Top 5 U.S. Destinations With Perfect Weather In January
Introduction
Perfect weather in the dead of winter may be elusive, but it’s not impossible to find. Of course, all of these picks are about as far south as you can travel in the U.S. These locations offer the best chances for sunny skies, high temperatures around 72°F, light winds, and very little rain. In this article, I will help you find the perfect January winter weather destinations.
Methodology
For this blog post, I focused on areas in the United States where the average high temperature falls within the ideal range of 70°F to 74°F during February. Using the map below as a starting point, I analyzed individual climate stations to determine the average number of days within that range. While the results align with the map, some locations stand out more than others. Three distinct regions emerged as hotspots for perfect February weather, though this analysis does not account for days with rainfall. From this data, I selected the top five locations to feature in this post.
#5 Naples, Florida – Average high: ~75°F
Florida is not often rated 10/10 for weather in my mind because of the humidity, which can be extreme. But In January, the dewpoint is more tolerable. That said, if you’re not used to any humidity, it might still feel sticky. This is about as good as it gets for Florida, and occasionally, a cold front will move south through the state, temporarily pushing the humidity out. Of course, you won’t be alone in Naples, as visitors and snowbirds flock to the state in the winter. In January, Naples can be the perfect winter weather destination.
Statistics:
- Average high is a constant 75F every day in January.
- 9 days are in the range of 70-75F.
- In 2024 there were 12 days with highs 70-75F.
- January is the second driest month but rain does still happen 10 days during the month.
- Warmest ever in Jan 88F (2023). Coldest ever in Jan 32F (2010).
Outdoor Activities:
- Beaches: Naples boasts beautiful beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Popular spots include Clam Pass Beach and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, known for its pristine shoreline and opportunities for snorkeling and paddleboarding. Florida Rambler
- Kayaking and Wildlife Tours: Explore the mangrove tunnels and estuaries by kayak, offering chances to see manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. Guided tours are available for a more informative experience. Tripadvisor
- Gordon River Greenway: This elevated nature trail weaves through mangroves and offers paved pathways for walking or biking, as well as canoe and kayak launches. It’s a serene spot for wildlife viewing and enjoying the natural beauty of Naples. Southern Living
- Naples Botanical Garden: Spanning 170 acres, the garden showcases diverse flora and offers walking trails, interactive exhibits, and special events, making it a delightful destination for nature enthusiasts. MustDo
January Festivals:
- Naples Winter Wine Festival: Typically held in January, this prestigious event features world-class wines, gourmet cuisine, and auctions benefiting children’s charities in Southwest Florida. It’s a must-attend for wine aficionados. Naples Wine Festival
- Annual Naples New Year’s Art Fair: Presented by the Naples Art Association, this art fair usually takes place in early January along 5th Avenue South, showcasing works from various artists and adding a cultural flair to the New Year. Fifth Avenue South
- 27th Annual Fine Arts Festival at Fleischmann Park: Scheduled for January 20-21, 2024, this juried art show features a diverse range of artworks and provides an opportunity to engage with local and national artists. City of Naples
# 4 Palm Springs, California – Average high: ~71°F
On the opposite side of the country, southern California’s weather is often very pleasant in winter, especially in the desert. One advantage of the desert is that the humidity is never uncomfortable. Strong winds can sometimes spoil an otherwise perfect day, but the number of 10/10 days is pretty high. The desert can experience extreme temperature swings, though, with low temperatures often dropping to freezing at night, even on perfect days. You may just have to wait until the afternoon for this to be a perfect winter weather destination.
Statistics:
- Average high is 70F in January ranging from 69F at the beginning of the month to 72F by the end.
- 9 days are in the range of 70-75F.
- In 2024 there were only 4 days with highs 70-75F.
- January is the second wettest month but rain is still rare. There are only 3 days with rain.
- Warmest ever in Jan 95F (1971). Coldest ever in Jan 19F (1937).
Outdoor Activities:
- Hiking: Explore scenic trails such as Tahquitz Canyon and Indian Canyons, which offer stunning views of waterfalls, rock formations, and native flora. The cooler January temperatures make hiking enjoyable.
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Experience panoramic views of the Coachella Valley as you ascend to Mount San Jacinto State Park.
- Golfing: With numerous world-class golf courses, Palm Springs is a golfer’s paradise. The pleasant January weather provides ideal conditions for a round of golf.
- Biking: The city’s flat terrain and dedicated bike paths make it perfect for cycling. Rent a bike and explore downtown Palm Springs or venture into the surrounding neighborhoods to admire mid-century modern architecture.
- VillageFest: Held every Thursday evening in downtown Palm Springs, this street fair features arts, crafts, food, and entertainment, offering a lively outdoor experience. VillageFest
January Festivals:
- Palm Springs International Film Festival: Scheduled for January 2-13, 2025, this renowned festival showcases a diverse selection of films from around the world, attracting filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts alike. Visit Palm Springs
- The American Express Golf Tournament: Formerly known as the Bob Hope Classic, this PGA Tour event typically takes place in January in La Quinta, near Palm Springs. Golf fans can watch top professionals compete in a beautiful desert setting.
- Southwest Arts Festival: Held annually in Indio, just a short drive from Palm Springs, this festival features a wide array of artworks, including painting, sculpture, and jewelry, from numerous artists. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
# 3 Imperial, California – Average high: ~71°F
Just two hours south of Palm Springs, Imperial offers very similar weather but, being slightly farther south, has more chances for perfect weather.
Statistics:
- Average high is 70F in January ranging from 69F at the beginning of the month to 72F by the end.
- 9 days are in the range of 70-75F.
- In 2024 there were only 4 days with highs 70-75F.
- January is the second wettest month but rain is still rare. There are only 3 days with rain.
