21 Incredibly Affordable Destinations With Warm Weather For Seniors to Travel This Winter

If you’re looking for an affordable place to get away from the cold this winter, there are scads of locations to sift through. That’s why we’ve done the research to find the very best destinations for seniors. In this article, you’ll learn about the 21 most incredibly affordable winter destinations with warm weather for seniors.

1. Sedona, AZ

For seniors looking to spend some time out of the cold, Sedona, AZ, is an ideal travel destination. This city has long been a popular mecca for those seeking spiritual healing or a respite from the everyday stresses of life. Native Americans believe that the stunning red rock formations hold energy and will provide a spiritual transformation for anyone who visits. Whether or not you’re seeking a meditative or metaphysical experience, Sedona offers a welcoming hiatus from the cold.

You can find senior-friendly and scenic jeep tours with special senior pricing, such as Scenic Sedona Tours. Fun and quirky attractions like the Sedona UFO Tour — guided by a scientist —the Mystical Bazaar and the Out of Africa Wildlife Park offer diverse mobility levels and great opportunities to enjoy Sedona. It’s a perfect place for seniors looking for an affordable destination with warm weather. December and March are beautiful times to visit regarding weather, with January to mid-February being the best economically.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 60°
• January — 60°
• February — 64°
• March — 69°

Best Attractions

• Sedona and Red Rock State Park Driving Tour (You can drive at your own pace, and there are no tips needed)
• Wildland Trekking (You can choose from a variety of hiking adventures to suit your level)
• Sacred Vortex Holistic Therapies (Spa-like services are available for individuals or couples)
• The Blazin’ M Ranch Western-Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and a Show (Live entertainment and food make this a fun adventure.)

Best Senior Deals

• If you book through the AARP travel center at Expedia, you can get an extra 10% off of hotel stays.
• Booking through the All Resort Store can get you 10% to 25% off your Sedona stay.
• Collette offers seniors $50 to $100 off of guided tours.

2. Jerome, Arizona

If you’re planning a road tour in Arizona, why not make Jerome one of your destinations? The town is just two hours north of Phoenix, with picturesque scenery along the drive. History buffs will enjoy the rich copper mining history behind this town. While it’s not exactly a hotspot, weatherwise, the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the scenery.

There are abundant free and affordable things to do while in Jerome. The Jerome Artists Cooperative Gallery and La Victoria Studio are perfect if you’re an art aficionado. Arizona Discoveries and Bitter Creek Winery are two other fun and inexpensive places to explore. March is a great time to visit because the weather is comfortable but getting warmer.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 49°
• January — 50°
• February — 53°
• March — 60°

Best Attractions

• Jerome Ghost Tours
• Jerome State Historic Park
• Mine Museum
• Firefly Gallery

Best Senior Deals

• National Park Service Golden Age Passport (If you’re 62 or older, you can get a national park lifetime entrance permit for a mere $10 processing fee.)
• Denny’s offers seniors 15% off their meals.
• Discounted movie tickets Harkins Theatres

3. Orange Beach, Alabama

Finding the Orange Beach, AL, right vacation package for you is easy. You can find couples, families, and pet-friendly packages online, with AARP, or through the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism site. However you decide to get there, once you arrive, you’ll have countless free and inexpensive ways to enjoy the warm weather.

There are 32 miles of stunning white sandy beaches to enjoy, miles of hiking and biking trails, museums, and art centers. There are plenty of wheelchair-accessible beach spots, and you can even rent a beach wheelchair. Most importantly, the spectacular views and warm sun are always free.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 66°
• January — 63°
• February — 66°
• March — 71°

Best Attractions

• Book a dolphin and sunset cruise.
• Go snorkeling.
• Visit the Wharf
• Go biking, hiking, or birdwatching.

Best Senior Deals

• A multitude of restaurants, like Mikee’s Seafood, have senior discounts.
• Hotels, such as the Perdido Beach Resort, have senior discounts.
• If you want to rent a car, there are a multitude of car rental services with senior deals, including Alamo’s 25% senior discount.

