{"id":6345,"date":"2026-09-20T15:02:32","date_gmt":"2026-09-20T15:02:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/?p=6345"},"modified":"2026-09-21T13:40:35","modified_gmt":"2026-09-21T13:40:35","slug":"warm-places-to-go-for-thanksgiving-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/warm-places-to-go-for-thanksgiving-in-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"11 Warm Places to Go for Thanksgiving in 2026 (8 Need No Passport)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your Thanksgiving plans usually involve a coat, this is the list for that other kind of trip. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The one where the whole point is trading the cold for a porch, a pool, or a beach. We pulled together 11 destinations that are genuinely warm in late November, backed by real November temperature data rather than a vague &#8220;it&#8217;s nice down south.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We split them into two groups, since &#8220;no passport needed&#8221; and &#8220;book a flight abroad&#8221; are two very different trips to plan for. If a Thanksgiving in Florida is more what you had in mind, four of the eight no-passport picks below are Florida destinations alone, each with a genuinely different personality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every property linked below is bookable direct through <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stay<\/a> with no OTA service fees. That typically saves 15% compared to booking the same home through Airbnb or Vrbo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>At a Glance: Warm Thanksgiving Destinations for 2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table has-small-font-size\"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>Destination<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Late-Nov Temps<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Passport?<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Best For<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><a href=\"#Puerto-Rico\">Puerto Rico<\/a><\/td><td>86\u00b0F \/ 75\u00b0F<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Warmest no-passport option, Old San Juan charm<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Maui\">Maui, HI<\/a><\/td><td>78\u201384\u00b0F \/ 70\u201374\u00b0F<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Classic tropical Thanksgiving, whale season begins<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Key-West\">Key West &amp; the Florida Keys<\/a><\/td><td>80\u00b0F \/ 72\u00b0F<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Warmest spot in the continental US<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Southwest-Florida-Gulf-Coast\">Southwest Florida Gulf Coast<\/a><\/td><td>High 70s<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Calm Gulf beaches, upscale and family-friendly<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Miami-Beach\">Miami Beach, FL<\/a><\/td><td>High 70s\u2013low 80s<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Warm beach + city energy<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Scottsdale\">Scottsdale\/Phoenix\/Tucson, AZ<\/a><\/td><td>Mid-70s days, 40s nights<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Dry desert warmth, golf, Arizona&#8217;s only Thanksgiving parade<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#San-Diego\">San Diego, CA<\/a><\/td><td>Mid-60s\u2013low 70s<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Mildest reliable warmth, whale watching starts<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#St.-Croix\">St. Croix, US Virgin Islands<\/a><\/td><td>Mid-80s \/ mid-70s<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Genuinely warm Caribbean, still a US territory<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Los-Cabos\">Los Cabos, Mexico<\/a><\/td><td>75\u201383\u00b0F<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Desert-meets-ocean, whale watching begins<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Costa-Rica\">Costa Rica (Pacific coast)<\/a><\/td><td>Warm, tropical; Southern Pacific still sees late-season rain<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Jungle-and-beach adventure combo<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"#Belize\">Ambergris Caye, Belize<\/a><\/td><td>84\u00b0F \/ 68\u00b0F<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Reef snorkeling, quieter than Christmas week<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>No Passport Needed<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Puerto-Rico\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=pr&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=18.24829&amp;location=Puerto%20Rico&amp;locationId=5507068&amp;longitude=-66.49989&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1. Puerto Rico<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Puerto Rico is the warmest &#8220;no passport&#8221; pick on this list by a real margin. Highs sit around 86\u00b0F, and lows rarely drop below 75\u00b0F.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By late November the island is heading into its dry season, right as hurricane season officially ends. Thanksgiving itself is genuinely celebrated here as <em>D\u00eda de Acci\u00f3n de Gracias<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Plaza_de_Armas_de_San_Juan_during_Christmas-5962133c5f9b583f180d0a28-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6348 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Plaza_de_Armas_de_San_Juan_during_Christmas-5962133c5f9b583f180d0a28-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Plaza_de_Armas_de_San_Juan_during_Christmas-5962133c5f9b583f180d0a28-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Plaza_de_Armas_de_San_Juan_during_Christmas-5962133c5f9b583f180d0a28-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Plaza_de_Armas_de_San_Juan_during_Christmas-5962133c5f9b583f180d0a28.jpg 1280w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/768;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By the time you land, Old San Juan&#8217;s plazas are already starting to string up Christmas lights. The holiday atmosphere layers right on top of the beach weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">November is also one of the island&#8217;s quieter, better-value months. It falls in the gap between hurricane season and the winter high season.