8 Warm Weather Destinations to Travel To In December
December is a magical time for everyone, with the wonder of the holidays alive and well across the globe it's the perfect time to have a one-of-a-kind vacation with those you love the most. Although the magic of the season is all around, the bite of the cold is out to play as well. This can put a damper on things when you want to explore your surroundings, experience new things, and just enjoy your December vacation.
This curated list of the best places to visit with warm weather is the perfect guide to escape the cold and have a truly unique and invigorating December vacation. These eight incredible destinations feature unparalleled holiday experiences, exciting outdoor activities, scenic getaways, and a stress-free environment to create your new holiday traditions. Whether it be the culture, the people, or simply the ambiance of the town, each of these cities offers a chance to experience the magic of the season in a brand-new way.
1. Outer Banks, NC
If a relaxing vacation away from the hustle, bustle, and cold of the holiday season is what you’re looking for, then Outer Banks is the place to be! This destination offers a peaceful getaway with nature, history, and local culture! This destination allows visitors to escape the normal stress of the holiday season while still experiencing all of its magic through incredible Christmas parades, special holiday celebrations, holiday markets, lighting ceremonies and so much more.
With a pirate history and steeped in seafaring traditions, this destination allows you to experience winter in a whole new way. Spend your December out on the water enjoying a multitude of various water sports, hiking, walks on the beach, and visiting iconic lighthouses. In the Outer Banks, the outdoors are not a place to be avoided, and there is no chill in the air, just a warm breeze, and a gorgeous skyline! December is the perfect time to visit and explore, with the lower prices and smaller crowds of the off-season, the relaxed atmosphere, and the bonus of the holiday charm, this destination makes for the perfect December vacation.
The best vacations always include an incredible vacation rental to serve as the perfect home base and Coastal Carolina Vacations is the best within the city. These incredible homes will truly become your home away from home with every comfort, convenience, and luxury you need for an amazing trip. These homes offer amenities such as private pools, hot tubs, private elevators, scenic views, private beach walkways, expansive decks, and so much more. Outer Banks in December is the best place to unwind and enjoy a different kind of winter vacation, complete with the curated collection of Coastal Carolina Vacations.
2. Hilton Head Island, SC
This charming coastal destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and festive holiday cheer, making it an incredible destination for your next December getaway. On Hilton Head Island you can easily escape the cold and enjoy average highs around 60°F (15°C) and lows around 40°F (4°C), making it an ideal time to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the outdoors! You can also enjoy the quiet atmosphere with smaller crowds, unlike the busy months of the summer.
This island includes a wide variety of exciting activities and experiences that every individual will love. Enjoy the exhibits of the Coastal Discovery Museum or one of the many art galleries in the area. Explore the outdoors through hiking, bike riding, visiting a wildlife refuge and so much more. You may also enjoy visiting one of the market areas and trying some delicious Gullah cuisine. Hilton Head Island is a hub for diverse experiences and thrilling activities, especially during the holiday season. Apart from the normal attractions of the area, you can also enjoy Christmas parades, lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, New Year celebrations and so much more!
For a home that embodies the magic of Hilton Head Island, Bestnest by Beverly Serral Vacation Rentals offers the best within the city. With a collection of beautifully appointed properties, each featuring luxurious homes and prime locations, you can enjoy the island's mild winter weather in style and comfort. Enjoy top-quality amenities such as panoramic views, oceanfront decks, private pools, hot tubs, and so much more. For a home away from home that ensures an exceptional experience unlike any other, Bestnest by Beverly Serral Vacation Rentals is the only choice.
3. Orlando, FL
This magical city only grows in its ethereal beauty during the winter season! Offering the perfect mix of warm weather, festive cheer, and exciting activities makes Orlando the perfect destination for a December getaway. While many parts of the country experience chilly winter temperatures, Orlando enjoys mild, pleasant weather with average highs around 70°F (21°C), making it an ideal getaway for those looking to escape the cold. The city's culture is a blend of thrilling theme parks, history, and a diverse arts scene. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone seeking a more relaxed pace, Orlando has something for everyone.