4. Ocean Springs, Mississippi

The picturesque community of Ocean Springs, MS, is full of senior-friendly and affordable things to do. You can enjoy the bounty of historic landmarks, casinos, and golf courses or soak up the sun on the soft golden sands.

If you’re looking for warm weather, March is a perfect time to visit Ocean Springs. December tends to be humid, but the temperature isn’t too hot. The cheapest time to find a hotel in this city is from the beginning of January to the end of February. For airfare, food, lodging, and sightseeing, you can find a deal as low as $770 for yourself or $1250 for you and a partner.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 64°
• January — 61°
• February — 64°
• March — 70°

Best Attractions

• Visit the Walter Anderson Museum of Art
• Spend time on the Gulf Islands Seashore.
• Soak up some sun on Front Beach.
• Take a tour of the home and gardens that once belonged to Jefferson Davis.

Best Senior Deals

• The Walter Anderson Museum of Art has senior discounts if you show your ID.
• Avis Rental Cars has AARP discounts.
• Hyatt Hotels offers seniors up to half off daily rates for a room.

5. Mustang Island, TX

It doesn’t take much money to enjoy all that Mustang Island, TX, has to offer. Many of the nearby attractions are inexpensive or even free. The warm winter months provide an ideal getaway from colder climates, and the senior-friendly activities are myriad.

While hotel prices are the cheapest in the autumn, you can still get great deals — especially senior discounts — in the winter. The beaches and other attractions aren’t as crowded in the winter either, so that you can enjoy warm weather as well as some peace and quiet.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 68°
• January — 66°
• February — 69°
• March — 75°

Best Attractions

• The Horace Caldwell Pier has the best fishing on the Gulf Coast.
• Visit the Texas State Aquarium for the day.
• Spend a day at Mustang Island State Park.
• Visit the Port Aransas Museum.

Best Senior Deals

• The Texas State Aquarium gives seniors age 65 and older a discount.
• Several motels, such as the Captain’s Quarters Inn and Island Hotel Port Aransas, have discounts for seniors.

6. The Sea Ranch, California

When you calculate the final cost of staying in The Sea Ranch, it may seem less affordable than some of the other choices in our article. However, packages typically include everything you’ll need for your entire stay. The entire community is a spa-like, natural resort that is a vacation unto itself. There are vacation homes you can rent for a reasonable price, or you can stay in the The Sea Ranch Lodge.

The Sea Ranch Lodge is built on 53 acres of the coastline in balance with surrounding nature. It offers a dining room, solarium, lounge, café, bar, and general store for all guests. Mid-January to mid-March are the best times to fly and find accommodations for the best rates.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 58°
• January — 58°
• February — 59°
• March — 60°

Best Attractions

• Step in side the uniquely designed Sea Ranch Chapel
• Take a guided hiking or walking tour.
• Golf on one of three courses.
• Go kayaking or canoeing.

Senior Friendly Accommodations

• Many of the nearby restaurants are wheelchair accessible.
• The beautiful wooded path to the beach is wheelchair accessible.
• Many of the vacation rentals are ADA-friendly

7. Saba, Dutch Caribbean

Not to be confused with Little Saba (Turtle Dove Cay), the U.S. Virgin Island just north of St. Thomas, this Saba is part of the Caribbean Netherlands. The island is a unique travel destination, partially owing to its being a tropical island without much in the way of beaches. Yet, the rich culture and extraordinary ecosystems of this island provide senior visitors with a singular winter getaway.

As good fortune would have it, the best times for visiting Saba are December through March. Those are the warmest months with the least rain. The best prices for flying and for accommodations are from the beginning to the middle of December and the beginning of January to the beginning of March.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 79°
• January — 78°
• February — 78°
• March — 79°

Best Attractions

• Hike in one of the three ecosystems on the island — coastal tide pool, rain forest, and dry forest.
• The arts scene is excellent. You can make your own glass art at a local glass artisan’s workshop.
• Visit the Harry L. Johson Museum.
• Take in the environmentally pristine views from the aptly named Mount Scenery.

