Warm & Sunny Spring Destinations in March

As the cold winter months end, many people start looking ahead to warmer weather and the chance to thaw out on a relaxing spring getaway. March brings warmer temperatures to southern destinations across the United States and beyond, making it the ideal time to book a warm-weather vacation. From the sunny beaches of Florida and Mexico to the red rock landscapes of Arizona and Utah, there are plenty of temperate and beautiful places to visit. Read on for an in-depth guide to some of March’s best warm vacation spots.

Florida

With its subtropical climate and hundreds of miles of coastline, Florida is one of March’s most popular and classic warm-weather getaways. Temperatures statewide reach into the 70s and 80s, making beach days and poolside lounging a reality once again. Spring break crowds may still be present in early March, depending on where you choose to go, but they tend to dissipate by mid-month. With crowded beaches less of a concern, it’s a great time to explore some of Florida’s charming small towns and escape the tourist hustle and bustle. South Florida Sunset Dinner Cruises. Five Great Florida Beaches.

The northeast coast of Florida is home to historic St. Augustine, the oldest continually occupied settlement of European origin in the continental United States. Wander the cobblestone streets and enjoy architecture spanning over 450 years, from the impressive Castillo de San Marcos fortress to the colorful Victorian mansions. Between sightseeing, make sure to stop for datil pepper-flecked Minorcan clam chowder, a St. Augustine specialty.

Along the Gulf Coast, Sarasota offers a more relaxed and upscale beach town atmosphere. Visit the Ringling Museum of Art, tour the former Ringling family mansion, see a performance at the Sarasota Opera House, or find a waterfront restaurant and soak in the sunset views. Early spring is a beautiful time for beachcombing and spotting birds and other wildlife at Myakka River State Park just east of the city.
Of course, no trip to Florida is complete without a visit to Orlando and the many theme parks of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Though the crowds have died down from spring break, the weather is ideal for enjoying the rides and attractions. If theme parks aren’t your style, consider a day trip to the charming small towns of Mount Dora or Winter Park nearby.

No matter which part of Florida you choose, March weather is perfect for hitting the links at some of the state’s hundreds of golf courses. Miami to Key West Road Trip: Best Itinerary. Many beachside resorts also offer tennis programs and have onsite courts to take advantage of. With March airfares and hotel rates lower than winter and summer peak seasons, it’s an affordable time to enjoy everything Florida offers. There are so many options for Vacation Packages in Florida.

U.S. National Parks

Looking for beautiful scenery minus the crowds of summer vacation season? National parks in the southern states make an ideal active warm weather getaway before the seasonal rush. Though some parts of the parks may still have patches of snow, lower elevations take on a whole new life in March that’s just waiting to be explored. Best National Park Vacations and National Park Tours.

Few places compare to the unique desert landscape of the American Southwest. In northern Arizona, make the village of Flagstaff your home base for exploring local sights as well as the Grand Canyon’s less-traveled North Rim. Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon. Flagstaff still sees winter snow at an elevation of 7,000 feet but averages highs in the 50s during March. Take the scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon down to Sedona and its stunning red rock country. Hike among the formations or enjoy a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for epic views.

Continuing south, you’ll find saguaro cactus-studded Saguaro National Park outside Tucson. Split into two sections on either side of the city, it preserves some of the nation’s largest saguaros, many estimated over 150 years old. Enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, or scenic drives through the park’s two distinct environments–the Rincon Mountain District to the east with its rocky forested canyons and the Tucson Mountain District to the west, home to saguaro-dotted hillsides.

Over in Utah, make Springdale your hub for exploring Zion National Park. With temperatures rising into the 60s, popular hikes like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows become more accessible and enjoyable, minus summer crowds. Be sure to drive the 6-mile Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which features switchbacks, tunnels, and panoramic canyon overlooks. Just north lies Bryce Canyon National Park, where the whimsical limestone and sandstone rock formations bring a bright red, orange, pink, and white palette to life.

No trip through the Southwest is complete without a stop in Las Vegas. Las Vegas Vacation, the entertainment capital of the world needs no introduction, with its glittering casinos and star-studded shows. March temperatures average in the mid-60s, making it possible to enjoy attractions like the High Roller observation wheel, Fremont Street Experience, or Eiffel Tower Experience Viewing Deck without sweltering heat. Beyond the Strip, outdoorsy types can drive 30 minutes from downtown to access both the Red Rock National Conservation Area and the massive Lake Mead.