December in Orlando is especially magical due to the holiday events that transform the city into a winter wonderland. The world-famous Walt Disney World is decked out in stunning holiday decorations, with special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, where guests can enjoy parades, festive shows, and snowfall on Main Street. In addition to the festive events, you can visit the Orlando Museum of Art, catch a performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, or take a boat tour of the scenic Winter Park Chain of Lakes. Regardless of what experience you are looking for, Orlando in December offers a delightful experience unlike any other.
For the perfect home base and the cherry on top of a magical getaway, Element Vacation Homes offer the perfect retreat for an Orlando getaway in December! Equipped with all of the comfort and convenience of home, Element combines luxury and familiar comfort just minutes away from all of Orlando’s top attractions. Enjoy themed rooms, game rooms, pools with lazy rivers, and a true resort experience. Whether you’re exploring theme parks, enjoying the mild December weather, or celebrating the season, these vacation homes offer the perfect base for your Orlando adventure.
4. Anna Maria Island & Sarasota, FL
Visiting Anna Maria Island and Sarasota, Florida, in December offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, cultural experiences, and festive holiday events, the getaway that provides exactly what is needed. The island, with its laid-back charm and pristine beaches, provides a peaceful escape from the winter chill. December offers mild temperatures, making it ideal for enjoying the white sand beaches, boating, and kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico. Sarasota, just a short drive away, is known for its arts scene, with renowned cultural venues like the Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Opera House, and the Selby Gardens offering plenty to explore.
The holiday season adds extra magic to the area, with festive light displays, such as the Holiday Lights in the Gardens at Selby Gardens and the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. In addition, the city hosts various seasonal events, like the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in downtown Sarasota and the Sarasota Ballet's production of The Nutcracker. Whether you’re exploring art galleries, attending festive concerts, or enjoying the warm, sun-kissed outdoors, December in this part of Florida provides a perfect getaway for anyone seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and holiday cheer.
Mainsail Vacation Rentals is your ticket to an unforgettable vacation in a home that stuns and charms you from the moment you step through the front door. Offering a range of beautifully cultivated, fully equipped properties, Mainsail provides guests with top-notch comfort and convenience, just minutes from stunning beaches and cultural attractions. Enjoy amenities such as heated pools, hot tubs, private beach equipment, and so much more. With exceptional customer service and attention to detail, Mainsail guarantees a seamless, stress-free stay, making your winter escape truly special.
5. Orange Beach, AL
Orange Beach, Alabama, is a hidden gem for those seeking a serene yet exciting getaway in December. This coastal city, located on the Gulf of Mexico, offers a perfect mix of mild winter weather, scenic beauty, and a relaxing atmosphere. The peaceful beaches, with their soft white sands and tranquil waters, provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and biking along the scenic Gulf State Park trails. The area’s culture blends Southern hospitality with coastal charm, making for a thrilling December getaway.
In December, the city’s festive spirit comes alive with a variety of holiday events. The annual Coastal Alabama Christmas Railway at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center is a family favorite, featuring a magical train ride filled with holiday lights and decorations. While winter temperatures are cooler than summer, they are still mild enough to enjoy the outdoors without the typical crowds. Whether you’re soaking in the holiday cheer, indulging in fresh Gulf seafood, or enjoying the coastal views, Orange Beach in December provides a relaxing yet festive escape for anyone seeking a unique holiday getaway.
For a home you will not wish to go home from, Beachball Properties has the best vacation rentals within all of Orange Beach! Beachball Properties ensures a perfect getaway with luxurious, comfortable, and convenient homes just steps from the beach and local attractions. Whether you’re enjoying the peaceful beaches or exploring festive holiday events, their properties perfectly embody all of the best parts of Orange Beach. With exceptional customer service and attention to detail, Beachball Properties guarantees a seamless vacation experience, ensuring your December stay in Orange Beach is the December getaway you need.
6. San Diego, CA
As the southern jewel of California, San Diego is the best destination for an incredible December getaway. With mild temperatures averaging in the mid-60s, it’s the perfect place to escape colder climates and enjoy the outdoors year-round. San Diego's diverse cultural landscape makes it an exciting destination, from the historic Old Town to the bustling Gaslamp Quarter.
