Escape The Cold: 5 Warm Destination Ideas For Winter Break

Escape winter’s chill with our warm destination ideas for your ideal winter break. If you aren’t visiting family this holiday season and are looking for a warm escape, then going on a winter break trip might be your perfect solution. With schools often granting one or even two weeks of vacation, it’s an opportunity to pack your bags and bid farewell to the cold.

Here are some of our favorite warm weather destinations for a winter getaway.


Austin, Texas

Austin can sometimes be unbearable in the summer heat, as for the winter? Chances are it will be much more comfortable with December temperatures typically ranging from the mid 50s to low 60s. Families should check out Austin, Texas, for its awesome music, outdoor fun, and cultural adventures. It’s a city where you can explore museums, parks, and cool events together. Austin is a welcoming place for families. When we visited, we never ran out of things to do! Some of our favorite spots were the Thinkery Children’s Museum, The Zilker Botanical Garden, and walking around the city.

A family with a stroller and two children in front of a city skyline in Austin, TX.
The best pic me and kids got in Austin, Texas

Las Vegas, Nevada

Vegas baby! No, literally, bring your baby to Vegas! Let’s break the myth that Vegas isn’t for families. Sure, some parts aren’t suitable for kids, but Vegas has plenty for kids too. With family-friendly resorts, world-class hiking, and a thriving sports scene, it’s not just for bachelor parties. I’ve personally visited for both a bachelor party and a family trip, and each time, Vegas delivered an enjoyable experience. Consider giving Las Vegas a gamble for your winter break adventure!

A young boy enjoying a family adventure on an escalator in Las Vegas.
Our 3 year old at the time exploring the Vegas strip

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head is by far one of our absolute favorite spots, and I can’t wait to share more about it on this site in the future. It’s a must-visit for families. While the winter weather can be a bit unpredictable (snow and high 70s in the same week isn’t unheard of), the island’s vibe is incredibly laid-back. You’ll find endless family-friendly dining options, bike trails, and beach activities in this unique beach destination.

A boy walking on a beach in Hilton Head, SC.
In the winter, you’ll have miles of nearly empty beaches in Hilton Head to explore.

Phoenix, Arizona

A safe bet you’ll escape the cold is in Phoenix. You should experience temps of 50 to 70 degrees in December. Phoenix is a great spot in the winter because the summer heat, like Austin, can be scorching. Phoenix is a great spot for family resorts and epic state parks. Its also a launching spot for you to visit the nearby popular towns of Tempe and Scottsdale.

A woman's adventurous spirit in front of a saguaro cactus.  Arizona makes one of our picks for warm destination ideas.
Jamie with baby in Phoenix

Santa Monica, California

Our last but not least warm destination ideas is one close to our heart. Santa Monica is an awesome beach city within Los Angeles. Packed with gorgeous beaches, the iconic Santa Monica Pier with all its fun rides and games, and a bustling downtown full of cool shops and tasty places to eat. It was our home for a couple of years before we had kids, and we love going back there with them to explore!

With warm destination ideas in mind, two kids are having an adventurous time at sunset on the beach in Santa Monica, CA.
The boys romping in the glow of the world famous Santa Monica Pier

First time traveling with kids? We want to encourage you here!

New to Five Bags Packed? Read our Introduction Post here.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *