If you are wondering where is hot in February for a vacation, let me direct your attention to sun-kissed destinations in the Caribbean, Africa, and South America. The fact that people are bundling up and strapping on skis doesn’t mean you have to. As the days get darker and colder in the shortest month of the year, ponder the possibility of a snow-free February escapade in these seven winter sun destinations around the world.

1. Brazil

Image courtesy of Fasano Rio de Janeiro at Booking.com

 

Average temperature: 29℃/ 84℃

Reasons to go: In February, there’s no place quite like Brazil. Perched between lush mountains and golden shores, Rio de Janeiro shines even brighter during carnival when samba rhythms electrify the city. The weather is at its peak, with minimal rainfall and daily highs of around 30°C (86°F), promising sunny days for exploration. 

Beyond the carnival spectacle, Brazil offers a plethora of activities — it is the largest country in South America after all. Enjoy the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue’s stunning views atop Corcovado Mountain, venture into the Amazon rainforest to uncover its biodiversity, or surf the majestic waves of Itacaré. Brazil caters to all types of travelers, from adventure enthusiasts to culture seekers. 

2. South Africa

Image courtesy of The Silo Hotel on Booking.com

Average temperature: 23℃/ 73℃

Reasons to go: South Africa’s climate is enticingly diverse, offering a mix of balmy coastal breezes and sizzling savannas. February paints the landscape with vibrant colors, just as the summer’s final crescendo unfolds. Whether you’re tracking the Big Five in the majestic Kruger National Park or riding the waves in Cape Town, there’s a piece of South Africa for every traveler, from the intrepid explorer to the wildlife enthusiast and cultural inquirer.

3. Mexico

Image courtesy of Hotel Esencia on Booking.com

Average temperature: 26℃/ 79℃

Reasons to go: There is never a bad time for mouthwatering street tacos and sipping tequila straight from the source, but Mexico bathes in balmy temperatures in February, with averages hovering around 26°C (79°F). Known for its rich history, Mexico boasts ancient Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza, where you can trace the steps of a civilization lost to time. For the explorer, Mexico’s cenotes (natural sinkholes) dotted around the Yucatán Peninsula provide a unique underwater adventure. In February, nature lovers should make their way to the state of Michoacán to see millions of flitting monarch butterflies migrating southward at the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. 

4. Argentina

Jujuy, Argentina by Hector Ramon Perez

Average temperature: 24℃/ 75℃

Reasons to go: Argentina appeals to the cultured, the gourmand, the adventurer, and the romantic. Mendoza offers wine-tasting journeys through vineyards set against the backdrop of the Andes. Nature enthusiasts can witness the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls or trek through the Patagonian wilderness. In Buenos Aires, the Paris of South America, go to be seduced by sultry tango rhythms and the best grilled meats you might ever taste. 

In January, Porteños (Buenos Aires residents) flee the capital en masse for the Argentinian and Uruguayan coasts, leaving something of a ghost town behind. In February, the city reawakens, making this a much better time to partake in the nocturnal fever, which is globally renowned, while the Southern Hemisphere summer prevails.

5. ABC Islands

Image courtesy of Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba on Booking.com

Average temperature: 30℃/ 86℃

Reasons to go: While the Caribbean typically enjoys warm temperatures year-round, February is a particularly delightful time in this trio of islands north of Venezuela. The ABC Islands stand out for their Dutch influence, which is reflected in the architecture, cuisine, and spoken languages. Many residents are effortlessly fluent in Nederlands, English, French, Spanish, and Papiamento (this is the only region in the world that has this as their lingua franca). These locals also enjoy impossibly blue waters that are divine for diving (Bonaire), happening nightlife (Curaçao), and oodles of sun. Aruba reportedly has more sunshine than any other Caribbean island. 

6. Morocco

Image courtesy of Ksar Kasbah & Spa on Booking.com

Average temperature: 20℃/ 68℃

Reasons to go: If you’re wondering where to travel for warm weather in February, look no further than Morocco. As much of the world shivers, Morocco enjoys mild weather that permits the shedding of some clothing layers while gallivanting in mesmerizing medinas, intricate palaces, and gardens, such as the Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden in Marrakech.

Foodies will adore Moroccan cuisine, with its tagines, couscous, and fragrant spices. Outdoor dining in Merzouga, anyone? Beyond Marrakech, you’ll also find culture, chaos, and tantalizing cuisine in Rabat (the capital), Tangier, Fes, Casablanca, and Chefchaouen, otherwise known as Morocco’s “Blue City”. Note that the climate varies greatly depending on where you are in the country. 

7. Miami, USA

Image courtesy of The Goodtime Hotel on Booking.com

Average temperature: 24℃/ 75℃

Reasons to go: Miami is like the grand finale of a spectacular fireworks show. It’s impressive, vibrant, and just the right amount of sizzle. This is one of the best places to travel for warm weather in February, as you’ll never be without things to do, indoors or outdoors. From healthy pursuits (like beachside bike rides) to the hedonistic (epic destination nightclubs and beach clubs like Liv, Club Space, and Nikki Beach), Miami keeps it hot.