19 Warm Places to Visit in November for a Sunny Fall Escape

Not ready to trade your flip-flops for winter boots? These warm places to visit in November offer everything from Caribbean beaches and desert hikes to culture-filled city escapes. We’ve experienced many of them ourselves and rounded up where to go, what weather to expect and where to stay for a sunny late-fall getaway.

Highlights

• Best for true beach weather: Aruba, Bonaire, Cancun, Costa Rica, Curaçao, Florida Keys, Honolulu, Puerto Rico, Riviera Maya
• Best for desert sunshine: Las Vegas, Palm Springs, Phoenix
• Best for a mild city escape: Charleston, Galveston, Mexico City, New Orleans, San Antonio, San Diego, Savannah

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1. Aruba

• Typical November high: 88°F
• Best for: Beaches, snorkeling and reliable Caribbean sunshine

The much-loved island of Aruba is a warm place with so much to offer. It was also one of our family’s favorite places to check off our bucket list.

Why is it a great spot to visit during hurricane season? Because the island sits outside the hurricane belt! So unlike some of its Caribbean neighbors, you’re not likely to have your travel plans scrapped due to a storm.

Aruba’s desert climate offers consistently sunny days with temperatures in the high 80s throughout most of the year. A constant breeze (so strong that the island’s famous divi-divi trees are permeanetly bent over) makes the high 80s feel practically perfect.

After you’ve gotten your fill of beach time — is that even a thing? –there are plenty more things to do in Aruba. Fill your time in Aruba with shopping, gambling, biking or hiking at Arikok National Park.

Riding ATVs was our family’s favorite activity. While group tours are an excellent way to do it, exploring on your own is generally very safe on the island.

Don’t miss just sitting under an oceanfront divi-divi tree, though. Aruba is perfect for relaxation.

Places to Stay in Aruba

If you want a secluded experience, check out Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. The property features the private 40-acre Renaissance Island, reserved for hotel guests. Or stay at the Aruba Hilton, one of our favorite properties.

Read More:

• Fun Things to Do in Aruba: The Beach and Beyond
• Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Aruba
• The Hilton Aruba Review: Find Your Bliss on the Beach

2. Bonaire

• Typical November high: 87°F
• Best for: Shore diving, snorkeling and uncrowded beaches

Although November begins peak season in Bonaire, the island deserves a spot on the list. Like Aruba, this 24-mile-long, 5-mile-wide Caribbean island is also outside the hurricane belt.

Plus, it’s less well-known than its neighbors, so tends to be less crowded. There are few chain restaurants, so head to the local restaurants to sample traditional dishes like Keshi Yena (a chicken dish) and Piska Kriyoyo (a fish recipe).

Great diving and snorkeling are the top things to do in Bonaire. Some of the best spots are accessible directly from the beaches in Bonaire. No need to hop on a boat when you can wade out to see the coral reefs and abundant marine life.

If you’re looking for cultural experiences beyond local food offerings, head to the island’s cultural center, Mangazina di Rei, to learn about the history and customs of the area.

Bonaire is also a great place to hop on a catamaran, kayak or visit the local flamingo and donkey sanctuaries.

Places to Stay in Bonaire

A few big-brand hotel options are available, but it’s the smaller, boutique-style lodging that truly embodies the feel of the island. Harbor Village Beach Club is one such choice. It offers upscale amenities and the island’s only private beach.

Another lodging option, The Bellafonte, features kitchenettes, though no on-site restaurant.

3. Cancun, Mexico

• Typical November high: 84°F
• Best for: All-inclusive resorts, beaches and Mayan ruins

Pre-high season November in Cancun is a relatively dry month with average high temperatures in the mid-80s. Cancun beckons with gorgeous ocean views and beaches. It also offers unforgettable history, culture, great food and drinks and a lively nightlife.

The ancient Mayan city of Chichén Itzá is a long day trip away but well worth the visit because of its temples and pyramids.

And Tulum, another day trip option, is one of the most Insta-worthy spots in Mexico. Ruins, sandy beaches, yoga retreats, jungle excursions and great food make the trip to Tulum worth it.

Places to Stay in Cancun

The hotel zone in Cancun offers a Vegas-esque strip of accommodation choices, with lots of all-inclusive options. The adults-only Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun is a top choice for a no-kids vacation. The Wyndham Altra Cancun, with multiple pools and a kids club, is one of many choices for families. For a beachfront all-inclusive with a private beach, check rates at Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort.

