February might just be the perfect month to pack your bags and escape the winter blues. While many people hunker down during this chilly month, savvy travelers know it’s actually an incredible time to explore the world. From sun-soaked beaches where you can trade your winter coat for swimwear, to snowy destinations perfect for hitting the slopes, February offers something for every type of adventurer.
After years of wandering the globe during this often-overlooked travel month, I’ve discovered that February holds some wonderful surprises. In some places, you’ll find fewer tourists and better deals, while others come alive with unique festivals and natural phenomena that only happen this time of year.
Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day, hoping to catch the Northern Lights, or simply need an excuse to use those vacation days early in the year, these 16 destinations will give you plenty of reasons to book that ticket.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Experience the energy of Rio de Janeiro at its liveliest during February’s world-famous Carnival celebration. Join millions of people dancing through the streets and watch colorful parades at the Sambadrome, where samba schools compete with elaborate costumes and choreography. When you need a break from the festivities, head to Copacabana Beach to relax on soft sand and cool off in the crystal-clear waters. Take the cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain for amazing views of the city, or visit Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The weather is warm and sunny this time of year, perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor cafes and lively neighborhoods.
Cape Town, South Africa
Get a taste of summer in February when you visit Cape Town, where warm days and clear skies create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for sweeping views of the city and coastline, or spend your afternoons lounging on the white sands of Camps Bay Beach. Wine lovers can head to the nearby Stellenbosch region, where over 150 wineries offer tastings and tours through sun-soaked vineyards. For a truly memorable experience, drive along Chapman’s Peak at sunset, when the sky turns pink and orange over the Atlantic Ocean.
Little-Known Fact:
Did you know that Cape Town is home to unique animals called “dassies” – small, furry creatures that look like rodents but are actually related to elephants? These tiny mammals can be spotted sunbathing on the rocks at Table Mountain, where they’ve become local celebrities and a favorite photo subject for visitors exploring South Africa’s most famous landmark.
Maldives
Escape to the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives, where overwater bungalows float above coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. The islands offer more than just beaches – you can hop between resorts by seaplane, watching the ring-shaped atolls spread out below you like strings of pearls. Try your hand at world-class snorkeling right from your villa’s private deck, or book a sunset cruise to spot dolphins playing in the warm Indian Ocean waters. For an extra special experience, dine at the underwater restaurant Ithaa, where floor-to-ceiling windows let you watch sharks and rays glide by while you enjoy your meal.
Dubai, UAE
Experience the perfect mix of warm desert days and cool evenings in Dubai this February. The city offers plenty of ways to fill your days, from shopping at the enormous Dubai Mall to wandering through the traditional Gold and Spice souks. Take a desert safari where you can ride camels across the dunes and enjoy a traditional BBQ under the stars. For a taste of luxury, book afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab or spend your day lounging by the pool at one of the many beach clubs. With temperatures hovering around 75°F (24°C), it’s an ideal time to explore both indoor and outdoor attractions without the extreme heat of summer months.
Bangkok, Thailand
In February, escape to Bangkok’s pleasant temperatures and explore its maze of street food stalls, where the aromas of pad thai and mango sticky rice fill the air. Head to the Grand Palace, a sprawling complex of golden temples and royal halls, where you can learn about Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. For a break from the city buzz, take a long-tail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, weaving between traditional wooden houses and modern hotels. Don’t miss the chance to visit Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you can shop for everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts across its 15,000 stalls.
This is interesting:
Did you know that Bangkok’s actual name is the longest city name in the world – “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit”? Most locals just use the shortened version “Krung Thep,” which means “City of Angels” in Thai.
Queenstown, New Zealand
I first discovered Queenstown during a February escape to New Zealand’s South Island in 2019. Tucked between the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the peaks of The Remarkables mountain range, this adventure capital draws thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. The town’s cozy streets wind along the waterfront, where local cafes and craft breweries offer perfect spots to unwind after a day outdoors. In February, the late summer sun bathes the landscape in golden light until nearly 9 PM, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge, hiking the nearby trails, or taking a peaceful cruise across the lake’s crystal waters. The nearby wineries of Central Otago provide a perfect excuse to slow down and sample some of the region’s famous Pinot Noir while soaking in views of the surrounding peaks.
Cartagena, Colombia
Looking for a winter escape? Cartagena’s old town feels like stepping into a colorful storybook. Inside the 16th-century walls, you’ll find cobblestone streets lined with Spanish colonial buildings, bustling plaza cafes, and bougainvillea spilling over balconies. The Caribbean city blends history with modern energy – during the day, explore the ancient fortifications that once protected against pirates, then spend your evenings sipping cocktails at rooftop bars overlooking the sea.
