Even though numerous states still see snowfall in March, February is the unofficial end to winter in many of our minds.
That said, there’s another month and a half or so to seek out winter sun rather than shoveling your driveway or stoking the fireplace at home.
What’s the fun in that when you could be relaxing seaside on the West Coast or sipping cocktails under palm trees at trendy restaurant patios?
Experts at Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) have compiled an insightful list of the best destinations across the U.S. for February.
Since ya boy (me!) is Travel Off Path’s designated West Coast expert, being a SoCal local, we’ve plucked the top 3 California getaways to cap off winter before spring break crowds invade.
According to Going, these are California’s top 3 destinations to vacation in February:
3) Santa Barbara: An Idyllic Retreat Away From The Hollywood Bustle
Santa Barbara has prime real estate away from LA’s grind. Located northwest beyond the chaos of Santa Monica and the charred remains of Malibu, which has yet to see significant progress in rebuilding, there’s arguably no better place to kick back and relax on SoCal’s quintessential coastline.
As Going puts it, Santa Barbara blends ‘Mediterranean charm with California coastal beauty’. Couldn’t have said it better myself…
While this beloved beach haven is undeniably upscale, it’s not Beverly Hills, La Jolla, or celebrity-studded Montecito, where everyone seems to drink wine with their pinky flapping in the wind.
You’ll find down-to-Earth locals, a charming townscape, and obviously gorgeous shores — some of which offer grand hotels like Harbor View Inn, offering both a beautiful waterfront and staggering mountain backdrop.
Even in February, Santa Barbara has mild weather suitable for long strolls or sun-kissed beach days. Best of all, it’s even easier to get to now that 5 airlines are offering new flights in 2026.
2) Palm Springs: One Of The Few Desert Cities Worth Visiting
As Vegas tourism dwindles, some travelers might wonder if any other desert city is worthwhile.
As someone who just got back home from Palm Springs, I can attest that Palm Springs is a wonderful town full of magnetizing retro vibes, fun bars along downtown’s main strip, and luxe hotels like my new favorite stay, Palm Mountain Resort & Spa, mere steps from the action.
You just missed out on the Palm Springs International Film Festival, but what you can look forward to is no better place in California’s sprawling desert for winter sun — 68 degrees here hits different and feels more like the 80s when you’re lounging by the pool.
It’s likely wherever you live that restaurant patios are off-limits right now, but not here.
We especially loved Jimmy B’s Steakhouse, Las Casuelas Terraza, and Coachella Valley Brewing Co. as our new must-stops when visiting.
Just know you’re paying a little extra for food and drinks to cover expensive downtown rent. Guacamole was $16…
Besides being forced to splurge on food, the only other downside is the popular aerial tram that takes you 6,000 ft up into the San Jacinto mountains for supposedly stunning views.
A 2-hour wait?! C’mon now….
That’s Palm Springs’ only blemish, though. The town is incredibly vibrant, uncrowded, and a true delight to explore, especially if you bring Fido along for the trip.
Plus, you don’t have to make the desert drive. You can fly straight into PSP from numerous U.S. cities.
1) San Diego: ‘America’s Finest City’ Even In February
San Diego can be translated in many different ways, largely thanks to Ron Burgundy. But if there’s one moniker that sticks, it’s ‘America’s Finest City’.
I don’t say that because I’m a local, I say that because it’s a fact — and Going agrees.
While much of the U.S. deals with unsightly weather, San Diego’s gloomiest months are May and June (‘May Gray’ and ‘June Gloom’).
Temps hover around 66 degrees in February, perfect for an abundance of outdoor activities. Visit paradise beaches ranging from Coronado to Oceanside, or brave an epic hike to Potato Chip Rock.
If you can muster the new parking rules at Balboa Park, you can enjoy the world-famous San Diego Zoo — and believe me, winter is the best time to visit to avoid snot-nosed kids on spring and summer break.
Outside the vast zoo grounds, Balboa Park feels like Old World Mexico with Spanish Revival architecture and grand courtyards.
But it’s not just the San Diego city limits that are a draw. There are ample beach towns making a name for themselves in their own right, especially Carlsbad, which Travel + Leisure named the top destination in the world for 2026.
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