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>A note on booking here: this is a new market for us, so property inventory is still coming online. Check back as we add verified Puerto Rico rentals.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Maui\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=pr&amp;customLocationId=130&amp;latitude=20.8&amp;location=Maui%2C%20HI&amp;longitude=-156.33&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2. Maui, Hawaii<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maui runs 78\u201384\u00b0F during the day and rarely drops below 70\u00b0F at night in late November. It&#8217;s also the driest of the main Hawaiian islands, even as the wider archipelago moves into its wetter season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Humpback whale season is just beginning to return offshore, with whales typically present in Hawaiian waters <a href=\"https:\/\/hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov\/about\/about.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">from November through April<\/a>, according to NOAA&#8217;s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Several islands run a Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot if your group wants to earn the feast.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"529\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/humpback-whale-watching-hawaii-1024x529.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6351 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/humpback-whale-watching-hawaii-1024x529.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/humpback-whale-watching-hawaii-300x155.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/humpback-whale-watching-hawaii-766x396.jpg 766w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/humpback-whale-watching-hawaii.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/529;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The catch: Thanksgiving week itself is Maui&#8217;s single biggest demand spike of the fall. Plan to book 4\u20136 months out if those specific dates matter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to stay:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/day-trips-from-kihei-maui\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best Day Trips from Kihei, Maui<\/a> covers how to fill the days around your Thanksgiving stay. <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/best-time-to-visit-hawaii\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best Time to Visit Hawaii<\/a> breaks down the shoulder-season value angle, and <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/is-kihei-safe-for-tourists\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Is Kihei Safe for Tourists?<\/a> covers neighborhood-by-neighborhood practical notes if you&#8217;re staying in South Maui.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Key-West\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=24.55524&amp;location=Key%20West%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4946128&amp;longitude=-81.78163&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3. Key West <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;customLocationId=105&amp;latitude=24.75&amp;location=Florida%20Keys%2C%20FL&amp;longitude=-81&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">&amp; the Florida Keys<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;customLocationId=105&amp;latitude=24.75&amp;location=Florida%20Keys%2C%20FL&amp;longitude=-81&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Keys<\/a> stretch 120 miles from Key Largo down to <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=24.55524&amp;location=Key%20West%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4946128&amp;longitude=-81.78163&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Key West<\/a>, and daytime highs hold around 80\u00b0F the whole way, with lows around 72\u00b0F, close to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/media\/key\/Climate\/Florida-Keys-Monthly-Normals_1991-2020.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Weather Service&#8217;s official 30-year normals for Key West<\/a>. But which Key you pick matters more than the weather does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/key-largo-snorkel-tours.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6359 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/key-largo-snorkel-tours.jpg 800w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/key-largo-snorkel-tours-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/key-largo-snorkel-tours-767x511.jpg 767w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 800px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 800\/533;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Largo<\/strong>, the first island you hit driving from Miami, is built around diving and snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Days here run toward boats, paddleboards, and mangrove eco-tours, with a relaxed, low-key nightlife scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Key Largo if:<\/strong> diving or snorkeling is the actual point of the trip and you want the shortest drive from Miami.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Islamorada<\/strong>, about halfway down the chain, calls itself the &#8220;Sportfishing Capital of the World.&#8221; Expect offshore charters, upscale waterfront dining, and art galleries, a more refined, couples-friendly atmosphere than Marathon or Key West.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Islamorada if:<\/strong> fishing is on the agenda, or you want a quieter, more upscale Keys trip without going all the way to Key West.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/islamorada-florida-keys-fly-fishing-tarpon-bonefish-1-2-orig_orig.