- Warmest ever in Jan 95F (1971). Coldest ever in Jan 19F (1937).
Outdoor Activities:
- Sunbeam Lake Park: Located near Imperial, this park offers fishing, boating, playgrounds, basketball courts, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it a great spot for family outings and outdoor recreation. Imperial County Public Works
- Imperial Valley Pioneers Museum: While primarily an indoor attraction, the museum’s surrounding areas provide open spaces to explore, and it offers insights into the local history and culture of the Imperial Valley. Tripadvisor
- Bucklin Park: Situated in nearby El Centro, this park features walking paths, picnic areas, and a serene lake, ideal for leisurely outdoor activities. Tripadvisor
- Visit the Salton Sea: Located just a short drive from Imperial, this vast, saline lake is a unique natural and historical attraction. Explore its shores for birdwatching, as the area is a vital habitat for migratory birds, or learn about its intriguing history and environmental challenges. Nearby spots like Bombay Beach feature quirky art installations and abandoned structures, making it a fascinating destination for photography and exploration.
January Festivals:
- Heber’s Annual Tamale Festival: Typically held in January in the nearby community of Heber, this festival celebrates local culinary traditions with a variety of tamales, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Festivals
- El Centro SLAM Festival: Hosted at the Brett Driscoll Sidewinder Skate Park in El Centro, this event features local skaters, BMX riders, artists, and music bands, offering a vibrant outdoor experience for attendees. City of El Centro
#2 Brownsville, Texas – Average high: ~73°F
Texas is subject to wild temperature swings. It’s a vast state with a variety of weather, from tropical to desert. Brownsville, at the southernmost point of the state just over the border from Mexico, has a humid climate. However, in January, cold fronts can drop all the way south through the state, pushing the humidity out.
Statistics:
- Average high is 73F in January ranging from 72F at the beginning of the month to 74F by the end.
- 8 days are in the range of 70-75F.
- In 2024 there were 10 days with highs 70-75F. There was also one with a high of 41F and one of 83F! I told you temperatures fluctuate wildly.
- January is the third driest month and rain is uncommon.
- Warmest ever in Jan 95F (2017). Coldest ever in Jan 18F (1881).
Outdoor Activities:
- Gladys Porter Zoo: Home to over 1,600 animals, this 31-acre zoo provides an engaging outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. Tripadvisor
- Brownsville Historic Battlefield Trail: This 8-mile trail is ideal for walking, running, or biking, offering a scenic route through the city’s historical sites. Tripadvisor
- Boca Chica Beach: Located just east of Brownsville, this undeveloped beach is perfect for fishing, swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and birdwatching. Tour Texas
- Caracara Trails: Explore the developing network of biking and walking trails that connect parks, shopping areas, and picnic sites throughout Brownsville. Visit BTX
January Festivals:
- Winter Texan Expo: For the first time, Brownsville will host the Winter Texan Expo on January 18, 2024, at the Brownsville Event Center. This free event features entertainment, live music, and door prizes, welcoming Winter Texans and the local community. Brownsville, TX
- Wino Wine Festival: Scheduled for January 25, 2025, this festival offers wine tastings and a lively atmosphere for wine enthusiasts. Texas Winos
#1 Yuma, Arizona – Average high: ~70°F
January is the perfect time to visit the Sonoran Desert in Arizona. The weather is often so ideal that it attracts snowbirds from across the country. And we’re not just talking about Yuma itself, but the entire southern border region of Arizona, from Yuma to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Expect beautiful sunrises and sunsets, cool nights, light winds, and abundant sunshine. This region is perfect for outdoor activities, from golf to hiking it a perfect winter weather destination.
Be sure to check out our weather guide to 15 US Desert National Parks: When To Visit For Perfect Weather
Statistics:
- Average high is 70F in January ranging from 68F at the beginning of the month to 72F by the end.
- 10 days are in the range of 70-75F.
- In 2024 there were 9 days with highs 70-75F.
- Rain is rare in southern Arizona anytime of year but in Jan there are usually only 2 wet days.
- Warmest ever in Jan 88F (1971). Coldest ever in Jan 22F (1937).
Outdoor Activities:
- Colorado River Recreation: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and tubing on the Colorado River, offering scenic views and opportunities for relaxation. Visit Yuma
- Imperial Sand Dunes: Explore the vast sand dunes for off-roading adventures, hiking, and photography. Visit Yuma
- West Wetlands Park: This park features walking trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching opportunities, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Wanderlog
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park: Explore the historic prison and learn about Yuma’s rich history. Visit Yuma
January Festivals:
- Yuma Agfest: Scheduled for January 4, 2025, this event celebrates Yuma’s agricultural heritage with food, music, and family-friendly activities. Visit Yuma
- Winter Senior Tournament: From January 7 to February 14, 2025, this tournament offers various sports competitions for seniors. Yuma Arizona
- Jukebox January 5K/10K Fun Run & Walk: Taking place on January 11, 2025, this event features a fun run and walk with a jukebox theme. Yuma Arizona
- Yuma Artisans & Crafters Winter Festival: On January 24 and 25, 2025, this festival showcases local artisans and crafters at the Yuma County Fairgrounds. Kyma Events
Conclusion
The southernmost part of the U.S. is the place to be in January. From Florida to California, you’ll likely find perfect weather many days throughout the month. I’m particularly drawn to the desert for its low humidity, but if I were to visit Florida or South Texas, January would be the time you’d find me there. For consistency, you can’t beat Florida, where highs are 75°F every day. But for outdoor recreation, nothing beats southern Arizona or California.
- Yuma, Arizona – Average high: ~70°F
- Brownsville, Texas – Average high: ~73°F
- Imperial, California – Average high: ~71°F
- Palm Springs, California – Average high: ~71°F
- Naples, Florida – Average high: ~75°F