Senior Friendly Accommodations

• The entire island is 5 square miles, so getting around is relatively easy.
• There are plenty of taxi services to get you wherever you want to visit on the island.

8. Anna Maria Island, Florida

If you’re looking for the quintessential warm-weather getaway in winter, Anna Maria Island, FL, fits the bill. With its sparkling blue water, sugar-sand beaches, and picturesque landscapes, this island is an incredible senior warm-weather destination. Whether you want to enjoy the delicious seafood, bask in the sun, or play 18 holes of golf, this Florida island is worth checking out.

December through February are great for seniors who want some warm weather respite. The high temperatures are in the 70s. You can find senior deals year-round, but the most cost-efficient time to visit the island is from after Thanksgiving to just before Christmas.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 74°
• January — 71°
• February — 74°
• March — 77°

Best Attractions

• Take some time to yourself at the Aluna Wellness Center and Spa.
• Play golf at one of the Longboat Key Club courses.
• Soak up some sun on one of the six spectacular beaches.
• Visit the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Best Senior Deals

• If you book with Expedia through AARP, you’ll get a great vacation package and a $50 gift card of your choice.
• Explorations by Collette offers $50 to $100 off small-group tours.

9. Waimea, Hawaii

Also called Kamuela, Waimea is on Hawaii’s big island. Waimea is an inland destination with lush green landscapes and picturesque scenery. In contrast to stereotypical tourist beaches, this area is a rural community with a ranching background and a relaxed feel. If you use a package vacation deal through AARP and Expedia, this is an incredibly affordable destination with warm weather for you this winter.

January is the cheapest month to fly to Waimea. It’s also the best time to go whale-watching and avoid the crowds. For the best deals on accommodations, January and February are two of the better months. However, you can find senior deals year-round.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 73°
• January — 72°
• February — 72°
• March — 72°

Best Attractions

• Ride horses around the island to take in the breathtaking scenery.
• Hike the beautiful trails.
• Go whale-watching, which is a popular pastime during the winter months of December through March.
• Sit on one of the gorgeous beaches and relax.

Best Senior Deals

• All-inclusive travel packages through AARP and Expedia can get seniors a significant discount on flights and accommodations, often including one hotel night free.

10. Savannah, Georgia

One of the most senior-friendly aspects of Savannah, GA, is the walkability. Of course, with roads and paths designed with pedestrian ease in mind, wheelchair accessibility is also a priority. Many popular attractions, dining venues, and lodgings are wheelchair-accessible and ADA-friendly. No matter your level of mobility, you can enjoy the warm weather, historic sites, and wonderful attractions in this city.

January and February are the best times for traveling on a budget. The weather isn’t hot, but it’s definitely warmer than that of its Northern kin. Another perk is that tourism isn’t at its highest, so you’ll have some quiet and fewer crowds to deal with.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 64°
• January — 61°
• February — 64°
• March — 70°

Best Attractions

• Hop on an Old Town Trolley to tour the city.
• Stroll through verdant Forsyth Park.
• Enjoy a fun and quirky Forrest Gump self-guided tour.
• Visit the beautifully eerie Bonaventure Cemetary.

Best Senior Deals

• Stay at any Hampton Inn and Suites for a 10% discount.
• Restaurants like the Mellow Mushroom and Frali Gourmet give seniors a discount with their AARP membership.

11. Jupiter, Florida

Some coastal towns are bustling hubs of tourists and tourist attractions. Jupiter, in contrast, has a relaxed feel. Yet, this tropical community still provides an array of fun activities and attractions for everyone, including seniors. Whether you love boating and fishing, live theatre, golf, or fine dining, you can find plenty to do for reasonable prices.

The cheapest months to travel are the beginning of January to the end of March, with the weather being at its warmest and most comfortable. You can find some very affordable packages for around $1,450 — which includes dining, sightseeing, flights, and accommodations — for yourself or about $2,800 for you and a partner.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 68°
• January — 65°
• February — 68°
• March — 71°

Best Attractions

• Stroll around Riverbend Park or bike on one of the excellent bike trails.
• Check out the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum.
• If you bring your furry friend, you can walk along Jupiter Dog Beach.
• Spend your day relaxing on the beach and swimming in the crystal blue ocean.