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6362 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/islamorada-florida-keys-fly-fishing-tarpon-bonefish-1-2-orig_orig.jpg 800w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/islamorada-florida-keys-fly-fishing-tarpon-bonefish-1-2-orig_orig-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/islamorada-florida-keys-fly-fishing-tarpon-bonefish-1-2-orig_orig-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/islamorada-florida-keys-fly-fishing-tarpon-bonefish-1-2-orig_orig-768x768.jpg 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 800px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 800\/800;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"563\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/sombrero_beach_1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6363 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/sombrero_beach_1.jpeg 1000w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/sombrero_beach_1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/sombrero_beach_1-767x432.jpeg 767w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1000px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1000\/563;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Marathon<\/strong>, sitting almost exactly in the middle of the island chain, is the most family-friendly stop. Sombrero Beach is one of the better family beaches in the Keys, and its central location makes day trips to both the Upper and Lower Keys easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Marathon if:<\/strong> you&#8217;re traveling with kids and want a home base within reach of everything else.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key West<\/strong>, at the southernmost tip, is the one with actual nightlife, walkability, and culture. The Key West Offshore Powerboat Racing World Championship runs the first week of November, and the town&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/visitfloridakeys.com\/plan-your-trip\/plan-book\/events\/holidays-in-the-keys\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">official holiday calendar<\/a>, the Harbor Walk of Lights, home tours, a lighted boat parade, officially kicks off the night before Thanksgiving.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/KeysWorlds-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6367 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/KeysWorlds-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/KeysWorlds-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/KeysWorlds-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/KeysWorlds-1.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Key West if:<\/strong> you want energy, walkable Duval Street nightlife, and a real holiday atmosphere layered on top of the beach weather. Thanksgiving week is one of the island&#8217;s two busiest windows of the year (along with the powerboat races), so book ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Southwest-Florida-Gulf-Coast\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=28.75054&amp;location=Florida%2C%20US&amp;locationId=3872&amp;longitude=-82.5001&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4. Southwest Florida Gulf Coast: <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=26.14234&amp;location=Naples%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4940336&amp;longitude=-81.79596&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Naples,<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=26.44897&amp;location=Sanibel%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4945313&amp;longitude=-82.02231&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sanibel<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=27.33643&amp;location=Sarasota%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4947703&amp;longitude=-82.53065&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">&amp; Sarasota<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"678\" height=\"452\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6370 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-2.jpg 678w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-2-300x200.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 678px) 100vw, 678px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 678px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 678\/452;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This stretch of Florida&#8217;s Gulf side sits in the high 70s through late November: calm turquoise water, quiet white-sand beaches, and a noticeably more upscale, less spring-break atmosphere than the Panhandle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But &#8220;Southwest Florida&#8221; isn&#8217;t one trip. Naples, Sanibel, and Sarasota are genuinely different vacations that happen to share a coastline, and picking the wrong one for your group is the easiest way to end up disappointed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=26.14234&amp;location=Naples%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4940336&amp;longitude=-81.79596&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Naples<\/strong> <\/a>is the polished, golf-and-dining pick. Beaches sit right in town, no causeway or bridge required, and Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South are packed with upscale restaurants, galleries, and boutique shopping. With more than 80 golf courses in the greater Naples area, it&#8217;s built for couples and golfers who want their beach and their dinner reservation within a short walk of each other.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"536\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/third-street-south-is-1024x536.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6371 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/third-street-south-is-1024x536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/third-street-south-is-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/third-street-south-is-766x401.jpg 766w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/third-street-south-is.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/536;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Naples if:<\/strong> you want a couples&#8217; or golf trip with real restaurants and a walkable, low-key nightlife scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to stay in Naples:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-naples-fl-best-areas-for-every-type-of-trip\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to Stay in Naples, FL: Best Areas for Every Type of Trip<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-naples-florida-for-families-couples\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to Stay in Naples for Families &amp; Couples<\/a> cover neighborhood picks. <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/what-to-pack-for-a-fall-trip-to-naples-fl\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What to Pack for a Fall Trip to Naples, FL<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/best-time-to-visit-naples-florida-weather-crowds-prices\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best Time to Visit Naples, Florida<\/a> cover the practical planning side. <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/getting-around-naples-florida-transportation-walkability-travel-faqs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Getting Around Naples, Florida<\/a> is worth a read if you&#8217;re deciding whether to rent a car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"414\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Visit-J.N.