If you’re craving an escape in the next month or so without all the dreadful crowds of people, January is the perfect time to explore hidden gems around the world. While many destinations are still bustling with visitors (like South Florida), there are still plenty of serene spots where you can enjoy peaceful walks, stunning views, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Here are some incredible destinations where you can experience the beauty of winter without all the crowds and enjoy some peacefulness.
Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah
Cedar Breaks National Monument, is located in southwestern Utah near Brian Head and Cedar City. This magnificent monument sits over 10,000 feet elevation and looks down into a half-mile-deep geologic amphitheater carved into the edge of the Markagunt Plateau. Known for its vibrant red rock spires, hoodoos, and sweeping vistas, it offers breathtaking views year-round. A perfect spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of life!
In January, temperatures often dip below freezing, with daytime highs averaging in the 20s to 30s °F, making it a serene winter wonderland. Hidden gems include snowshoeing or cross-country skiing through its peaceful trails and catching the starlit skies, as Cedar Breaks is an International Dark Sky Park. Definitely recommend a dark night sky tour while visiting! Whether you’re seeking winter adventures or tranquil solitude, Cedar Breaks delivers unforgettable experiences.
While in the area, Bryce Canyon is a great spot to include in your trip to see all the natural beauty of this area in Utah.
Brian Head Lodge, located just 7 miles from the destination, is a convenient option, along with many other accommodations in the area.
Aveiro, Portugal
Portugal is the hot travel destination everyone is buzzing about this year, and for good reason. Its sun-kissed beaches, charming cobblestone streets, and rich history, Portugal offers an irresistible mix of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. There are many hidden gems in the country, but Aveiro is known as the “Venice of Portugal” with colorful moliceiro (flat bottom boat with a tapered hull) boats, art nouvea architecture, and peaceful canals. Aveiro is a city located on the west coast of Portugal along a lagoon called Ra de Aviro. Don’t miss the iconic Aveiro Museum, housed in a stunning convent, or the Art Nouveau Museum, showcasing the town’s distinctive architectural style. Definitely take a ride on one of the moliceiro boats. The word moliceiro comes from the word moliço which is a type of seaweed used as fertilizer for the region’s agriculture. For nature lovers, the Aveiro Lagoon offers a haven for birdwatching and kayaking.
A short trip away, visit the stunning Costa Nova beach to see the iconic striped houses that were originally small shacks built by fishermen to store their equipment. Over time, they became summer homes for families.
Many hotels are readily available and have great pricing. Aveiro Palace is centrally located and a beautiful spot to stay.
Don’t miss their sweet specialty, ovos moles, a delicacy made from rice paper filled with egg yolks mixed with sugar. What’s not to love, sounds delish!
Kotor, Montenegro
One of my personal favorites as I just visited in the Fall. This medieval gem, nestled along the Adriatic coast, is largely overlooked in winter, allowing you to enjoy its beauty in tranquility. The Old Town of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a beautifully preserved treasure nestled at the foot of Montenegro’s rugged mountains. Highlights include the stunning Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, an enduring symbol of Kotor, and the Maritime Museum, which showcases the region’s rich seafaring history. Wander through hidden alleyways to discover charming cafes, artisan shops, and centuries-old churches. One of my favorite old towns to explore.
The early morning hike up to San Giovanni Fortress rewards you with breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, often shrouded in mist, adding an air of mystery to the dramatic scenery.
You must take a boat ride around the bay to Our Lady of the Rocks, a picturesque island with a church. Legend has it that the islet was formed over centuries by seafarers honoring an ancient oath. On July 22, 1452, they discovered an icon of the Madonna and Child on a rock in the sea. Grateful for their safe return, sailors began the tradition of placing a rock in the bay after each successful voyage. Slowly but surely, their collective effort caused the islet to rise from the sea, transforming the site into a cherished symbol of faith and perseverance. While visiting Our Lady of the Rocks, explore the small fishing town of Perast.
Stay in Kotor’s old town at Boutique Hotel Astoria, a 4-star boutique hotel located in the UNESCO-protected 13th-century Buca Palace, or located on a Maritime museum square in a building from the 13th century is the Hotel Monte Cristo.
Kotor, Montenegro, is a culinary gem where the flavors of the Adriatic meet Balkan traditions. If you are a seafood lover, you are in for a treat! Freshly caught offerings like grilled octopus, black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, and brodet, a savory fish stew, are dishes you don’t want to miss. Dining in Kotor isn’t just about the food; it’s an experience of savoring local flavors while soaking in all the charm and beautiful views of the Bay of Kotor.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Jekyll Island was purchased in the late 19th century to become an exclusive winter retreat known as the Jekyll Island Club. It soon became recognized as “the richest, most inaccessible club in the world.” Club members included such notable figures as J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pulitzer, William K. Vanderbilt, and Marshall Field. The Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark is one of the largest ongoing restoration projects in the southeastern United States, attracting guests from all over the world.
The island offers a tranquil retreat with mild winter weather, making it ideal for a January or February visit. Daytime temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-60s °F, while evenings can cool to the low 40s. Accessible by car via the Jekyll Island Causeway, the island is roughly an hour’s drive from Jacksonville International Airport and about 90 minutes from Savannah.