Best Senior Deals

• Several hotels provide deals for seniors, including Jupiter Beach Resort and Spa, Best Western Intracoastal Inn, and Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place.
• Most local restaurants have wheelchair-accessible parking and seating as well as senior discounts.

12. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas often evokes images of flashing lights and brightly colored slot machines. However, Las Vegas offers more opportunities for seniors to enjoy the natural beauty of the city. There are national historic landmarks to visit, museums, and stunning outdoor attractions.

Traveling to this city between January and April will get the cheapest airfare and hotel rates. March, along with being one of the more inexpensive months, is one of the best for weather. During this time, the weather is balmy during the day but still cool at night.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 57°
• January — 58°
• February — 62°
• March — 70°

Best Attractions

• Take a trip to the Hoover Dam.
• Visit the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area for the picturesque scenery and interactive visitor center.
• Wander through the Bellagio Conservatory and Fine Art Gallery.
• Walk along the strip and down Freemont Street to take in the history and exciting sights.

Best Senior Deals

• Over 29 restaurants offer senior deals and discounts, including Texas de Brazil and Bubba Gump Shrimp.
• Casinos offer 10% off buffets to seniors, especially lunch buffets.
• Las Vegas Natural History Museum tickets are only $8 for seniors.
• Many of the big shows and other events offer discounts for seniors.

13. Clearwater, Florida

Warm weather, sparkling water, and exciting local attractions make Clearwater, FL, an ideal winter getaway for seniors. There are 2.5 miles of white sand beaches for leisurely strolls, water that’s perfect for swimming, fishing, or boating, and trails for walking or hiking. With most trails and venues being wheelchair-accessible, people of all mobility levels can enjoy Clearwater’s amenities.

The best time for visiting Clearwater Beach in Clearwater is between October and December since it’s less humid and less crowded. Also, aside from the holidays, prices are better as well. However, the water temperatures between January and March are still warm, and senior discounts and package deals can save you money.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 72°
• January — 71°
• February — 73°
• March — 76°

Best Attractions

• Enjoy nature, birdwatching, and fresh air while strolling or biking on the Pinellas Trail.
• Walk along the Clearwater Beach Walk and take in the restaurants, charming shops, and attractions while enjoying the view of the white sand and water.
• Spend time window-shopping in the diverse shops, boutiques, and artisan markets throughout the town.
• Stop at Philippe Park to have a picnic, hike, birdwatch, fish, or just soak in the peaceful green space.

Best Senior Deals

• Several luxury hotels — Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater Beach Hotel, and Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach included — provide seniors with AARP discounts.
• Many chain restaurants — like A&W All American Food and Waffle House — provide 10% and higher discounts for seniors.
• If you’re renting a car while staying in Clearwater, National Rent-A-Car offers discounted senior prices.

14. South Padre Island, Texas

This coastal town provides opportunities for seniors of all mobility and activity levels. You can paddle board in the calm Gulf waters, take surfing lessons, ride horses on the beach, drive around the island in a rented Scoot Coupe, or take advantage of the serene natural areas for a bit of tranquility.

Visiting from December to February is a great time for special events, like the SPI Kite Fest. The hotel rates are lower during these winter months. If you like the idea of partying with the Spring Break set, you can shoot for March. Otherwise, December to February will be less crowded and more peaceful.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 71°
• January — 68°
• February — 70°
• March — 74°

Best Attractions

• Visit Sea Turtle, Inc. to see the rehabilitation and education facilities in this sea turtle conservation center.
• Visit the 1,500-foot boardwalk near Laguna Madre that crosses over marshland and allows you to watch their diverse bird species.
• Take a sandcastle-building class.
• Try parasailing for a unique perspective on viewing the scenery.

