Side trips somewhere warm from PHX

Question

We are planning to spend Christmas in Phoenix with our son and then go somewhere warm for a week before flying back to the UK. Where can we reach from PHX? Cabo? Cancun for Yucatan? Any other suggestions?

Many thanks!

Answer

Spending Christmas in Phoenix and then heading somewhere warm for a week is a great plan. From Phoenix, you have several convenient warm destinations reachable by direct flights or short connections. Your choice depends on whether you want beaches, cultural experiences, or a mix of relaxation and sightseeing.

Popular warm destinations from Phoenix:

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: Located at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo offers beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and family-friendly activities. Direct flights from PHX are frequent, and the weather in December is generally sunny with temperatures in the mid-70s°F. Activities include snorkeling, boat tours, whale watching (seasonal), and exploring the town’s shops and restaurants.
Cancún / Riviera Maya, Mexico: Cancún is a popular option for families seeking both beaches and cultural excursions. The Yucatán Peninsula offers all-inclusive resorts, Mayan ruins (like Chichén Itzá and Tulum), and cenotes for swimming. December is a great time to visit as the weather is warm but not overly hot, with average highs in the mid-80s°F. Direct flights from PHX are available.
Los Cabos & Puerto Vallarta combo: For a mix of coastal scenery and vibrant towns, you could consider Puerto Vallarta. It’s slightly farther than Cabo but offers charming old town areas, beaches, and easy access to eco-adventures like jungle zip-lining or boat tours to the Marietas Islands.

Other options reachable from PHX include:

Hawaii: While flights are longer (5–6 hours to Honolulu), Hawaii is warm year-round. Oahu, Maui, or Kauai offer family-friendly resorts, beaches, hiking, and cultural experiences. December is peak holiday season, so bookings should be made early.
Florida (Miami, Key West): For a U.S. domestic option, Miami and the Keys are warm, with beaches, wildlife, and vibrant city culture. Flights from PHX are about 4–5 hours.
Caribbean islands: Direct flights from Phoenix to islands like the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, or Aruba are available, offering resorts, beaches, and water sports.

Tips for planning:

Book flights and accommodations as early as possible since the Christmas–New Year period is high season.
Consider travel time versus vacation length; shorter flights allow more time to enjoy your destination.
Look for resorts with family-friendly amenities if traveling with a child, including pools, beach access, and kid’s programs.
Check travel requirements for international destinations, including passports and any entry regulations.

Overall, Cabo or Cancún are the easiest and warmest options from Phoenix for a week-long holiday after Christmas. Both offer sunny weather, beaches, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Hawaii is amazing but requires more travel time. The Caribbean or Florida are also excellent choices depending on your preferences for culture, activities, and beach time.

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