-Ding-Darling-National-Wildlife-Refuge-min-e1643300178379-1024x414.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6372 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Visit-J.N.-Ding-Darling-National-Wildlife-Refuge-min-e1643300178379-1024x414.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Visit-J.N.-Ding-Darling-National-Wildlife-Refuge-min-e1643300178379-766x310.jpg 766w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Visit-J.N.-Ding-Darling-National-Wildlife-Refuge-min-e1643300178379-300x121.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Visit-J.N.-Ding-Darling-National-Wildlife-Refuge-min-e1643300178379-1536x622.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Visit-J.N.-Ding-Darling-National-Wildlife-Refuge-min-e1643300178379.jpg 1920w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/414;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;customLocationId=161&amp;latitude=26.45&amp;location=Sanibel%20%26%20Captiva%20Islands%2C%20FL&amp;longitude=-82.07&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sanibel Island (and neighboring Captiva)<\/a><\/strong> is the slow-paced, nature-first pick. Strict local development laws have kept high-rises and chain restaurants off the island entirely, and the J.N. &#8220;Ding&#8221; Darling wildlife refuge anchors a genuinely quiet, shell-covered coastline. It&#8217;s about a 35\u201340 minute drive from Naples, across a causeway onto the barrier island.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Sanibel if:<\/strong> you&#8217;re traveling with young kids or want a slower, unplugged nature vacation over a lively one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=26.44897&amp;location=Sanibel%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4945313&amp;longitude=-82.02231&amp;page=1\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Where to stay: Browse Sanibel rentals <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=27.33643&amp;location=Sarasota%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4947703&amp;longitude=-82.53065&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sarasota<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=27.26785&amp;location=Siesta%20Key%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4947708&amp;longitude=-82.54526&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(and Siesta Key)<\/a><\/strong> is the cultural, bigger-city pick. Siesta Key Beach&#8217;s famously fine quartz sand regularly ranks among the best beaches in the country, and Sarasota&#8217;s arts scene, the Ringling Museum, an opera house, multiple theater companies, gives it more going on after dark than either Naples or Sanibel. It sits about two hours north of Naples by car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Sarasota if:<\/strong> your group wants a real beach-town-plus-city combination, with more affordable lodging than Naples to boot.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"766\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/siesta_key_spring-98FA107C-C0F7-47BE-A0054ECAE9A485A5-1024x766.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6374 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/siesta_key_spring-98FA107C-C0F7-47BE-A0054ECAE9A485A5-1024x766.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/siesta_key_spring-98FA107C-C0F7-47BE-A0054ECAE9A485A5-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/siesta_key_spring-98FA107C-C0F7-47BE-A0054ECAE9A485A5-767x574.jpg 767w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/siesta_key_spring-98FA107C-C0F7-47BE-A0054ECAE9A485A5.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/766;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=27.33643&amp;location=Sarasota%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4947703&amp;longitude=-82.53065&amp;page=1\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Where to stay: Browse Sarasota rentals<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Miami-Beach\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>5. Miami Beach, Florida<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"653\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/shutterstock-490898872_converted-1024x653.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6378 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/shutterstock-490898872_converted-1024x653.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/shutterstock-490898872_converted-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/shutterstock-490898872_converted-766x489.jpg 766w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/shutterstock-490898872_converted-1536x980.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/shutterstock-490898872_converted.jpg 2000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/653;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Miami Beach stays in the high 70s to low 80s through Thanksgiving week. Unlike the quieter Gulf Coast, it pairs that warmth with genuine city energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Restaurants, nightlife, and Art Basel&#8217;s build-up all start landing in the weeks just before it kicks off in early December. It&#8217;s the pick on this list for a group that wants a warm beach during the day and an actual city to explore at night.