Struggling with winter blues? Escape to 15 hidden warm paradises in the USA that feel like summer in December. These destinations aren’t just warm, they’re packed with jaw-dropping photo opportunities that will make your Instagram feed sizzle.
Think golden beaches, vibrant sunsets, and tropical vibes right here in the States. If you’re ready for unforgettable memories and stunning views, these locations will have you packing your bags in no time. Winter? What winter?
#1. Santa Catalina Island, California
Santa Catalina Island sits quietly off Southern California’s coast, boasting mild December temperatures around 65°F. The crowds thin out during winter, making it a photographer’s dream. Crystal-clear waters create jaw-dropping reflections of the colorful boats bobbing in Avalon Harbor.
Your Instagram followers won’t believe the shots you’ll capture from the scenic helicopter tours soaring above the rugged coastline. Nature lovers can snap incredible photos of wild buffalo roaming freely across the island’s rolling hills. The famous Casino building lights up at sunset, offering stunning architectural shots against the golden sky. Head to Descanso Beach Club where you might spot playful seals lounging on the rocks.
December brings amazing visibility for underwater photography while snorkeling in the protected coves. The botanical gardens showcase winter-blooming species unique to the island, creating magical macro photography opportunities.
#2. Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Tucked away on Estero Island, this sunshine-soaked paradise boasts a cozy 77°F average in December. Walking along the 7-mile pristine white sandy beach, you’ll find yourself wondering if winter even exists. The gentle waves create a soothing backdrop while dolphins playfully leap in the distance. Local photographers flock here during golden hour to capture stunning shots of water birds diving for their evening meal.
Your Instagram followers will drool over shots of the Christmas Boat Parade, where twinkling lights reflect off calm waters. At the Edison and Ford Winter Estate, ‘Holiday Nights’ transforms the grounds into a magical wonderland. Picture this: historic buildings wrapped in thousands of sparkling lights, creating the most enchanting backdrop for your social media feed.
What makes this spot extra special? You can hop on a guided kayak tour through mangrove tunnels or catch a spectacular sunset from a parasailing adventure. The water might be slightly cooler, but that just means fewer crowds and more chances to snap that Instagram-worthy shot without random photobombers!
#3. Sedona, Arizona
Let’s talk about those jaw-dropping red rock formations that’ll make your followers do a double-take! With comfortable 56°F December temps, Sedona serves up some seriously stunning photo ops. Those famous red sandstone formations take on an otherworldly orange glow at sunset, creating natural frames for your Instagram masterpieces.
The magic happens at Crescent Moon Ranch, where Cathedral Rock reflects in Oak Creek’s waters. Smart photographers show up early to catch the morning light dancing off the red rocks. Your Instagram grid will thank you for visiting the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, where Spanish-colonial architecture meets Arizona charm.
Want something unique? December brings occasional light dustings of snow on red rocks, creating a contrast that looks almost unreal in photos. The crisp winter air makes those blue skies pop even more against the rusty-colored landscape. Hiking trails like West Fork offer stunning shots of bare trees framing crystal-clear streams, while native berry bushes add splashes of color to your nature shots.
#4. Joshua Tree National Park, California
December brings pleasant 60°F days to this desert wonderland, making it the sweetest time to explore without melting. Those iconic Joshua trees stretch their spiky arms toward brilliant blue skies, creating silhouettes that look almost alien against cotton-candy sunsets. Your camera will fall in love with the massive rock formations that seem to glow from within during golden hour.
Night photographers, get ready! The dark December skies create the most incredible stargazing opportunities. Long exposure shots here capture star trails swirling above twisted Joshua trees. The California fan palm oases pop up like mirages in the desert landscape, offering surreal photo opportunities that’ll make your followers ask, “Is this really in the USA?”
Rock climbers and boulderers create amazing action shots against the park’s massive granite playgrounds. Early morning fog sometimes rolls through the valleys, creating dreamy conditions for landscape photography. The winter light hits different here, casting long shadows that play across the desert floor like nature’s own light show.
#5. San Antonio, Texas
When winter hits other cities hard, San Antonio keeps it warm and cozy. The River Walk transforms into a twinkling paradise in December, with thousands of lights reflecting off the water. Those Instagram-worthy shots practically take themselves here, especially during evening boat rides through the illuminated waterway.
History buffs will love capturing the Alamo bathed in winter sunlight. The Spanish colonial missions (there are five!) offer incredible architectural shots that’ll transport your followers back in time. In the King William Historic District, restored Victorian mansions show off their holiday decorations, creating picture-perfect streetscapes.