For warm outdoor adventures east of the Mississippi, look no further than the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. As one of the country’s most biodiverse parks, springtime brings blooming wildflowers, active wildlife, rushing mountain streams from snow melt, and waterfalls at their most powerful flow rates. Though backcountry camping and some trails may still have wintery patches, main routes, and roads become far more passable compared to just weeks earlier.

Base yourself out of resort towns like Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for easy access to daily Great Smoky Mountain adventures paired with dining, entertainment, and cozy cabin lodging by night. Or opt to stay on the North Carolina side in the arts community of Asheville, loved by foodies and craft beer connoisseurs. From either location, drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway are an attraction all their own, offering stunning vistas along every curve.

Arizona & Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Combining visits to two or more warm-weather national parks on a Southwest road trip adventure allows you to fully immerse yourself in the region’s unique landscapes. The stunning drives between each destination become an equally memorable part of the overall experience. For those based on the East Coast, schedule at least 6 nights to comfortably fit in all the can’t miss stops. For West Coast residents, portions of this itinerary can work as a long weekend getaway.

Start with a flight to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Collect your rental car and make the easy 1- and 20-minute drive north to Sedona. Surrounded by towering red sandstone formations, it’s frequently described as one of America’s most beautiful small towns. Spend two nights enjoying hiking, shopping in art galleries and New Age boutiques, and fine dining with creekside views. Don’t miss experiencing the healing vortexes the area is famed for by meditating or doing light yoga among the rocks.

Continue north, following Oak Creek Canyon into Flagstaff. Check out the lively downtown scene and restaurants before another 1-hour and 40-minute drive to one of the world’s natural wonders–the magnificent Grand Canyon. Watch the sunset paint the stratified layers of rock in golden light. If possible, extend your stop to two nights in order to also see the sunrise and explore different viewpoints along the South Rim.

Departing the Grand Canyon, you’ll backtrack just slightly south to Williams, Arizona–home to the southern terminus of Historic Route 66. Spend the night in this charming small town before heading east along the Mother Road toward Petrified Forest National Park. Wander past massive fallen ancient tree trunks turned brilliantly to stone and minerals across a painted desert landscape that looks otherworldly.
Just 50 miles beyond lies New Mexico’s largest city, Gallup. Often called the “Indian Capital of the World,” it provides opportunities to shop for Native American art, jewelry, pottery, and textiles. It also contains a fascinating array of Route 66 neon signs and motels to explore while overnighting.

Your journey then continues northeast into the Four Corners region. First up is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, instantly recognizable from Western films and road trip imagery. Marvel at the iconic crimson sandstone buttes, pinnacles, and spires framing the horizon. Stay as close to this area as possible for unforgettable sunrise or sunset panoramas.

Moving on to Utah now, make sure you route toward the sized-down but equally impressive Monument Valley-esque formations of Goosenecks State Park. This often overlooked spot contains a series of incredibly tight switchbacks carved in the San Juan River, offering mesmerizing views down into the 1,000 foot deep canyon.

Spend the next two nights in the historic Bluff along the San Juan River, a peaceful community populated by local artists. It serves as the perfect jumping off point to visit Valley of the Gods scenic drive and its towering sandstone monoliths akin to those in Monument Valley. End your epic road trip adventure with an overnight stay in Moab, which is close to stunning Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Return your rental car at nearby Grand Junction Regional Airport to fly home after a trip you’ll forever remember. Apps To Help You Plan Road Trips

Mexico

Americans don’t need a passport to visit Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or other U.S. territories in the Caribbean, making them convenient and popular March getaways. But for those willing and able to travel on a passport, Mexico opens up hundreds more miles of beautiful beaches and coastline. The exchange rate also works heavily in your favor, making it possible to vacation at high-end luxury resorts for a fraction of what they would cost elsewhere. Mexico is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and tasty cuisine. However, tourists should use caution and remain vigilant about safety when visiting.

Mexico’s most well-known beach destinations are Mexico City Vacation, Cancun and the Mayan Riviera along the Caribbean coast. In addition to water sports and simply relaxing on sugar-white sand, the region offers opportunities to learn about the ancient Mayan civilization. Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tour archeological sites like seaside Tulum or massive pyramids like Chichen Itza. Where Your Horoscope Says You Should Travel In The Upcoming Months. The inland colonial city of Merida also makes an exciting day trip. March is outside of peak spring break season, so resort towns feel vibrant but not overcrowded.

