Skip the Sweaters: 46 Warm Winter Family Vacations from Los Angeles!
Updated: 4 days ago
When LA's "winter" drops into the 60s, the kids still want a pool day, and honestly, so do we. The best warm winter family vacations from Los Angeles are Palm Springs and San Diego for an easy drive, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta for a short nonstop flight, and Hawaii for 80-degree beach days, with Florida, the Caribbean and the South Pacific for longer school breaks.
We sorted 46 sunny escapes by how far you're willing to travel, starting with places you can reach before the kids finish their snacks. Every pick comes with typical winter temperatures, how to get there from LA, one family-friendly place to stay and a parent tip, so you can match the trip to your kids' ages, your budget and the length of your break.
Key Takeaways
Closest warmth: Palm Springs and Borrego Springs average roughly 69 to 74°F from December through February, about two to three hours from LA by car.
Shortest flight to the beach: Los Cabos, Loreto and Puerto Vallarta are nonstop from LAX in about two to three hours.
Warmest without a passport: Hawaii (Honolulu averages about 80 to 82°F in winter), South Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Whale season: Gray whales pass San Diego from late December to mid-March, humpbacks peak in Hawaii in January and February, and Mexico's whale seasons usually run from December into spring.
Real summer: Fiji, Tahiti, Australia and New Zealand are in their summer season from December through February.
Passports: Kids need a passport book to fly to Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. A passport card won't get anyone on a plane.
Warm Winter Vacations from LA at a Glance
Short on time? Here's the cheat sheet, grouped by how much travel your crew can handle.
Drive under 3 hours: Palm Springs, Borrego Springs, Joshua Tree, San Diego, Carlsbad, Santa Barbara and Coronado
Long drive or quick flight: Death Valley, Lake Havasu, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson
Nonstop to Mexico in about 2 to 3 hours: Los Cabos, Loreto, La Paz and Puerto Vallarta
Nonstop to Mexico in about 4 to 5 hours: Cancún and the Riviera Maya
No flight at all: Mexican Riviera and Baja cruises from San Pedro and Long Beach
No passport, big warmth: Hawaii, Florida, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas
Bucket-list summer: Fiji, Tahiti, Sydney, the Gold Coast, New Zealand and the Galápagos
Warm Winter Road Trips from LA (No Flight Needed)
Some of the sunniest winter weather in the country is a tank of gas away. The desert gives you the warmest afternoons, while the coast trades a few degrees for beach walks, whale spotting and zero airport lines.
Getting there: About 2 hours by car from downtown LA
Winter weather: Average highs of about 69°F in December, 70°F in January and 74°F in February
Best for: Pool days, easy hikes and families with little ones
Where to stay: Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
41000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Palm Springs is the warmest winter weekend you can reach without a boarding pass. The Omni's Splashtopia water area has two 100-foot waterslides (riders must be at least 42 inches tall), a 425-foot lazy river and splash zones for younger kids.
Between swims, ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to 8,516 feet for snow play, then come back down to the palm trees. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert hosts its WildLights holiday event most winters; 2026 dates: TBA.
Parent Tip: The tram closed for maintenance in September 2026 and was scheduled to reopen in early October, so check the official tramway website before you promise anyone snow.
Getting there: About 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 69°F in December, 70°F in January and 72°F in February
Best for: Junior Rangers, wildlife spotting and stargazing
Where to stay: La Casa del Zorro
3845 Yaqui Pass Road
Borrego Springs, CA 92004
California's largest state park feels like a different planet, and winter is the season to see it. The visitor center is open daily from October through May, and the park's Junior Ranger guide turns any walk into a mission to spot bighorn sheep and roadrunners.
The Borrego Palm Canyon Trail is about 3 miles round trip, and the park charges a $10 day-use fee. Back at La Casa del Zorro, four pools and family casitas make it easy to rest between desert adventures.
Parent Tip: Fire damage closed the first palm grove in Borrego Palm Canyon, so the trail now ends at a viewpoint. Set expectations before the hike so nobody feels cheated out of the oasis.
Getting there: About 2 hours 30 minutes by car
Winter weather: Sunny days around 60 to 67°F, with nights that often drop below freezing
Best for: Rock scrambling, easy trails and kids who love wide-open space
Where to stay: 29 Palms Inn
73950 Inn Avenue
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Joshua Tree isn't beach-warm in winter, but its sunny, mild days are perfect for little hikers who melt in summer heat. The 1.1-mile Barker Dam loop is an easy win, with giant boulders to climb, rock art and a historic dam along the way.
The 29 Palms Inn sits right by the park's Oasis entrance and has a pool and a garden setting that feels miles from the freeway.
Parent Tip: Pack warm layers and hats for the evening. Desert nights in winter can feel like the mountains, and that's exactly when the stars put on their best show.