Morning fog often rolls off the San Antonio River, creating mysterious and moody shots of the River Walk’s bridges and pathways. Local cafes serve up colorful breakfast tacos that beg to be photographed. The contrast between modern city life and historic Spanish architecture creates fascinating visual stories. Street photographers love catching moments of mariachi bands performing against backdrop of centuries-old stone walls.
#6. Naples, Florida
Sunshine seekers, this one’s for you! Naples brings warmth with its year-round sunny vibes. Third Street South buzzes with life, offering endless opportunities for street photography. The boutique windows sparkle with holiday displays while palm trees sway overhead. Talk about a winter wonderland with a tropical twist!
Beach photographers will find paradise here. The white sandy shores provide the most stunning backdrop for sunset shots. Speaking of sunsets, Naples serves up some of the most spectacular ones on the Gulf Coast. The pier stretches into the ocean, creating leading lines that’ll make your travel photos look professional.
Art lovers can snap away at the emerging gallery scene, where local artwork provides colorful backdrops. The craft beer scene offers opportunities for lifestyle shots with a local flavor. Morning beach walks often reveal shore birds dancing in the surf, creating natural action shots. Every corner of Naples tells a story through its mix of luxury and laid-back Florida charm.
#7. Honeymoon Island State Park, Florida
Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this stunning natural paradise offers 4 miles of pristine shoreline. December brings delightful temperatures between 59-70°F, creating amazing conditions for outdoor photography. Your Instagram feed will thank you for the endless photo opportunities with soaring eagles and majestic osprey against clear blue skies.
Wildlife photographers, get ready! The winter months bring special guests – you’ll spot manatees and dolphins playing close to shore. Morning walks along the hiking trails through virgin slash pine forests offer magical lighting for nature shots. The soft winter sun creates gorgeous shadows through the pine needles.
Want something unique? Head to the less crowded northern beaches where you might catch sight of gopher tortoises sunbathing. The gentle winter waves create beautiful patterns in the sand, making for stunning minimalist beach photos. Sunrise photographers love capturing the morning light as it dances across shells scattered along the shoreline.
#8. Savannah, Georgia
Broughton Street comes alive with twinkling holiday lights in December, transforming into a photographer’s dream. The historic district sparkles with festive decorations while moss-draped oak trees create natural frames for your shots. Around every corner, you’ll find charming squares dressed up in holiday splendor.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist stands majestically against winter skies, its interior glowing with candlelight. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through cobblestone streets, offering quintessential Southern charm shots. Your followers will swoon over photos of the massive banyan tree wrapped in sparkling lights.
Local tip: Early morning fog creates ethereal scenes in the historic squares. Street photographers love catching moments of carolers performing against historic home backgrounds. The mild winter temperatures (50-75°F) mean you can comfortably explore all day long. December brings a special glow to River Street, where holiday lights reflect off the cobblestones.
#9. San Diego, California
December brings comfortable 66°F days to this Southern California gem. Balboa Park transforms into a photographer’s playground, with Spanish colonial architecture bathed in winter sunshine. The famous San Diego Zoo decks itself out in holiday splendor, creating unique wildlife photo opportunities.
Sunset Cliffs offers dramatic ocean vistas that’ll make your followers gasp. The winter light creates stunning shadows along the cliffside trails. La Jolla’s sea lions lounge on sun-warmed rocks, providing endless entertainment and photo ops. The historic Gaslamp Quarter sparkles with holiday decorations against Victorian-era buildings.
Morning photographers flock to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for incredible sunrise shots. Winter swells bring spectacular waves, creating dramatic seascape opportunities. The quieter December crowds mean you can capture serene moments at popular spots. Local cafes in Little Italy serve up photogenic holiday treats against charming streetscapes.
#10. Mobile, Alabama
Southern charm meets holiday magic in this coastal gem. December temperatures hover around 60°F, creating comfortable conditions for exploring. The historic downtown area shines with holiday lights, while antebellum mansions show off their seasonal decorations.
Bellingrath Gardens’ “Magic Christmas in Lights” spectacle creates endless photo opportunities. Your camera will love capturing the reflection of thousands of lights in the garden’s pools and fountains. Historic Oakleigh House dressed in period Christmas decorations offers a glimpse into past celebrations.
