Where to Go for Winter Sun in the USA

The only thing in Palm Springs that will remind you that it’s winter is the light dusting of snow on the distant mountain peaks. Winter weather here is arguably better than the sizzling desert-heat of summer. Go hiking among the distinctive flora and rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park, or visit one of the city’s many beautiful gardens. Golfers will rejoice at the year-round quality of the green, while you can also play tennis and go horseback riding. If you’re less interested in sweating and more keen on spending then how about some waterfront shopping at The River is Rancho Mirage?

One of America’s greatest natural wonders, the Everglades National Park, is actually at its most popular during the winter months, thanks to the December to April dry season that contrasts its tropical wet summers. This is the best time of year to see Florida wildlife at its most diverse, with a range of migratory birds joining tourists for the warmer climate, and gators at their most visible thanks to shallower waters and rich watering holes. Explore via kayak, airboat, lookout towers or scenic highways – depends how close you want to get.

The West Coast’s southernmost city is probably the closest you can get to a Mexican vacation without crossing the border. The weather remains lovely in autumn, a little milder in winter, but the sun continues to shine all year round. This makes beach days possible whenever you want, and much more relaxing in off-peak seasons when the tourists filter out. Enjoy incredible winter sunsets, watch the Parade of Lights in San Diego Bay in December, and keep an eye out for whale-watching tours as thousands migrate from Alaska to Baja in Mexico.

If you’d like to enjoy the charms of island-living a little closer to the mainland then why not head to the southernmost point of America? This archipelago at the bottom of Florida offers pleasant 75F (24C) days, so you can bask in the sun and breathe in the refreshing ocean breeze. Whether you choose Key Largo in the north, Key West in the south, or anywhere in between, you can expect extremely laid-back energy, plus lots of festive events including boat parades and music festivals. Perfect to re-energize your dreary winter.