Getting there: About 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 65°F in December, 67°F in January and 73°F in February at Furnace Creek
Best for: School-age kids, geology fans and Junior Rangers
Where to stay: The Oasis at Death Valley (The Ranch)
Highway 190
Death Valley, CA 92328
Winter is the one season when Death Valley is pleasant for families, and kids love standing at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Ranger-led Junior Ranger programs run from fall through spring at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
The Ranch at the Oasis is the family-friendly side of the resort, with a spring-fed pool, big lawns, an ice cream parlor and a location right next to the park visitor center.
Parent Tip: Several areas are closed this season, including Scotty's Castle and parts of Titus Canyon. Check the park's current conditions page the week you go.
Getting there: About 2 hours by car
Winter weather: Average highs around 66°F from December through February
Best for: Beach play, whale watching and families with toddlers
Where to stay: Paradise Point Resort & Spa
1404 Vacation Road
San Diego, CA 92109
Mission Bay's calm, shallow water is made for little kids, and Paradise Point sits on its own island in the bay with five heated pools, about a mile of sandy beach and an 18-hole mini golf course. Kids' activities like seashell painting keep the evenings easy.
Gray whales travel along the San Diego coast from late December through mid-March, and the overlook at Cabrillo National Monument is a free place to watch for spouts.
Parent Tip: Bring binoculars to Cabrillo and go on a clear morning. Little ones can spot spouts much more easily before the afternoon wind kicks up.
Getting there: About 1 hour 30 minutes by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 64 to 65°F
Best for: Kids ages 2 to 12 and LEGO superfans
Where to stay: LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel
One LEGOLAND Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
LEGOLAND is at its best in mild winter weather, with shorter lines than summer and the indoor Galacticoaster in the new LEGO Galaxy land. Christmas Bricktacular runs on select dates from Nov. 21 through Jan. 3, and the park hosts a kids' New Year's Eve celebration.
Staying on site means themed rooms, including new LEGO City, DUPLO and NINJAGO rooms, plus a short walk to the gates. Browse more options in our guide to the top hotels near LEGOLAND California.
Parent Tip: The LEGOLAND water park is seasonal and closed in winter (its 2027 opening date: TBA), so leave the swimsuits for the hotel pool.
Getting there: About 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 66 to 67°F downtown
Best for: Butterflies, beach walks and a relaxed long weekend
Where to stay: Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
633 East Cabrillo Boulevard
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Winter is monarch season in Santa Barbara. Thousands of butterflies cluster at the Coronado Butterfly Preserve in nearby Goleta from November through February, with the biggest numbers in December and January.
Round out the trip with the Santa Barbara Zoo and the hands-on MOXI museum. The Hilton sits across from the beach and has an outdoor pool and a s'mores fire pit for evenings.
Parent Tip: Visit the butterflies on a sunny late morning. Monarchs stay tightly clustered on cold, gray days and open their wings once the sun warms them up.
Getting there: About an hour by Catalina Express ferry from San Pedro, Long Beach or Dana Point
Winter weather: Mild, with highs around 60 to 62°F
Best for: A boat ride, island exploring and an easy two-night escape
Where to stay: Pavilion Hotel
513 Crescent Avenue
Avalon, CA 90704
Catalina isn't swimsuit-warm in winter, but it's one of the easiest getaways for families who want sunshine, a ferry ride and a car-free town to wander. The Catalina Express runs year-round, with frequent daily departures.
The Pavilion Hotel is steps from the beach and has a courtyard with a fire ring that's perfect for winding down after a day of exploring Avalon.
Parent Tip: Check the island's tourism board for winter boat-and-hotel packages, which can make a midweek trip during school break a lot cheaper.
Getting there: About 4 hours 30 minutes by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 64°F in December, 65°F in January and 70°F in February
Best for: Boating, lakeside beaches and history-loving kids
Where to stay: London Bridge Resort
1477 Queens Bay
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
Yes, the real London Bridge lives in the Arizona desert, and kids think that's hilarious. Walk across it, explore the English Village and rent a boat on the lake on a sunny afternoon.
London Bridge Resort has three pools, a marina and family suites with kitchenettes, which helps when you're feeding a crew for a few days.
Parent Tip: Lake Havasu State Park has easy beaches for sand play, even when the water is too chilly for swimming.
10. Coronado
Getting there: About 2 hours 15 minutes by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 66°F
Best for: Classic beach days, bike rides and holiday sparkle
Where to stay: Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Avenue
Coronado, CA 92118
Coronado Beach is wide, sparkly and easy for families, and the island is flat enough for kids to bike everywhere. Pedal to the Ferry Landing for ice cream and views of the San Diego skyline.
The Hotel del Coronado has the Ocean Explorers kids' club and childcare options. Its beachfront holiday ice rink usually opens for the season; 2026–27 dates: TBA.
Parent Tip: Even on warm winter days, the Pacific is chilly. Pack wetsuits or rash guards if your kids plan to play in the waves.
Getting there: About 5 hours 30 minutes by car, or a short nonstop flight from LAX
Winter weather: Average highs of about 66°F in December, 68°F in January and 71°F in February
Best for: Resort water parks and families who want guaranteed sunshine
Where to stay: JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
5350 East Marriott Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85054
Phoenix-area resorts are built for winter family trips. At the JW Marriott Desert Ridge, the AquaRidge water park has a lazy river and three multi-story waterslides (height minimums of 42 and 48 inches), and the pools are heated to 82°F in the cooler months.
