes. The average March temperature hovers around 81°F (27°C).

Among La Digue’s primary draws is its breathtaking scenery, and March showcases the island’s natural beauty in all its glory. This island is home to Anse Source d’Argent, one of the most filmed beaches on the planet. 

In addition to Anse Source D’Argent, you can visit Anse Coco Beach, Grand Anse, Petite Anse, Spiagge di Anse Marron, and Anse Severe, all of which have different scenery and personalities.

Read also: Awesome Exotic Beaches

April – Bali, Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia, needs no introduction. Its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife make it a paradise for travelers worldwide. While any time of the year is an excellent time to visit Bali, April is one of the best months to experience the island’s beauty and charm.

With minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine, you can expect clear skies and warm temperatures throughout your stay. Aside from having serene stretches of white sand, local beaches such as Kuta Beach and Uluwatu Beach are perfect for surfing .

Read also:  Underrated Tropical Destinations

May – Sardinia, Italy

If you are looking for a picturesque beach destination in May , look no further than Sardinia, Italy. May marks the beginning of Sardinia’s warm and sunny season, with temperatures ranging from 64°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). The month also gives you access to crowd-free beaches like Cala Luna and Poetto.

Surrounded by rugged limestone cliffs and lush Mediterranean vegetation, Cala Luna offers a picturesque setting that feels like something out of a postcard. Its waters are calm and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun.

Read also: European Beach Destinations in May

June – Santorini, Greece

Santorini is often considered one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. The island’s unique geography resulted from a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, but its effects can still be felt on the black sandy beaches. 

Why visit this Greek island in June? First, the month offers breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky pink, orange, and purple. Whether watching from the cliffs of Oia or enjoying a romantic dinner overlooking the sea, June sunsets in Santorini are truly magical.

A visit to Santorini would be incomplete without relaxing on one of its beautiful beaches. From the famous Red Beach with its dramatic cliffs to the black sands of Perissa and Kamari, there is a beach that suits every taste.

Read also: Top Greek Island Beaches

July – Ibiza, Spain

Beach vacations in Ibiza are associated with relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation. This island basks in warm temperatures in July, making it the perfect destination for sun-seekers . With daytime highs averaging around 86°F (30°C), visitors can indulge in endless sun-drenched relaxation on the island’s pristine beaches, such as Cala Codolar and Talamanca Beach.

Additionally, Ibiza is renowned for its lively nightlife, particularly in July when the island is buzzing with energy. Many beach clubs and bars host daytime parties on the sandy shores, where you can dance to music while soaking in the sea views.

Read also: Hidden Tropical Islands

August – Zanzibar, Tanzania

Visiting Zanzibar in August promises a tropical vacation like no other. Start your holiday at local beaches building sand castles, sunbathing, swimming, or riding horses on the shorelines. Whether you prefer the secluded shores of Nungwi or the vibrant atmosphere of Kendwa, you’ll find a slice of paradise to enjoy on Zanzibar’s coastline.

Zanzibar is warm and humid in August. Temperatures range from around 75°F to 81°F (24°C to 27°C) throughout the month, making it perfect for water sports activities.

Aside from spending your days lounging on the beach, you can take a sailing excursion around the island or visit nearby islands. You could also opt for boat tours that offer dolphin spotting and snorkeling opportunities in secluded coves.

Read also: Visa-Free Exotic Destinations

Mykonos – September

Sitting in the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is a destination you can visit all year round, but September is the best month to enjoy its beaches . In September, the large tourist crowds from the July – August peak season have left the island, allowing for a slow-paced vacation. 

The day’s temperatures typically range from 69.8°F to 80.6°F (21°C to 27°C). 

While some of Mykonos’s lively clubs are closed from mid-September, you can still have a great time if you are looking for more than a vibrant nightlife. 

Enjoy its stunning beaches like Elia, Platis Gialos, Agios Sostis, Kalo Livadi, Agrari, Paradise, and Super Paradise Beach. 

You can also take sunset cruises, snap some photos by the iconic windmills, explore the Little Venice neighborhood, or visit the picture-perfect Paraportiani Church.

Read also: Must-Visit Beaches on Greek Islands

October – Grand Baie, Mauritius

October marks the beginning of summer in Mauritius, making it an ideal time for beachgoers to visit Grand Baie. With temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C), you can expect warm and pleasant weather perfect for sunbathing and water activities. Additionally, October falls outside the cyclone season, minimizing the risk of disruptive weather patterns.

