Thoughts of February are dominated by two things in certain parts of the world: Valentine’s Day and freezing weather. For many, that's when the need to get away from shoveling snow and layering winter clothes peaks. While February is one of the busiest months for some tourist destinations, there are plenty of places that promise a quieter holiday. Some of the best destinations offer a nice, cozy break from shivering, and let you splash around in warm waters or hike to the top of a mountain for breathtaking views. Planning your holiday trips in February is your opportunity to relax, take in the scenery, and really make those memories count.
01 Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of the most popular destinations between May and September because it’s dry and sunny. However, during February, the chances for rain increase, but with average temperatures between 71 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s already a temptation to get away from freezing temperatures. Planning a February trip to Bali gives you the opportunity to go sea-walking in Nusa Dua or take pottery, jewelry making, or dance classes in Sanur or Ubud.
02 New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is the perfect place to get away from chilly winter weather and warm-up your belly with delicious Creole and Cajun food. February is a great time to visit. The weather is cool and comfortable and there's plenty to do, including the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Mardi Gras usually takes place in February, too, and is an experience you'll never forget. Tour the French Quarter, pop in a bar and listen to some blues music, or catch some beads during the parade. There's always something happening in the Big Easy.
03 Byron Bay, Australia
This last month of the Australian summer is more relaxed, and the weather in Byron Bay, New South Wales, is in that sweet spot between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In mid- or late-February is the annual 5-day surf festival, where you can see the world’s best surfers ride the swells. Even if you are not an aficionado, the atmosphere is enough to get you in the spirit.
04 Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is an amazing place to visit in the winter, especially if you want to explore the outdoors in a different way. One huge benefit of visiting Yellowstone in February is it's so easy to view the wildlife. Higher elevations get too cold for the animals in winter so they all come down into the valleys. Spot wolves, foxes, bighorn sheep, elk, and bison as they trudge through the snow-covered expanses.
Yellowstone National Park
05 Cape Town, South Africa
With 11 hours of sunshine a day and average daytime temperatures of about 75 degrees Fahrenheit, a trip to Cape Town, South Africa gives you plenty to do. With strong winds and cool water, you can go kitesurfing in Blouberg or Langebaan lagoon. Along the shores of Table Bay in Bloubergstrand, you can see Lion’s Head, Devil’s Peak, and the flat top of Table Mountain appear like ghosts in the distance inviting you to hike and explore their lush surroundings.
06 Sedona, Arizona
February in Sedona is one of the city's best-kept secrets. The average high temperature in this Arizona city is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and the low rarely gets below freezing. The sunny weather and clear blue skies are perfect hot air balloon rides at sunrise or exploring more than 300 miles of trails in the area's parks. You might even see some snow caps on the surrounding red sandstone mountains. At night, grab a bite to eat and visit a gallery or two along Main Street or visit the Lowell Observatory for one-of-a-kind stargazing.
07 Costa Rica
One of the best times to visit the land of pura vida is in February. Costa Rica has no discernible seasons, and you’re well ahead of the typical rainy times, which last from May to November. Drake Bay and Golfo Dulce are great places to spot humpback whales and dolphins, and if you’re in Savegre or Monteverde, you may catch a glimpse of the Quetzal, known to the Aztecs and Maya as the “god of the air.” You’ll also have your pick of festival parties and parades.
08 Miami, Florida
If it's the beach you're after, head to Miami, Florida. The sea temperature is about 75 degrees Fahrenheit - perfect for a relaxing day on the sand or dip in the water. There are a lot of great events in Miami in February, too, including the Groundup Music Festival, the Miami International Boat Show, the III Points Music Festival, and the Coconut Grove Arts Festival which is one of the largest outdoor art festivals in the US.
09 Santorini, Greece
Greece in February is neither too hot nor too cold, and you can take all the time you need to enjoy the Aegean blue waters during the off-season. Santorini is a gorgeous locale with plenty of archaeological history to explore in addition to other indulgences. As you appreciate the fall of the night across the Oia, it's also the perfect time to enjoy the cluster of bright white houses atop its hills.