The resort's Jingle at JW holiday season runs Nov. 18, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027. A $60 daily resort fee includes water park access for up to four people. See more picks in our guide to the best family resorts in Scottsdale.
Parent Tip: Desert evenings cool off fast, so bring hoodies for after-dinner swims and walks.
12. Tucson, Arizona
Getting there: About 7 hours 30 minutes by car, or a nonstop flight
Winter weather: Average highs of about 66°F in December, 67°F in January and 69°F in February
Best for: Horse-loving kids and desert wildlife
Where to stay: Tanque Verde Ranch
14301 East Speedway Boulevard
Tucson, AZ 85748
Tucson is cowboy country with winter sunshine. At Tanque Verde Ranch, daily horseback riding is included in stays, and there are kids' programs and riding lessons for young riders.
Save a morning for the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, part zoo and part botanical garden, open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. October through May. Youth tickets (ages 3 to 12) are $24.95, and kids 2 and under are free.
Parent Tip: Ask about age minimums for trail rides when you book, since riding programs are usually split by age and experience.
Mexico: The Easiest Warm Winter Escape from LAX
Mexico's Pacific coast is closer to LA than Hawaii, with nonstop flights to the Baja peninsula in about two to three hours. Every child needs a U.S. passport book for the flight, and we always check the State Department's Mexico travel advisory before booking, since levels vary by state.
13. Loreto
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Alaska Airlines, about 2 hours 15 minutes
Winter weather: Average highs of about 76 to 78°F
Best for: Whale watching and a quieter beach town
Where to stay: Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto
Km. 84, Carretera Transpeninsular, Ensenada Blanca
Loreto, Baja California Sur 23880, Mexico
Loreto feels like the Baja of your grandparents' stories: a small, walkable town on the Sea of Cortez with whale-watching boat trips in winter. Last season, the official whale-watching window ran from January through April; 2026–27 dates: TBA.
Villa del Palmar has a kids' club and five connected pools shaped like a giant sea turtle, and you can choose an all-inclusive plan or a room-only stay.
Parent Tip: Book whale tours with licensed local operators and ask about life jackets in kid sizes before you go.
14. La Paz
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Alaska Airlines, about 2 to 2 hours 30 minutes
Winter weather: Average highs of about 79 to 80°F
Best for: Older kids who love snorkeling and marine life
Home base: Hotels along the Malecón
Downtown La Paz and the Malecón
La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
La Paz is Baja's laid-back capital and a launch point for Isla Espíritu Santo, a UNESCO-protected island where tours take families snorkeling near playful sea lions.
Whale shark swims usually run from about October through April, but local authorities have closed the season early in years when few sharks showed up, so treat them as a bonus rather than a sure thing.
Parent Tip: Ask tour operators about minimum ages for open-water snorkeling, and bring rash guards for sun protection on the boat.
15. Los Cabos
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Alaska, American, Delta and United, about 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours
Winter weather: Average highs of about 77 to 80°F
Best for: All-inclusive resorts, whale watching and multigenerational trips
Where to stay: Grand Velas Los Cabos
Carretera Transpeninsular Km. 17, Corredor Turístico
Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur 23405, Mexico
Cabo is the classic LA winter escape for a reason: short nonstop flights, reliable sunshine and humpback whales jumping right off the coast. Last season's official whale-watching window around Cabo San Lucas ran from mid-December through April; 2026–27 dates: TBA.
Grand Velas Los Cabos is all-inclusive, with a Kids' Club for ages 4 to 12, a Teens' Club for ages 13 to 18 and a splash zone for little ones.
Parent Tip: Many Cabo beaches have strong surf and aren't safe for swimming. Stick to designated swimmable beaches and your resort's pools with young kids.
16. Puerto Vallarta
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Alaska, Delta and United, with American adding service Nov. 1, 2026; about 3 hours
Winter weather: Average highs of about 84 to 86°F
Best for: Warm ocean swims, a walkable old town and whale season
Where to stay: Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
Carretera a Barra de Navidad, Km. 3.5, Zona Hotelera Sur
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco 48390, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is one of the warmest winter beach spots within a short flight of LA, with calm water in Banderas Bay and a malecón full of sculptures, street snacks and sunsets. Humpback whales winter in the bay, and last season's official window ran from early December through late March.
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is all-inclusive and has a KidZ Club for ages 4 to 12.
Parent Tip: The State Department rates Jalisco as "Reconsider Travel" but places no limits on travel to Puerto Vallarta itself. Review the current advisory before you book.
Getting there: Fly into Puerto Vallarta, then about 20 minutes by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 84 to 86°F
Best for: Upscale family resorts and day trips to the Marietas Islands
Where to stay: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Av. Cocoteros 98 Sur
Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit 63735, Mexico
Just north of Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta has long, flat beaches and resorts with room to spread out. It shares Banderas Bay's whale season, and boat tours head out to the Marietas Islands.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is all-inclusive, with a Kids' Club for ages 4 to 12, a dedicated kids' pool and a Teen Club for ages 13 to 17.