Read More: All-inclusive Resorts in Mexico

4. Charleston, South Carolina

• Typical November high: 70°F
• Best for: History, outstanding food and comfortable sightseeing

Charleston is exactly what you picture when you think of an East Coast southern town. Beautiful architecture, Spanish moss and loads of history abound. With average highs in the low 70s, November is a perfect month to explore Charleston.

Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park and Charleston City Market are great places to begin your tour of the town. Historical spots like Fort Sumter, the Nathaniel Russell House and Middleton Place are sure to spark a little history buff in everyone. And, of course, there are golf courses, ghost tours and art galleries galore.

For a fall beach experience, Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms all offer their own unique take. Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island and Edisto Beach are slightly farther away but a bit less populated.

Out favorite thing to do in Charleston: Checking out the spectacular array of restaurants, thanks to some local culinary schools. It turns out a fair number of chefs train in the area, fall in love with the charm of the region and choose to stay. That equates to some of the best restaurants we’ve sampled while on vacation.

Places to Stay in Charleston, SC

Many visitors choose to stretch out in a VRBO or Airbnb rental in Charleston. The Cottages On Charleston Harbor are a great hybrid option between a vacation home rental and a hotel. Guests get extra space, a screened-in porch and full kitchen, plus access to a hotel concierge.

5. Costa Rica

• Typical November high: 80s, depending on the region
• Best for: Wildlife, outdoor adventures and fewer crowds

It’s almost unfair to list Costa Rica as just one spot on our list of warm places to visit in November. The country has many different regions to visit, all offering their own natural beauty.

Adventurous travelers can zipline, kayak, white-water raft, boat or hike volcanoes. Those seeking cultural experiences can take Costa Rican cooking classes or see traditional folk dancing. Nature lovers can view wildlife and take in the hot springs. And of course, beachgoers can enjoy the 800 miles of coastline.

Although early November is the tail end of the rainy season in Costa Rica, the month can still be a great time to visit. The dry season usually arrives toward the end of the month. And the low season can mean fewer crowds and better prices at the resorts.

Places to Stay In Costa Rica

Check out Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa, our pick during our visit to explore Arenol National Park. The views of the volcano from the rooms are unforgettable. Or stay at El Mangroove. We loved this boutique beachfront hotel offering rooms with the cutest hammock-filled patios you ever did see.

Read More: The Complete Guide for First Timers Visiting Costa Rica

6. Curaçao

• Typical November high: 87°F
• Best for: Colorful culture, secluded beaches and diving

Curaçao, the largest of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao), has been beckoning divers for decades.

In recent years, it’s become more popular but we’ve found it still has a less commercialized feel than some other Caribbean locales.

One of 6 Dutch islands in the Caribbean, Curaçao features cozy coves off of pristine, white-sand beaches. The location makes it a great choice for a warm place to visit in November because it’s also a relatively safe bet during hurricane season.

The pastel-colored colonial-style buildings of Willemstad, the capital, are a favorite for my family. And I bet they will be for yours too. Willemstad makes a great home base from which to explore the 171 square miles of the island. While you’re there, drag yourself away from the gorgeous beaches to learn about the unique history, visit museums, take art walks and hike the cacti-clad mountains.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Plan to start hikes early in the morning. With highs around 87, some paths close later in the day to prevent heat-related injuries.

Places to Stay in Curaçao

Willemstad is the place to find fantastic lodging options, like Avila Beach Hotel. This property is historic yet updated and offers a chance to unwind amid a tropical environment.

7. Florida Keys, Florida

• Typical November high: 80°F
• Best for: Fishing, water activities and island-hopping

The Florida Keys more than deserve a spot on a November getaway list. The island chain does, after all, encompass a little of something for every travel personality. Yet, the laid-back, unrushed, toes-in-the-sand feeling envelops the whole area, with moderate November tempoeratures.

Nightlife seekers who want a bit more action will love the quirky paradise of Key West, the southernmost spot in the USA. Families who love to fish should check out the world-class fishing found in Islamorada. Nature lovers will want to head a bit farther north to Key Largo for a national park, 2 state parks, and the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. Seclusion seekers will relish Duck Key or Little Torch Key.

