18 Places That Are Hot in February (USA Edition)

By the time February rolls around it seems like winter will never come to an end. Why suffer? Instead of hunkering down until spring breaks, escape to one of the places that are hot in February.

The US has tons of places that are warm, if not hot, in the dead of winter. Can’t think of one right now? Don’t worry, this list gives the lowdown on the 18 best places that are hot in February.

From getaways in a desert oasis to sipping cocktails on the beach, it’s got it all.

Okay, let’s get into it and help you find that warm place that’ll melt away the winter blues.

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Tucson

At the top of the list of places that are hot in February is Tucson, Arizona. With sunshine and temperatures in the 70s you’ll forget that much of the country is covered in ice and snow.

This awesome Arizona city has everything you’re looking for from incredible outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and an awesome urban vibe.

Definitely make sure that Saguaro National Park is at the top of your itinerary. You’ll love hiking among the cacti and the views of the landscape.

Tucson offers excellent hiking trails and an abundance of cool day trips to check out as well.

Big Bend National Park

With smaller crowds and lower temps, February is the perfect time to visit Big Bend National Park for epic hiking in the mountains.

Located in the beautiful far west section of Texas, the sun helps daytime temps reach into the 60s which is perfect for hiking and exploring the Chihuahuan Desert. Hence why it’s one of the best places that are hot in February.

The cooler months are the ideal time to get out and explore Big Bend for the variety of hiking trails, hot springs, and exceptional stargazing opportunities.

You don’t want to miss out!

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Places to Visit in Texas

Sedona

You’ll find perfect weather to explore Sedona in February. With temps in the 60s, it’s totally one of the best places that are warm in February.

Sedona is the place for a getaway that’s designed for relaxing and recharging.

Here you can massage away stress at spas, find your center with yoga, or get back to nature on hikes among the red rock formations and energy vortexes.

Sedona also has stellar restaurants, shops, and art galleries too.

Check out our list of the best things to do in Sedona and also the list of free things to do in Sedona.

LEARN MORE: 12 Beautiful Places That are Hot in February (Worldwide Edition)

Santa Barbara

A fabulous February getaway awaits in Santa Barbara. With temps in the upper 60s/lower 70s, it’s clearly one of the West Coast places that are hot in February.

You’ll spend the days outside enjoying everything from the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens to shopping on State Street or strolling Stearns Wharf.

And of course you’ll love strolling the white sandy beaches, one of the best things to do in Santa Barbara.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara? La Playa Inn Santa Barbara is a short walk to the beach and Stearns Wharf, read reviews and see photos now.

Orlando

You can’t really go wrong with a trip to Orlando in February.

If you’re into Disney and amusement parks it’s a no-brainer, but there’s also tons of other stuff to do besides the theme parks.

It’s the key time when temps are warm and the humidity is totally doable. So, if you’re looking for the best time to visit the major theme parks in Orlando, February should be a major consideration.

Daytime temps usually get up into the 70s in Orlando and there’s plenty of sunshine making it one of the best places that are warm in February hands-down.

What’s even better? You can visit a bunch of beautiful beaches close to Orlando to sink your feet into the sand and enjoy the ocean waves.

Another cool option is visiting the gorgeous clear water springs near Orlando. You can even go swimming or kayaking with manatees in February!

Maui

***While Lahaina is recovering from devastating wildfires of August 2023 visitors should stay away from that area but the remainder of West Maui, Southern and Eastern Maui regions are open for tourism. Check Maui Travel Updates for more info***

Maui is yet another one of the great places that are hot in February in the US.

This island paradise sees warm temperatures in the 70s for both the air and water. This way you’ll be out enjoying the beauty of Maui hiking the landscape or out on the water.

Take a Road to Hana luxury limo-van tour with helicopter flight back for a no hassle sightseeing trip.

February is also whale-watching season. So you’re likely to spot them from the shore or better yet, hop on a boat tour. There’s even the Maui Whale Festival. Of course you’ll also want to attend a Hawaiian luau in Maui!

Where should you stay in Maui? The Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateau is the perfect (adults only) location overlooking Maui’s southern coastline.

Palm Springs California

When you just want to get away from it all, head to Palm Springs. Here you’ll melt away the winter blues in this desert oasis.

Historically this is where so many of LA’s rich and famous escape for serious R&R. And you can too. You’ll find spas and natural springs ready to help you rest and recharge.

Read our list of the Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs

February temps in the 70s are ideal for hiking the gorgeous desert landscape, strolling the shops, or having a delicious meal outdoors.

And with abundant options for hiking you’ll want to hit the trails around PS or maybe take an amazing day trip to Joshua Tree National Park.