Parent Tip: Book Marietas tours early in your stay. If the sea is rough, you'll still have days left to reschedule.
18. Huatulco
Getting there: Connecting flights from LAX
Winter weather: Hot, with average highs in the low 90s
Best for: Calm bays, snorkeling and families who want true heat
Where to stay: Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa
Tangolunda Bay
Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico
Huatulco is a string of nine bays on Oaxaca's coast, with clear, calm coves that are great for beginner snorkelers. Humpbacks pass through in winter, too; last season's official window ran from mid-December to late March.
Dreams Huatulco is all-inclusive, with an Explorer's Club for ages 3 to 12, a kids-only pool, beach movie nights and weekly campouts.
Parent Tip: This is the hottest stop on our Mexico list, so plan beach time for mornings and late afternoons and keep the middle of the day for shade and pool time.
19. Cancún
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Delta, United and American, about 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours
Winter weather: Average highs of about 82 to 84°F
Best for: Caribbean-blue water and big all-inclusive resorts
Where to stay: Hyatt Ziva Cancún
Blvd. Kukulcan, Manzana 51, Lote 7
Cancún, Quintana Roo 77500, Mexico
Cancún gives LA families Caribbean water without a connection. Winter is the dry, comfortable season, and the Hotel Zone's calmer north-facing beaches are friendlier for little swimmers.
Hyatt Ziva Cancún is all-inclusive, with a KidZ Club for ages 4 to 12 and a mini water park.
Parent Tip: Seaweed (sargassum) can show up on Caribbean beaches; it's usually lighter in winter than in summer, but resorts with good pools give you a backup plan.
Getting there: Fly nonstop to Cancún, then drive south
Winter weather: Average highs of about 82 to 84°F
Best for: Eco-parks, cenotes and Mayan ruins by the sea
Where to stay: Hotel Xcaret México
Carretera Chetumal–Puerto Juárez Km. 282, Solidaridad
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 77710, Mexico
The Riviera Maya mixes beaches with jungle adventures, from swimming in cenotes to exploring the seaside Mayan ruins at Tulum. It's an easy place to give kids a real history lesson between pool days.
Hotel Xcaret México's "All-Fun Inclusive" plan includes unlimited entry and transportation to Grupo Xcaret parks like Xcaret, Xel-Há and Xplor, with kids' areas split by age (some parks need advance reservations).
Parent Tip: Pack reef-safe sunscreen. Many eco-parks and cenotes in this region only allow biodegradable sunscreen in the water.
21. Cozumel
Getting there: Fly nonstop to Cancún, then take the ferry from Playa del Carmen
Winter weather: Average highs of about 83 to 84°F
Best for: First-time snorkelers and island time
Where to stay: Iberostar Waves Cozumel
Carretera Costera Sur
Cozumel, Quintana Roo 77600, Mexico
Cozumel's clear water is famous with divers, and it's just as fun for kids on a snorkel mask. Calm, shallow reefs right off the shore make it a great place for a first look at tropical fish.
Iberostar Waves Cozumel is all-inclusive, with a Star Camp kids' club divided by age (4 to 6, 7 to 12 and 13 to 15) and a kids' pool.
Parent Tip: Cozumel is also a busy cruise port. Plan town visits for days when fewer ships are docked.
Mexican Riviera Cruises from Los Angeles
Want warm weather without an airport? Cruise ships sail from San Pedro and Long Beach all winter, and the kids get pools, kids' clubs and a new beach almost every day.
Getting there: Drive to the Port of Los Angeles
Winter weather: Ports average highs in the high 70s to mid-80s
Best for: Families who want several beach towns in one trip
Where to stay: World Cruise Center, Port of Los Angeles
100 Swinford Street
San Pedro, CA 90731
Norwegian Encore sails seven-night Mexican Riviera round trips every Sunday from Oct. 18, 2026, through April 4, 2027, calling at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta. Princess Cruises' Discovery Princess also runs seven-day Mexican Riviera sailings from Los Angeles through April 2027.
Royal Caribbean sails from Los Angeles too; read our look at Ovation of the Seas sailing from LA for what to expect on board.
Parent Tip: Mazatlán is in Sinaloa, a state the State Department rates "Do Not Travel" with an exception for the Zona Dorada and historic center. Stick to cruise-line excursions in those areas.
Getting there: Drive to the Long Beach Cruise Terminal
Winter weather: Mild and sunny in Ensenada and Catalina
Best for: First cruises with young kids and quick school-break trips
Where to stay: Long Beach Cruise Terminal
231 Windsor Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
A four- or five-day sailing is a low-commitment way to find out whether your family loves cruising. Carnival Radiance sails year-round from Long Beach to Ensenada and Catalina, and Carnival Panorama offers longer six- to eight-day Mexican Riviera trips through early 2027.
