Here's Where to Go In February When You Need a Midwinter Pick-Me-Up
Let's be real: After the holidays come to an end, there isn't much to look forward to until that groundhog rears its little head with news about spring's arrival. That is, unless, you know where to go in February to treat yourself to a midwinter escape. To help you plan that much-needed break, we curated a travel guide of where to go in February, from little mountain towns when you only have time for a quick trip, to international adventures and island escapes. Feast your eyes on these 33 beautiful destinations for, at minimum, a daydream at your desk.
Palm Springs, California
Head to this sunny Southern California desert locale (which happens to be a midcentury modern design hub) to get a break from the bitter winter chill, or go for a quick weekend trip if happen to already live in California. And honestly, anywhere in California would be a treat if you're coming from somewhere with serious winters (aside from the mountains, of course). Stay at the Parker Meridian or Ace Hotel and be sure to visit the many flea markets.
Average Temperature in February: 74° / 47°
Similar Destinations: Ojai, California and Napa, California
Sydney, Australia
Sydney is beautiful every time of year, but the beach vibes will be an especially nice treat when it's below 40 degrees at home. Make sure you get a taste of the design scene while you're here by shopping around Bondi, and definitely don't forget to go the Bondi Baths for breathtaking sights. Stay at the Old Clare, QT Bondi, or Spicers Potts Point.
Average Temperature in February: 78° / 67°
Similar Destinations: Auckland, New Zealand and Los Angeles, California
Telluride, Colorado
If you're looking for something quaint that captures that quintessential winter hygge while also delivering old school Western vibes, consider a trip to Telluride, Colorado. Ski in the fresh powder and experience winter in all its glory, then enjoy the adorable main street strip in this mountain town. For total luxury after a day of outdoor adventure, stay at Dunton Townhouse.
Average Temperature in February: 39° / 8°
Similar Destinations: Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Darby, Montana
Lisbon, Portugal
Ah, Lisbon. If you haven't visited this charming metropolis yet, this is where you should go in February. It has everything from great shopping to local art galleries, rich history, and delicious local eateries. Lisbon is pretty temperate compared to many other European cities during winter, too. Book your stay at The Independente, Baixa House, or Palacio Belmonte (it dates all the way back to 1449!).
Average Temperature in February: 61° / 48°
Similar Destinations: Tel Aviv, Isreal and Barcelona, Spain
Moab Desert, Utah
Get rustic in the Moab Desert in Utah if you love the outdoors, breathtaking sights, and getting off the beaten path. While there is a tiny downtown in Moab, the main attraction is the Arches National Park, which has over 2,000 natural arches. You'll see a swatch of rainbow boulders that stretch out forever as well as some of the most lovely sherbet sunsets on earth. Just make sure you pack layers, since the temperatures will drop drastically at night.
Average Temperature in February: 52° / 26°
Similar Destinations: Joshua Tree, California and Phoenix, Arizona
Cartagena, Colombia
This colorful Colombian city is getting a lot of buzz lately from travel enthusiasts, and for good reason. Well-preserved colonial gems line the streets of the Old Town, where bougainvillea drapes every balcony. This Cartagena is also on the Caribbean coast, so expect breathtaking sights and panoramas everywhere you go. Book an Airbnb to get a local experience, or stay at Bastión Luxury Hotel.
Average Temperature in February: 87° / 75°
Similar Destinations: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Bue?os Aires, Argentina
Singapore
With a beautiful blend of history and cutting-edge modernity, this island city-state is truly one of a kind. There's lush greenery punctuated by incredible architecture in every direction. Make sure you see the Helix Bridge and Gardens by the Bay. It also happens to be nice and balmy during the winter. Book your stay at Warehouse Hotel, Capella, or The Vagabond Club.
Average Temperature in February: 52° / 26°
Similar Destinations: Hong Kong and Miami, Florida
Honolulu, Hawaii
If you live close to the west coast, a trip to Hawaii is the closet tropical destination. For a bit of a city and island fusion vibe, go to Honolulu and enjoy the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. Then venture out to Oahu's remote beaches and hike the Diamond Head Crater. Stay at The Royal Hawaiian or The Kahala.
Average Temperature in February: 81° / 65°
Similar Destinations: Key West, Florida and Bali, Indonesia
Venice, Italy
If you want to eat spaghetti and gelato for every meal, window shop with a labyrinth of canals as the backdrop, and fall asleep to water lapping against your bedroom like a lullaby (who doesn't?), then sign yourself up for a trip to Venice. It'll be chilly in February but also far less packed with tourists. Stay at the Aman for old world opulence or book an Airbnb for some local flair.
Average Temperature in February: 48° / 33°
Similar Destinations: Dubrovenik, Croatia and Athens, Greece
Harbour Island, Bahamas
There's nothing quite like an island escape in the dead of winter, and Harbour Island is the perfect place. Off the island of Nassau, it's adorably tiny (just 1.5 miles wide and 3.5 miles long) and covered in pastel bungalows, pink sands, and colorful golf carts. It's paradise. Go with a gaggle of friends and rent a house, or relax at The Dunmore, a resort hideaway.
Average Temperature in February: 78° / 63°
Similar Destinations: Barbados, Caribbean and Tulum, México
Book now, thank yourself later.