February is usually the point when I have had enough of winter. Living in Connecticut means cold temperatures, gray skies and the possibility of another snowstorm, so escaping somewhere warm sounds especially appealing.

As a travel journalist, I travel more than most people, and I have learned that “warm” can mean very different things in February. Some destinations are genuinely hot enough for swimming, while others offer sunny 70-degree days that are perfect for hiking, sightseeing or sitting outside. Then there are places that feel warm compared with New England but still require a jacket once the sun goes down.

This guide separates truly hot destinations from places that are simply mild and sunny. For each location, I’ll include typical February temperatures, whether you can realistically swim, what to do and who will enjoy it most.

Whether you want a tropical beach, a family theme-park trip or a sunny desert escape, these are the best warm places to visit in the US in February.

1. San Juan, Puerto Rico: Best Tropical February Escape

Puerto Rico is one of the warmest places Americans can visit in February without needing a passport. San Juan typically has daytime highs in the low 80s, nighttime temperatures in the low 70s and ocean water warm enough for swimming.

I especially loved Old San Juan. The colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and historic forts give you much more to explore than a typical beach destination. The food was another highlight, and it is worth leaving the resort areas to try local Puerto Rican dishes.

One of the most memorable things we did was visit a bioluminescent bay. Seeing the water glow as it moved felt almost unreal. Conditions affect how bright the water appears, so choose a tour near a new moon when possible and understand that no operator can guarantee the intensity.

February is part of Puerto Rico’s drier season, which makes it a popular and often expensive time to visit. Book flights and accommodations early. You do not need a car if you plan to stay around Old San Juan, but you will need a tour or transportation to reach a bioluminescent bay and explore more of the island.

Average February high: About 83°F
Average February low: About 72°F
Can you swim? Yes. Ocean temperatures are generally comfortable for swimming.

Best for: Families who want tropical weather, beaches, history and activities beyond the resort.

2. The US Virgin Islands: Best for Warm Ocean Water

The US Virgin Islands are among the best choices for families who want a genuine beach vacation in February. Daytime temperatures typically reach around 82°F, and the ocean is warm enough for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking.

St. Thomas is the easiest island to reach and has the widest selection of resorts, restaurants and family activities. St. John is quieter and more nature-focused, with much of the island protected by Virgin Islands National Park. Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay are especially popular for their clear water and snorkeling.

Most travelers fly into Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. Families staying on St. John will then need to take a ferry. Remember that cars drive on the left side of the road even though most vehicles have steering wheels on the left, which can take some adjustment.

February offers warm, relatively dry weather, but it is also part of the islands’ high season. Hotels and flights can be expensive, so reserve early.

US citizens generally do not need a passport to travel directly between the mainland United States and the US Virgin Islands, although carrying one can make identification and unexpected travel changes easier.

Average February high: About 82°F
Average February low: About 72°F
Can you swim? Yes. February is excellent for swimming and snorkeling.

Best for: Families who want clear water, reliable warmth and a tropical vacation without leaving US territory.

3. Kona, Hawaii: Best for Snorkeling and Island Adventure

Kona is a wonderful February destination for families who want warm weather without spending the entire vacation at a resort. Daytime temperatures are usually around 80°F, and the water stays warm enough for snorkeling.

We loved our resort, but we also spent plenty of time exploring the Big Island. We went snorkeling almost every day, and the warm, clear water made it easy to spend hours outside. We also loved trying locally grown macadamia nuts, which quickly became one of our favorite island treats.

One of our biggest excursions was Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The park is on the opposite side of the island from Kona, so it is a long day trip, but seeing the volcanic landscape was worth the drive. Start early, bring layers for the cooler and wetter conditions around the park, and check current volcanic activity and road conditions before leaving.

February is also part of Hawaii’s humpback whale season. Boat tours depart from the Kona Coast, giving families another reason to get out on the water.

Fly into Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. A rental car is useful because the Big Island is enormous and many of its best beaches, snorkeling spots and attractions are spread out.

Average February high: About 81°F
Average February low: About 66°F
Can you swim? Yes. The ocean is generally warm enough for swimming and snorkeling.

Best for: Families who want snorkeling, resort time and outdoor adventures.

4. Honolulu, Hawaii: Best for Beaches and History

Honolulu gives families a warm beach vacation with far more to do than sit beside the water. February temperatures are usually around 80°F, and the ocean remains warm enough for swimming.