Best Senior Deals

• Seniors only pay $6 for tickets to Sea Turtle, Inc.
• Ramada by Wyndham, La Copa Inn Beach Hotel, and several other hotels provide special prices for seniors.
• If you book a flight through the AARP Travel Center, you get a $50 gift card of your choice.

15. New Orleans, Louisiana

Taking a vacation in New Orleans provides you with more than warm weather. The historical and cultural experiences this city offers are myriad. No matter what you prefer — music, art, history, or nature — you’ll be able to find a multitude of exciting and inexpensive activities while you’re in New Orleans.

The months of February and March are comfortably cool, and there are a lot of celebrations going on. On the other hand, December and January are calmer months with better deals on hotels. In addition, restaurants and attractions are much less crowded in December and January.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 64°
• January — 62°
• February — 65°
• March — 65°

Best Attractions

• Taking in the live music, art galleries, shopping, and other attractions on Frenchman Street is not only an amazing cultural experience, it’s absolutely free.
• The French Quarter, with its main draw of Bourbon Street, is a singular attraction and is also free to tour.
• The Garden District has free parks and gardens to explore and is a stunning and peaceful area.
• There are several cemetery and ghost adventure tours for inexpensive prices throughout the city.

Best Senior Deals

• Audubon Nature Institute offers seniors admission discounts to the Audubon Zoo, Entergy Giant Screen Theater, and Aquarium of the Americas.
• Gray Line Tours gives discounted tours to seniors.
• St. Louis Cathedral is free to explore for seniors.

16. Fredericksburg, Texas

Not your typical resort town, Fredericksburg, TX, is a German heritage town and is considered the state’s wine capital. It’s pet-friendly, so you don’t have to leave your fur baby at home or in a kennel. You can even take your dog hiking with you at Enchanted Rock or shopping in many of the stores.

If you’re looking for a slower pace and fewer crowds, January and February are optimal months for taking your vacation. Many hotels, Airbnb, and hotels offer discounts during the slow tourism season. However, if you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, December has Christmas parades and other celebrations.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 61°
• January — 60°
• February — 64°
• March — 70°

Best Attractions

• Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson Park and Historic Site.
• Spend the day in Luckenbach, TX, a country music hub 13 miles from Fredericksburg.
• Take time to enjoy one of the many wineries, many of which include live music and food.
• Visit Wildseed Farms’ walking trails, butterfly gardens, and gorgeous bounty of wildflowers of every species and color, including the famous Texas bluebonnets.

Best Senior Deals

• AARP has abundant discounts on luxury accommodations, like the Fredericksburg Country Hotel.
• Seniors enjoy discounts and deals on several different restaurants — Applebee’s, Bonefish Grill, and Waffle House, to name a few.

17. Key West, Florida

Key West has so many senior-friendly attractions, accommodations, and sites, that you may not have enough time to take them all in. There are also several wheelchair-accessible lodings, such as the Orchid Key Inn. The Conch Tour Train takes you on a 75-minute tour of the island and can accommodate wheelchairs as well. There are more dining venues, attractions, and accommodations that are ideal for seniors of all mobility levels.

Winter is the busiest season for visiting Key West. However, it’s exciting to see all the people walking up and down Duval Street and enjoying the warm weather. But if it’s a less crowded atmosphere you seek, the months between March and May are your best time to visit. Prices are the lowest, the weather is gorgeous, and you don’t have to worry about hurricane season (June to November).

Average High Temperatures

• December — 76°
• January — 74°
• February — 76°
• March — 78°

Best Attractions

• Tour the Harry S Truman Little White House — a former private Navy compound now used as a public museum.
• Join a small-group walking tour of Key West’s historic district.
• Take the Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour.
• Visit the Hemingway House

Best Senior Deals

• Several beach hotels, like Southernmost Beach Resort and Pier House Resort and Spa, offer discounts for seniors.
• AARP Senior Rate Park and Play gives AARP members nightly parking savings at resorts.

18. San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is a vibrant city that you can reach by airplane or cruise ship. It’s a highly walkable city with many attractions, dining venues, and hotels that can accommodate scooters or wheelchairs. Old San Juan — part of Puerto Rico’s capital city, San Juan — was built in 1521 by the Spanish, making it the second-oldest European settlement in the Americas. History buffs will enjoy exploring the streets and gorgeous sites of this city.

