Not everyone dreams of a white Christmas with a foot of snow coating the ground. A snow-free Christmas doesn’t mean giving up the festive vibes. Instead, it offers a fresh take on the holiday spirit. Think twinkling lights wrapped around palm trees, beachside barbecues, and sunny strolls through festive markets. Your idea of a perfect holiday might involve relaxing on a sandy beach, exploring cultural hotspots, or enjoying outdoor adventures without extra layers, and there are plenty of destinations tailored to those preferences. Here’s a guide to some of the best Christmas spots for snow haters, complete with all the sunshine and zero frost.

1. Miami, Florida

Sunny and vibrant, Miami transforms into a tropical Christmas wonderland each year. The city’s unique mix of lively culture, beachside chill, and extravagant holiday decorations creates the perfect setting. Miami’s famous palm-fringed streets are decked out with lights, and events like the annual Santa’s Enchanted Forest offer plenty of festive cheer. You can soak up the sun at South Beach by day and enjoy holiday-inspired cocktails in trendy rooftop bars by night.

  • Activities Available: Walking South Beach, visiting Santa’s Enchanted Forest, rooftop dining, and festive shopping in Brickell City Centre

2. Honolulu, Hawaii

Christmas in Honolulu feels like a tropical fairytale. Picture Santa trading in his sleigh for a surfboard and palm trees strung with shimmering lights. Honolulu offers a relaxed island vibe and festive traditions, like the famous Honolulu City Lights Festival. Waikiki Beach is perfect to go on a Christmas swim, while the local Hawaiian culture adds a unique twist to traditional holiday celebrations. Bonus points for catching the unforgettable sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

  • Activities Available: Attending Honolulu City Lights, surfing, snorkeling, and enjoying a Hawaiian luau

3. San Diego, California

San Diego is a haven for anyone who loves warm weather and festive cheer. With its mild Mediterranean climate, the city offers endless opportunities. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is a standout attraction, featuring dazzling lights and holiday-themed shows. The city also hosts holiday boat parades, where decked-out yachts light up the harbor. Strolling through Balboa Park’s beautifully decorated pathways is a great way to enjoy the season without a single snowflake.

  • Activities Available: Exploring Balboa Park, attending SeaWorld’s Christmas festivities, and sipping seasonal drinks at waterfront cafes

4. Austin, Texas

Austin might not be the first place that comes to mind for a Christmas getaway, but its warm weather and quirky charm make it a fantastic option. The city goes all out with its holiday celebrations, from the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park to unique boutique shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts. Austin’s live music scene also means there’s no shortage of holiday-themed concerts. You can spend the holidays sipping hot cocoa from a food truck instead of being buried under layers of winter gear.

  • Activities Available: Visiting Zilker Park, shopping for unique gifts in South Congress, and enjoying live holiday music at local venues

5. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles proves you don’t need snow to see a little holiday magic. The city may not have a winter wonderland, but it more than makes up for it with glitz and glamour. You’ll find elaborate holiday displays at places like The Grove and Rodeo Drive. Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach both have a Christmasy beach. Theme park enthusiasts can celebrate at Disneyland or Universal Studios, where the parks are transformed into dazzling holiday spectacles.

  • Activities Available: Shopping and sightseeing, beach strolls, and attending festive events at Disneyland or Universal Studios

6. Scottsdale, Arizona

Desert dwellers who think snow is overrated will find Scottsdale an ideal Christmas retreat. The city pairs its warm winter temperatures with stunning holiday displays, like the seasonal shows at Desert Botanical Garden. Scottsdale’s mix of luxury spas, outdoor adventures, and unique Southwestern traditions make it an excellent option for a laid-back holiday escape. Imagine enjoying a Christmas dinner on an outdoor patio surrounded by glowing cacti instead of fighting icy winds.

  • Activities Available: Exploring Desert Botanical Garden, visiting Old Town Scottsdale, and enjoying poolside relaxation

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans brings an entirely different energy to the holiday season. The city’s rich culture and warm weather set the stage for unique celebrations like “Celebration in the Oaks” in City Park, where massive oak trees are wrapped in thousands of twinkling lights. You’ll find plenty of live jazz performances with a holiday twist, and foodies can indulge in seasonal Creole dishes. Forget the snow. Here, it’s all about warmth, music, and vibrant traditions.

  • Activities Available: Visiting Celebration in the Oaks, listening to live music, and exploring the French Quarter

8. Puerto Rico

Christmas in Puerto Rico is a feast for the senses. This Caribbean island celebrates Navidad with colorful parades, traditional music, and plenty of sunshine. The island’s distinct cultural blend offers unique holiday experiences like the classic parrandas, where groups sing traditional songs as they move from house to house. Spend the day soaking up the sun at Isla Verde Beach and the evening feasting on local favorites like lechón (roast pork), accompanied by coquito, a delicious coconut-based holiday drink.

  • Activities Available: Beach relaxation, exploring Old San Juan, and joining local holiday festivals

9. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas proves that Christmas doesn’t need snow to be over-the-top festive. The Strip transforms into a spectacle of holiday lights, extravagant dining experiences, and themed shows. The Bellagio Conservatory gets a seasonal makeover with stunning floral displays and festive decor. Stroll through the Glittering Lights experience at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, or take advantage of the warm desert climate to enjoy poolside relaxation at resort-style hotels.

  • Activities Available: Walking along the Strip, attending holiday-themed performances, and indulging in world-class restaurants

10. San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

An international twist on a warm Christmas awaits in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua. This laid-back beach town offers affordable luxury, pristine beaches, and a relaxed vibe for unwinding during the holidays. You won’t find snow here, but you will find stunning sunsets, local holiday markets, and an opportunity to surf or kayak on Christmas Day. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path holiday adventure.

  • Activities Available: Surfing, beach picnics, attending a local holiday market, and exploring nearby rainforests