Visitors can explore world-class museums, such as the San Diego Museum of Art, the USS Midway Museum, and the renowned San Diego Zoo. The city’s beautiful coastline offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, from beach walks at La Jolla Cove to kayaking in Mission Bay. In addition to the everyday thrill of the city, the region also comes alive with holiday cheer. Balboa Park, home to many museums and gardens, hosts December Nights, a free two-day festival featuring live performances, food, and light displays. For families, the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a must-see, where over 80 festively decorated boats sail through the bay, creating a sparkling display of holiday magic. With its perfect mix of culture, outdoor activities, and holiday festivities, San Diego in December is the ultimate vacation destination to enjoy both relaxation and seasonal cheer.
Being that no vacation is complete without the perfect place to stay, Bluewater Vacation Homes offers the best vacation rentals in the area, providing an exceptional blend of a luxury experience and the comfort of home. Their carefully curated properties offer stunning views, prime locations, and a myriad of other exciting amenities for guests to enjoy, from a glass-tiled jacuzzi to private rooftop bars! With Bluewater, you can be assured you will experience the highest quality home, creating the perfect backdrop for all of your incredible December getaway memories in San Diego.
7. Newport Beach, CA
A true hidden gem of California, this stunning coastal city offers everything you need for the perfect December getaway. The city’s temperate winter climate—mild and sunny with average temperatures in the 60s—makes it an ideal location to escape colder weather while still enjoying the seasonal spirit. Newport Beach’s iconic coastline features miles of sandy shores, perfect for winter walks, scenic bike rides, or relaxing at the beach.
December is a magical time in Newport Beach, as the city lights up with holiday festivities. One of the highlights is the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, where beautifully decorated boats sail through the harbor, creating a dazzling spectacle of lights and festive cheer. The parade, which has been a tradition since 1908, draws thousands of visitors each year. Newport Beach is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Orange County Museum of Art and the Bowers Museum, which offer special exhibits during the holiday season.
Trading snow for sand and the vacation home of your dreams becomes a reality when you stay with Newport Beach Vacation Properties! This curated collection of homes is the best within the city, combining lush amenities, prime locations, gorgeous homes, and true comfort. Enjoy private soaking tubs, waterfront views, stunning outdoor lounge areas ,and many more lush amenities unlike anything you have experienced before. Newport Beach Vacation Properties guarantees a memorable, stress-free stay for your holiday getaway.
8. Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is a tropical paradise that offers an unforgettable vacation experience in December, a true must-see destination year-round! With temperatures in the low 80s, this Caribbean destination provides the perfect escape from colder climates, offering sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. December is an ideal time to explore the islands, as the weather is warm and the crowds are fewer, giving you more space to enjoy the pristine beaches and numerous outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and sailing.
The islands are rich in culture, with a friendly local population that celebrates its heritage through music, food, and art. In December, the festive spirit comes alive with several holiday events that blend island tradition with seasonal cheer. The annual Christmas in the Caribbean celebration features a mix of cultural performances, Christmas parades, and beach parties, while The Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on Providenciales brings the community together for a night of lights, music, and holiday treats. Regardless of your interests, Turks & Caicos is almost the perfect December getaway.
To ensure that your almost perfect vacation becomes the getaway of your dreams, booking your rental home with TKCA is the only way to go! This curated collection of gorgeous homes is the best available in this little slice of paradise. With lush amenities like private infinity pools, oceanfront access, plush outdoor spaces, and so much more. These gorgeous villas embody the relaxing atmosphere and comforting peace of the islands, making it the perfect place to enjoy your December getaway.
When the bite of the cold reaches an all-time high, it is the perfect time to escape to warmer destinations. Swapping the winter chill for sunny beaches, vibrant cultures, and outdoor adventures will never be a regret and just got ten times easier with this curated collection of thrilling destinations and gorgeous vacation homes. Experience the magic of the holiday season in a brand new way, create new traditions, explore thrilling destinations, and enjoy the warmth of the sun on your skin with any of these incredible warm-weather destinations. Pack your bags and pick your place, the perfect December travel destination awaits!