Though hotel rates are highest during the winter months between December and March, there are senior discounts that can offset them. The weather is fantastic, with temperatures in the low 80s, and the celebrations and festivals are exciting to attend.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 83°
• January — 83°
• February — 83°
• March — 84°

Best Attractions

• Walk around the city, browsing in the many local shops.
• Visit Old San Juan on your own or join a guided walking tour — the Old San Juan foodie walking tour being just one of the great offerings.
• Explore the many forts, such as the Castillo San Felipe del Morro.
• Relax on one of the three stunning beaches.

Best Senior Deals

• Most of the hotels in Puerto Rico give seniors discounts.
• All major Puerto Rican airlines offer senior discounts.
• Seniors simply need to ask about discounts on buses and at attractions — such as museums — to get the best deals.

19. Tucson, Arizona

Winters can be harsh for seniors — especially those who have arthritis and are affected by the cold damp weather of many northern climates. Tucson’s warm dry weather is a respite from those cold-induced aches and pains. With so many exciting things to see and do, Tucson is an ideal warm-weather winter getaway.

From December to March, you can soak in temperatures of up to 75°. It rarely rains, so the air is dry and warm. Unfortunately, these are also the months with the highest prices. However, you can find an abundance of senior discounts and deals to make your trip more affordable.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 66°
• January — 68°
• February — 70°
• March — 78°

Best Attractions

• Drive out the Sonoran Desert to enjoy the beauty of its unique flora and fauna.
• Tucson has a myriad of museums to visit — the Arizona State Museum and the Tucson Museum of Art are just two.
• Spend time in one of Tucson’s art galleries.
• Experience the beauty of the Tucson Botanical Gardens.

Best Senior Deals

• Seniors get a $13 admission special for the Tucson Botanical Gardens.
• You can find many dining venues in the area with senior discounts.
• If you stay in one of several hotels — 3 Palms Tucson North Foothills and Hotel McCoy — Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine are just two — you will get senior discounts.

20. Channel Island National Park, California

Located off the coast of Southern California, Channel Islands National Park has five islands — Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara, Anacapa, Santa Cruz, and Santa Miguel. One of the most fascinating things about these islands is that about 150 of their over 2,000 species of flora and fauna are unique to the islands. The beauty of the islands is one of the biggest attractions for seniors and all other visitors.

If whale-watching is on your to-do list, January through March are the best months to see them. In the winter, the temperature isn’t as warm as in the other seasons, but tourism is at a low. This means that prices are the best, and it’s not crowded.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 61°
• January — 62°
• February — 61°
• March — 63°

Best Attractions

• Take time to birdwatch on one or all of the five islands.
• Hike along one of the trails on Santa Barbara.
• Visit the Painted Cave, one of the largest sea caves in the world.
• Watch the over-30,000 sea lions and seals relaxing on Point Bennett’s beaches.

Best Senior Deals

• The Channel Islands National Park offers a Golden Bear Pass, offering free vehicle day-use access.
• AARP has packages for travel through Expedia.

21. Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

Formerly known as Hot Springs, Truth or Consequences (T or C) is a little town with a resort feel. The town’s name was changed in 1950 during the 10th anniversary of Ralph Edward’s radio game show, Truth or Consequences. T or C is known for its famous hot springs, natural thermal springs that were considered sacred to local indigenous peoples.

December is the best time to visit Truth or Consequences if you like a more quiet atmosphere. Additionally, the prices are at their least expensive. However, November and January are also good months to save money.

Average High Temperatures

• December — 56°
• January — 57°
• February — 63°
• March — 70°

Best Attractions

• Book a 50-minute or longer soak in one of the hot springs pools.
• Visit the Rio Bravo Fine Art Gallery.
• Browse the exhibits at the Geronimo Springs Museum.
• Go on the Silver City Boston Hill Nature and History hike.

Summary of Affordable Warm Weather Senior Destinations