These shorter trips aren't tropical, but they come with waterslides, kids' clubs and sunny decks, and you're home before anyone gets homesick.
Parent Tip: Even on closed-loop cruises from California, we recommend passports for everyone. If you have to fly home from a foreign port, you'll need one.
Hawaii in Winter with Kids
Hawaii is the warmest winter trip LA families can take without a passport, with nonstop flights to all four major islands and humpback whales from roughly September through May.
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX to Kona; check airlines for current winter schedules
Winter weather: Warm beach weather on the Kohala Coast; cooler and wetter near the volcano
Best for: Volcano-curious kids and snorkel lagoons
Where to stay: Hilton Waikoloa Village
69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive
Waikoloa, HI 96738
Kīlauea has been erupting on and off from Halemaʻumaʻu crater, and when it's active, families can watch from overlooks along Crater Rim Drive in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Eruption episodes can't be predicted, so treat lava as a bonus.
Hilton Waikoloa Village has pools with waterslides and an ocean-fed lagoon that's perfect for a first snorkel, plus whale watching off the Kohala Coast in winter.
Parent Tip: A summit construction project is causing closures, and parking lots at the volcano can fill by 10 a.m. Go early and check the park's conditions page.
25. Oahu
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX to Honolulu, about 5½ to 6 hours
Winter weather: Average highs of about 80 to 82°F in Honolulu
Best for: First trips to Hawaii and Disney fans
Where to stay: Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
92-1185 Aliʻinui Drive
Kapolei, HI 96707
Oahu packs the most into one island: Waikiki's gentle surf, the Diamond Head hike, Pearl Harbor and the giant winter waves on the North Shore, best watched from the sand.
Aulani has Aunty's Beach House kids' program, a lazy river and a private snorkel lagoon. Humpbacks visit Oahu in winter too, though sightings are less frequent than off Maui.
Parent Tip: Book the Pearl Harbor visitor center's free timed reservations in advance, and remember that bags aren't allowed inside.
26. Maui
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX to Kahului, about 5½ to 6 hours
Winter weather: Warm and sunny on the south shore
Best for: Whale watching and sandy south-shore beaches
Where to stay: Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
3850 Wailea Alanui Drive
Wailea, HI 96753
The channel between Maui, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi has the highest concentration of humpback whales in Hawaii, and January and February are peak months. Even from the beach, you'll likely see spouts and splashes.
Grand Wailea has a keiki (kids') activity program. In West Maui, Lahaina's Front Street reopened to cars on Aug. 1, 2026, and some businesses are back, but several streets remain closed.
Parent Tip: If you visit Lahaina, stay on open streets, out of fenced areas and off private property, and support the businesses that have reopened.
27. Kauaʻi
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX to Līhuʻe; check airlines for current winter schedules
Winter weather: Warm, with more rain on the north shore than the south
Best for: Nature-loving families and a slower pace
Where to stay: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
1571 Poipu Road
Koloa, HI 96756
Kauaʻi is Hawaii's garden island, with waterfalls, red-dirt canyons and sleepy beach towns. In winter, plan beach days on the sunnier south shore around Poʻipū, where the Grand Hyatt sits.
The resort's Camp Hyatt kids' club and babysitting give parents a breather, and humpbacks pass along the north coast with peak sightings in January and February.
Parent Tip: North-shore surf gets big and dangerous in winter. Admire it from the sand, and swim only at beaches with lifeguards and calm conditions.
Florida's Winter Sunshine
Florida is a five-hour flight, but it pays off with theme parks, warm Gulf beaches and no passports. South Florida and the Keys are the warmest; Orlando can be cool in the mornings.
28. Orlando
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX, about 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours
Winter weather: Average December highs of about 74°F
Best for: Theme-park superfans of every age
Where to stay: Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort
5601 Universal Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32819
Orlando's mild winters make long theme-park days much more comfortable than summer. Between Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and Universal's newest park, Epic Universe, there's enough for a full week.
Cabana Bay has a lazy river with a sandy beach, plus a second pool with a waterslide and dive tower.
Parent Tip: Pack layers. Florida winter mornings can start in the 50s before warming up, especially for early park openings.
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX, about 5 hours
Winter weather: Average highs of about 76 to 78°F
Best for: City-meets-beach trips and resort water parks
Where to stay: JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa
19999 West Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 33180
Miami is warm enough for real beach days all winter, with Latin food, art and wildlife adventures just off the sand. Miami's tourism board has a full guide to kid-friendly attractions.
The JW Marriott Turnberry's Tidal Cove water park has a lazy river, a seven-slide tower and a FlowRider surf machine (42-inch minimum), plus Kids Cove, a 4,000-square-foot kids' pool.
Parent Tip: Winter is Miami's high season. Book early, and look at Aventura and other neighborhoods north of South Beach for better value.
Getting there: Fly to Tampa, then about 30 to 45 minutes by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 74 to 78°F
Best for: Soft white sand, gentle Gulf waves and animal lovers
Where to stay: TradeWinds Island Grand
5500 Gulf Boulevard
St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Florida's Gulf Coast has wide, shallow beaches that are made for little kids, plus spectacular sunsets. In Clearwater, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium rescues sea turtles and dolphins and shares the story of Winter the dolphin.