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=25.79065&amp;location=Miami%20Beach%2C%20FL%2C%20US&amp;locationId=4945964&amp;longitude=-80.13005&amp;page=1\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Where to stay: Browse Miami Beach rentals<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Scottsdale\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=33.50921&amp;location=Scottsdale%2C%20AZ%2C%20US&amp;locationId=5087325&amp;longitude=-111.89903&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">6. Scottsdale,<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=33.44838&amp;location=Phoenix%2C%20AZ%2C%20US&amp;locationId=5087232&amp;longitude=-112.07404&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Phoenix<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=32.22174&amp;location=Tucson%2C%20AZ%2C%20US&amp;locationId=5088090&amp;longitude=-110.92648&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">&amp; Tucson, Arizona<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Sonoran Desert holds mid-70s daytime highs well into Thanksgiving week, though nights can drop into the 40s and 50s, so don&#8217;t leave the layers at home entirely. All three cities share the same desert, but they deliver genuinely different trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=33.50921&amp;location=Scottsdale%2C%20AZ%2C%20US&amp;locationId=5087325&amp;longitude=-111.89903&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Scottsdale<\/strong> <\/a>is polished and resort-driven, built for visitors. Old Town Scottsdale packs restaurants, galleries, and boutiques into a walkable district, and the resort corridor along Scottsdale Road includes some of the most luxurious hospitality in the Southwest. Fountain Hills, just outside town, hosts <a href=\"https:\/\/fhchamber.com\/thanksgiving-day-parade\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arizona&#8217;s only Thanksgiving Day Parade<\/a> on the morning of the holiday itself.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"452\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Waterfront_Canal_overhead_shot_night_79808bfa-f5a8-45af-92f4-e54d150f1c2b-1024x452.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6381 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Waterfront_Canal_overhead_shot_night_79808bfa-f5a8-45af-92f4-e54d150f1c2b-1024x452.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Waterfront_Canal_overhead_shot_night_79808bfa-f5a8-45af-92f4-e54d150f1c2b-300x133.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Waterfront_Canal_overhead_shot_night_79808bfa-f5a8-45af-92f4-e54d150f1c2b-768x339.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Waterfront_Canal_overhead_shot_night_79808bfa-f5a8-45af-92f4-e54d150f1c2b.jpg 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/452;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Scottsdale if:<\/strong> you want a walkable resort town with golf, spas, and upscale dining close together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to stay in Scottsdale:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/phoenix-vs-scottsdale-which-should-you-visit-and-where-to-stay\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Phoenix vs. Scottsdale: Which Should You Visit?<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/gilbert-vs-scottsdale-arizona\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gilbert vs. Scottsdale<\/a> help you pick a base within the Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/zl_09-scaled-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6382 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/zl_09-scaled-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/zl_09-scaled-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/zl_09-scaled-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/zl_09-scaled-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/zl_09-scaled-1-2048x1366.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=33.44838&amp;location=Phoenix%2C%20AZ%2C%20US&amp;locationId=5087232&amp;longitude=-112.07404&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Phoenix<\/strong> <\/a>is bigger, more affordable, and more spread out, at over 500 square miles, you&#8217;ll want a car for almost everything. It&#8217;s the pick for a group that wants more texture and variety than a curated resort district, plus events like the Phoenix Zoo&#8217;s ZooLights, which starts November 27, and the Hidden in the Hills artist studio tour.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Phoenix if:<\/strong> budget and variety matter more than walkability, or you want easy access to both Scottsdale and Sedona from a central base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=32.22174&amp;location=Tucson%2C%20AZ%2C%20US&amp;locationId=5088090&amp;longitude=-110.92648&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tucson<\/a><\/strong>, about two hours south of Phoenix, has its own distinct identity: a stronger Mexican cultural influence, a serious arts and food scene, and Saguaro National Park&#8217;s cactus forests on both sides of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Tucson if:<\/strong> you want a genuinely different Southwest city rather than another stop in the Phoenix metro, and don&#8217;t mind the extra drive.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/small-shutterstock_275640695-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6383 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/small-shutterstock_275640695-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/small-shutterstock_275640695-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/small-shutterstock_275640695-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/small-shutterstock_275640695-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/small-shutterstock_275640695-2048x1366.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to stay near Tucson:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/best-day-trips-from-phoenix-az\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best Day Trips from Phoenix, AZ<\/a> covers Tucson, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon if you&#8217;re based in the Valley and want to see all three.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"San-Diego\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=32.71571&amp;location=San%20Diego%2C%20CA%2C%20US&amp;locationId=5093345&amp;longitude=-117.16472&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">7. San Diego, California<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Whale-Watching-Adventure-1024x683-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6385 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Whale-Watching-Adventure-1024x683-1.png 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Whale-Watching-Adventure-1024x683-1-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Whale-Watching-Adventure-1024x683-1-768x512.