Winter doesn’t have to mean snow, slush, and freezing wind. Across the U.S., several beach destinations come alive from November through December, offering warm sunshine, calm waters, fewer crowds, and unforgettable coastal experiences.

Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway, escaping cold weather, or searching for the perfect holiday vacation, these are the Best U.S. Beaches to Visit This Winter — ranked by popularity, seasonal demand, weather, crowd levels, and traveler reviews.

1. Waikiki Beach — Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi

Waikiki is the #1 most visited winter beach in the U.S. for a reason. With 82°F days, clear turquoise water, great surf, and world-class resorts, it’s perfect for families, honeymooners, and solo travelers.

Why it’s great in winter:

• Warmest ocean temps in the U.S.

• Tons of tours: surfing lessons, catamaran cruises, luaus

• Perfect for holiday travel

Waikiki Beach – Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

2. Kaanapali Beach — Maui, Hawaiʻi

A dream winter destination with luxury resorts, golden sand, and excellent snorkeling.

Winter highlights:

• Calm, crystal-clear water

• Whale-watching season begins

• High holiday-season demand

Kāʻanapali Beach – Maui, Hawaii, USA

3. South Beach — Miami Beach, Florida

Miami is buzzing during November and December thanks to warm weather, nightlife, art events, and white-sand beaches.

Why travelers love it:

• 78–80°F winter highs

• Trendy hotels + world-class dining

• Art Basel hits in early December

South Beach – Miami, Florida, USA

4. Clearwater Beach — Florida Gulf Coast

Clearwater stays busy in winter with calm Gulf waters, soft white sand, and family-friendly attractions.

Best for: families, warm-water swimming, sunset lovers.

Clearwater Beach – Florida, USA

5. Key West Beaches — Florida Keys

The Keys are one of the warmest U.S. destinations in December. Beaches like Higgs, Smathers, and Fort Zachary Taylor are packed with winter visitors.

Winter perks:

• Snorkeling & sailing season

• Perfect sunsets

• Laid-back island vibes

Smathers Beach – Key West, Florida, USA

6. Siesta Key Beach — Sarasota, Florida

Often voted the #1 beach in America, Siesta Key stays popular even in winter thanks to its white quartz sand and mild temperatures.

Why visit in winter:

• 75–78°F days

• Warm Gulf water

• Perfect family destination

Siesta Key Beach – Florida, USA

7. Santa Monica Beach — Los Angeles, California

Winter is mild and sunny in Southern California, and Santa Monica stays one of the busiest beaches on the West Coast.

What makes it great:

• Iconic pier + shops

• Perfect for biking & coastal walks

• Year-round Instagram hotspot

Santa Monica Beach – Santa Monica, California, USA

8. Coronado Beach — San Diego, California

One of the warmest “winter beaches” in California. Known for its wide shoreline, iconic hotel, and calm surf.

Winter highlights:

• Great for walking & relaxing

• Beautiful sunsets

• Holiday events at Hotel del Coronado

Coronado Beach – San Diego, California, USA

9. Orange Beach — Alabama

A surprise winter gem. Orange Beach offers mellow weather, low crowds, and miles of soft white sand.

Why people visit in November/December:

• Pleasant temps (65–70°F highs)

• Dolphin cruises & fishing charters

• Affordable winter stays

Orange Beach – Alabama, USA

10. Gulf Shores Public Beach — Alabama

A sister destination to Orange Beach and just as popular for winter vacations.

Best for: families, long walks, mild weather, relaxed vibes.

Gulf Shores Beach – Alabama, USA

11. South Padre Island — Texas

Texas’ warmest beach in winter. Popular with snowbirds and weekend travelers.

Winter perks:

• Birdwatching & dolphin tours

• Warmer-than-average Gulf temps

• Peaceful, wide-open shoreline

South Padre Island – Texas, USA

12. St. Pete Beach — Florida

One of Florida’s top winter hotspots with calm turquoise water and long sandy stretches.

Why go:

• Great for swimming

• Tons of restaurants and activities

• Gorgeous sunsets

13. Pensacola Beach — Florida

Beautiful in winter with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

Why visit:

• Smooth emerald Gulf water

• Family-friendly boardwalk

• Scenic winter sunsets

Pensacola Beach – Florida, USA

14. Waikoloa Beach — Big Island, Hawaiʻi

A rising star for winter travelers thanks to calm waters, snorkeling reefs, and luxury resorts.

Best for: whale-watching, relaxing, snorkeling.

Waikoloa Beach

15. Huntington Beach — California

Surf City USA stays active even in cooler months, with events, holiday lights, and great waves.

Why it’s popular:

• Strong surf culture

• Wide sandy shoreline

• Great food + pier views

Huntington Beach – “Surf City USA,” California, USA

 Final Thoughts

Winter is one of the best times to visit America’s warm-weather beaches. From the turquoise waters of Hawaiʻi to the sunny Florida Gulf Coast and the iconic shores of Southern California, these destinations offer sunshine, activities, and relaxation when most of the country is freezing.

Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving escape, a December beach holiday, or a warm winter weekend, these beaches guarantee a memorable trip.