Discover America's Sunshine Gems: Where's the Best Weather in 2025?

Palm Springs, California, USA - Summer in Florida carries its own signature warmth and vibrance, but many Floridians often find themselves daydreaming about travel destinations boasting more temperate conditions. You may wonder, where in the U.S. can you escape the heat while still basking in pleasant weather? Not surprisingly, Hawaii tops the list as one of the locations with the best weather in the U.S. According to HowStuffWorks, Hawaii is noted for having some of the best weather in the U.S., underscoring why it remains a coveted travel hotspot.

In Hawaii, the tropical climate gifts residents and visitors with warm temperatures and sunny skies year-round. While summer highs hover around 88°F (31°C), winter lows seldom drop below 66°F (19°C) due to the moderating effects of the trade winds that weave through the archipelago. Indeed, as Climates to Travel highlights, coastal temperatures in Hawaii vary little throughout the year. For those drawn to this paradise, the best time to visit is typically from May to October when temperatures are warm yet delightful, thanks to these very winds.

Exploring Hawaii’s Unique Weather Patterns

Hawaii is rich in microclimates, which can drastically change by just a few kilometers. This phenomenon is largely influenced by slope orientation — sometimes transforming lush forested areas into arid deserts within a short drive. The average annual rainfall varies significantly; Honolulu, for instance, receives less than 1,000 mm (40 in) annually, while Hilo, on the windward side, is drenched with around 3,050 mm (120 in) of rain each year, highlighting the striking diversity across the islands.

But weather is not just about sunshine and rain. Seasonal sea surface temperature anomalies also play a crucial role in shaping Hawaii’s climate. As shared by the APDRC Climate Summary, this year saw near to below-normal sea surface temperatures in central and eastern tropical Pacific regions, affecting conditions throughout the area. Nevertheless, Hawaii saw above-normal sea levels, which often indicate a healthier marine environment.

Variety Across the States

While Hawaii basks in its tropical climate, the U.S. offers a smorgasbord of diverse weather patterns. California, for instance, flaunts places like San Diego, with its Mediterranean flair marked by mild winters and warm summers, or Santa Barbara, where the coast’s calming geography shields it from the harsher inland weather.

Various regions across the U.S. present their charm, with cities like Charleston, South Carolina, boasting warm summers and mild winters and Miami, Florida, with its tropical climate that entices many year-round. It seems that wherever you venture, you’re bound to find a piece of paradise that suits your weather preferences. For example, Miami’s summers reach 90°F (32°C), coupled with the undeniable charm of its beaches.

In light of these compelling factors, the next time you contemplate vacations or simply want to enjoy a sunny day, remember, Hawaii’s captivating landscape and fantastic weather are enticing enough to make anyone feel right at home — no matter where your roots lie.