Top Snowbird Destinations for Long-Term Stays
As the fiery blaze of fall begins to etch its way to the first seasonal frost, flocks of travelers know it’s time to follow the sun. Each year, thousands of snowbirds trade cold northern months for sunshine, fresh air, and open fairways.
Swapping snow shovels and windshield scrapers for sand wedges and beach umbrellas is nearly a national pastime. A long-term vacation rental turns a short getaway into a full season of warm days and new adventures.
Looking to escape winter’s chill in search of sunshine and a relaxed pace? Try on these destinations for a slower season of sun, golf, exploration, and nature.
Florida
With winter highs averaging from 65 to 75 degrees across the Sunshine State, plan to spend plenty of time enjoying the great outdoors. Along with the white sands and relaxed vibe on Florida’s Gulf Coast, highlighted by beachside cottages and crowd-pleasing sunset celebrations, there are more than 100 golf courses stretching from Tampa to Sarasota.
Florida’s Atlantic Coast welcomes long-term visitors to West Palm Beach, long heralded as a premier snowbird winter destination. Vero Beach, located about 1½ hours north of WPB is another popular winter destination. With mild weather, easy access to Indian River Lagoon and Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge for nature enthusiasts, Vero Beach is a gem along Florida’s Treasure Coast.
South of West Palm Beach, continuing beyond Fort Lauderdale, winter visitors can get in their steps while strolling along ample seaside boardwalks. Inland, family-friendly vacation homes extending from Orlando through Central Florida showcase extensive lakes, warm-weather, and easy access to Tampa Bay Beaches.
Texas
Together with Florida, Texas dominates as a top snowbird destination according to StorageCafe’s list for 2026-27. In Texas size style, the LoneStar State provides mild winter weather along the Texas Gulf Coast, beaches, outdoor recreation, and access to nature. With 27 miles of drivable beaches, and the Galveston-Bolivar Ferry connection, Bolivar Peninsula offers a relaxed coastal experience for Winter Texans.
Continuing down the coast, pristine beaches stretch from Port Aransas on the Texas Coastal Bend to South Padre Island, the only tropical island in Texas. Birding and nature opportunities abound in nearby Brownsville, about forty minutes from SPI, which makes exploring wetlands or wildlife refuges part of winter fun.
Arizona
As summer temps bid farewell, winter turns Arizona into an outdoor playground with western flair. Greater Phoenix alone has over 200 golf courses, many with desert mountain views. Stretching over 30 miles in the northeastern part of the Valley of the Sun, Scottsdale is a premier destination for relaxation and walkable shopping areas, paired with adventure and wildlife in the nearby McDowell Mountain Range.
In Tucson, Saguaro National Park protects the giant cactus found only in the Sonoran Desert. Winter highs in the 60s and 70s make hiking and patio dining a daily pleasure. For those still wanting to flirt with brisk winter mornings, Sedona offers a scenic high-desert stop for stunning red-rock hikes and famed energy vortexes.
California
From sunny beaches in Southern California to high-desert retreats, the Golden State attracts snowbirds due to its mild weather and vibrant communities. The Coachella Valley has more than 100 golf courses and over 300 days of sunshine a year. Joshua Tree National Park is an easy day trip.
With proximity to the bustling hubs of L.A. and San Diego, the timeless essence of Palm Springs and its pristine golf courses make this desert destination a popular California playground. Desert scenery, dramatic mountain ranges, mid-century architecture, and an eclectic arts and culture scene await!
Long-Term Vacation Rentals for Snowbirds
Quite simply, a long-term vacation rental provides the space, kitchen, and comfort of home in a warmer place, offering a chance to really settle in. With room for visiting grandchildren, each place feels like home. Casago's local teams know the best tee times, birding trails, and dining spots in each area. They're ready to help you plan a winter worth remembering.
Pack your sunscreen, golf clubs, and binoculars. Your warm-weather season starts now. Browse our Casago Destinations to find the perfect stay.