TradeWinds Island Grand has a three-story waterslide and a kids' camp. Its floating water park is seasonal, so check dates for your trip.
Parent Tip: Gulf water is cooler in winter than many people expect. Heated resort pools save the day on breezy afternoons.
31. The Florida Keys
Getting there: Fly to Miami, then drive the Overseas Highway
Winter weather: Average highs of about 76 to 78°F in Key West and Marathon
Best for: Road-trip kids, snorkeling and sea life
Where to stay: Hawks Cay Resort
61 Hawks Cay Boulevard
Duck Key, FL 33050
The drive across the Seven Mile Bridge is a highlight on its own, and the Keys are the warmest place in the continental U.S. in winter. Expect turquoise water, boat trips and lots of chances to see dolphins and sea turtles.
Hawks Cay has five pools and a saltwater lagoon. Its new waterslide park is expected to open in late 2026, so confirm it's open before you promise the slides.
Parent Tip: Book Keys stays early for the holidays. Rooms are limited, and winter is peak season.
Caribbean and Latin America Winter Vacations
These trips take more travel time from LA, but they deliver the warmest water on our list. Puerto Rico and St. Thomas don't require a passport for U.S. citizens; everywhere else does.
32. Puerto Rico
Getting there: Flights from LAX to San Juan; check airlines for nonstop and connecting options
Winter weather: Warm and tropical, with passing showers
Best for: No-passport island adventures and rainforest hikes
Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach and Golf Resort
6000 Río Mar Boulevard
Río Grande, PR 00745
Puerto Rico combines old-town San Juan, beaches and El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. The PR-191 North entrance is free with no reservation needed, open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar sits between the rainforest and the beach, with a kids' pool and waterslide plus a weekly kids' activity schedule.
Parent Tip: Parking at El Yunque is limited and there's ongoing construction, so arrive early and check the forest's conditions page.
Getting there: Connecting flights from LAX
Winter weather: Typical highs around 85°F
Best for: Caribbean beaches without a passport
Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
6900 Great Bay
St. Thomas, USVI 00802
St. Thomas gives you the full Caribbean experience with U.S. dollars and no passport requirement for U.S. citizens. Ferries make it easy to add a day trip to St. John's beaches and national park.
The Ritz-Carlton has a family pool with a waterslide and children's recreation programs.
Parent Tip: You don't need a passport, but bring proof of citizenship for everyone (like birth certificates) for the trip home.
Getting there: JetBlue has flown nonstop LAX–Nassau; check current schedules
Winter weather: Warm and sunny, with cooler water than summer
Best for: Water park lovers and tweens
Where to stay: Atlantis Paradise Island
One Casino Drive
Paradise Island, The Bahamas
Atlantis is a destination on its own. Its 141-acre Aquaventure water park, included with every stay, has the Leap of Faith slide and a mile-long Rapids River.
Atlantis Kids Adventures welcomes ages 3 to 12, and the CRUSH club is for teens 13 to 17. The resort isn't all-inclusive, so budget for meals.
Parent Tip: Passports need to be valid through your departure date with two blank pages.
35. Turks and Caicos
Getting there: Flights to Providenciales; check airlines for options from LAX
Winter weather: Warm, with November through April as the cooler, drier months
Best for: Powder-white beaches and all-inclusive simplicity
Where to stay: Beaches Turks and Caicos
Lower Bight Road, The Bight Settlement
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands TKCA 1ZZ
Grace Bay's calm, clear water is about as close to a swimming pool as the ocean gets. Humpback whales pass the islands from December through February, and off Grand Turk and Salt Cay from late January to early April.
Beaches Turks and Caicos is all-inclusive (airport transfers included), with the Pirates Island Waterpark, a kids' camp with certified nannies and Sesame Street experiences.
Parent Tip: Passports must be valid for at least three months after you arrive, with two blank pages.
36. Aruba
Getting there: Flights from LAX; check airlines for nonstop and connecting options
Winter weather: Average highs of about 86 to 87°F
Best for: Guaranteed sun, breezy beaches and calm Palm Beach water
Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino
J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 85
Palm Beach, Aruba
Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt and stays sunny and dry, which is why families come back year after year. Palm Beach has gentle water for little kids, and the island's rugged east side is fun for older kids to explore.
The Hyatt Regency has Aruba's tallest resort waterslide and Camp Watapana for kids ages 4 to 12.
Parent Tip: Complete Aruba's online ED card within the week before travel. Air arrivals also pay a $20 sustainability fee.
Getting there: Fly into Liberia (LIR); check airlines for nonstop and one-stop options from LAX
Winter weather: Dry season runs December through March
Best for: Wildlife, zip lines and active families
Playa Conchal
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Costa Rica's northwest coast is at its sunniest in winter, which is perfect timing for monkey spotting, volcano hikes and zip lines. Guanacaste's beaches are a short drive from the Liberia airport.
