5 Getaway Ideas for a winter Weekend Escape

As the new year begins and the coldest winter months set in, many of us will start daydreaming about a warm weekend escape. I don’t know about you, but a winter getaway to a destination like Arizona or Florida when it’s not 100 degrees in the shade sounds pretty appealing to me. So whether you need a short break from frigid temperatures, or just a quick recharge from everyday life, here’s 5 suggestions of places known for mild winter weather along with some ideas for things to do during a long weekend getaway.  
​*This post was updated November, 2024​

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1. Southern California. If you are one of those people that needs to lay your eyes on the ocean during the winter, then Southern California is a great spot for a 3 or 4 day getaway.  Last time we visited during the month of February, the weather was perfect for strolling along the beach and watching the surfers in the chilly Pacific Ocean. 
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For easy access to places like Huntington and Laguna Beach, consider flying to the smaller John Wayne Airport in Orange County, which offers non-stop travel from many cities. Then grab a car and cruise to Huntington Beach. On our last trip we discovered the Huntington Surf Inn, perfectly located to catch the sunrise or sunset from the beach or pier. Plus it’s a short walk to enjoy Sancho’s Tacos. Continue on Highway One towards Laguna Beach, stopping at the Crystal Cove Shake Shack for a shake with a view! In Laguna Beach, take a stroll through Heisler Park or wander through the numerous boutiques and art galleries. If you continue a bit further down Highway One, consider spending some time on Thousand Steps Beach. You have to be willing to climb over 200 steps to get down and back, but it’s a nice beach for a walk or relaxing with a good book. Parking is along the Pacific Coast Highway. To save money while you are visiting, here's 6 free or cheap things to do in Southern California.  ​

Related post: Take A Fun Weekend Getaway to Southern California 

2. Tucson, Arizona. For a dose of southwestern charm, spend a few days in sunny  Arizona. Over the years, I’ve traveled to Tucson on at least 4 occasions, although it has been way too many years since my last visit so I’m definitely overdue for a return trip. With more than a dozen non stop flights to Tucson from cities around the USA, chances are you might find a direct flight, or you can grab a flight to nearby Phoenix and make the drive to Tucson in under 2 hours. With winter temperatures in the 60’s, the weather is perfect to wander through Sabino Canyon, drive up Mt. Lemmon, or visit Mission San Xavier del Bac.  

And don’t miss a chance to enjoy the flavorful local cuisine. Did you know that the city of Tucson (along with San Antonio) is designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy? Take time to learn the stories behind the food. One of my favorite food memories from Tucson is visiting El Charro Café, at the time home of the USA Chimichanga! The restaurant has been around since 1922, and you won’t want to miss its signature carne seca. We originally found this restaurant from my 1991 version of Roadfood, and am happy to report it’s still listed in the latest publication, despite many other restaurants in the book having closed down.

​3. Miami, Florida. With average January temperatures in the low 70’s, it’s great weather for all kinds of outdoor activities! Miami offers many family-friendly things to do along with the chance to try culturally diverse local food specialties. Spend the afternoon at the beach, grab a picnic lunch and head to Oleta River State Park or take a day trip to Everglades National Park. Depending on where you are staying, take advantage of the free, citywide trolley to get around. One hotel option is the Grand Beach Hotel Surfside West, with spacious suites in the west property. Included in the daily resort fee are amenities like beach umbrellas and chairs. It’s one of the few hotel suites we have ever found with two bathrooms, which is a great perk when traveling with a family, and is just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Miami Beach. A less expensive option is the Hampton Inn Miami Beach-Mid Beach. 

As far as food, I think the Little Havana Cultural Walking and Food Tour would be a fun way to sample the local cuisine and learn more about the Cuban food scene and culture. And don’t miss the colorful street art in the nearby Wynwood neighborhood, whether you choose to drive through on your own or join one of the many Wynwood Arts District tours.  Stop by the popular Zak the Baker and grab something to go while you are in the neighborhood. 

4. San Antonio, Texas. With February temperatures averaging in the mid to upper 60’s, it seems like perfect weather for exploring the history and culture of San Antonio. Any weekend getaway here should include a stroll along the popular San Antonio River Walk, starting in the downtown area, although I think it would also be fun to grab a bike and ride.  Art lovers might want to drop into one of the art museums, like the Briscoe Western Art Museum, and brush up on the history of the American West. Use the San Antonio visitors website to create your own personal trip plan. 

If strolling through colorful markets is your thing, wander through the stalls and shops at the historic San Antonio Market Square. Be sure to spend some time exploring San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, just a short drive from downtown San Antonio. And if you are looking for some peace and tranquility, the Japanese Tea Gardens look like a quiet place for a stroll. Check out this list if you want to try a puffy taco while you are in town! 

​5. Charleston South Carolina. After visiting in August when the temperatures were soaring well into the upper 90’s, average winter temperatures in the upper 50’s and 60’s would be ideal weather for exploring the streets of historic Charleston. Consistently voted as a top city to visit in the U.S., there’s plenty to do no matter the season. After a trip last March, we learned Charleston is a fun place for a girls getaway and for foodies! 
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Sign up for one of the specialty tours offered by Free Tours by Foot, a name-your-own-price tour company. During a 2-hour historic Charleston walking tour, I learned  about the fascinating history behind many of the colorful, historic  buildings around town. Be sure to take photos on colorful Rainbow Row and in front of the iconic Pineapple Fountain, then stroll through the Charleston City Market (and stop for biscuits from Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit). Check out  20 Colorful Photos from a Weekend in the Charleston Area for inspiration.

The Charleston Visitors Center has about two dozen itineraries along with upcoming events so it’s easy to find something for everyone. Other ideas for families include visiting Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, taking a dolphin cruise, and walking the pier at nearby Folly Beach. Splurge for a stay at The Loutrel for a girls weekend or couples getaway. The Hotel Indigo in nearby Mount Pleasant is a good option if you choose not to stay downtown, and it's close to several restaurants and bars in the popular Shem Creek waterfront area.