From desert escapes to ski towns and island retreats, these North American destinations offer sunshine, outdoor adventure, and mood-boosting travel ideas for winter.
It’s wintertime in the Northern Hemisphere, which inherently means Mother Nature’s offering us less sunlight — and oftentimes this brings an ongoing struggle with seasonal sadness. If you’re seeking a spot to plan a getaway meant for soaking up some extra Vitamin D, there are plenty of places to choose from, whether your preference is a relaxing, balmy seaside escape or an active bluebird day and après out on the ski slopes. In no particular order, here’s a selection of settings across North America made for defeating seasonal depression, ranging from dreamy desert destinations to sunny mountain town ski resorts, island escapes, and more.
Santa Barbara preserves a relaxed, classic sense of surf-inspired nostalgia in its atmosphere, and those “California Dreaming” on a winter’s day can encounter exactly the warmth they desire, here. The city is even perched on a unique south-facing section of coastline that allows for seeing both the sun rise and set over the Pacific Ocean, from the beach — a rare phenomenon bringing more light to shorter winter days. Adventurous locals say winter is the ideal season to try to learn to surf, with the most consistent wave swell. Afterwards, relax with a luxurious day of pampering (the 42,000-square-foot spa at the recently restored Ritz-Carlton Bacara Santa Barbara is a solid spot for this). Arts enthusiasts can plan a visit around the 41st annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) in February, taking over multiple theaters across downtown Santa Barbara with film screenings, industry panel discussions, community education, and more.
Boasting unparalleled scenic winter desert sunsets after a day of properly warm sunshine, Scottsdale, Arizona, can be an ideal winter getaway for those seeking a spa escape or outdoor adventure, among many other inspiring seasonal pursuits. Soak in some sun and lounge by the buzzing pool at the lively W Scottsdale, which anchors the Scottsdale Entertainment District, before a night out on the town (no overcoat or winter boots needed!). For a calmer evening, it’s not too chilly to enjoy a clear, crisp night outside, stargazing. ADERO Scottsdale’s expert local astronomers, the “Star Dudes” can educate you about the mystic wonders of the universe. And for those who’d prefer to lighten their load (instead of paddling it), a visit to the nearby CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa (in an adjacent town that’s quite literally named “Carefree”) offers day passes in addition to hosting overnight visits as an ideal way to hibernate.
Sunny Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the highest capital city in America, at roughly 7,000 feet in elevation. It’s also the oldest capital, dating back to 1610. Today, it’s a charming, sun-soaked destination featuring many engaging outdoor activities to encounter in the wintertime. Explore the city’s spunky downtown district, making sure to stop at the Plaza — the heart and soul of Santa Fe. Dine at one of the authentic local restaurants, serving a range of cuisines from traditional Southwestern fare (choose “Christmas” style for a mix of red and green chile on your classic New Mexican dish). Browse the collection of quaint shops, galleries, and museums in town. Afterwards, wind down at the 10,000-square-foot spa at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, which is built on a spiritual vortex, and features a variety of treatments that lean into the natural healing properties of this sacred land.
Sun Valley, Idaho’s iconic Sun Valley Resort dates back to the 1930s as America’s first destination ski resort, boasting 3,400 vertical feet across 2,300 acres of skiable terrain. This high desert city also lives up to its name with an abundant amount of sunshine, averaging over 200 days a year of clear skies (and a healthy mix of much-needed powder days to power mountain exploits). Those who aren’t skiers or snowboarders need not fret — try Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, fly fishing, or snowmobiling, or visit world-class arts and culture stops and dining venues. Annual, seasonal happenings like the Sun Valley Food and Wine Celebration in late January add a touch more spirit to an existing atmosphere of enthusiasm for a bright winter season. And although it might feel more secluded than other American mountain towns, nonstop flights from eight major U.S. cities make Sun valley plenty accessible.
Bend, Oregon isn’t your typical “wet winter” Pacific Northwest locale — its high desert location means much more sunshine, and far less “drab.” Visit Mt. Bachelor, which offers the rare opportunity to embark on 360 degrees of skiing and snowboarding adventures (the unique volcanic shape of this mountain allows for traversing in almost any direction) across more than 4,000 acres of terrain. Or, launch into a life-changing winter snowshoeing experience with Wanderlust Tours to learn about the fascinating environmental surroundings from a passionate, expert naturalist guide. Set your basecamp for the trip as Tetherow Resort, which sits on the edge of town and serves as a peaceful place to breathe in the fresh air in a great location, 20 minutes from Bend. Bachelor and just seven minutes from the local attractions of the Old Mill District.
There are on average 312 days of sun per year in Alberta (the sunniest province in Canada) — and what better way to enjoy soaking in some rays, than experiencing the laid-back Village of Lake Louise? Even though this spot is traditionally known as a popular “summer destination,” it’s a stunning setting for a nature-filled getaway anytime of year, nestled into the gorgeous backdrop of Victoria Glacier in the Canadian Rockies, just a 40-minute drive west of Banff. Home to Lake Louise Ski Resort and the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise property, there are plenty of entertaining things to do here in the winter for all interests ranging from, of course, skiing — to unparalleled dark sky stargazing, spa-going and thermal bathing opportunities, or a cozy and elegant session of signature afternoon tea.