Singapore
February brings great weather to Singapore, making it ideal for exploring this modern city-state’s top attractions. Start your day with breakfast at the iconic Gardens by the Bay, where you can walk among towering Supertrees and explore two massive climate-controlled conservatories. Head to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark for lunch with a view from 57 floors up, then spend your afternoon sampling local dishes at hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat. When evening comes, take a stroll through Chinatown’s narrow streets, which come alive during Chinese New Year celebrations with red lanterns, street performances, and food stalls selling traditional treats.
Bali, Indonesia
Ever spotted a monkey snatching fruit from a temple offering? It’s an everyday scene in Bali, where ancient stone temples peek through lush jungle canopies and terraced rice fields cascade down hillsides. February brings perfect weather to this Indonesian island, with warm days ideal for surfing the waves at Uluwatu or cycling through quiet villages near Ubud. You can join locals in morning markets as they gather supplies for traditional ceremonies, or escape to hidden waterfalls in the northern mountains. The rainy season starts winding down, making it perfect timing to stay in a bamboo treehouse or traditional villa overlooking emerald-green paddies.
Little-Known Fact:
Did you know that Bali is home to over 10,000 temples, with many local families having their own small temple right in their backyard? The island’s unique calendar system has only 210 days in a year, leading to more frequent celebrations and ceremonies that fill the streets with colorful offerings and traditional dance performances.
Venice, Italy
Looking to experience Venice without the summer crowds? February is when this floating city shines brightest, as locals gear up for the famous Carnival festival. The canals and cobblestone streets feel more authentic when they’re not packed with tourists, and you can actually take those classic gondola rides without waiting in long lines. Plus, watching masked revelers dance through St. Mark’s Square during Carnival is something you won’t find any other time of year.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Los Cabos is where I go when I need a perfect mix of beach time and adventure in February. This stretch of coastline at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula gets pleasantly warm days and hardly any rain this time of year, making it ideal for everything from swimming with whale sharks to lounging on white sand beaches. The seas are calm enough for kayaking around the famous stone arch, while the desert landscape behind the coast offers excellent hiking trails and ATV rides. It’s not the cheapest Mexican destination – the luxury resorts and high-end restaurants make sure of that – but the combination of perfect weather and endless activities makes it worth every peso.
Phuket, Thailand
Many travelers come to Phuket for its famous beaches, but this Thai island offers much more than just sand and surf. The clear waters around Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay create perfect conditions for snorkeling and island hopping, while the bustling streets of Old Phuket Town showcase the area’s rich Chinese and Portuguese heritage. February brings ideal weather conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the night markets, trying local street food, or taking a Thai cooking class. Whether you’re interested in visiting the Big Buddha statue, exploring hidden lagoons by kayak, or simply relaxing at a beachside resort, Phuket provides plenty of activities to fill your winter getaway.
Seychelles
If you’re dreaming of a perfect tropical escape, the Seychelles Islands deserve a spot at the top of your list. This collection of 115 granite and coral islands in the Indian Ocean combines everything you’d want in a beach getaway – powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and lush green mountains that create a natural backdrop for those postcard-worthy photos. February falls right in the middle of the islands’ warm season, when calm seas make island hopping a breeze and the weather is just right for spending entire days lounging on secluded beaches. While it’s not the cheapest destination, the experience of waking up to the sound of gentle waves and spending your days exploring untouched natural beauty makes it worth every penny.
Tenerife, Spain
Head to the sunny shores of Tenerife, where winter feels like summer thanks to its year-round warm weather. The island’s crown jewel, Mount Teide, rises 12,198 feet above sea level – making it Spain’s tallest peak. Take a cable car ride to the top for sweeping views of the volcanic landscape and neighboring Canary Islands. When you’re ready to cool off, the black sand beaches of Playa Jardín offer a perfect spot to unwind, complete with swaying palm trees and crystal-clear waters. For a taste of local culture, wander through the colonial streets of La Laguna, where colorful buildings house traditional tapas bars and craft shops.
Auckland, New Zealand
Ever wanted to explore a city where volcanoes dot the skyline and two different harbors hug the shores? That’s Auckland for you, New Zealand’s largest city, where nature and urban life blend seamlessly together. February brings warm summer days perfect for sailing in the Hauraki Gulf, where you might spot dolphins playing in the wake of your boat. The city sits on an narrow piece of land between the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea, making it a paradise for beach lovers who can hop between black-sand and golden beaches in the same day. Head up to the Sky Tower for lunch with a view, then take a ferry to Waiheke Island, where you’ll find yourself wandering through olive groves and vineyards just 40 minutes from downtown.
Mauritius
When I recommend tropical getaways to friends, Mauritius Island always tops my list. Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this island paradise combines pristine white beaches with crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging. You can spend your mornings exploring the local markets in Port Louis, afternoons discovering the Seven Colored Earth in Chamarel, and evenings sampling fresh seafood at beachside restaurants.