10 Las Vegas, Nevada
February in Las Vegas is one of the city's slower months. While you may face fewer crowds that you do in the summer, there's no shortage of things to do. High temperatures are around 63 degrees Fahrenheit and rain is rare - ideal weather for exploring the Las Vegas Strip. Stop by the famous Bellagio Fountains before heading to the casinos - they're all open 24 hours a day.
11 Florence, Italy
Known as the city of the Renaissance, February in Florence is crisp and quiet enough that you can marvel at the artistry of the masters without the crowds. February is the time for spring carnival that brings with it a festive feel. Walking along the bank of the Arno River in the early hours, you get to enjoy moments of peace. But, if you decide to cross the Ponte Vecchio and head to the south side of the river, you’ll discover the treasures that Oltrarno has to share.
12 San Antonio, Texas
In the summer, temperatures in San Antonio reach near 100 degrees F but, in February, the highs reach about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. There's plenty to explore here, including a visit to the Alamo or walking downtown along the San Antonio River and stopping in the local cafes, bars, and shops. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo takes place every February, too. This massive event features horse and livestock shows as well as live entertainment, shops, and plenty of local fares to eat and drink.
13 Jamaica
The average temperature in Jamaica during February is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it one of the places many from the states use as an escape from the winter storms. The waters are calm enough for you to enjoy some snorkeling on any of the island's white-sand beaches. In Kingston, the first week of February is Bob Marley week, which includes music and fashion events dedicated to the icon. Then there’s Carnival, which runs from January through April, where you get to enjoy all sorts of parties in Kingston, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay.
14 Savannah, Georgia
The only problem with visiting Savannah in February is that you might never want to leave. This beautiful city is a charming respite from the cold with averages highs of about 64 degrees F. Savannah is known for its old Southern charm and there's a lot to explore, including antebellum mansions, cobblestone streets, horse and carriage rides, and historic districts like Forsyth Park. February is the off-season so you won't have to deal with large crowds and may even get a good deal on a hotel or B&B.
15 West Coast of New Zealand
The busy summer travel in New Zealand is from December to January, so February is the perfect time between summer and autumn where there are plenty of places for you can still visit. Take your time enjoying the beaches and coastal areas on the West Coast. Do some relaxed, scenic hiking on Queen Charlotte Track in Marlborough Sounds or explore the sheltered inlets and sandy bays.
16 Vail, Colorado
While some people might try to escape the cold February weather, others embrace it. If that sounds like you, there's no better place to enjoy the snow than Vail, Colorado. This is one of the best places to ski in the Rocky Mountains and there are plenty of resorts to choose from. The town's heated cobblestone streets are lined with shops, casual and fine dining establishments, boutiques, and art galleries which gives you plenty of options for how to spend your time off the slopes.
17 Matagalpa, Nicaragua
The standard trips to Nicaragua in February can include sites like Granada-Ometepe or San Juan del Sur. But, if you’re interested in having fun in off-the-beaten-path locations, check out Matagalpa. Here, you can enjoy a tour of the Selva Negra or Finca Esperanza Verde coffee farms or spend a few hours at La Cascada de la Luna waterfall.
18 Honolulu, Hawaii
For a true escape from winter blues, head to Honolulu, Hawaii. With temperatures of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, this is an amazing destination for outdoor adventure. Go snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, take in the touristy goodness of Waikiki, go for a hike at Diamond Head or Manoa Falls, or learn more about one of the most significant events in our nation's history at Pearl Harbor.
19 St. Lucia
Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea as it touches the Atlantic Ocean, St. Lucia in February in an inviting getaway. Treat yourself to a day trip to Pigeon Island for some snorkeling or go to Soufriere and enjoy a Sulphur Springs mud bath, which some say is great for softening skin and soothing achy joints.
20 Beaufort, North Carolina
Beaufort, North Carolina is a gorgeous coastal town steeped in history that makes for a great February getaway. Take a stroll along the waterfront on Front Street, sign up for a cruise to Shackleford Banks to see the wild horses, or visit the historic district for a walking tour of homes and buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. This is a great place for foodies who are interested in fine dining, baked goods, casual restaurants and cafes, and ancient pubs. There are plenty of galleries and antique shops to check out, too.
Scroll Down
for the Next Article