Read our list of all the best day trips from PS!

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is the perfect quiet beach getaway.

You’ll find temperatures reaching the low 70s with tons of sunshine making NSB one of the best places that are warm in February.

New Smyrna Beach has everything from cute boutiques, historical sites, delicious restaurants, and of course gorgeous beaches.

And the best part of this perfect winter getaway? At New Smyrna Beach you won’t find the same crowds as some of the other major destinations.

Los Angeles

You can’t go wrong with a winter vaca in LA. Temps in LA are pleasantly in the upper 60s making it seriously one of the hippest places that are hot in February.

You’ll have the best time checking out all the major sites in the city like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, and the Santa Monica Pier.

It’s also perfect weather to spend the day at Universal Studios or Disneyland. Read our list of best day trips from LA for more fun ideas.

READ MORE: 25 Fun Road Trips from Los Angeles

Miami

In Miami, you can spend your February getaway on the beach soaking up the sun.

With temps in the 70s, water temps on the warmer side and the sun shining, it’s easy to see how Miami is a winter destination for tons of northerners.

As one of the best places in Florida that are hot in February, Miami makes it easy to take every opportunity to be outside.

Check out the South Beach Beer & Wine Festival, or the Coconut Grove Arts Festival and the GroundUp Music Festival.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a fun place to visit just about any time of year.

But a trip in February means you’ll avoid the heat and humidity the city has most of the year. In February temps will be the 70s and humidity is at its lowest.

Another major plus for New Orleans in Feb? Mardi Gras. That’s right, depending on the timing of your trip you could be catching beads and partying along the parade route.

Have more time? Check out the best day trips from NOLA and explore Cajun Country in full!

Corpus Christi

A visit to Corpus Christi is a perfect escape during the chilly February days.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll enjoy temps in the upper 60s as you explore the shoreline of this awesome Texas beach town.

Get out and explore nature at the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.

Or walk along the shore at Mustang Island State Park. The consistent coastal breeze is perfect for windsurfers and flying a kite on the beach. Read about all the beautiful beaches in Corpus Christi.

Phoenix

February is the ideal time to visit Phoenix.

During the day you’ll have plenty of sun and temperatures in the 70s, making it one of the best places that are warm in February.

February is the best time to get out and explore Phoenix and the beautiful surrounding landscape.

Take a hike in the Sonoran Desert or walk the Desert Botanical Garden. Definitely check out the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest at the Heard Museum.

Oahu

In February Oahu is the perfect island paradise to melt away the winter blues.

February temps are consistently between the low 60s and upper 70s with little rain.

Water temps are always warm so definitely put swimming and water sports on your Feb. itinerary.

February is a great time to spot migrating whales. It’s also a great time to see champion surfers compete in tournaments like Buffalo’s Big Board Surfing Classic.

San Diego

One of the best places that are warm in February has to be San Diego.

This fabulous city has so much to do outdoors that a trip in February is ideal.

Temperatures get up into the mid-60s, making it perfect to explore places like Balboa Park, Coronado Island, or watch the sunset on the beach.

February is Museum Month with 50% off at many cultural institutions. It’s also the best time to sight migrating whales along the coast.

South Padre Island

It’s no wonder why so many flock to South Padre Island during the cooler months. It’s one of the top beach towns in Texas!

With February weather that is sunny and reaches up into the 70s, it’s a delight. And you’ll be there before the mad rush of spring break in the US.

You don’t have to stick to the sand during February days on South Padre Island.

Since the water temperature in the Gulf of Mexico is warm, you can enjoy any water sport you’d like. This is why South Padre Island is one of the best Texas places that are hot in February.

Key West Florida

A visit to Key West is an escape to paradise while most of the country is covered in snow and ice.

You can’t get much warmer in the US than high temps in the mid-70s, that’s why Key West is one of the most relaxing places that are hot in February.

To top it all off, in February temps don’t really drop below mid-60s at night, water temps are in the mid-70s and it rarely rains.

LEARN MORE: 18 Best Southeast Vacation Spots (USA)

Houston

As one of the places that are warm in February, it’s just about the best time to visit Houston.

Other times of the year visitors are met with extreme heat, humidity, and rain.

But during a February trip you’ll have pleasant days with sun and temps in the 60s. It’s also a short drive to several beaches including Galveston!

So you’ll be happy exploring the city in light clothing. Just remember to layer and bring something for the cooler times of day like early morning and evening.

Final Thoughts

When the cold is getting to you, escape to one of these fabulous places that are hot in February. With such a diverse climate throughout the US, there are plenty to choose from. From island paradise to city fun, this list has it all. Now, all you have to do is pick the one and go.

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