Discover Florida’s best winter getaways
Winter does not have to mean bundling up in layers and fighting cold winds. If a warm, sunny trip is on your winter wish list, Florida should be near the top. Known as the Sunshine State, Florida combines mild temperatures, beautiful beaches and lively cultural scenes through the winter months.
Here is a quick guide to the best places to travel in Florida this winter to enjoy the sun, get outdoors and make lasting memories.
Top 5 winter destinations in Florida
- Key West: a tropical island retreat
- Warm year-round, with winter temperatures typically in the high 70s to low 80s.
- Turquoise water, palm-lined streets and a laid-back pace.
- Must-do: snorkeling on the coral reefs and visiting Ernest Hemingway’s home.
- Join the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square, with street performers.
- Miami: where beach fun meets culture
- Average winter temperatures around 75°F.
- See South Beach’s colorful Art Deco architecture and lively nightlife.
- Explore the street art of Wynwood and the Latin influences of Little Havana.
- A good choice for combining beach time with food and culture.
- Naples and Fort Myers: Gulf Coast charm
- Relax on clean beaches and browse boutique shops in Naples.
- Take a wildlife tour or boat ride to spot dolphins and manatees.
- Visit Sanibel Island for shelling beaches and quiet bike trails.
- St. Augustine: history and holiday lights
- America’s oldest city, with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.
- Winter highlight: the Nights of Lights festival, with millions of lights from about November through January (verify dates).
- A good fit for history lovers and families looking for a festive trip.
- Tampa Bay area: something for everyone
- Home to Busch Gardens, ZooTampa and the Tampa Riverwalk.
- Close to beaches like Clearwater and St. Pete Beach.
- Great for families and outdoor lovers looking for winter warmth.
5 essential tips for traveling to Florida in winter
- Book early: Reserve rooms and transportation early, especially around the holidays.
- Plan how you will get around: Florida’s attractions are spread out, so a rental car or, for a group, a chartered vehicle gives you flexibility.
- Pack smart: Bring beachwear for the day and light layers for cooler evenings.
- Avoid crowds: Visit popular spots on weekday mornings or early afternoons.
- Plan activities: Use the mild weather for hiking, biking and water sports.
Florida offers a warm escape this winter, with plenty of outdoor activities, culture and relaxing beach days. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple or with family, the Sunshine State has a winter getaway for you.
For more travel ideas, see guides to Florida winter getaways and the best winter getaways in the USA.
Traveling as a group? CharterMyBus can arrange a charter bus with a driver for a Florida trip, from airport transfers to day trips between cities; call (929) 831-5150.
