Looking for a Continental US Vacation in January

[Melanie58]

We have some airnline miles built up, and would like to escape the winter for a bit in January.  Since there are hosts from all over, it made me wonder if anyone had any suggestions.  

1. We'll be traveling as a group of 5: mom, dad, and kids 11, 8, and 5.
2. Has to be continental US (no Hawaii or Alaska) 
3. We're looking for somewhere that will reliably be 60 degrees or warmer and/or sunny.  The main thing Boise lacks in winter is sun, so we're really excited about the sun part.
4. Should be near an airport, since that will be our method of travel.  (Maybe no more than 2-3 hours away from one?)
5. Oceans are nice - we would take any coast, I'm kind of wondering about gulf coast.
6. We're sorta cheap, so no Disney or anything like that.  Probably nature stuff, touring shops, picnics would be our main attractions.  

Where do you live and love?  Where have you been that was fun?

[Debi1]

We get a lot of Idaho guests on the Oregon Coast.  It's a misnomer that Oregon is always wet and cool, and I find the winter months are my favorite times to go to the beach.  It certainly DOES rain, and there are some magnificent storms but the amazing Oregon Coast offers so much for a family to do, from the regular beach activities of checking out the tidepools, to taking classes at the community center, the Aquarium, the free Hatfield Marine Science Center, whale watching, amazing nature hikes, and seeing such spectacular scenery such as Thor's Well and Devil's Churn.  In addition, you would not have to fly, you could save your mile points - you can drive.

[Melanie58]

We have to use them before they expire 😞 but we do go to Oregon often!  My husband's family is in Salem - it's really lovely.  Once we stayed in Neskowin (sp?) and it's the last time I remember sleeping in, and to the sound of the ocean - so relaxing!

[Helen3]

Hi Melanie

I don't know your country well but would have thought Florida or Tuscon would be your go to places if you want the sun. Look at the tourist websites for these areas.

Why not draw up a shortlist of the important things for each family member ie near the beach, place with a pool, how many bedrooms, child friendly. Then draw up a list a shortlist of locations.

You can then do some research for BnB properties that suit your critiera.

I would have thought this would high season for them though, so not particularly cheap

Personally I love New Orleans and Southern California in the winter

[Melanie58]

I had wondered about New Orleans!  I went with my mom when i was maybe 12?  I remember having a blast, but don't remember for the life of me why!  

[Helen3]

Perhaps the Mardi Gras, paddleboat steamers, great cafes and restaurants, colourful people 🙂

[Marie3]

The Florida Panhandle might have most of what you're looking for. St. George Island looks fun, maybe too cool for swimming in the ocean, but lots of sunshine and natural beauty. Don't know about winter prices.  

Check out this article:

http://www.southernliving.com/travel/south-east/coast-through-winter

[Linda108]

Hello @Melanie58, While my specific listing does not meet your needs, the city I live in definitely would.  I live in La Quinta, CA which is one of several cities within 30 minutes of Palm Springs, CA.  Check it out!  There is the Palm Springs International Airport within 40 minutes of all the cities in the area.  Other airports are Los Angeles International (2.5 hours away), Orange County Airport (2 hours away) and Ontario Airport (1.5 hours away).  Lots of activities for the kids, swimming, biking, hiking, tennis, The Living Desert Zoo, etc.

[Judith6]

I would check out Palm Springs.  At that time of year, it's pretty spectacular.  I wouldn't go in July (actually, many places in July and August simply close for lack of business).  There's hiking, laying by a pool, shopping, movies.  It's not super exciting, but you can find things to do that are appropriate for kids.  San Diego is another favorite of mine, and has plenty of sunshine and things to do.

Florida will be expensive and hard to get FF flights in January. 

Try Corpus Christi or Galveston, Texas.  Both lovely in the winter time and on the coast.