Morning fog rolling off Mobile Bay creates atmospheric shots of the waterfront. Street photographers capture the essence of southern hospitality through candid moments at local cafes. The winter light beautifully highlights the architectural details of historic buildings. December brings special holiday markets, offering chances to photograph local artisans at work.
#11. Maui, Hawaii
Winter brings incredible surfing action to Ho’okipa Beach, where giant waves create spectacular photo opportunities. The warm tropical air (low to mid-80s) lets you capture beach life while others bundle up back home. Lucky photographers might catch North Pacific Humpback Whales breaching against sunset skies.
Lahaina’s famous banyan tree becomes a cathedral of light during December evenings. The historic whaling town offers countless opportunities for street photography. Winter brings dramatic clouds over the mountains, creating moody landscape shots. Your followers will drool over photos of rainbow-filled skies after brief tropical showers.
Sunrise seekers head to Haleakala Summit for above-the-cloud shots. The winter season brings vibrant plumeria blooms, adding pops of color to your tropical shots. Local markets burst with colorful produce and flowers, creating endless still-life opportunities. December’s clear nights offer amazing stargazing photo ops away from city lights.
#12. Dallas, Texas
Southern charm meets urban sophistication in this Texas gem. Winter temperatures float between 37-60°F, offering comfortable conditions for exploring the city’s incredible photo spots. Your Instagram feed will pop with shots from the Dallas Arboretum, where winter gardens create stunning backdrops.
Creative photographers love capturing the downtown skyline at blue hour when the office lights twinkle against the dusk sky. The Bishop Arts District offers endless street photography opportunities with its colorful murals and quirky boutiques. Neighborhood cafes offer cozy scenes of locals enjoying steaming cups of coffee.
Early risers catch amazing shots at White Rock Lake, where morning mist creates dreamy landscapes. Town Hearth restaurant dazzles with its 64 chandeliers, making for spectacular interior shots. Street photographers find gold in Deep Ellum, where live music spills onto streets lined with vintage neon signs. December brings special holiday markets to Klyde Warren Park, creating opportunities for candid shots of city life.
#13. Los Angeles, California
Sun-soaked days with 68°F temperatures make this city shine in December. Griffith Observatory offers stunning cityscapes with the Hollywood Sign in view. Morning fog rolling through the hills creates mysterious, moody shots that’ll make your followers swoon.
Venice Beach keeps its quirky vibe all winter long, with street performers and skateboarders providing endless action shots. Santa Monica Pier lights up for the holidays, creating magical nighttime photo opportunities. The Grand Central Market buzzes with life, offering vibrant scenes of food vendors and local life.
Art lovers snap away at the outdoor murals in the Arts District. December brings special installations to Descanso Gardens and LA Arboretum, where holiday lights transform botanical settings. Early morning photographers catch gorgeous shots at El Matador Beach, where sea stacks create natural frames. Local coffee shops in Silver Lake provide Instagram-worthy settings with their modern designs.
#14. New Orleans, Louisiana
Comfortable 60-degree days make December a photographer’s dream in the Big Easy. French Quarter streets come alive with holiday decorations, while historic buildings create stunning architectural shots. Morning fog adds mystery to photos of above-ground cemeteries, creating haunting scenes.
Street performers in Jackson Square provide endless opportunities for capturing local culture. The steamboat Natchez, decked out in holiday lights, offers spectacular Mississippi River scenes. Garden District mansions show off their seasonal decorations, creating magazine-worthy architectural shots.
Local musicians on Frenchman Street create amazing low-light photo opportunities. December brings special holiday markets to the French Market, where local artisans display their crafts. Café du Monde serves up photogenic beignets against historic backdrops. Streetcars decorated for the season provide unique urban shots along St. Charles Avenue.
#15. Key Biscayne, Florida
Warm sunshine and swaying palms greet photographers in this island paradise. Crystal-clear waters create stunning backgrounds for beach photography. Sunrise seekers catch amazing shots at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, where the historic lighthouse stands guard.
Crandon Park’s beaches offer endless opportunities for nature photography, with resident peacocks strutting their stuff. December brings migrating birds, creating wonderful wildlife photo opportunities. The Rusty Pelican provides spectacular skyline views across Biscayne Bay at sunset.
Waterfront paths offer chances to capture cyclists against ocean backdrops. Early morning paddleboarders create serene scenes on calm waters. Local sailing boats catch the golden light, making for stunning maritime shots. Winter brings clearer waters, offering amazing opportunities for underwater photography in the shallow reefs.
