I’ve been flying Southwest Airlines for as long as I can remember. Now, as a travel blogger, I find myself on their planes more than ever. With an expansive route map, friendly customer service, and easy connections across the US, it’s no surprise Southwest has played a big role in so many of my trips.
This guide rounds up the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit, based on places I’ve personally explored and loved. For each destination, I’m sharing my top three things to do so you can quickly decide where to go next and how to make the most of your trip.
Whether you’re booking a last-minute weekend getaway, planning a family vacation, or using points to stretch your travel budget further, these destinations stand out for their ease of access, variety of experiences, and overall trip value.
Let’s get to it! Here are the best destinations that Southwest flies to!
1. Honolulu, Oahu, HI (HNL)
I shamelessly will always have Hawaii coming first on any list of favorites! So, it’s no surprise that Oahu comes first on this list of best Southwest Airlines Destinations to visit! When Southwest Airlines opened up this flight route in 2019, my husband, Harrison, and I booked flights to Hawaii the day they were announced. Since then, we’ve been back to Hawaii several times now!
With the most relaxing vibes, floral scents wafting on the breeze, and its Aloha spirit, Hawaii is truly a tropical gem. Its landscape is beyond stunning, too. Picture towering ridges, blue waters, volcanoes, and palm trees, contrasted with Waikiki, the biggest Hawaiian city, situated right on the coast.
Check out the best photo spots in Oahu here!
Top Things to Do in Oahu
- Shop and dine in Waikiki
- Hike up Diamond Head
- Visit food trucks on the North Shore
See my list of the top 50 things to do in Oahu here!
2. Charleston, SC (CHS)
Charleston is easily one of my favorite cities in the United States to visit. And it’s easily one of the best Southern destinations Southwest Airlines flies to.
Known for its warm hospitality, historic charm, and coastal setting, Charleston offers a rare mix of walkable city sights and easy access to beaches and nature. From pastel row houses and cobblestone streets downtown to nearby barrier islands like Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach, there’s a lot of variety packed into a relatively small area.
It’s also one of the prettiest cities in the country, especially for photography. If you’re planning a visit, I’ve put together a guide to the prettiest photo spots in Charleston—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to capture the city’s classic charm.
With a charming downtown and plenty of nature activities, it’s one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit in the South.
Top Things to Do in Charleston
- Drive to Cypress Gardens right when it opens and canoe on the swamp
- Visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens (check out some more incredible plantations to visit here)
- Walk around downtown and reserve afternoon tea at Camellias (find more hidden gems in Charleston here!)
3. Los Cabos, Mexico (SJD)
Los Cabos sits at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, just south of California, where the desert meets the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez.
The dramatic landscape – rocky cliffs, sweeping beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Cabo San Lucas arch – sets it apart from other Mexican beach destinations. It’s especially well known for its upscale resorts, world-class dining, and scenic coastline, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a more polished beach escape.
Whether you’re planning to unwind at an all-inclusive resort or fill your itinerary with activities like whale watching, snorkeling, boat tours, or desert excursions, Los Cabos offers a wide range of experiences in one easy-to-navigate destination.
Top Things to Do in Los Cabos
- Do a boat tour to the famous Cabo San Lucas arch
- Sign up for a tour to visit the incredible waterfall in Fox Canyon (Canyon del Zorro)
- Dine at Flora Farms (make a reservation ahead of time)
Check out my list of 50 things to do in Cabo here!
4. Seattle, WA (SEA)
Seattle is one of my favorite Southwest Airlines destinations to fly to, and it’s an ideal gateway for exploring the Pacific Northwest. I’ve made it a personal goal to visit this region at least once every summer, thanks to its dramatic mountain scenery, evergreen forests, and easy access to outdoor adventure.
Seattle offers an unbeatable mix of city attractions and incredible nature.
In the city itself, you can explore Pike Place Market, walk the waterfront along Elliott Bay, visit the Space Needle for panoramic views, or spend time in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard for great food, coffee, and local culture.
While Seattle itself has plenty to offer, we usually prioritize exploring the surrounding areas. That’s actually one of the reasons it stands out to me as one of the best places Southwest Airlines flies.
Within a short drive, you can visit Snoqualmie Falls, explore Olympic National Park (home to the only temperate rainforest in the continental United States), or spend a day hiking at Mount Rainier National Park. Because many of these experiences depend on good weather, summer is the best time to visit and makes Seattle one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit for outdoor lovers.
Top Things to Do in Seattle
- Visit Pike Place Market – a Seattle staple
- Explore Mount Rainier National Park
- Day trip to the charming Bavarian town of Leavenworth, WA
5. San Diego, CA (SAN)
Having gone to college in Los Angeles, I thought I had a pretty good grasp on what Southern California had to offer – until I spent more time in San Diego. This coastal city feels more laid-back and outdoorsy, while still offering beautiful beaches, great dining and shopping, and easy access to nature. From surfing and coastal walks to exploring historic neighborhoods, San Diego strikes a balance that’s hard to beat.