Hidden gems to explore are the Jekyll Island Mosaic Museum, a less-visited treasure that tells the island’s fascinating history, take a stroll through Horton Pond or visit Driftwood Beach, where the weathered trees create a surreal and picture perfect shoreline.
For a true delight, visit Shark Tooth Beach, accessible via kayak or paddleboard, where you can hunt for fossilized shark teeth. Check out the variety of options for Jekyll Island listed here. One of the best ways to see the island is by renting a bicycle or hiking one of the many trails.
Accommodations range from luxury stays at the historic Jekyll Island Club Resort to one of my favorite hotel brands, the Westin.
If you love to hunt for seashells, then this is a great place to look for seaglass. The island hosts an annual treasure hunt called Island Treasures, inviting visitors to search for clear plastic globes hidden by volunteers known as “Beach Buddies” during January and February. These globes can be exchanged at the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center for handcrafted, one-of-a-kind glass floats. Each is stamped with the year it was created. Along with the float, finders receive a certificate of authenticity and a biography of the artist behind the design. This cherished tradition, which began in 2002, is inspired by the glass floats used by fishermen in the early 1900s that often washed ashore, delighting beachcombers as unexpected treasures.
Of course, don’t miss indulging in fresh seafood at local eateries for a true taste of the coast. Check out a few of the favorites on this list!
The Outer Banks, North Carolina
Since the Netflix Series debuted a few years ago, this destination has been on my bucket list to visit. If you stop in Charleston, you can book the Outer Banks Film tour.
The Outer Banks are a picturesque string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. It’s a haven for beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Accessible by car via US Highways 158 or 64, the islands are about a 2.5-hour drive from Norfolk International Airport. January in the Outer Banks brings cooler weather, with daytime highs averaging in the mid-40s to low 50s °F, while nights dip into the 30s, making it a peaceful time to explore without the summer crowds.
Hidden gems are plentiful in the area, from the hauntingly beautiful shipwrecks scattered along the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” to the towering sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, perfect for a brisk winter hike. Start your visit with a climb up the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S., and enjoy panoramic ocean views. Visit the quaint village of Ocracoke for its unspoiled beaches and rich pirate lore. For history buffs, a trip to Roanoke Island reveals the mystery of the Lost Colony and the site of the first English settlement in America. Don’t miss hidden gems like the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, perfect for birdwatching and kayaking, or the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, a drive that showcases the area’s raw beauty.
For a truly unique experience, watch the famous wild horses roam freely along the beaches of Corolla. The Corolla Wild Horses roam freely on the 4×4 beaches, which begin when the pavement of Highway 12 ends in Corolla. Driving on the 11-mile stretch is permitted, but if you prefer, take a 4×4 tour. Fun Fact: the wild horses of the Outer Banks are descendants of Spanish mustangs that were brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. Stop by Mama Easley’s for some good ole fried seafood.
There are plenty of places to stay in the Outer Banks, but if you are looking for luxury, then The Sanderling Resort in Duck, North Carolina, is the place for you. A beautiful spot to dine is Paper Canoe for incredible views and delish handmade pasta and fresh seafood caught locally.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
A perfect road trip destination!
Big Bend National Park, located in southwest Texas along the United States-Mexico border, is a vast and rugged land mass known for its diverse landscapes, dramatic mountains, sweeping desert vistas, and the winding Rio Grande River. Spanning over 800,000 acres, the park offers something for everyone, from hiking and camping to birdwatching and stargazing in its certified International Dark Sky territory. Fun fact: Big Bend is known as one of the outstanding places in North America for stargazing. In fact, it has the least light pollution of any other national park unit in the lower 48 states. A great spot to see the night sky is Camp Elena Luxury Tents.
Popular activities include exploring the Santa Elena Canyon, hiking the challenging Lost Mine Trail, and soaking in the natural Hot Springs along the river. If you love being on the water, experience the border from a boat and float between Texas and Mexico on the Rio Grande! Rafts, canoes, or kayaks are available, depending on the water level. Definitely check out this tour, it’s an amazing day on the river! For those seeking more of an easy relaxing activity like a scenic drive, the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive provides breathtaking views of the Chisos Mountains and surrounding desert.
The best accommodation to soak up all the area has to offer is the Lajitas Golf Resort. This 27,000 acre resort is located between the Big Bend National Park and the Big Bend State Park, so a perfect setting for your away from it all adventure. The resort features a world-class 18-hole golf course designed by PGA Hall of Fame golfer Lanny Wadkins, plus horseback riding, mountain biking, a 5-stand sporting clay shoot, and, of course, the Agave Spa.
January and February are excellent months to visit Big Bend, as daytime temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 50°F to 65°F, while nights can be chilly, dipping into the 30s. This cooler weather makes outdoor activities more enjoyable compared to the scorching summer months. Whether you’re drawn by the serene desert beauty or the chance to immerse yourself in nature, Big Bend National Park offers a unique and adventurous experience.
The months of January and February offer the perfect opportunity to explore these hidden gems without the crowds, giving you a more intimate and peaceful travel experience. Whether you’re searching for sea glass on Jekyll Island, marveling at the wild mustangs of Carolla Beach in the Outer Banks, or feasting on a delish seafood dish on the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, these destinations promise unforgettable memories and moments.
Don’t wait to make your travel dreams a reality, reach out to TravelCharlee today and let’s plan your next great adventure together!