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">San Diego is the mildest, not the warmest, entry on this list: mid-60s to low 70s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s also one of the most reliable. Humpback whale season is just kicking off offshore, and a genuine slate of Thanksgiving Day brunch and lunch cruises run out of the harbor if you&#8217;d rather not cook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Book rental cars early. Demand spikes hard over the holiday weekend.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"St.-Croix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>8. St. Croix, US Virgin Islands<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">St. Croix runs mid-80s during the day and mid-70s at night in late November. For a genuine Caribbean Thanksgiving vacation without a passport, this is about as close as it gets: real Caribbean weather, and because it&#8217;s a US territory, it&#8217;s another &#8220;no passport needed&#8221; entry alongside Puerto Rico.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Late November is still technically the tail end of hurricane season, so pack for the occasional tropical shower. They tend to be brief.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Christiansted-St-Croix-e1513277343769-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6393 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Christiansted-St-Croix-e1513277343769-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Christiansted-St-Croix-e1513277343769-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Christiansted-St-Croix-e1513277343769-767x510.jpg 767w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Christiansted-St-Croix-e1513277343769-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Christiansted-St-Croix-e1513277343769-2048x1361.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/681;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=vi&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=17.72751&amp;location=Saint%20Croix%2C%20Saint%20Croix%20Island%2C%20VI&amp;locationId=5087879&amp;longitude=-64.74698&amp;page=1\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Where to stay: Browse St. Croix rentals<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>International Escapes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Los-Cabos\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?customLocationId=304&amp;latitude=22.89&amp;location=Los%20Cabos%20Corridor%2C%20Mexico&amp;longitude=-109.92&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">9. Los Cabos, Mexico<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?customLocationId=304&amp;latitude=22.89&amp;location=Los%20Cabos%20Corridor%2C%20Mexico&amp;longitude=-109.92&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Los Cabos<\/a> runs 75\u201383\u00b0F in late November, and whale watching season is just beginning offshore as humpbacks start arriving for the winter. &#8220;Los Cabos&#8221; actually means two towns, about 20 miles apart, with genuinely different personalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"612\" height=\"408\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Nightlife.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6401 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Nightlife.jpg 612w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Nightlife-300x200.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 612px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 612\/408;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/vacation-rentals\/cabo-san-lucas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cabo San Lucas<\/a><\/strong> is the party town: a busy marina, beachside bars blasting music, and a walkable downtown built entirely around tourism. It&#8217;s known for its lively (sometimes very lively) nightlife and easy walkability if you&#8217;re staying near Medano Beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Cabo San Lucas if:<\/strong> nightlife, energy, and a big-resort atmosphere are what you&#8217;re after.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to stay in Cabo San Lucas:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/best-time-to-visit-cabo-san-lucas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best Time to Visit Cabo San Lucas<\/a> breaks down pricing and crowd patterns month by month, and <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/is-cabo-san-lucas-safe-for-tourists\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Is Cabo San Lucas Safe for Tourists?<\/a> covers current, practical safety context. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/vacation-rentals\/cabo-san-lucas\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Browse Cabo San Lucas rentals<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=mx&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=23.05406&amp;location=San%20Jos%C3%A9%20del%20Cabo%2C%20Baja%20California%20Sur%2C%20MX&amp;locationId=3868048&amp;longitude=-109.70367&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">San Jos\u00e9 del Cabo<\/a><\/strong>, the older and quieter of the two, has colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, art galleries, and a more authentic Mexican food scene, including a well-known street food tradition Cabo San Lucas doesn&#8217;t really have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to San Jos\u00e9 del Cabo if:<\/strong> you want culture and quiet over nightlife, without giving up warm weather or ocean views. The two towns are about a 30-minute drive apart, so a day trip to the other is easy either way.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"630\" height=\"487\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6402 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-3.jpg 630w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-3-300x232.