One of the things that makes San Diego especially appealing is how spread out and varied it is. The city includes a lively downtown and waterfront area, but also charming coastal neighborhoods like La Jolla, Coronado, and Del Mar, each with its own personality. You can easily spend one day beach hopping, the next exploring Balboa Park or the Gaslamp Quarter, and another taking a short drive to nearby coastal towns.
With mild weather year-round, tons of outdoor activities, and an easygoing vibe that works for couples, families, and solo travelers alike, San Diego truly offers something for everyone. That versatility is exactly what makes it one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit, whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer California escape.
(Check out the most Instagrammable places in San Diego here!)
It’s a huge area that encompasses both a booming downtown area and charming small towns within it. There are also gorgeous small towns a short drive away, like Balboa Island.
That being said, there’s something for everyone in San Diego, which makes it one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit!
Top Things to Do in San Diego
- Explore all that Balboa Park has to offer
- Do a hike at Torrey Pines
- Hidden gem: head to Cordiano Winery for dinner and wine tasting with a remarkable view
6. Savannah, GA (SAV)
For relaxed Southern charm in a walkable city, Savannah, Georgia is hard to beat. The historic district feels like it’s out of a storybook, with Spanish moss-draped live oak trees, 22 picturesque city squares, and a compact downtown that’s easy to explore on foot. It’s the kind of place where slowing down is part of the experience, whether you’re wandering shaded streets or lingering on a park bench with a coffee.
Savannah’s one-square-mile historic district is packed with personality. You’ll find classic architecture and waterfront views to local shops and restaurants tucked into centuries-old buildings. If you’re planning a visit, I’ve rounded up the most Instagrammable places in Savannah to help you see just how photogenic the city really is.
During your stay, you can stroll River Street (definitely stop at River Street Sweets!), sample Lowcountry cuisine as you explore town, or take a short drive to nearby beaches like Tybee Island – or even Hilton Head for a longer day trip. With its laid-back pace, rich history, and easy coastal access, Savannah offers a little bit of everything and is one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit in the South.
Top Things to Do in Savannah
- Explore all the shops (The Paris Market is my favorite) and cafes on Broughton Street
- Day trip to Tybee Island for some beach time
- Visit Wormsloe Plantation Historic Site and the Bonaventure Cemetery
7. Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR)
Southwest Airlines flies into two different cities in Costa Rica: Liberia and San Jose. While you’ll find incredible scenery throughout the country, I’m especially partial to the area around Liberia.
Located in the Guanacaste region, Liberia is an ideal jumping-off point for experiencing Costa Rica’s famous biodiversity. You’ll get easy access to waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.
From walking across treetop canopy bridges and visiting sloth sanctuaries to exploring nearby volcanoes and cooling off at Pacific coast beaches like Playa Hermosa or Playa Flamingo, the variety of experiences around Liberia is what makes it so appealing. It’s also a great base for travelers who want adventure-filled days without constantly moving accommodations.
Liberia is a fantastic choice for first-time Costa Rica visitors or anyone looking to combine nature, wildlife, and beach time in one trip!
Top Things to Do in Liberia
- Visit La Fortuna Waterfall
- Enjoy the hot springs and the Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna
- Relax on one of the beaches in Guanacaste
8. Montrose, CO (MTJ)
Montrose, Colorado is one of those under-the-radar Southwest Airlines destinations that opens the door to some of Colorado’s most breathtaking scenery.
Just a quick drive from Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) lies the dramatic Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves jaw-dropping canyon views and uncrowded trails.
Montrose is also a perfect base for exploring some of Colorado’s most beloved mountain towns. You can reach Telluride in about an hour and a half. It’s a stunning drive that takes you into a postcard-perfect box canyon surrounded by towering peaks. If you’re looking for a slightly different mountain vibe, Crested Butte is about two hours away. It offers a colorful, laid-back town known for wildflowers in summer and skiing in winter.
With easy access to national parks, charming mountain towns, and some of the most scenic drives in the Rockies, Montrose is a fantastic Southwest Airlines destination for adventure lovers. It’s the kind of place that makes it easy to pair a national park adventure with a visit to a gorgeous mountain town.
Top Things to Do from Montrose
- Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Drive 1.5 hours to Telluride
- Drive 2 hours to Crested Butte
Good to know: if you want to visit Arches National Park, MTJ is the closest airport that Southwest Airlines flies to! It’s about 2.5-3 hours away, compared to 3.5-4 hours away from SLC.