A Pacific Coast option is Puerto Vallarta, located in the Bahia de Banderas along Mexico’s central western shoreline. Cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored buildings give it an appealingly old-world feel, yet it also offers modern amenities you’d expect at a world-class destination. Spend your days lounging on the beach under a palapa before shopping at the art galleries and boutiques downtown. Charter a boat for a sunset cruise, try stand-up paddleboarding or snorkeling among tropical fish or take an excursion to the Marietas Islands, a protected natural sanctuary reachable only by boat.

No matter which Mexican destination you select, take advantage of authentic, fresh local cuisine. Look for regional specialties made from local fruits and vegetables, corn tortillas, beans, rice, fish, chicken, and beef. The options are diverse thanks to Mexico’s culinary melting pot of Spanish, Caribbean, indigenous, French, and West African influences. Be sure to also check out craft beer, which has recently exploded in popularity across Mexico.

When to Book

One perk of traveling to warm destinations in March is that the fares and rates are far lower than during spring break and summer peaks. Aim to book your flights, hotels, rental cars, and activity reservations 6 to 8 weeks out for the best savings and availability.
If planning a driving trip through multiple destinations like visiting national parks, give yourself even more lead time, roughly 2 to 4 months. Not having lodging reservations locked in ahead of time could severely limit route and itinerary options.
Compare rates across multiple providers as well as package deals. Bundling your flight with hotels, car rental, and even activities can equal huge savings compared to pricing them individually. Consider working with a travel agent specializing in your chosen destination for insider advice and access to group rates not publicly advertised.

Packing Tips

The joy of a warm vacation getaway is having comfortable clothing options beyond heavy winter wear. But don’t overpack short sleeves, tanks, and bathing suits. Be sure to check weather averages to know if light jackets or pants are still handy for cooler mornings or nights.
Those visiting beach destinations will want to focus on breathable natural fabrics like cotton and linen, plus swimwear. Bring along sun protective clothing and hats as well, especially if planning extended outdoor activities. A mini beach coverup or wrap adds some pizazz to otherwise basic swimsuits.

For exploring cities and sightseeing, versatile long sleeves or short sleeve tops with jeans, shorts or leggings balance style, comfort and functionality. Scarves, dusters, and cardigans layer on warmth without the bulk of heavy coats. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Don’t skimp on the essentials like prescription medications, power banks for devices, and any custom orthotic inserts needed for ongoing comfort. Pack twice as many pairs of socks and underwear as you plan to wear to avoid desperately hunting for laundry facilities.

Travel Safety

Warm locales certainly contribute to a relaxed, happy state of mind for travelers. But don’t let that lull you into forgetting common sense safety precautions, especially in large, crowded destinations. Apply the smart travel basics you would anywhere, like using RFID-blocking bags, keeping valuables concealed, avoiding isolated areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Don’t make yourself an easy target for pickpockets or scam artists looking to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists.

When visiting other countries, be sure to research any advisories or warnings related to safety risks ahead of time. The U.S. Department of State provides up-to-date guides by region and country specifying concerns like crime, civil unrest, kidnapping threats, transportation issues, and more. Whether avoiding certain areas at night or registering with your embassy, take preventative steps for peace of mind.
For ultimate safety backup while overseas, many companies now offer device tracking services, emergency medical assistance services, and 24/7 worldwide response centers to contact in the event of lost passports, medical incidents, unexpected travel delays, or other troubles away from home. Though likely never needed, their minimal fees bring huge value if unexpected emergencies arise.

March provides perfect weather for seeking warmer temperatures whether you choose beach vacations, iconic cities, small towns, or national parks. From Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean to Arizona, Utah, and beyond, spring escapes take advantage of lower crowds and costs before peak tourist seasons ramp up. By using trip planning tools and tips to lock in early bookings, you can relax with confidence that the weather and finances are taken care of. That leaves nothing to do but kick back and enjoy your much anticipated getaway.

No matter where you go to enjoy the sun in March, chances are good that you’ll save on airfare and hotel costs, as long as you avoid traditional spring break destinations and as long as you plan your return well in advance of Easter. In addition, March is usually not a peak month for travel, adding up to significant savings.

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