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 630px) 100vw, 630px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 630px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 630\/487;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Costa-Rica\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=10&amp;location=Costa%20Rica&amp;locationId=51&amp;longitude=-84&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10. Costa Rica (Pacific Coast)<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"678\" height=\"452\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6404 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-4.jpg 678w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-4-300x200.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 678px) 100vw, 678px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 678px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 678\/452;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Southern Pacific coast, sometimes called the Costa Ballena, is one of the last parts of Costa Rica to dry out. Unlike the northern Pacific (Guanacaste), which is usually dry by November, this stretch around <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=9.17039&amp;location=Uvita%2C%20Puntarenas%20Province%2C%20CR&amp;locationId=2273685&amp;longitude=-83.7395&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Uvita<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=9.25348&amp;location=Dominical%2C%20Puntarenas%20Province%2C%20CR&amp;locationId=2273660&amp;longitude=-83.86429&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dominical<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=9.08794&amp;location=Ojochal%2C%20Puntarenas%20Province%2C%20CR&amp;locationId=2273667&amp;longitude=-83.64812&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ojochal<\/a> can still see real rain into late November, heaviest at night, with mostly sunny mornings. It&#8217;s warm and tropical either way, just pack for the occasional evening downpour. Three towns anchor the region, each with its own role.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=9.17039&amp;location=Uvita%2C%20Puntarenas%20Province%2C%20CR&amp;locationId=2273685&amp;longitude=-83.7395&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Uvita<\/a><\/strong> is the practical base: more restaurants, more tour operators, a bigger supermarket, and the main entrance to Marino Ballena National Park, home to the whale-tail-shaped Punta Uvita sandbar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Uvita if:<\/strong> you want the most amenities and easiest logistics as your home base for the region.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"588\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/marino-ballena-national-park-771797_6933c9c8-edf8-41b4-becd-253b655be329_converted-1024x588.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6406 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/marino-ballena-national-park-771797_6933c9c8-edf8-41b4-becd-253b655be329_converted-1024x588.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/marino-ballena-national-park-771797_6933c9c8-edf8-41b4-becd-253b655be329_converted-300x172.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/marino-ballena-national-park-771797_6933c9c8-edf8-41b4-becd-253b655be329_converted-766x440.jpg 766w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/marino-ballena-national-park-771797_6933c9c8-edf8-41b4-becd-253b655be329_converted.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/588;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"598\" height=\"334\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6408 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-5.jpg 598w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/images-5-300x168.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 598px) 100vw, 598px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 598px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 598\/334;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=9.25348&amp;location=Dominical%2C%20Puntarenas%20Province%2C%20CR&amp;locationId=2273660&amp;longitude=-83.86429&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dominical<\/a><\/strong>, a short drive north, is the surf town: beginner-friendly breaks, cafes, and a younger, more laid-back energy than Uvita or Ojochal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Dominical if:<\/strong> surfing is the main draw of the trip.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=us&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=9.08794&amp;location=Ojochal%2C%20Puntarenas%20Province%2C%20CR&amp;locationId=2273667&amp;longitude=-83.64812&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ojochal<\/a><\/strong>, further south, is the dining hub. French and Canadian expats built a cluster of genuinely excellent restaurants here starting in the 1990s and 2000s, punching well above what a village this size should be able to deliver, and it sits slightly inland for cooler evenings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Go to Ojochal if:<\/strong> food is a priority and you don&#8217;t mind a quieter, more residential base than Uvita.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Kua-Kua-Restaurant.-Photo-Hotel-Three-Sixty-1024x683-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6411 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Kua-Kua-Restaurant.-Photo-Hotel-Three-Sixty-1024x683-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Kua-Kua-Restaurant.-Photo-Hotel-Three-Sixty-1024x683-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Kua-Kua-Restaurant.-Photo-Hotel-Three-Sixty-1024x683-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where to stay:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/day-trips-from-ojochal-costa-rica\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Day Trips from Ojochal, Costa Rica<\/a> covers Marino Ballena National Park and the wider Costa Ballena region, and <a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/blog\/things-to-do-in-ojochal-costa-rica\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Things to Do in Ojochal, Costa Rica<\/a> is a full first-timer&#8217;s guide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/vacation-rentals\/ojochal-costa-rica\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Browse Ojochal rentals<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/vacation-rentals\/costa-rica\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">or browse all Costa Rica rentals<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Belize\" class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=bz&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=17.93954&amp;location=Ambergris%20Caye%2C%20Corozal%20District%2C%20BZ&amp;locationId=198682&amp;longitude=-87.94702&amp;page=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">11. Ambergris Caye, Belize<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3a88641f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"613\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Snorkel-at-Hol-Chan-1024x613.