We were only in Honolulu for one day, so we focused on Pearl Harbor and Waikiki Beach. Pearl Harbor was especially meaningful for our family because my children’s  great grandfather was there during the bombing. Visiting gave them a much more personal connection to the history they had learned about in school.

Afterward, we spent time at Waikiki Beach and loved watching the surfers. Waikiki is busy and highly developed, but that also makes it convenient for families who want beaches, restaurants and activities within walking distance.

If Pearl Harbor is important to your family, reserve your USS Arizona Memorial program in advance and allow enough time for security and transportation. Families staying entirely in Waikiki may not need a rental car, since tours, buses and rideshares reach most major attractions.

February is also part of Hawaii’s humpback whale season, and whale-watching tours depart from Oahu.

Average February high: About 81°F
Average February low: About 65°F
Can you swim? Yes. Ocean temperatures are generally around the mid-70s.

Best for: Families who want a convenient combination of beaches, history and city attractions.

5. Maui, Hawaii: Best for Whale Watching

February is one of the best months to visit Maui for families who want warm beaches and wildlife. Daytime temperatures are generally around 80°F, and February falls near the height of Hawaii’s humpback whale season.

Whale-watching cruises depart from several points around the island, but families may also spot whales from shore. Maui also offers snorkeling, beaches, the scenic Road to Hana and sunrise or sunset views from Haleakal? National Park.

A sunrise visit to Haleakal? requires advance reservations, and temperatures at the summit can be close to freezing even when the beach is warm. Pack layers if you plan to visit. Winter surf can also be powerful, particularly along exposed shores, so families should choose lifeguarded beaches and pay attention to posted conditions.

Most visitors fly into Kahului Airport and rent a car. Maui’s attractions are spread across the island, and driving allows you to explore beyond your resort.

February is peak season because of the favorable weather and whale migration, so expect higher prices and reserve accommodations early.

Average February high: About 81°F
Average February low: About 65°F
Can you swim? Yes. The ocean is usually around the mid-70s, although surf conditions vary by beach.

Best for: Families who want beaches, whale watching and scenic outdoor adventures.

6. Miami, Florida: Warmest Mainland City in February

Miami is one of the warmest places in the continental United States in February, with daytime highs usually in the upper 70s. We visited in February and had weather warm enough to enjoy both the beach and the pool.

I am not the typical South Beach type of traveler, so I was surprised by how much we loved Miami. The food scene was awesome. We ate so many different kinds of food, and the mix of Cuban, Caribbean, Latin American and international influences made every meal feel different.

South Beach is worth visiting for the sand, ocean and colorful Art Deco buildings, even if nightlife is not your reason for going. Families can also explore Little Havana, see the murals at Wynwood Walls, visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or take an airboat trip into the Everglades.

The ocean can feel refreshing rather than tropical in February, but swimming is possible on a warm, sunny day. A heated hotel pool is a good backup.

You can stay in South Beach without renting a car, but a car or rideshare is helpful for visiting Little Havana, Wynwood and attractions farther from the beach. Traffic and parking can be frustrating, so group nearby activities together.

Average February high: About 78°F
Average February low: About 69°F
Can you swim? Usually, although the ocean may feel cool. A heated pool is more reliable.

Best for: Families who want warm weather, beaches, outstanding food and plenty to do beyond the water.

7. Key West, Florida: Best Warm February Road Trip

Key West feels completely different from the rest of Florida. The colorful historic homes, tropical landscaping and water in every direction make it a fun place to escape winter.

My favorite attraction was the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. I love Ernest Hemingway, so walking through the house where he lived and wrote was genuinely exciting. Even family members who are less interested in literature may enjoy the beautiful house, gardens and famous six-toed cats.

The snorkeling was also amazing. Key West itself is not known for long stretches of sandy beach, so a snorkeling boat trip is one of the best ways to experience the clear water and coral reef. We also loved Mallory Square, especially around sunset when performers and visitors gather beside the water.

Families may prefer staying a little away from the busiest part of Duval Street, where the atmosphere becomes more adult-oriented at night. During the day, however, Key West has plenty of history, boat trips and outdoor activities.

You can fly directly into Key West International Airport or drive from Miami. The Overseas Highway is beautiful, but the trip takes several hours and deserves time for stops along the way.

Average February high: About 76°F
Average February low: About 68°F
Can you swim? Yes, although the water may feel cool to some swimmers. Snorkeling tours operate throughout February.