Much of the Keys feels like the Caribbean without leaving the USA. Key West has its own airport; the Upper Keys are reached more easily from Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

Places to Stay in the Florida Keys

We’ve loved the Florida Keys so much that we’ve aimed to check out all of them. Our favorite resorts for doing just that have been Isla Bella Beach Resort, Cheeca Lodge and Spa and Baker’s Cay Resort. All 3 offer upscale amenities and gorgeous grounds while having a unique take on this Kokomo-famous destination.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Key West with Teens

8. Galveston, Texas

• Typical November high: 71°F
• Best for: Beach walks, family attractions and historic sights

We first became familiar with Galveston, Texas, when it seemed to be one of the best-kept secrets of the state. Since then, the cat is out of the bag when it comes to Galveston. And for good reason.

With average highs in the low 70s, Galveston makes a good choice for a warm place to visit in November. Basking in the sun is replaced with leisurely strolls on the beach this time of year. And the comfortable temps make a perfect backdrop for exploring the estuaries, sand dunes, ponds and wetlands of Galveston Island State Park.

Moody Gardens, a local theme park, provides entertainment to all ages through learning and playing. The venue features the Aquarium and Rainforest Pyramid, Discovery Museum, 3D and 4D theaters, paddle boats and animal encounters.

Galveston’s Historic Pleasure Pier, Bishop’s Palace, Bryan Museum and The Strand are just a few other things to do.

Places to Stay in Galveston

The famously pink Grand Galvez is a great choice for lodging as is The Tremont House. The latter features a rooftop bar. And the historic Grand Galvez was once frequented by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Howard Hughes, among others.

9. Honolulu, Hawaii

• Typical November high: 84°F
• Best for: Beaches, surfing and Hawaiian culture

Abundant sunshine means Hawaii’s capital city is a great place to visit year-round. By November, the high 80s of the summer months are replaced by the mid-80s. And the post-summer, pre-holiday crowds make the island’s famous beaches a bit less busy. Honolulu also is synonymous with world-class waves, natural beauty, a bustling city and Polynesian culture.

One of the best ways to experience that culture is through your taste buds. Taking in a traditional luau, like the one found at Paradise Cove or the Polynesian Cultural Center, accomplishes that.

And no trip to Honolulu would be complete without a visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. This solemn spot is the place to learn about and pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice when the harbor was bombed.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Make reservations for the USS Arizona Memorial program.

Places to Stay in Honolulu

A wide range of lodging accommodations are located near Diamond Head. Halekulani is one such choice that offers 3 restaurants, live music nightly and a day spa. The Royal Hawaiian is another top choice in an excellent location.

Read More: The Complete Packing List for Hawaii

10. Las Vegas, Nevada

• Typical November high: 67°F
• Best for: Entertainment, restaurants and outdoor exploring

Las Vegas offers luxurious accommodations, loads of entertainment, world-class restaurants and, of course, infamous casinos. The Vegas Strip is where all the action happens. When better to peruse the sights than early in November when the temps are not so hot during the day and comfortably cool in the evening?

Enjoy the November weather with a stroll along the Strip. It’s the best way to explore this gambling and entertainment mecca. While on the Strip, you can try your luck at the slots and gambling tables. And that’s where you’ll have access to some of the best live shows in the country.

Dining in style is another favorite activity in Vegas. Taking in views of the Bellagio fountains while dining is always fun. Check out fan-favorite Lago by Julian Serrano, oh-so-French Eiffel Tower Restaurant or the super casual Beer Park.

Places to Stay in Las Vegas

One of our favorite things about the city is that it’s really about what you want it to be. Want to feel like you’re in a vibrant Italian city? The Bellagio, our choice during a recent stay, offers that. Or check out the Roman-themed Caesar’s Palace Hotel. If you’re bringing kids, try one of these great, family-friendly Vegas hotels.

Read More: Complete Las Vegas packing list

11. Mexico City, Mexico

• Typical November high: 72°F
• Best for: Museums, food, history and cultural celebrations

Does “warm weather” mean closer to 70 than 80 for you and do you require some culture with your vacay? Then Mexico City might be for you. The pleasant temps also mark the beginning of the dry season. It’s a great time to tour the area. And the city is packed with culture, delicious food and beautiful architecture.

