Snowbirds are known to leave behind the cold months and chase the sun. There are many beautiful destinations in the U.S. and around the world that are perfect for snowbirds. January is a great time to escape the cold weather because it is the start of the year and a great way to begin the next twelve months! Here are the top places that snowbirds should consider when planning their January getaway.
Snowbirds, Don't Miss These January Destinations!
1. Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale is known for its class and large population of snowbirds. There are great dining options and always interesting things going on. It is typically in the 60’s in January with no snow and hardly any rain or wind. It also doesn’t get very cold at night ever. The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is only 20 minutes away. Scottsdale has great hiking trails and is the perfect winter getaway for any snowbird.
2. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
The crystal clear waters of Puerto Vallarta will make you never want to go back home. Puerto Vallarta is on the Pacific coast of Mexico and has beautiful weather year-round. January very warm in Mexico and the weather typically stays in the 80’s. Besides great beaches, Puerto Vallarta also has many cultural and entertaining things to do. English is widely spoken there and the airport, Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, is located conveniently in the middle of the city.
3. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is a warm desert oasis that is close to the beach and lakes. It is between San Diego and Los Angeles and about a two hour drive to the beach. Lake Arrowhead is a great day trip or just take a hike in Palm Springs. The weather is mild in January ranging in the 60’s. The Palm Springs International Airport is just outside of downtown Palm Springs and was named one of “America’s Most Stress-Free Airports.”
4. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
There are also many great places for snowbirds on the eastern part of the country, one of which is Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale is located on the southeastern coast of Florida and is less than an hour north of Miami. The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is in the middle of the city. Fantastic beaches and fairly priced rental houses are perks of vacationing in Fort Lauderdale. You can also take a weekend trip to the Florida Keys or the Everglades.
5. Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christi is a coastal city in South Texas known for its beautiful weather and great sightseeing. The average weather in January in Corpus Christi ranges from the low 70’s to 80’s. This weather is great for relaxing at the beach or taking a tour of the city. North Padre Island is about 40 minutes away and makes for a fun day trip. The Corpus Christi International Airport is easily accessible and can connect to other airports.
6. Cuenca, Ecuador
Many snowbirds have been migrating to Ecuador because of its inexpensive living and beautiful scenery. There is beautiful architecture and diverse wildlife throughout Ecuador. Cuenca is located in south central Ecuador in a mountainous region. The beach is an easy day trip and there are many rivers surrounding the area. The average temperature in January is in the 60’s during the day, but is known to drop at night. However, the water in Ecuador is warm in the winter and perfect for travelers. The Mariscal Lamar International Airport is small, but can connect to larger cities like Quito.
7. St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg is on Florida’s gulf coast and is nicknamed the “Sunshine City.” It is located on a peninsula off of Tampa and the city is very charming for the 5th largest in Florida. If you would like to get outside of the city, go to St. Pete Beach, a small coastal city. The average weather in St. Petersburg in January is in the 70’s during the day. Avoid the snow this winter and stay by the beach! The St. Pete- Clearwater International Airport is just outside of downtown St. Petersburg.
8. Tucson, Arizona
Snowbirds, you can’t beat the Arizona heat! Tucson has been said to have less traffic and lower temperatures than nearby Phoenix. With average temperatures in the high 60’s in January, Tucson is the perfect desert oasis. Saguaro National Park is located just outside Tucson and there are always activities to do in the city. Tucson International Airport is easy to navigate and near downtown Tucson.
This article was written by Taylor Bishop.