Best for: Families who enjoy history, snorkeling, sunsets and a scenic Florida road trip.

8. Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Best Relaxed Alternative to Miami

Fort Lauderdale offers many of the things families want from South Florida—warm weather, a wide beach and restaurants near the water—but it feels more relaxed than Miami.

I visited for one day with a friend rather than with my family. We spent time at the beach and looked at the beautiful homes and boats along the city’s canals. I liked Fort Lauderdale much better than Miami, although Miami surprised me with how much I enjoyed it.

The canals are one of the best reasons to choose Fort Lauderdale. The Water Taxi lets visitors see the waterfront neighborhoods while traveling between beaches, restaurants and Las Olas Boulevard. Families can also visit the Museum of Discovery and Science or simply spend the day beside the ocean.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is close to the beach area, making this an easy destination for a shorter trip. If you stay near the beach or a Water Taxi stop, you may not need a rental car.

February is typically warm and relatively dry, although evenings can feel cool. The ocean is swimmable for many visitors but may not feel tropical.

Average February high: About 77°F
Average February low: About 62°F
Can you swim? Usually, although the water may feel cool on breezy days.

Best for: Travelers who want South Florida beaches and warm weather with a calmer atmosphere than Miami.

9. Naples, Florida: Best for Gulf Coast Relaxation

Naples is a good February destination for travelers who want warm afternoons, beautiful Gulf Coast beaches and a quieter atmosphere than Miami or Orlando.

The city is known for upscale shopping and dining, but there is plenty to do beyond the resort areas. Families can explore Naples Botanical Garden, look for wildlife along the boardwalk at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary or take a shelling and wildlife cruise.

February is one of the driest and most comfortable times to explore southwest Florida. Daytime temperatures are often in the upper 70s, although evenings can be cool. Gulf water temperatures are less predictable, and some visitors will find the ocean too cold for a long swim.

Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport near Fort Myers. A rental car is helpful because the beaches, nature preserves and attractions are spread across the area.

Naples is popular with winter visitors, so February hotel prices may be high. Families looking for more space or lower rates can also compare accommodations in nearby Bonita Springs or Marco Island.

Average February high: About 77°F
Average February low: About 58°F
Can you swim? Possibly. The Gulf may feel cool, so choose a hotel with a heated pool if swimming is important.

Best for: Families and couples who want beaches, nature and a relaxed Gulf Coast vacation.

10. Orlando, Florida: Best for Theme Parks

In my experience, February is one of the best times to visit Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. The weather is generally gorgeous, humidity is much lower than it is in summer and crowds can be lighter than during school vacations and spring break.

We visited both major theme-park resorts with our kids. They were a little older by then and preferred Universal because the ride lines were shorter and they loved the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We were also able to swim at our resort, although a heated pool makes a big difference on cooler days.

February weather can change quickly. Afternoons may be warm enough for shorts, while mornings and evenings require sweatshirts or jackets. Pack layers rather than assuming every day will feel hot.

Crowds are usually more manageable, but Presidents’ Day weekend and school-break weeks can still be busy. Check school calendars and theme-park ticket prices before choosing your dates.

Fly into Orlando International Airport. Whether you need a rental car depends on where you stay and which parks you plan to visit. Resort transportation may be enough for a Disney-only trip, but a car or rideshare makes it easier to combine Disney, Universal and attractions outside the parks.

Average February high: About 75°F
Average February low: About 54°F
Can you swim? Often, especially in a heated resort pool. Cooler or windy days may not feel warm enough.

Best for: Families who want comfortable theme-park weather and potentially shorter lines.

11. Palm Springs, California: Best for Pools, Spas and Architecture

Palm Springs is one of the best warm places to visit in February if you prefer dry desert sunshine to humid beach weather. Afternoon temperatures are often in the mid-70s, making it comfortable for hiking, sightseeing and relaxing beside a heated pool.

The city is famous for its midcentury modern architecture, colorful hotels and spa resorts. Modernism Week takes place in February and includes home tours, exhibitions and design events, although popular programs often sell out.

Families and outdoor travelers can hike in the Indian Canyons, visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens or take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway climbs into much colder mountain weather, so bring winter layers if it is part of your itinerary.

February nights in the desert can be chilly, and an unheated pool may be too cold for swimming. Confirm that your hotel heats its pool before booking if swimming is important.

Palm Springs International Airport is the most convenient option. A rental car is helpful for visiting Joshua Tree, the Living Desert and attractions throughout the Coachella Valley.