One of Grand Baie’s main draws is its breathtaking beaches with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. From the famous Grand Baie Public Beach to the sandy Pereybere Public Beach, you’ll be spoilt for choice when selecting picturesque coastal spots.

Read also: Top Tropical Beaches For May Getaway

November – Miami Beach, Florida, USA

Miami Beach is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning beaches, and endless sunshine. While the peak tourist season may be over, November offers a fantastic opportunity for beach lovers to experience this iconic destination without the crowds. It’s a time that marks the transition from the scorching summer heat to more comfortable temperatures.

Lummus Park Beach offers a vast expanse of soft sand, palm trees, and clear blue waters. It’s an excellent place for swimming, volleyball, and picnicking.

For a more natural setting, head to Haulover Beach. It features pristine white sand, dunes, mangroves, and a clothing-optional section for those who dare.

Read also:  Hidden Beaches in the US

December – Tulum, Mexico

Visiting Tulum in December is a fantastic idea, especially if you want to enjoy its beautiful beaches . The month has pleasant weather, with temperatures around 75°F to 85°F (25°C to 28°C). It’s generally dry with low humidity, making it perfect for spending time outdoors. You will love the cool evening breezes, too. 

Tulum is famous for its stunning beaches, including Secret Beach, which has soft white sands. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or leisure walks along the shore. Don’t skip exploring the nearby cenotes (natural sinkholes) for a unique swimming experience.

Read also: Cheapest Beach Destinations in May

Caribbean Destinations Where No Visa Is Needed for Americans

Discover passport-free paradise with our guide to Caribbean destinations for US citizens .

• Read more: Caribbean Destinations Without Visa

Tropical Destinations To Add to Your Bucket List

Dreaming of paradise? Discover tropical destinations to add to your bucket list.

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Underrated Tropical Vacation Destinations

Discover paradise with our list of underrated tropical vacation destinations .

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Cheap, Sunny February Destinations

Fall in love with cheap and sunny February destinations .

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Best Greek Islands for Beaches, Ranked

Escape to Greece’s top-ranked beach destinations for sun, sand, and sea.

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The world’s best beach, according to a 2024 report.

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Overlook of Trunk Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, which was named the top beach ... [+] in world in 2024 by The World's Best Beaches.

U.S. residents don’t need a passport to travel to this year’s winner of the “World’s Best Beach.” The No. 1 best beach in the world for 2024 is: Trunk Bay, located on St. John, a U.S. Virgin Island, according to The World’s 50 Best Beaches presented by Banana Boat.

Sheltered from the Caribbean tradewinds, the waters are calm and ideal for swimming and, you can duck underwater with your snorkel gear on to be greeted by colorful fish darting around the reef.

Each year, the World’s 50 Best Beaches asks thousands of travel professionals to nominate their favorite beaches, and then the organization narrows the list down with factors that include the uniqueness of the surrounding landscape, the soundtrack of nature, and takes into consideration things like whether the waters are calm enough to swim in and the idyllic beaches aren’t too crowded.

Trunk Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands was named the top beach on the 2024 edition of the ... [+] World's 50 Best Beaches list.

The World’s 50 Best Beaches joins a number of other rankings that are out to determine the very best beaches in the world, including the TripAdvisor ranking that named Praia da Falésia in Olhos de Água, Portugal the best beach in the world earlier this year. Recently, Malta’s Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach was named the most beautiful beach in Europe by European Best Destinations. Unofficially, “Barbie” put the spotlight on pink-sand beaches around the world in the past year, too.

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While there’s many gorgeous beaches around the world where turquoise water laps the sand, Trunk Bay is a quintessential Caribbean paradise that rises above the rest for a few reasons, according to the World’s 50 Best Beaches findings.

“Visitors praise the incredibly soft sand and the crystal-clear, pool-like waters, but what truly distinguishes Trunk Bay from other Caribbean destinations is its setting within the stunning Virgin Islands National Park,” the report says.

This means that the beach is a protected area, and truly a place to getaway, with lush greenery and local wildlife.

An aerial shot of Trunk Bay, located on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Trunk Bay is named after the Leatherback turtle, which are native to the area and called “trunks.”

"Trunk Bay and the many beaches across the U.S. Virgin Islands hold a special place in the hearts of those who call our beautiful islands home as well as our returning visitors," says Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of the USVI Department of Tourism in a news release. "We have long regarded our beaches as some of the best in the world, and this recognition helps us share that with the world."

