The 10 best places to travel in January 2026
Editor's Note
While the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is peak travel season in many parts of the world, January offers a welcome pause from the holiday rush. It is an opportune time to hit the reset button, recover from end-of-the-year burnout and, even better, take advantage of off-peak travel deals. To compensate for the drop in demand this time of year, many airlines, hotels and cruises lower their prices — making January a smart time to score a deal on a leisure trip.
On top of that, January has something for every kind of traveler, whether you prefer skiing powder-filled slopes in the Northern Hemisphere or sunning on sugary sand beaches below the equator.
To spark inspiration for your first vacation in the new year, here are the 10 best places to travel in January in the U.S. and beyond.
Cape Town
January is the hottest and driest month in South Africa’s legislative capital, with daytime temperatures averaging in the mid- to low 80s, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. If you’re a nature lover, head to Boulders Beach early in the morning to see African penguins and their newborn chicks. Another great spot for wildlife spotting (namely, Cape fur seals) is Duiker Island in Hout Bay. If you’re in the mood to simply soak up some sun, your best bets are Camps Bay Beach, the Clifton beaches and Muizenberg Beach.
Oenophiles should book the Stellenbosch Wine Tractor Wine Tasting Tour, a unique hop-on, hop-off experience that explores 10 wine producers in Stellenbosch, a region renowned for its cabernet sauvignon and pinotage.
The Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, also known as Kaapse Klopse, is an annual celebration featuring thousands of musicians, singers and dancers. It takes place Jan. 2, a date of historical importance because it was the day enslaved people were allowed time off to celebrate after New Year’s Day.
TPG tip: Opened earlier this year, Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof is in the hip City Bowl neighborhood, which is chock-full of buzzy restaurants and popular attractions, such as the Bo-Kaap and Company's Garden. In January, rooms are available from $204 or 54,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Pyeongchang, South Korea
Japan might be the most famous Asian destination for skiing, but here’s an insider tip: South Korea is also packed with world-class slopes. (Now you know why Pyeongchang was selected to host the 2018 Winter Olympics.) Located approximately 110 miles east of South Korea’s capital of Seoul in the Taebaek Mountains, Pyeongchang is home to several popular ski resorts, including Yongpyong Resort (South Korea’s largest ski resort), Phoenix Park and Alpensia Ski Resort.
If a wintry hike is more your speed, head to Odaesan National Park, which has numerous trails for all skill levels. It’s also where you’ll discover Woljeongsa Temple, an important Buddhist site brimming with national treasures, like the nine-story stone pagoda.
TPG tip: Drawing inspiration from iconic European Alpine villages, the InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort offers breathtaking views of Balwang Mountain and Alpensia Lake, 238 classic guest rooms and suites and a bountiful breakfast buffet to fuel you up for a day on the slopes. Rates start at $152 or 26,000 IHG One Rewards points per night in January.
Oahu, Hawaii
Though January means occasional and fleeting showers on Oahu, it also means affordable hotel rates, fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures with average highs in the low 80s. It’s also a prime time for spotting humpback whales, which migrate to the Hawaiian Islands in the winter months.
While the water is definitely warm enough for swimming, it’s best to avoid the North Shore’s extremely high surf — leave that to the professionals — and stick to Oahu’s south shores, like Waikiki’s Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Fort DeRussy Beach Park. There are also numerous scenic hikes around the island, from the lush rainforested Manoa Falls Trail to the Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail for breathtaking panoramic views.
TPG tip: Opened in April, the Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore has spacious residential-style accommodations in one of Oahu’s most charming regions. In January, rates start at $312 or 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
January in Riviera Nayarit is what most people envision when it comes to ideal beach weather: mild and dry conditions in the low 80s, with warm days and cool nights.
This 200-mile-long coastal stretch along the Pacific Ocean, just north of Puerto Vallarta, is also a smart alternative to the more touristy destinations of Cancun and Cabo San Lucas. You'll find a vast coastline with a dozen certified-clean beaches blessed with crystal-clear water and pristine sand. Playa Destiladeras is a fan favorite, offering a wealth of outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences.
January is also the beginning of whale-watching season here.
TPG tip: Opening in December, Siari Riviera Nayarit, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve immerses guests in a serene sanctuary spanning 920 lush acres. It features 91 ocean-view rooms and suites, Zulu (a seafood eatery helmed by Mexican chef David Castro Hussong) and Ha Yeka Wellness Center, a spa inspired by the local Huichol community. Rates start at $748 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in January.
Related: United Airlines adds Mexico's Riviera Nayarit in 3-route winter expansion
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Frequently referred to as “The Riviera of South America,” Punta del Este — located on the Atlantic Coast in Uruguay’s Maldonado province — has long been a beloved leisure destination for Argentines and Brazilians, thanks to its vibrant cityscape and pristine beaches. And the peak of summer, in January, makes a swanky warm-weather escape for those living north of the equator.
In addition to beautiful beaches, Punta del Este is home to a thrilling polo and art scene. Visit the world-famous Ralli Museum, which features works by Salvador Dalí and Fernando Botero, and Le Mano, a giant hand sculpture emerging from the sand by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal.