Early November brings Day of the Dead celebrations. This festive holiday is one of the most important in Mexico. Celebrants paint their faces, wear costumes, play live music and hold parades, making offerings to lost loved ones.

The Teotihuacan pyramids (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a reasonable day trip from Mexico City, which also is close to Aztec ruins and Chapultepec Castle. It’s full of great museums, cathedrals, noteworthy restaurants and more. A guided tour or exploring on your own are both good ways to see it all.

Places to Stay in Mexico City

Check out the Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, Hilton’s Umbral or The Brick Hotel for lodging. All get high marks for service, location, and their own unique take on the city.

12. Puerto Rico

• Typical November high: 85°F
• Best for: Beaches, Old San Juan and rainforest adventures

This island is a US territory, so US citizens don’t need to change their currency or get a passport to visit. And it’s filled with warm sea breezes, beautiful resorts, ancient history, exotic culture and delectable food.

No visit to Puerto Rico is complete without a day spent in Old San Juan, including a tour of the Castillo San Felipe del Morro fort and a visit to the El Yunque National Forest.

If you’re there on a night when the moon is new, don’t miss a chance to go kayaking on one of Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays. To experience the local cuisine, rent a car and drive the “pork highway” into the interior of the country. It will be the tastiest pork you have ever eaten.

Places to Stay in Puerto Rico

Staying in Old San Juan puts you in the heart of the city’s history, culture and cuisine. In the Condado Beach area, try the family-friendly San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. To experience history in a luxurious sort of way, head to the Caribe Hilton, the first Hilton hotel built outside of the continental US and the place that claims to have invented the Pina Colada.

13. New Orleans, Louisiana

• Typical November high: 72°F
• Best for: Live music, Creole food and historic neighborhoods

No one knows how to throw a party quite like New Orleans. Just being in the city feels like a celebration. Highs early in November are around the mid-70s and lower 70s by Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect time to check out party-central, Bourbon Street. It’s also a great time to feel like you’re in Europe without the long-haul flight by strolling through the French Quarter.

Looking for water activities? Cruise the Mississippi River in a steamboat or take a swamp boat tour.

Other must-dos include eating beignets at Cafe du Monde, listening to soulful live music and trying Creole food. And the city offers opportunities to see NBA or NFL sports, Broadway plays and great museums.

Places to Stay in New Orleans

The Maison de la Luz is a boutique hotel that’s ideal for a trip to the city. Its 67 rooms and suites feature original local art and luxury amenities. Hotel Provincial and Virgin Hotels New Orleans also get excellent marks for access to local attractions, service and decor.

14. Palm Springs, California

• Typical November high: 78°F
• Best for: Resort pools, desert hikes and mid-century-modern style

With average November highs around 78 degrees, Palm Springs is made for pool time, patio dining and desert adventures. There’s no beach here, but the mountain scenery, palm trees and stylish resort pools make that easy to forgive.

This desert location is home to Tahquitz Canyon and Joshua Tree National Park is just an hour away. Both are just a few of the great hiking and biking spots.

Palm Springs also offers botanical gardens, a zoo, museums and a vibrant art scene.

Places to Stay in Palm Springs

Palm Canyon Drive helps make the town postcard perfect and provides the best area to stay. The views of the Desert Riviera Hotel and Hotel California are perfectly situated there with views of the San Jacinto Mountains. They’re adults-only, though, so great for a trip sans kids.

Check out the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort for a trip with kids. The whole family will love the lazy river and 2-acre water playground.

15. Phoenix, Arizona

• Typical November high: 76°F
• Best for: Hiking, golf and sunny resort getaways

Not all of the best warm places to go in November come with a view of the ocean. Arizona may be landlocked, but it houses one of the best cities known for year-round sunshine and warm temperatures. Phoenix is perfect for luxurious wellness-focused resorts and fantastic golf courses.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the deserts and mountains to hike and the spectacular botanical garden. Culture seekers will enjoy a guided tour of Taliesin West, the former home of Frank Lloyd Wright, and other museums.

Want to venture out of the city on a day trip? The old west town of Tortilla Flat, the red rocks of Sedona and Montezuma Castle are within a couple of hours.

Places to Stay in Phoenix

The 39-acre Arizona Biltmore Resort offers a luxe stay in what is known as a state landmark. Kimpton’s Hotel Palomar Phoenix or Hyatt Place Phoenix are great downtown choices as well. Marriott’s Camby Hotel is also conveniently located and offers views of the Camelback Mountains. On a budget? Spark by Hilton Phoenix East Mesa keeps rooms under $100 most nights.