The Caribbean's high season runs from December through April, and that’s when Trunk Bay is busiest.

Last year, Lucky Bay, a kangaroo hangout in western Australia, took the top spot on the best beaches list.

The Top Beaches in The U.S.

The only beach in the contingent U.S. to make the top 50 list was Henderson Beach along the Emerald Coast in Florida, which took the No. 44 spot.

Henderson Beach in Florida was the only beach in the contingent U.S. to land on the World's 50 Best ... [+] Beaches list in 2024.

Lanikai Beach on Oahu snagged the No. 14 spot and the palm-lined Kapalua Bay Beach on Maui ranked No. 40 on this year’s list.

The Top 10 Beaches in the World

Catamaran boat anchored off of sandy beach with view from under a shady tree on Meads Bay on the ... [+] Caribbean island of Anguilla.

Here are the other beaches that cracked the top 10 in the World’s 50 Best Beaches 2024 list:

No. 1: Trunk Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands

No: 2: cala mariolu, italy.

Cala Mariolu

No. 3: Meads Bay, Anguilla

No. 4: entalula beach, philippines.

Entalula Island Beach

No. 5: Voutoumi Beach, Greece

Voutoumi Beach

No. 6: Turquoise Bay, Australia

Aerial view of Turquoise Bay in Australia.

No. 7: Pink Beach, Indonesia

Aerial view Pink beach, Komodo national park, Flores, Indonesia

No. 8: Anse Georgette, Seychelles

Anse Georgette, Seychelles

No. 9: Green Lagoon, French Polynesia

Fakarava Atoll, Tuamotu Archipel, French Polynesia

No. 10: Horse Shoe Island, Myanmar

Horse Shoe Island, Myanmar

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This Jersey Shore beach ranks among 25 best beaches in the U.S.

Ready to find your perfect beach destination?

One of the many beaches along the Jersey Shore was included in travelandleisure.com list of best beaches.

The travel media website named 25 Best Beaches in the USA and Asbury Park beach made the cut.

To define the perfect beach, the website compiled a diverse criteria for different people that incorporated great public transportation and accessible parking; quality of the sand, boardwalk, activities; relaxation, surfing waves and beaches that cater to families with calm waters and things to do right on the sand.

Here's why Asbury Park beach made the list:

This Jersey Shore destination has everything you want out of a Northeastern summer spot — a little bit historic charm, a little bit rock 'n' roll. The lively, clean, white-sand paradise stretches a mile along Atlantic coast, where sunbathing, swimming, surfing, fishing, are popular activities here. It's backed by a historic boardwalk bustling with restaurants, interesting shops, a splash park, miniature golf courses and the very popular Silverball Retro Arcade.

More: Here's the ultimate beach guide for your summer days at the Jersey Shore

25 best beaches in the US

• Alabama:  Gulf Shores Public Beach
• California:  Carmel Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea
• California:  Coronado Beach, San Diego
• California:  Pope Beach, Lake Tahoe
• California:  Santa Monica Beach
• Connecticut: Ocean Beach Park, New London
• Colorado:  Medano Creek, Great Sand Dunes National Park
• Florida:  Clearwater Beach
• Georgia:  North Beach, Tybee Island
• Hawaii:  Carlsmith Beach, Hilo
• Hawaii:  Poipu Beach, Kauai
• Illinois:  Oak Street Beach, Chicago
• Maryland:  Ocean City
• Massachusetts:  Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester
• Michigan:  Grand Haven State Park
• Minnesota:  Park Point Beach, Duluth
• North Carolina:  Wrightsville Beach
• New Jersey: Asbury Park Beach
• New York: Coney Island Beach, Brooklyn
• New York: Rockaway Beach, Queens
• Oregon:  Harris Beach
• South Carolina:  Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head
• Vermont:  Crystal Lake State Park, Baron
• Washington:  Glass Beach, Port Townsend
• Washington:  Alki Beach, Seattle

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2 New York City beaches make Travel + Leisure's "25 Best in the USA." See the complete list.

By Dave Carlin

Updated on: April 29, 2024 / 6:47 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- Travel + Leisure magazine's annual list of the 25 best beaches in the U.S. includes a pair of popular ones right here in New York City.

The two beaches are sharing the prestigious space with other sun, sand and surf spots in places like Hawaii, California and Florida.

George Schlereth of Forest Hills said his love for Rockaway Beach predates the hit 1978 song by the Ramones with lyrics that went, "Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach."

"It's a great place to spend the afternoon. It's the best place you could go," Schlereth said.

So what else makes Rockaway Beach such a fan favorite?  

Travel + Leisure praised Rockaway Beach's "Five-mile boardwalk, and surf-worthy waves."

"It's definitely very diverse. People come from all over come here," said Kristen Supple of Far Rockaway.

"Rockaway Beach, because I love like the waves and boogie boarding and they have great ice cream and food," said 10-year-old Jordan Cannetti.

"I used to come here as a kid with my parents and family and it's just night and day. The boardwalk, it's just amazing. Now, the restaurant," his father said. "The parks along the boardwalk are just amazing. Ninja Park is great The pickle ball, the basketball."

"They spent so much money fixing up the Rockaways. They brought in more people, more families down there. The place is packed now," Schlereth added.

And let's not forget the amazing Coney Island   

Coney Island bubbled up to the Top 25 as well, with the editors of Travel + Leisure writing, "Coney Island is a perfect seaside wonderland of nostalgia and kitschy fun."

Kenya Dethan, who is 7, called it her favorite beach.

"I like the nice water. I like going on the roller coasters," Dethan said.

The thing about Coney Island is there is so much to do -- sand and surf, the boardwalk with the amusements, and the food and drinks -- all of it rain or shine.

"Number one in the world, Coney Island," resident David Dingle said. "Best of both worlds. You're at the beach and the stores all together, all in one place. Once you're here, you don't want to go back home."

Also making the best beaches list is the New Jersey favorite for fun, Asbury Park. It's the hometown of music legend Bruce Springsteen and features clubs like The Stone Pony , which keep the town highly rated and rockin'.

• Asbury Park
• Coney Island
• Rockaway Beach

Dave Carlin serves as a reporter for CBS2 News and covers breaking news stories and major events in the Tri-State Area.

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A first-timer's guide to Saskatoon, Canada

Apr 26, 2024 • 6 min read

From timing your visit right to planning your activities, here's our first-timer's guide to Saskatoon © K. D. Kirchmeier / Getty Images

Surrounded by gentle wheat fields beneath a dome of great prairie skies, Saskatoon is the largest city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan .

Straddling the South Saskatchewan River, it has been the province’s cultural and economic hub since its settlement in the late 19th century (but not its capital – that falls to Regina).

The Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples had been guardians of this land for over 6000 years when, in 1883, white Methodists founded the town as a temperance colony, naming it after the purple berry growing in the region. While the railroad eventually reached the fledgling town in 1890, Saskatoon still only had 113 inhabitants at the turn of the century. A boom period of new settlers and entrepreneurs soon followed, and Saskatoon grew into a thriving city, albeit isolated from big cities like Vancouver , Toronto and Montréal .

Today, the sometimes stark prairie landscapes around the city look like nowhere else in the country. Downtown, you’ll find street art tours, compelling museums, craft beer breweries, a variety of architecture and some fine riverside trails. And Saskatoon now proudly explains and celebrates the Indigenous Peoples who have been here for thousands of years, with the Wanuskewen complex a majestic and poignant monument to that past and present.

These top tips can help you plan a trip to Saskatoon.

When should I go to Saskatoon?

Though Saskatoon – one of the sunniest cities in Canada  – receives plenty of sunlight (2350.4 hours annually), winters are long and cold so plan to visit during the glorious summer months between June and August. This is the busiest time of year, but since Saskatoon is a little more under-the-radar than other Canadian cities, it’s not overwhelmed by tourists and offers much better value for money regarding accommodation and eating out. 

The city comes alive with music on those effulgent summer days with magnificent festivals across multiple genres including the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival , Rock the River and the Ness Creek Music Festival . And for those who do want to embrace Saskatchewan winter scenes, the Nutrien Wintershines Festival hosts ice sculptures, cook-offs, stargazing and more. 

How long should I spend in Saskatoon?

Allow two to three days to explore Saskatoon, but also leave time for attractions on the city’s outskirts that make use of the abundant prairie space. You’ll spend the majority of your time in downtown Saskatoon, on the river trails and the Broadway neighborhood, which is ideal for a weekend. More planning is needed for the excursions out of the city, so map out an extra day or two for those depending on time and budget. 

Is it easy to get in and around Saskatoon?

Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport is 7km (4 miles) northwest of downtown Saskatoon, which is about 18 minutes by taxi, the most convenient form of travel to any downtown hotel. The number 11 bus also runs from the airport, and takes around 30 minutes to make the same journey (without factoring in walking to the hotel).

Though its streets are wide, Saskatoon’s downtown core is highly walkable and there are several bridges spanning the South Saskatchewan River that link to Broadway Ave’s bars, cafes and stores. Consider hiring a bike too, as the relatively flat landscape and serpentine river trails are ideal for cycling. Visitors to Wanuskewen will need to hire a car or take a taxi.

Traveling elsewhere in Canada? Here are our top tips on transportation

6 of the best things to do in Saskatoon

1. explore the meewasin valley trail.

Saskatoon’s huge prairie skies are evocative and entice you outside, so the best way to experience the great outdoors here is by following some of the Meewasin Valley Trail . Flanking the serpentine river, the 25km (15 mile) trails are a fine introduction to Saskatoon’s cityscape, and are best experienced on two wheels (look out for the motivational chalk murals and messages along the way).

2. See artworks in the Remai Modern

The river winds south to River Landing in downtown’s southern tip, and it’s here that the Tetris-like Remai Modern  museum rises up on a small bluff. Alongside a permanent collection featuring over 8000 works from Canadian and international artists, there’s also a quirky permanent exhibition of ceramics and linocuts by Pablo Picasso in this spacious museum bursting with natural light. 

3. Enjoy the buss of Broadway Avenue

A short walk across the Broadway Bridge brings cinematic city views followed by a stroll into arguably the most vibrant corner of Saskatoon. Airy breweries , buzzing bistros, kitsch vinyl stores and the iconic Broadway Theatre fringe Broadway Ave, which is a fine spot to spend a morning, afternoon or evening (perhaps even all three?). 

4. Take yourself on a tour of downtown's murals and architecture

Back in downtown, discover an art-splashed city on a self-guided street art tour passing by huge murals and multicolored installations spanning 20th and 23rd Street East. Even if you’re not staying there, the Delta Bessborough Hotel is something of a work of art itself. Completed in 1935, the Bessborough is a soaring Châteauesque turreted and gabled affair reminiscent of Bavarian castles that looks startlingly out of place.

5. See how Saskatoon was

Towards the edge of the city, the Western Development Museum’s compelling Boomtown exhibit is an indoor reconstruction of a typical Saskatchewan small-town main street from 1910, complete with a blacksmith, church and train station.

6. Taste local produce at the farmers market

And for a true experience of this land, it’s worth a visit to the Saskatoon Farmers Market  – an institution running since 1975 and stuffed with vendors selling everything from wild berries to handmade moccasins.

My favorite thing to do in Saskatoon

There’s a magical quality to watching the sun sink behind the widescreen horizon at Wanuskewin Heritage Park . Not like the picture-postcard sunsets you see on Caribbean beaches, it’s more of a calming, spiritual feeling as the sun’s soft glow fades across the marshy creeks and wooded ridges of the Opamihaw Valley. Shortly after, I watched the moon rise against a blue evening canvas. Known as nēhiyawēwin in Plains Cree, Wanuskewin roughly translates to "seeking peace of mind" and that name couldn’t be more apt. 

Around 20 minutes north of downtown Saskatoon, Wanuskewin tells the story of the Northern Plains Indigenous People’s spiritual relationship to this land and the living creatures they share it with, most notably the repopulated bison. You can explore panels, artwork, interactive classes, traditional food and much more, but most importantly that story – which is never sugarcoated – is told by Indigenous People themselves. Few experiences I’ve had in North America have felt deeper and more enlightening than this one.

How much money do I need for Saskatoon?

• Hostel room: $79
• Hotel room for two: $94
• Public transport ticket: $3
• Coffee: $3.60
• Sandwich: $3
• Dinner for two: $73
• Beer/pint at a bar: $5.80

Budget for your time in Canada with out money-saving tips

Should I visit in winter?

With an average temperature of -13°C (8°F) in January, winter in Saskatoon is only for the hardiest of souls. However, one bonus of a visit in this season – along with budget-friendly prices – is the chance of seeing the northern lights, with the aurora's stunning swirls sometimes visible if the stars align (no pun intended). Just remember to pack plenty of layers.

What language is spoken in Saskatoon?

Though English and French are official languages in Saskatchewan, English is by far the most spoken language in Saskatoon and you’ll need it for all of your interactions. 

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