TPG tip: Adored for its secluded location, personalized service and high-end amenities, including an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, Fasano Punta del Este epitomizes quiet luxury. January rates for this American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts member start at $966 per night.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
It’s no secret: Jackson Hole transforms into a world-class winter destination this time of year. However, what you may not know is that early to mid-January is an especially good time to plan a vacation. This time frame is not nearly as congested as the peak winter month of February, and the conditions for skiing, snowboarding and other outdoor pursuits are excellent with heavy snowfall and super-fluffy powder.
When it’s time to fuel up after a long day on the slopes, head to a local mainstay like Teton Thai or Bin22. (Teton Thai’s best-selling massaman curry will warm you from the inside out.)
TPG tip: A member of Marriott's Autograph Collection, The Cloudveil provides a well-appointed and laid-back stay near Jackson, Wyoming’s Town Square. It has 100 handsome rooms warmed up with wood and leather, and The Bistro, which turns out hearty, all-day European fare. Accommodations are available from $550 or 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in January.
The Bahamas
Falling in the Bahamas’ dry season, January brings on low humidity, pleasant temperatures hovering around the low 80s and sun-drenched days. Waves are calmer this time of year, resulting in extended visibility underwater, making it perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
January is also the time for spotting humpback whales, which migrate from their feeding grounds in the North Atlantic to the area for breeding. Beyond the striking azure waters, The Bahamas also has plenty of cultural appeal. Learn about Junkanoo’s colorful 200-plus-year history at the Museum of Junkanoo. Dig into Bahamian staples, such as conch fritters and sky juice, at Arawak Cay. Browse beautiful works by local artisans at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. Drink up local culture at Bon Vivants, the country’s first craft cocktail bar.
TPG tip: Spread across 35 lush acres with Versailles-inspired gardens, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas — which has been around for 60-plus years — remains one of the destination’s most coveted stays. Nightly rates in January start at $1,965. Receive daily breakfast for two, late checkout and more when you book via the American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts program.
Sedona, Arizona
If your dream vacation involves peaceful hikes, cooler weather and budget-friendly lodging, consider planning a Sedona vacation in January. Daytime highs typically hover in the low 60s, and most hotels lower their rates during the offseason. In addition to hiking, you can experience Sedona’s spectacular landscapes on a jeep tour; Pink Adventure Tours is a popular choice.
As an established wellness destination, Sedona also offers numerous spas — Sedona's New Day Spa and Gateway Cottage Wellness Center are two popular independently owned picks — where you can unwind your mind and body. And since Sedona is one of only 20 certified Dark Sky communities in the world, it’s an unparalleled spot for stargazing. Remember to bundle up, as the nights can get quite chilly.
TPG tip: One of Sedona’s newer hotels, Sky Rock Sedona, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel is a comfortable stay close to the area’s most popular hiking trails. After a day of exploring, unwind in the outdoor hot tub or relax by a fire pit as you take in Sedona’s stunning night sky. The property has January rates starting at $193 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Banff, Alberta
While skiing Banff’s world-class resorts (Mount Norquay Ski Resort, Sunshine Village and the Lake Louise Ski Resort) in January, when the snowfall is heavy, is a no-brainer, there are lots more ways to enjoy a winter vacation in the Canadian Rockies. SnowDays Festival, held Jan. 16 to Feb. 8 in 2026, transforms downtown Banff into a wintry wonderland with live snow carvings and skijoring (a winter sport where a horse pulls a trick skier) demos.
Prefer to completely relax? Then visit Banff Upper Hot Springs for a scenic soak in its steamy, mineral-rich waters. For panoramic views of the six mountain ranges, take a ride up the Banff Gondola. A hike in Johnston Canyon will reward you with stunning views of frozen waterfalls and ice formations.
TPG tip: Steeped in history and grandeur, Fairmont Banff Springs has been called the "Castle in the Rockies" since opening in 1988. Nightly rates in January start at $433. Book directly with Accor Live Limitless points or via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to receive daily breakfast for two, late checkout and more.
Related: Third time's the charm: Finally taking a Canadian dream trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper
Sydney
It’s peak summer season Down Under in Sydney. Though Australia’s biggest metropolis holds year-round appeal, it especially comes alive in January, when daytime temperatures average in the low 80s.
Whether you prefer to sink your toes into the soft sands at the world-famous Bondi Beach, get up close to the iconic Sydney Opera House or see 350-plus animal species at Taronga Zoo Sydney, there’s no shortage of ways to take in the sun and fresh air. And mark your calendars for this year’s Sydney Festival, a city-wide arts festival featuring over 100 music, dance and theatrical performances and events celebrating its 50th anniversary, being held Jan. 8 to 25, 2026.
TPG tip: As Australia’s first Kimpton property, the Kimpton Margot Sydney dazzles with a glamorous art deco design — the historic building dates back to the 1930s — a buzzy restaurant helmed by celebrity Australian chef Luke Mangan and 172 spacious guest rooms and suites kitted out with elegant furnishings. Rates start at $190 or 35,000 IHG One Rewards points per night in January.
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| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
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Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.