The Westin Reserva Conchal is all-inclusive, and its Westin Kids Club is included in the rate.
Parent Tip: Passports must be valid for your whole stay. Bring bug spray and lightweight long sleeves for jungle tours.
Getting there: Alaska Airlines has flown nonstop LAX–Belize City; check current schedules
Winter weather: Average temps around 84°F; the drier season starts in February
Best for: Reef snorkeling, Mayan ruins and English-speaking adventure
Where to stay: Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection
San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
Belize
Belize mixes the second-largest barrier reef in the world with jungle and Mayan ruins, and English is the official language. Ambergris Caye's golf-cart town of San Pedro is easy with kids.
Alaia Belize offers an optional all-inclusive add-on for stays of two nights or more: $199 per adult per day, $99.50 for kids 6 to 10 and free for kids 5 and under.
Parent Tip: December and January can still be rainy in Belize. Pack rain jackets and build flexible days into your plans.
39. Panama
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Copa Airlines, about 6½ to 7½ hours
Winter weather: Winter is Panama's drier season
Best for: Canal-loving kids and a beach-plus-city combo
Where to stay: The Westin Playa Bonita Panama
Km 6 Camino a Veracruz
Panama City, Panama
Watching giant ships squeeze through the Panama Canal locks is the kind of thing kids remember forever. Pair it with Panama City's old quarter and a few beach days.
The Westin Playa Bonita has a complimentary kids' club, a children's pool and three infinity pools.
Parent Tip: Passports must be valid for at least three months after arrival, and travelers may be asked for a return ticket and proof of funds.
Getting there: Connect through Panama City, Houston or Atlanta to the Ecuadorian mainland, then fly to the islands
Winter weather: Average highs of about 80°F in December, 83°F in January and 86°F in February
Best for: Older kids and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife
Where to stay: Lindblad Expeditions / National Geographic Endeavour II
Sailings depart from the Galápagos Islands
Ecuador
December marks the start of the Galápagos warm season, with calmer, clearer water for snorkeling. Green sea turtles nest on the beaches, baby giant tortoises begin hatching and sea lions are everywhere.
Lindblad's family voyages include the National Geographic Global Explorers program for kids and teens. The national park entry fee is $200 per adult and $100 per child under 12, plus a $20 transit card bought at the mainland airport.
Parent Tip: Arrive on the mainland a day early, and strongly consider medical evacuation insurance for remote trips like this one.
Southern Hemisphere: Swap Winter for Summer
December through February is summer south of the equator. These long-haul trips are best for longer breaks, and some fall during the region's wet or cyclone season, so travel insurance is smart.
41. Fiji
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX to Nadi on Fiji Airways, about 11 hours
Winter weather: Hot and humid, with highs up to about 88°F
Best for: Kids' clubs, lagoon snorkeling and the friendliest welcome
Where to stay: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
Sydney Drive, Off The Queens Highway
Sigatoka, Fiji
Fiji is famous for treating kids like VIPs, and the overnight flight from LAX means you land ready for the beach. Many resorts offer "Meimei" nannies who care for little ones.
Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort has the Little Riggers club for ages 3 to 7, Beach Riggers for ages 8 to 12 and a teen program for 13 and up.
Parent Tip: November through April is Fiji's rainy and cyclone season. Buy travel insurance and keep a flexible itinerary.
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Air Tahiti Nui and Air France, about 8 hours
Winter weather: Highs around 88 to 90°F, with brief showers
Best for: Older kids, lagoon snorkeling and a big-celebration trip
Where to stay: Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Papetoai
Moorea 98729, French Polynesia
Moorea's lagoon is a natural aquarium, and stingray snorkeling tours let kids see rays and reef fish up close in shallow water. It's a splurge, but an unforgettable one.
The Hilton Moorea has overwater villas and a tour desk for snorkeling and 4x4 island tours. It doesn't advertise a kids' club, so this trip works best with kids who are happy exploring with you.
Parent Tip: Humpback whales visit French Polynesia from July to November, not in winter, so book a lagoon tour instead of a whale tour.
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX on Qantas, Delta, United and American, about 14 to 15½ hours
Winter weather: Average highs of about 78 to 79°F
Best for: New Year's Eve fireworks, beaches and wildlife
Where to stay: Taronga Zoo (Roar and Snore and Wildlife Retreat stays)
Bradleys Head Road
Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia
Sydney turns winter break into summer vacation, with harbor beaches, ferry rides and the city's famous New Year's Eve fireworks at 9 p.m. and midnight (2026–27 times: confirm closer to the date).
For a stay kids will brag about, Taronga Zoo offers Roar and Snore overnight camping and the Wildlife Retreat, which includes after-hours zoo access.
Parent Tip: Every U.S. traveler, including kids, needs an Australian ETA or visa before departure. Apply through the official Australian ETA app.