Average February high: About 75°F
Average February low: About 50°F
Can you swim? Yes, in a heated pool. Unheated pools may feel too cold.

Best for: Families, couples and multigenerational groups who want sunshine, pools, spas and desert scenery.

12. Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona: Best for Desert Sunshine

Phoenix and Scottsdale offer warm, dry February weather that is ideal for outdoor activities. The days are usually sunny and comfortable, although mornings and evenings can still feel cold.

The highlight of my February trip was a hot-air-balloon ride around sunset. Floating over the desert as the light changed was extraordinary and gave me a completely different view of the landscape. Balloon flights depend on wind and weather conditions, so build some flexibility into your itinerary in case the company needs to reschedule.

I stayed at The Global Ambassador, a beautiful luxury hotel near the border of Phoenix and Scottsdale. I was even able to swim outside in February, which felt wonderful after leaving winter weather at home. It is a good choice for travelers who want a polished resort-style stay with convenient access to both cities.

Other popular February activities include visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, hiking in the Sonoran Desert and exploring Old Town Scottsdale. Families can also visit the Musical Instrument Museum, which is much more engaging than its name might suggest.

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. A rental car is useful because resorts, hiking areas and attractions are spread across the metro area.

Average February high: About 72°F
Average February low: About 48°F
Can you swim? Yes. I comfortably swam outdoors during my February visit, although a heated pool is still important because mornings and evenings can be cool.

Best for: Travelers who want sunshine, desert scenery, outdoor activities and resort-style hotels.

13. Tucson and Saguaro National Park: Best for Desert Hiking

Tucson is a good February choice for travelers who want sunny weather and outdoor activities without summer’s dangerous desert heat. Daytime temperatures are generally around 70°F, which is ideal for hiking and exploring.

Saguaro National Park surrounds Tucson in two separate districts and protects enormous forests of the towering cacti associated with the American Southwest. Families can choose from short nature trails, scenic drives and longer hikes. Sunset is an especially beautiful time to see the saguaros silhouetted against the sky.

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is another excellent family attraction. It combines elements of a zoo, botanical garden and natural-history museum, with most exhibits focused on plants and animals found in the surrounding desert. Sabino Canyon also offers trails and scenic transportation into the foothills.

Tucson has a strong food scene, with Mexican and Sonoran dishes that reflect its location near the border. It is worth making time for local restaurants rather than eating only near your hotel.

Fly into Tucson International Airport and rent a car. Saguaro National Park’s two districts, Sabino Canyon and the Desert Museum are spread across different sides of the city.

Average February high: About 70°F
Average February low: About 43°F
Can you swim? Possibly in a heated pool during a sunny afternoon, but February nights are cold.

Best for: Families and active travelers who want hiking, wildlife and desert scenery.

14. San Diego, California: Best for Sunny Beaches Without the Heat

San Diego is not hot in February, but it is a wonderful escape for travelers who want sunshine, beaches and comfortable sightseeing weather.

I love Balboa Park, where beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival buildings, gardens and museums are gathered into one enormous park. You could easily spend a full day there, especially if your family wants a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

I also spent a day on Coronado going from beach to beach. San Diego’s beaches are unbeatable, even when it is too cold to swim. During my February visit, the weather was sunny and lovely for walking along the sand, but the Pacific Ocean was much too cold for me.

February is also part of the gray-whale migration season, making it a good time to take a whale-watching cruise. Families can also visit the San Diego Zoo, explore La Jolla or look for seals and sea lions along the coast.

Fly into San Diego International Airport, which is conveniently close to downtown. You can manage without a car in central neighborhoods, but a rental car makes it easier to explore Coronado, La Jolla and beaches farther up the coast.

Average February high: About 66°F
Average February low: About 52°F
Can you swim? Not comfortably for most people without a wetsuit. Visit for sunshine and beach walks rather than warm ocean water.

Best for: Families who want beaches, museums, wildlife and sunny sightseeing weather.

15. Yuma, Arizona: Best for Affordable Desert Sunshine

Yuma is one of the sunniest cities in the United States and a practical February escape for travelers who care more about warm, dry weather than beaches or luxury resorts.

Daytime temperatures are usually in the mid-70s, making February comfortable for walking, sightseeing and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, walk along the Colorado River and visit the historic downtown area. The nearby Imperial Sand Dunes offer a completely different landscape and are popular for off-road adventures.

