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Escape the Cold: 3 Warm‑Weather Getaways

ByMona Selim

When the chill starts creeping in at home, we always crave sunshine, light layers, and somewhere our boots stay in the closet. That’s why we looked ahead to a handful of warm‑weather escapes.

You can now book for late November through early winter, ideal for a mood‑lift, a family break, or simply a reset under brighter skies.

Here are three U.S.‑friendly warm destinations worth adding to your calendar and travel budget before the holiday peak. I’ve included our notes, recommended timing, and booking tips to help you act quickly.

Why Warm‑Weather Escapes Make Sense Right Now

November to February is our “winter escape” window. With shorter daylight, cooler temperatures at home, and peak deals for sun‑seeking travellers, these trips hit a sweet spot of weather, price, and experience.

  • Many U.S. destinations still offer daytime highs in the 70s–80s F.  
  • Crowds are thinner than peak‑holiday travel; hotels and flights may still feature deals.
  • A sun‑based reset is energising. A few years ago, I personally flew to the Florida Keys in late November and found a warm sea, relaxed pace, and lighter rates compared with December.
  • Booking by early December locks in the better rates and rooms before the full holiday rush sets in.

1. The Florida Keys, FL – Classic Sun & Sea

Highlights

  • The string of islands offers sandy beaches, calm ocean swimming, and a laid‑back vibe.
  • Late‑November to early December sees warm water, fewer crowds, and good value.
  • Great for snorkelling, kayaking, beach lounging, and simply resetting.

What we did & loved

We stayed on Marathon and caught sunrise at Sombrero Beach. We also went snorkeling and wrapped up the day on a sunset cruise.

I packed my favourite Amazon travel towel, which is lightweight and quick‑drying (see link below).

Timing & booking tip

  • Book by late November for the best value on flights/hotels.
  • Ideal travel window: Late November through early December avoids peak holiday crowds.
  • Consider midweek stays for lower hotel rates.
  • Packing note: Bring reef‑safe sunscreen and light swimwear with a cover‑up for breezy evenings.

Recommended product

Lightweight Quick‑Dry Travel Towel – My go‑to for beach escapes: compact, fast‑dry, great for sun‑soaked destinations.

2. Palm Springs / Coachella Valley, CA – Desert Warmth + Style

Highlights

  • Desert sunshine, stylish resorts, hiking & golf — even in November, the days are warm and outdoor‑friendly.  
  • Fewer crowds than summer, comfortable highs, and plenty of resort‑luxury options.

What we did & loved

During a November weekend trip, we hiked in the nearby hills early in the morning, lounged poolside at a mid‑century resort (you know my taste!), and enjoyed the spa—a bit of desert glam plus relaxation.

Timing & booking tip

  • Book by early December, especially if you want a premium resort or spa package.
  • Consider combining a few nights in Palm Springs with a nearby day‑trip (e.g., Joshua Tree National Park) for scenery variation.
  • Pack: light daytime layers, a nicer outfit for resort dining or a spa evening.

Recommended product

Compact Travel Daypack – For hikes, resort pools, and city strolls — compact, stylish yet functional.

3. Hawaiʻi – Lush Tropics & Clear Waters

Highlights

  • Islands like Kauaʻi stay warm, green, and slightly quieter in late November, making them great for beach, nature, and snorkeling time.  
  • Clearer water, slightly lower rates than peak holiday windows, and fantastic scenery.

What we did & loved

On a previous Hawaiʻi trip in November, we swam in calm bays, took an early‑morning snorkelling outing, and sat on a lanai with a local coffee, watching the waves. The pace felt perfect. I used my compact sunscreen kit and a good reef‑safe sunscreen (link below).

Timing & booking tip

  • Book by: early December or earlier if you want the top resorts.
  • Also, try to avoid the very start of the holiday season — aim for late November through early December.
  • Pack: reef‑safe sunscreen, swim gear, a light jacket for breezy evenings, and sandals that double for beach + town.

Recommended product

Reef‑Safe Broad‑Spectrum Sunscreen – Essential when snorkelling and enjoying tropical waters responsibly.

Plan Your Trip

Explore Tours & Activities

👉 Check out curated local tours, excursions, and recommendations:

Explore now on GetYourGuide

Quick Checklist Before You Book

  • Confirm travel dates: aim for the best mix in late Nov – early Dec.
  • Use the Expedia widget above to compare flights + stays in one view.
  • Choose a resort/hotel offering flexibility or free cancellation (holiday windows fill quickly).
  • Pack smart: swimwear + daywear + evening layers + sun protection.
  • Add the Amazon travel gear links above to your packing list.
  • Book a swim/snorkel or outdoor activity early (especially for Hawaiʻi).
  • Review airport/transport logistics (some destinations are remote or require transfers).
  • Set fare alerts for flights—booking by December often secures better pricing.

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