Top 5 Places to Travel in February

February is the time of year when most people are relaxing, recovering from the holidays and getting back into the swing of their daily routine. But if you can't wait to get back out there, February is the perfect month for a unique adventure. From hiking in far-off New Zealand to cycling in Cuba to enjoying a winter wonderland closer to home, adventurous travelers can find something to satisfy their wanderlust, even in the off-season. Here are our top destinations for travel in February.

Cuba

Travelers to Cuba in February can expect the perfect cocktail of hiking and cycling, culture and great weather--alongside a few cuba libres, the country's national mixed drink! The rainy season in Cuba starts around April, so February is the ideal time to enjoy clear blue skies and moderate temperatures in the mid-to-high seventies. In Cuba, you'll have the opportunity to cycle or stroll through perfectly-preserved colonial towns, ride in classic cars from the 50's and 60's, and engage with friendly locals eager to share their stories. It's often said that traveling in Cuba is like being in another world: one of blue skies, friendly people and a relaxed rhythm of life. For an unforgettable and unique February adventure, Cuba is the place to be. Check out Backroads' Cuba trips!

Yellowstone & Grand Tetons

Miles and miles of untouched snow, streams burbling under ice, herds of bison ambling in the distance, and no one to have to share it with but the wildlife--this pristine winter wonderland is found in Wyoming's Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Parks. Enjoy the feeling of true solitude as you snowshoe or dogsled through the parks, visiting frozen waterfalls, geothermal pools and famous geysers. Go ahead and brush that beach vacation aside, get off the beaten path and experience true serenity in this winter oasis. Check out Backroads' Yellowstone & Tetons Snow Adventure trip!

Palm Springs & Joshua Tree National Park

This Southern Californian desert landscape is well known for its stunning hiking trails, otherworldly landscapes and great rock climbing. February is one of the least-crowded months at the park, which makes it the perfect time to experience all the wonders of this unforgettable landscape! Joshua Tree and the surrounding areas are a wonderful destination for an unforgettable February hiking adventure, with mild temperatures and deserted trails waiting to welcome the intrepid shoulder-season visitor. You might even catch an early glimpse of the park’s famed springtime wildflower bloom!  Check out Backroads' Palm Springs & Joshua Tree Walking & Hiking Tour!

New Zealand

While the Northern Hemisphere is trying to shake off the winter cold in February, down in New Zealand it's the tail end of summer, meaning you can expect blue skies and clear, hot sunshine. The two islands of New Zealand are famous for their stunning cliffs and rolling green hills, a fantasy landscape for a hiking or cycling adventure. You'll see glaciers, geysers, hot springs and more! The scenery is truly out-of-this world, and the islands' sparse population means you can enjoy it in relative solitude. You'll have to see it to believe it. Check out Backroads' New Zealand trips!

Hawaii

February is the perfect time to visit Hawaii for a tropical vacation: you'll dodge the summer and holiday crowds as well as the worst of the winter rains, enjoying 70-degree weather ideal for hiking in the jungle or lounging on the beach. It's an exciting month in Hawaii: from the Cherry Blossom Festival in Honolulu (a celebration of Hawaii's Japanese culture), to the Maui Whale Festival (the highest concentration of humpback whales in the world is found in Maui's waters in the winter!), every traveler can find something to enjoy. You can bike through lava fields, hike up volcanoes, snack on exotic fruits and maybe even try surfing--it's truly an experience for travelers of all stripes. Check out Backroads' Hawaii trips!  

Want to see more tips for traveling to the right place at the right time? See our expert recommendations for every month of the year:

• January
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December