13 Cheap Warm-Weather Destinations For February, According To Research

Want to escape the cold this February? Perhaps the winter blues have hit hard, or maybe you just miss the feeling of sunshine on your skin. Unfortunately, you might not have the biggest budget after all that holiday spending. Luckily, you don't need to break the bank to bask in warm weather this winter.

We've scoured the globe for cheap warm-weather destinations, and through online research and price comparisons, we've found some solid winners. From Mexico to Argentina, these locations are bursting with culture, adventure, and gorgeous scenery — not to mention incredible weather. To top it off, they're also easy on the wallet. We'll detail our process for handpicking these destinations at the end of this article.

Since we've done all the research, you can sit back, browse the selection, and daydream greener and warmer pastures. Once you're ready, plan that February vacation to these affordable hotspots that will make your winter blues melt away. Remember to pack sunscreen and cool clothing because you're about to get your fill of fun in the sun, along with some healthy vitamin D.  

Belize is a land of natural wonders, from the world-famous Great Blue Hole to vast jungles. There are many beautiful beaches, parks, and nature reserves, and you can spend your days hiking or birdwatching without spending a dime. If you don't mind shelling out a little cash, join a tour that explores the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha, followed by cave tubing. With some research, you can find affordable local restaurants and street food stalls offering delicious Belizean cuisine at reasonable prices ($5 to $15).

Although it's February, it won't feel like it in Belize. Thanks to its tropical climate, you can expect warm temperatures between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit and plenty of sunshine. Roundtrip flights from the U.S. to Belize can range from $300 to $600, depending on the departure city and airline. Hotels in Belize can also be affordable, with nightly rates starting at $50 for budget accommodations.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, is a celebrity vacation hotspot you can actually afford. It offers a perfect escape from the cold winter weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. As a gorgeous coastal destination, Cabo offers naturally low-cost activities. You can spend your days sunbathing, swimming, or exploring nearby towns. 

February is also smack dab in the middle of whale-watching season in Cabo. You might be able to spot them from the shores of Santa Maria Beach, and if you bring your snorkeling gear, you'll see loads of other wildlife beneath the surface. However, if you want to up your chances of spotting whales, hop aboard a boat to see these wild creatures. And if you need a break from all the water activities, the San José del Cabo Art Walk is a free weekly event, or you can stroll through the nearby town of Todos Santos, a historical center full of art galleries.

If you're coming from Californian cities, you can find roundtrip flights as low as $250. But when flying from places further north, like Chicago, prices start around $450. Accommodations in Cabo San Lucas can also be affordable, with nightly rates starting at around $50 for budget accommodations. Mid-range hotels offer more amenities and comfort, usually from $100 to $200 per night.

Cartagena is known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, and the good news is that many of the city's attractions are free to visit. After all, it's the sort of place to wander around aimlessly for hours and never get bored. Stroll through the colorful streets of the Old City, marvel at the colonial architecture, and take in the views from the city's ancient walls. Don't forget to bring that camera because Cartagena is a photographer's dream. Plus, you can rely on warm weather here, with temperatures between 76 to 87 degrees Fahrenheit and zero rainy days expected.

Roundtrip flights from major U.S. cities to Cartagena can range from $300 to $500. Accommodations in Cartagena can also be very affordable, with nightly rates starting at around $30 for budget accommodations. Mid-range hotels offer more amenities and comfort, usually from $50 to $100 per night. If you're curious to try local cuisine, you can find a decent meal for $5. So bring your appetite because, with Cartagena's coastline, you'll want to try plenty of seafood dishes like ceviche, seafood stew, or fried fish.

Cuba has an old-world charm that captivates all your senses. The cobblestone streets with colorful colonial architecture and vintage cars feel frozen in time. Cities are buzzing with life, energy, and noise, from traffic to the rhythmic beats of salsa and reggaeton. But amidst all the noise is the friendly, hospitable nature of locals who are happy to share their culture without expecting anything in return.

The streets of Old Havana are a sight in themselves, and the country has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. You can also explore historic fortresses, delve into Cuba's history at The Museum of the Revolution, take a cigar factory tour, or test those tastebuds and tolerance at a local rum distillery. For music lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to see live music performances in clubs and on the streets. Luckily, February is an ideal time to experience all these activities because the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

Although you might occasionally be charged tourist prices, they still won't break the bank, and overall, the country is safe for travelers. Roundtrip flights from U.S. cities to Cuba can range from $300 to $600. A great budget option for accommodations is casas particulares, private rooms in a family's home that run $20 to $80 a night. This is an authentic experience, and you're supporting locals who can provide tips on touring their country.

Bring your appetite because Lima is a foodie's paradise. It's known as the culinary capital of South America, and its reputation for world-class food lives up to the hype. However, you don't need to fork out cash at high-end establishments to enjoy Peruvian cuisine. Street food stalls and local markets offer tasty traditional dishes like ceviche, anticuchos (grilled skewers), and lomo saltado (stir-fried beef) for as little as a few dollars per meal.

To work up that appetite, you can explore the city on a budget. History buffs won't want to miss the Larco Museum, one of Lima's top museums, costing roughly $10 per person. Entrance to the Huaca Pucllana, an archaeological site and a pre-Incan pyramid located in the heart of Lima, costs around $4 per person. And since February is in the middle of Lima's summer season, expect sunny weather and temperatures between 69 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, which are ideal for outdoor activities. Swim with sea lions, surf, or take a free walking tour and spot awesome graffiti art.

Roundtrip flights to Lima in February can range from $400 to $800, depending on where you're departing from and how early you book. As for accommodation, you can snag a bed at the top-rated Selina hostel for $12 or opt for a 4-star hotel for $45 to $180.

Jungles, beaches, and boardwalks, oh my. Puerto Vallarta has it all and is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially if they want to escape the winter cold. This Pacific Coast gem is pleasantly warm in February, with an average high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit.  Strolling along the Malecón, you'll find restaurants, nightclubs, and local boutiques. Head here at sunset for the most epic view and linger in the plaza in hopes of catching a street performance or celebration. 

For an adrenaline rush, swim with dolphins or ride ATVs deep into the jungle, where you'll zipline high above the treetops. Tours cost between $50 to $200, but you can always intersperse a lazy beach day to balance expenses. Airfare commands between $200 and $700, and you can find decent accommodations from $30 to $150 a night. 

Whether you're looking for nightlife or nature, you'll find it here, and you won't need a giant budget to enjoy it. But make sure to go through a reputable booking company. If you're buying a vacation package and something smells fishy, it's likely not just the sea. Trust your instincts and do some research in advance.

Are you wondering how we came up with this list? First off, we realize affordability and warmth are subjective terms. To simplify things, we defined "affordable" flight options below $1,000 and nightly accommodation under $100. Meanwhile, warm weather ranges from 70 to mid to late 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day so that you can enjoy all those outdoor activities. 

To find these figures, we used popular search engines like Google Flights, Kayak, Booking, Numbeo, and the National Centers for Environmental Information. We also looked into activities in each location, ensuring you could have tons of fun without breaking the bank. After lots of research and price comparisons, these 13 cheap warm-weather destinations topped our list.