6 Best Places to Visit in the U.S. to Avoid Seasonal Depression

So we recently crossed paths with someone who deals with Seasonal Affective Disorder—aka SAD. And no, that’s not just a clever acronym. It’s a real thing. No joke, despite the name sounding like your playlist after a breakup.

When the temps drop and the daylight ghosts us at 4 PM, a lot of folks start feeling down in the dumps. SAD usually shows up like clockwork and overstays its welcome until spring decides to return from vacation.

For people caught in SAD’s chilly grip, even basic stuff feels like climbing Everest in flip-flops. Energy? Gone. Motivation? Missing. Mood? Eh, let’s not talk about it. That’s why it’s key to find some sunshine-y spots in the U.S. to help dodge those winter blues.

Of course, getting more sun is the MVP move, but it’s not the only player in the game. Some folks swear by adding mood-supporting supplements like chlorella—a little green super-algae that’s packed with nutrients and may help your brain feel less like a dark cave and more like a cozy, well-lit cabin.

The fix? Grab your shades and chase the sun. America’s got plenty of sunny, warm places that’ll help you feel a little less… SAD. Let’s dive into a few, shall we?

6 Best Places to Visit in the U.S. to Avoid Seasonal Depression

Here are the 6 best places to visit in the U.S. to avoid seasonal depression. These places will help you to kick your bad mood to the curb.

1. Phoenix, Arizona

In winter, the temperatures in this stunning, desert city average in the high-60s to low-70s, making it perfect touring weather. Tourist hotspots like Papago State Park, Lost Dutchman State Park, and Camelback Mountain make Phoenix the ideal place to enjoy the great outdoors.

Phoenix is one of our favorite places to vacation in the US.  In the city, the Arizona Canal provides visitors with an abundance of scrumptious tasty eateries, local breweries, farmers’ markets, and spectacular views of the Camelback.

Where to Stay

Budget: Courtyard North (modern and clean) or Drury Inn & Suites Happy Valley (pool and hot tub)
Mid-Range: Rise Uptown Phoenix (boutique)
Luxury: Royal Palms Resort (Camelback Mountain backdrop) and Spa or Kimpton Hotel Palomar (downtown)

What to Do

Excursion: 2-Hour Arizona Desert Guided Tour by ATV

2. Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii is a great place to visit any time of the year, especially when you’re going from the frigid midwest to a tropical, Polynesian setting. It’s truly magical. The average winter temperatures range from the high-70s to the low-80s, making it the perfect place for basically everything. Activities include:

• Snorkeling
• Sunbathing
• Hiking along the Napali Coast
• Daydreaming in Waimea Canyon, deemed “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific
• Surfing
• Scuba diving

Where to Stay

Budget: Hotel Coral Reef Resort (oceanfront) or Kauai Palms Hotel (kitchenette)
Mid-Range: Kauai Shores Hotel (amazing deal)
Luxury: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa (river pools and free luau shows)

What to Do

Excursion: Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour

3. South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island is just about as far south as you can go without crossing into Mexico. Winter temperatures average in the mid-70s and the beaches tend to be quiet and relaxed. All the beaches in South Padre are public and easily accessible. Popular activities this time of year include the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, the Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature Center, and Isla Blanca Park.

Where to Stay

Budget: Best Western Beachside Inn (pool and hot tub) or Super 8 (clean)
Budget Bonus!: Marina Retreat (beachfront apartment)
Mid-Range: Upper Deck Hotel and Bar (adults only) or Courtyard (large pool)
Luxury: 5 Bedroom Beachfront Condo (couples retreat)

What to Do

Excursion: Eco and Dolphin Watch Tour

4. Santa Monica, California

Enjoying temperatures in the high 60s, southern California doesn’t have much of a winter. Just like in any other season, visitors can enjoy sandy beaches, fabulous fish tacos, and Venice Beach. The mild temperatures are perfect for exercising, which makes it easy for Southern Californians to be outdoors all year long.

Where to Stay

Budget: PodShare Venice (evening entertainment) or Ocean Front/View Bunk Beds (ocean view)
Mid-Range: Santa Monica Motel (clean and newly-renovated) or The Ambrose Hotel (boutique)
Luxury: Santa Monica Proper Hotel (luxury lifestyle hotel)

What to Do

Excursion: Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches, and More

5. Daytona Beach, Florida

The only problem with heading to Florida is deciding which area to visit. With temperatures averaging in the 80s, Daytona Beach is always a good option. Travelers love visiting the Daytona International Speedway, the Boardwalk & Pier, and of course, Daytona Beach. Also, using Daytona as a base location makes it easy to explore the nearby hotspots of Orlando, the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, and the Kennedy Space Center.

Where to Stay

Budget: Atlantic Shores Motel (wonderful location)
Mid-Range: The Daytona, Autograph Collection (so cool!) or Fairfield Inn & Suites (pool)
Luxury: Black Dolphin Inn (wow!)

What to Do

Excursion: Dolphin and Manatee Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour

6. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Although the winter temperatures only get into the low 50s, they may be just high enough to calm the nerves. With a mountain backdrop, a charming Old Town, and a trendy food and drink scene, Albuquerque is a great city to explore. From hot air ballooning and hiking to foodie tours and rooftop cocktails, there’s lots of fun in and around Albuquerque.

Where to Stay

Budget: Quality Inn and Suites (indoor pool and hot tub) or Econo Lodge (Old Town)
Mid-Range: Hotel Albuquerque (one-of-a-kind experience)
Luxury: Hotel Chaco (the best hotel in the city)

What to Do

Excursion: Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise

Sun, Supplements, and Staying Energized

Escaping to sunnier destinations is a fantastic way to fend off Seasonal Affective Disorder, but it’s not the only tool in your arsenal. Alongside soaking up those mood-boosting rays, consider giving your body extra support with key nutrients—like iron.

Low iron levels can mimic SAD symptoms, leaving you fatigued, foggy, and downright drained. An iron supplement (especially for those with deficiencies) can help restore energy, sharpen focus, and even improve overall mood by ensuring your body efficiently produces oxygen-carrying red blood cells. Pair that with a sunny getaway—whether it’s Phoenix’s desert warmth or Kauai’s tropical bliss—and you’ve got a one-two punch against winter’s gloom.

So pack your bags, maybe pop an iron supplement if needed, and let the sunshine (literal and metaphorical) do the rest. Here’s to brighter days ahead—wherever you find them!

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