Quick answer: February is great for winter sun, Carnival (Rio, Venice), whale watching (Baja, Hawaii), skiing and the Northern Lights.
February pairs reliable winter sun with some of the world’s best festivals and wildlife. Here’s where to go.
The 12 best February destinations
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Carnival usually falls in February — the world’s biggest party.
Venice, Italy
The masked, elegant Venice Carnival.
Thailand & Southeast Asia
Still in the dry, sunny season.
The Maldives & Caribbean
Peak winter-sun conditions.
Baja California, Mexico
Grey-whale watching in the lagoons.
Maui, Hawaii
Humpback whales gather offshore.
The Alps & Japan
Peak ski season and deep snow.
Iceland & Finnish Lapland
Northern Lights and winter activities.
Sapporo, Japan
The spectacular Snow Festival.
The Galápagos
Warm, calm seas and active wildlife.
South Africa
Summer beaches and safari.
UAE
Warm, sunny and comfortable.
How to choose
Time a trip around Carnival (Rio or Venice) if that’s the draw; otherwise choose winter sun (Maldives, Caribbean, Thailand), wildlife (whales in Baja and Hawaii) or snow (the Alps, Japan).
Related travel guides
Planning a specific year? See our best places to visit in February 2027 picks.