When folks traditionally think of Palm Springs, they only think of “Palm Springs” — but the Greater Palm Springs region of Southern California is home to nine unique cities to explore, with something for everyone. Encounter giraffes, rhinos, kangaroos and more at The Living Desert in Palm Desert. In Desert Hot Springs, known as “California’s Spa City,” visit the adults-only Two Bunch Palms resort with its mineral water flowing from a 600-year-old natural spring said to offer immense healing properties. Stroll around the city of Palm Springs itself, admiring the abundance of Midcentury Modern architecture, or visit the historic Palm Springs Art Museum which dates back to 1938. And the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is an unforgettable way to see the Coachella Valley from above. Despite its “Southern California” address, during colder months, visitors can oftentimes encounter a unique treat — a white wonderland of snow, at this mountain attraction’s 8,500-plus foot peak.
Sidestep the potential seasonal crowds of the already well-known and touristic Los Cabos region, and check out this nearby rising star on Mexico’s Baja California Sur Pacific coast — a designated “Pueblo Magico” destination (Magic Town), Todos Santos. Known as Cabo’s more relaxed, secluded neighbor of a destination, this locale can serve as a perfect place for travelers to unwind and reconnect internally, on an accessible, “slow travel” trip. Enjoy a beach day at Playa Las Palmas, stroll through the bohemian art galleries in town, indulge in a dinner at The Green Room while watching a stunning oceanfront sunset, and get active on a hike at Point Lobo. Visit between December and April to possibly spot some gray whales in the wild. Set your home base as Desierto Azul — a plant-based, four-room micro-hotel settled into a secluded spot where the desert surroundings seemingly blend seamlessly into the sea.
Florida’s Space Coast Region isn’t just a destination to enjoy the sea and sunshine (although there’s plenty, along this 72-mile stretch of Atlantic coastline!). It’s a destination offering seemingly infinite opportunities to learn about outer space and the universe at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. It’s home base to 20 ported ships at Port Canaveral — the launching point for exploring the sea and 50-plus destinations around the Caribbean. And for those who prefer to spend time closer connected to dry land, strolling the sands and stepping along the pier in Cocoa Beach means cooling down with a gourmet ice cream cone or sipping on a tiki bar’s playful twist on the famous Bushwacker cocktail. Those who are brave might even try an “alligator burger” (it tastes just like chicken — no, really!). Visitors with exceptionally lucky timing might even get a bucket-list experience: witnessing a real, live rocket launch.
Breckenridge, Colorado is nestled into Colorado’s Rocky Mountains just an hour and a half from Denver. Having been originally settled by fortune-seeking gold rusher pioneers as a booming mining town dating back to 1859, today, this sunny, walkable mountain town maintains a sense of historic charm and a welcoming local community. “Beat the winter blues” by taking on a cruisy “blue” run on the resort’s expansive mountain terrain, or stroll down Main Street for great shopping. Grab a warming drink at celebrated fan favorites like Breckenridge Brewing Company or the (not-so-secret) speakeasy at Hotel Alpenrock, The Canary. Breckenridge boasts multiple spirited annual wintertime events like Ullr Fest (a tribute to praise Ullr, the Norse god of snow, for a properly powder-filled ski season) with its parade, bonfire, and Breckenridge Distillery’s “unofficial” World Record-breaking shotski, made of 507 skis spanning 2,489 feet — and the annual International Snow Sculpture Championships.
Hawaiian tourism has seemingly dealt with it all: Overtourism leading to a necessity to set boundaries and educate visitors on how to be responsible island guests, combatting an essentially halted tourism economy in the wake of COVID, and today, serving as a dream getaway for a more balanced base of visitors (although it’s becoming an increasingly difficult vacation destination to “fund”). Those who still seek a dream trip to The Aloha State can benefit from visiting the youngest, largest island — the Island of Hawaii (nicknamed “The Big Island), which has it all. Lounge on a sunny sandy beach, hike at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, which encompasses roughly 523 square miles (almost the entire island of O’ahu!) or learn where your best bean buzz comes from on an educational tour of family-owned and operated Kona Coffee and Tea Company. With over 4,028 square miles of land (and growing), there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences.
Las Vegas might be internationally known for lively pool parties and warm-weather debauchery, but this dynamic destination offers practically everything a traveler desires — luxury spas, endless gaming, and unparalleled access to world-class hospitality. Plus, its sunny southwestern location means clear skies, year-round, with a whole new set of seasonal outdoor adventures in cooler winter temps. In addition to classic pastimes like exploring The Strip or visiting one of the fun, themed resorts, those seeking fresh air can take a detour to visit Red Rock Canyon, just 20 minutes outside of the city. This designated National Conservation Area offers gorgeous hiking trails and a 13-mile scenic drive, among other recreational escapades. There’s also local skiing and snowboarding (yes, near Vegas!) at nearby Lee Canyon Ski Resort, part of the Spring Mountain Range, less than an hour away. It’s perched at 8,660 feet, boasting 31 trails ranging from beginner to expert.