16. Riviera Maya, Mexico

• Typical November high: 84°F
• Best for: Beaches, cenotes and all-inclusive resorts

Cancun and the Riviera Maya share the same Caribbean coastline, but they offer different vacation experiences. Cancun concentrates its resorts and nightlife around the Hotel Zone, while the Riviera Maya stretches south through destinations including Playa del Carmen, Akumal and Tulum.

While Cancun exudes energy and a bustling nightlife, Riviera Maya has a more laid-back vibe. ATV riding, visiting ruins, cenote swims, ziplining and snorkeling top the list of things to do.

Places to Stay in Riviera Maya

The Grand Velas at Riviera Maya can’t be beat because of the kids club, 8 restaurants and secluded suites. The Hotel Xcaret Mexico is a unique hotel in the Playa del Carmen area of Riviera Maya. The huge, all-inclusive resort offers access to Grupo Xcaret’s adventure and amusement parks, as well as luxe accommodations and amenities. Want a familiar name nearby? Hilton Cancun’s all-inclusive is an easy pairing just up the coast.

17. San Antonio, Texas

• Typical November high: 72°F
• Best for: The River Walk, historic missions and family attractions

San Antonio may not be the warmest spot on our list with November temperatures around 70 degrees. Those comfortable daytime temps lend themselves well to lots to do on a fall vacation.

Of course, visiting The Alamo and the Riverwalk are fantastic things to do here. Visitors can also tour the missions located in San Antonio. These walled compounds housed priests and Native Americans and were later named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Theme park enthusiasts will love SeaWorld San Antonio. It’s home to the tallest, fastest and longest wooden roller coaster in the state. El Mercado, Texas Rodeo Company and many parks are a few other offerings in the city. The city is also about an hour from the Texas Hill Country, which has wineries, shopping and scenic beauty.

Places to Stay in San Antonio

San Antonio is one of our favorite places to earn and use points with the big brand hotels. They all have great options right along or near the Riverwalk and within walking distance of The Alamo. Check out Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk, San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk or the Omni La Mansión del Rio.

18. San Diego, California

• Typical November high: 70°F
• Best for: Family attractions, beautiful beaches and outdoor sightseeing

San Diego has long topped the list of best places to go on a West Coast family vacation. With average daytime temperatures above 70 early in the month, it’s also a great warm place to go in November. SoCal has something for everyone. Beachgoers will enjoy one of the many beaches, like La Jolla Shores Beach or Coronado Beach.

Families will love the world-famous San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego.  Old Town San Diego was my favorite for fun, learning and culture. And the USS Midway Museum and Cabrillo National Monument are also perfect for exploring the history of the area.

Places to Stay in San Diego

The legendary Hotel del Coronado is a top resort choice in the deluxe category. The Sofia Hotel is great for those wanting to stay in the Gaslamp District. La Jolla Cove Suites offers amazing views for those wanting to be near the beach. And Town and Country Resort in Mission Valley is a great deal a bit outside the city. Think things like a pool with a water slide, fire pits, scheduled activities and onsite restaurants.

19. Savannah, Georgia

• Typical November high: 71°F
• Best for: Historic squares, Southern food and coastal day trips

History lurks around every corner in this Georgian town. Savannah City Market is a good place to start. The expansive open-air market has been operating since the 1700s. Then head to the ruins of Wormsloe Historic Site or explore the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The Historic District’s parks also make for a great way to spend the day. Spanish moss envelopes the area in true Southern style. Next, the cobblestones of River Street invite you to wander and dine in some of the best restaurants in the city.

If brave enough, take a ghost tour; Savannah claims to be the most haunted city in the nation.

The great thing about Savannah is even after you’ve filled your culture cup, there’s still more to do. For example, if the coast is calling you, check out Tybee Island. Located only 20 minutes away from Savannah, Tybee Island boasts 3 miles of beaches.

Places to Stay in Savannah

Why not stay in a mansion while in Savannah? The opulent Victorian-styled Hamilton-Turner Inn that dates back to 1873 is a top choice. Or check out the Perry Lane Hotel. It’s housed in a new building, although it blends seamlessly with the history of the area.

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