Yuma generally costs less than Palm Springs or Scottsdale, although winter visitors increase demand for accommodations. It works best for a shorter getaway or as a stop on a longer Arizona and Southern California road trip.

Yuma International Airport has limited service, so many travelers drive from Phoenix or San Diego. A car is necessary for exploring the area.

This is desert warmth rather than tropical heat. The afternoons can be beautiful, but mornings and evenings are cool enough for a jacket.

Average February high: About 75°F
Average February low: About 48°F
Can you swim? Only in a heated pool. February nights are too cool for most unheated pools.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want reliable sunshine, desert scenery and outdoor sightseeing.

16. South Padre Island, Texas: Best Warm Texas Beach Escape

South Padre Island is one of the warmest beach destinations in Texas during February. It is not tropical, but sunny afternoons around 70°F can feel wonderful compared with winter farther north.

Families can walk along the beach, take a dolphin-watching cruise, go horseback riding beside the Gulf or visit Sea Turtle Inc. The South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary is another good stop, with boardwalks overlooking coastal wetlands.

February is much quieter than spring break, which generally means fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations. However, Texas cold fronts can occasionally bring chilly or windy weather, so pack layers and do not plan the entire trip around sunbathing.

The Gulf is usually too cold for comfortable swimming in February. Choose a hotel with a heated pool if swimming matters to your family.

The closest airports are Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport and Valley International Airport in Harlingen. Renting a car makes getting to the island and exploring the surrounding area easier.

Average February high: About 71°F
Average February low: About 57°F
Can you swim? The Gulf will feel cold to most people, but a heated hotel pool should be comfortable.

Best for: Families who want a quiet Texas beach trip, wildlife activities and mild winter sunshine.

FAQ About Warm Places to Visit in February

Where is the warmest place in the US in February?

Hawaii is generally the warmest US state in February, with daytime temperatures around 80°F. Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands are even warmer, but they are US territories rather than states.

What is the warmest place in the continental US in February?

Miami and the southern Florida Keys are usually the warmest parts of the continental United States in February. Average daytime highs are generally in the upper 70s.

Where can you swim in the US in February?

Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands offer the most dependable February swimming weather. Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Key West may also be warm enough, although the water can feel cool. In Arizona and inland California, choose a hotel with a heated pool.

Is Florida warm in February?

South Florida is usually warm in February, with daytime temperatures in the mid-to-upper 70s. Orlando is pleasant but has cooler mornings and evenings. Northern Florida and the Panhandle are mild rather than reliably warm.

Do US citizens need a passport to visit Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands?

US citizens generally do not need a passport when traveling directly between the mainland United States and Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands. Bring appropriate government-issued identification and check current requirements before departure.

What is an affordable warm destination in February?

Yuma and South Padre Island can be more affordable than Hawaii, the Caribbean or Palm Springs. Orlando may also offer good hotel prices outside Presidents’ Day weekend and school-vacation periods. Always compare the total cost of airfare, accommodations and a rental car.

Is Arizona warm enough to swim in February?

Arizona afternoons may be warm enough for swimming, particularly in Phoenix or Yuma, but nights are cool. Choose a hotel with a heated pool. I comfortably swam outside during my February trip to Phoenix.

What should I pack for a warm February vacation?

Pack lightweight daytime clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit and comfortable walking shoes. Bring a sweater or light jacket for cool mornings, evenings and air-conditioned buildings. Desert destinations may have a much larger temperature difference between day and night.

Choosing the Best Warm February Destination

The best warm place to visit in February depends on what you mean by warm. If you want dependable swimming weather, choose Hawaii, Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands. For warm mainland beaches, Miami and the Florida Keys are your strongest choices.

If sunshine matters more than swimming, Phoenix, Palm Springs, Tucson and Yuma offer comfortable days for hiking and sightseeing. Orlando is an excellent choice for families who want pleasant theme-park weather, while San Diego provides beautiful beaches and sunny days without summer heat.

Remember that these temperatures are averages, not guarantees. February weather can change quickly, especially in Florida, Texas and the desert Southwest. Pack layers, choose a heated pool when swimming matters and check the forecast immediately before your trip.

After spending February in places such as Miami, Orlando, Phoenix and San Diego, I can say that even a few sunny days make winter feel much shorter. You simply need to choose whether your ideal escape includes a swimsuit, hiking shoes or a theme-park ticket.