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX to Brisbane on Qantas (and Delta from Oct. 26, 2026), about 14½ hours, then about an hour by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 82 to 84°F
Best for: Theme parks and surf beaches
Where to stay: Sea World Resort & Water Park
Sea World Drive
Main Beach, QLD 4217, Australia
The Gold Coast is Australia's theme-park playground, with Sea World, Movie World and Wet'n'Wild minutes from long surf beaches.
Sea World Resort has a kids' club for ages 4 to 12 that runs daily from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Parent Tip: Queensland's school summer holidays run Dec. 12, 2026, to Jan. 26, 2027, so expect peak crowds and prices then.
Getting there: Nonstop from LAX to Auckland on Air New Zealand (Delta from Oct. 24 and American from Dec. 3, 2026), about 13 hours, then drive north
Winter weather: Summer highs around the mid-70s
Best for: Boat trips, beaches and road-trip families
Where to stay: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands
Tau Henare Drive
Waitangi, New Zealand
New Zealand's summer is mild rather than tropical, which is perfect for active families. The Bay of Islands has more than 140 islands, calm coves and boat trips to explore them.
The Copthorne sits on the water in Waitangi and has a free-form rock swimming pool.
Parent Tip: Every traveler, including each child, needs an NZeTA, and most visitors also pay the NZ$100 International Visitor Levy. Apply through the official app, which can handle several family members at once.
Bonus: Sunny, But Not Swimsuit-Warm
One popular winter getaway didn't make our warm list, but it's worth knowing about.
46. Las Vegas
Getting there: About 4 hours by car
Winter weather: Average highs of about 57°F in December, 59°F in January and 63°F in February
Best for: Indoor fun, shows and a quick road trip
Where to stay: Circus Circus
2880 South Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Vegas is sunny in winter but too cool for most pools, so plan an indoor-fun trip. Circus Circus is home to the Adventuredome, an indoor amusement park with 12 rides (six for kids), plus free circus acts on the midway.
Outside the Strip, Springs Preserve has a playground, train ride, museums and animal shows. Find more family-friendly stays in our guide to where to stay in Las Vegas with kids.
Parent Tip: Ask about pool hours before you book. Many Strip pools close or shrink their hours in winter.
How to Choose the Right Warm Winter Vacation for Your Family
Match the trip to your kids' ages. Toddlers do best with a drive or a flight under three hours, so Palm Springs, San Diego and Baja are winners. School-age kids can handle Hawaii or Florida, and teens are ready for Belize, Costa Rica or the South Pacific.
Check passports early. Every child needs a U.S. passport book to fly to Mexico, the Caribbean or Central America, and a passport card won't work for flights. Several countries also require passports to be valid for three to six months after you arrive.
Time it around wildlife. For whales, aim for January through March in Baja, Hawaii and San Diego. For monarch butterflies, plan Santa Barbara in December or January.
Ask about heated pools. Winter air can be warm while the ocean is chilly. Resorts with heated pools, like the JW Marriott Desert Ridge, keep the swimming plan on track.
Book the holidays early. Christmas and New Year's weeks are peak season almost everywhere on this list. Mid-January trips are often cheaper and less crowded.
Check travel advisories and weather seasons. Review the State Department's advisory for your destination before booking, and buy travel insurance for South Pacific trips during cyclone season.
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Takeaway
The best warm winter family vacation from LA depends on how far your crew wants to travel. For a stress-free weekend, the desert around Palm Springs and the San Diego coast deliver sunshine without a flight. For true beach weather, Baja and Puerto Vallarta are just a few hours away, and Hawaii is the warmest no-passport option.
Whichever you choose, book early for the holidays, double-check passports and advisories, and leave a little room in the schedule for doing absolutely nothing by the pool. That's the whole point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is it warm in December near Los Angeles?
The warmest December getaways near LA are in the desert. Palm Springs averages highs around 69°F and Borrego Springs around 69°F, both about two to three hours away. San Diego and Coronado average about 66°F, and Phoenix about 66°F, with heated resort pools that make swimming comfortable.
What is the warmest place to go in January with kids from LA?
For a short trip, Puerto Vallarta (highs in the mid-80s) and Los Cabos (high 70s to about 80°F) are only two to three hours by nonstop flight. Without a passport, Honolulu averages about 80°F in January. For true heat, Fiji and Tahiti are in their summer season.
Do kids need a passport to fly to Mexico?
Yes. Every U.S. traveler, including babies and children, needs a valid U.S. passport book to fly to Mexico. A passport card is not accepted for air travel. The State Department also recommends carrying a copy of each child's birth certificate, and Mexico requires its tourist entry form for air arrivals.
When is whale watching season in Cabo and Hawaii?
In Hawaii, humpback whales are around from roughly September through May, with peak sightings in January and February. In Los Cabos, last season's official whale-watching window ran from mid-December through April. Gray whales also pass San Diego from late December to mid-March.
What warm winter vacations don't require a passport?
U.S. citizens can visit Hawaii, Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands without a passport. Desert and beach getaways in California and Arizona are road-trip easy, too. Cruises from California may not require passports, but we recommend bringing them in case you need to fly home from a foreign port.
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