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6414 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Snorkel-at-Hol-Chan-1024x613.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Snorkel-at-Hol-Chan-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Snorkel-at-Hol-Chan-767x459.jpg 767w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Snorkel-at-Hol-Chan-1536x919.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Snorkel-at-Hol-Chan.jpg 2005w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/613;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ambergris Caye holds around 84\u00b0F during the day and 68\u00b0F at night, with the wet season starting to taper off by late November.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s a genuine reef destination. The <a href=\"https:\/\/fisheries.gov.bz\/hcmr\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hol Chan Marine Reserve<\/a>, Belize&#8217;s first marine protected area, sits just offshore for snorkeling and diving, and the island is noticeably quieter here than during the Christmas rush that follows a few weeks later.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/search?country=bz&amp;distanceInMiles=25&amp;latitude=17.93954&amp;location=Ambergris%20Caye%2C%20Corozal%20District%2C%20BZ&amp;locationId=198682&amp;longitude=-87.94702&amp;page=1\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Where to stay: Browse Ambergris Caye rentals<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>Where is the warmest place to go for Thanksgiving without a passport?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Puerto Rico is the warmest true &#8220;no passport&#8221; option, with highs around 86\u00b0F in late November. Key West and the Florida Keys are close behind, and both St. Croix and Maui offer genuinely warm, tropical weather without leaving US territory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>Do I need a passport for St. Croix or Puerto Rico?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Both are US territories, so US citizens can travel there the same way they would to any US state, no passport, no customs, no currency exchange.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>Naples, Sanibel, or Sarasota, which one should I actually pick?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Naples for a couples&#8217; or golf trip with real restaurants nearby. Sanibel for families or anyone who wants a slow, nature-focused week. Sarasota if your group wants culture and nightlife alongside one of the best beaches in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>Key West or one of the other Florida Keys?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key West for nightlife and walkability. Islamorada for fishing and a quieter, upscale vibe. Marathon for families who want a central base. Key Largo if diving is the actual point of the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>How far in advance should I book a warm Thanksgiving destination?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel periods of the year across nearly every destination on this list. Popular spots like Maui and Key West are best booked 4\u20136 months out if your dates are fixed. More flexible destinations like the Southwest Florida Gulf Coast or Scottsdale can often still be booked 2\u20133 months ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>Is it actually warm in Arizona for Thanksgiving?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During the day, yes, expect mid-70s in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Tucson. Nights are a different story and can drop into the 40s, so pack layers even for a desert Thanksgiving trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.708), 1.3rem);\"><strong>Do I really save money booking direct instead of through Airbnb or Vrbo?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Booking the same property directly through StayWithStay typically saves around 15% compared to booking through a major OTA, since you&#8217;re not paying an additional guest service fee on top of the nightly rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/staywithstay.com\/\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:10px;border-top-right-radius:10px;border-bottom-left-radius:10px;border-bottom-right-radius:10px;font-style:normal;font-weight:700\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find your vacation rental<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The best warm places to go for Thanksgiving in 2026, from Key West to Costa Rica, with real November temperatures, local events, and no-fee vacation rentals to book direct.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":6391,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"stay_market_id":"4940336","stay_market_name":"Naples, FL, US","footnotes":""},"categories":[5,9,10],"tags":[383,381,380,379,382],"class_list":["post-6345","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travelers","category-stays","category-travel-tips","tag-caribbean-thanksgiving-vacation","tag-thanksgiving-getaway-no-passport-needed","tag-thanksgiving-in-florida","tag-warm-places-to-go-for-thanksgiving","tag-where-is-it-warm-for-thanksgiving"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6345","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6345"}],"version-history":[{"count":30,"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6345\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6419,"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6345\/revisions\/6419"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6391"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6345"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6345"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.staywithstay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6345"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}