9. New Orleans, LA (MSY)
If New Orleans isn’t already on your travel bucket list, it’s time to add it. This iconic city is unlike anywhere else in the United States! New Orleans is known for its rich cultural heritage, nonstop calendar of festivals and live music, and a food scene that’s truly in a category of its own. From jazz-filled streets to historic architecture and deep-rooted traditions, New Orleans is vibrant and unforgettable!
Wandering the French Quarter, with its wrought-iron balconies, colorful facades, and lively street scenes, almost feels like being dropped into a European city. That blend of Old World charm and unmistakable Southern character is what makes New Orleans one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit, especially if you’re craving culture, history, and European vibes without leaving the U.S.
Check out the best photo spots in NOLA here!
Top Things to Do in New Orleans
- Explore the French Quarter (this can take multiple days!)
- Shop and dine on Magazine Street (don’t forget to try crawfish, gumbo, and jumbalaya!)
- Get beignets at Cafe du Monde or Cafe Beignet
10. Aruba, Aruba (AUA)
Aruba offers one of the best blends of beach relaxation and adventure in the Caribbean. Many travelers choose to stay at a beachfront resort, where calm turquoise waters and consistent sunshine make it easy to settle into vacation mode. With its reliable weather and swimmable beaches, Aruba is an especially appealing destination for travelers who want a stress-free island escape.
That said, there’s much more to Aruba than lounging by the pool. The island’s desert-like interior offers a completely different experience. You’ll find rugged landscapes, cactus-filled terrain, and coastal views that feel worlds away from the resort strip. Exploring Arikok National Park, driving off-road along the northeastern coast, or visiting natural rock formations adds a sense of adventure that balances out the beach time perfectly.
Whether you’re planning a laid-back resort stay or want to mix in hiking, off-roading, and scenic viewpoints, Aruba delivers variety in a compact, easy-to-navigate island. It’s one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit in the Caribbean!
Top Things to Do in Aruba
- Do a jeep tour around the island
- See the flamingoes on Renaissance Island
- Explore Arikok National Park
See 20 great things to do in Aruba here!
11. Anchorage, AK (ANC)
Yes, you read that correctly! As of 2026, Southwest now flies to Alaska! (Insert dancing emoji here, because I am obsessed with Alaska!!)
Anchorage is the perfect Southwest Airlines destination for anyone looking to experience the wild beauty of Alaska. On our epic Alaska roadtrip, we used Anchorage as our starting point for a road trip that took us through some of the most stunning scenery in the state.
From Anchorage, we drove down to Seward and Homer on the Kenai Peninsula, where the rugged coastline and glaciers felt like something out of a postcard. After exploring the peninsula, we continued on to Valdez and Fairbanks, each offering its own unique slice of Alaskan life. We ended the trip with a visit to Denali National Park (where you can see North America’s tallest peak!). Find our Alaska itinerary here!
If you’re not up for a full road trip, the Alaska Railroad is another fantastic way to see the state. It runs from Anchorage through places like Seward and Denali, offering incredible views right from the train.
With so many iconic Alaskan destinations within reach, Anchorage is an unbeatable hub for a true Alaskan adventure! It’s easily one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit this year!
Top Things to Do from Anchorage
- Explore the Kenai Peninsula
- Go on a helicopter tour to a glacier
- Head to Denali National Park
12. San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
If you’re craving an international-style getaway without the hassle of pulling out your passport, Puerto Rico is one of the best places to visit. As a US territory, it’s the only Caribbean destination Southwest Airlines flies to where travelers don’t need a passport, making it an especially easy option for island travel.
San Juan is an ideal home base for exploring the island. It blends vibrant culture with rich history and beautiful coastal scenery. From wandering the colorful streets of Old San Juan and admiring its historic forts to relaxing on nearby beaches, the city offers plenty to see and do without ever feeling overwhelming.
Beyond the capital, Puerto Rico is packed with unforgettable experiences. You can explore El Yunque National Forest (the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system), chase waterfalls, kayak through a bioluminescent bay, or rent a car and drive around the island to see just how diverse the landscape is. With so much variety in one destination, San Juan easily earns its spot as one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit.
Top Things to Do in San Juan
- Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro (save your ticket; it’ll also get you into Castillo de San Cristobal)
- Walk around the charming cobblestone streets of Old San Juan
- Day trip to El Yunque National Forest
Looking to explore San Juan? Check out this post on the best things to do in San Juan!
But if you’re looking to explore the whole island, this post is for you!
13. Kahului, Maui, HI (OGG)
I need to add another Hawaiian island to this post – this time we’re looking at Maui! It is less touristy than Oahu, easier to drive around than the Big Island, and has arguably more to do than Kauai and Lanai. Maui combines beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and a relaxed pace without sacrificing variety or convenience.
It also happens to be my favorite Hawaiian island. I recommend staying in Wailea, Lahaina, or Paia. (Or you can split your stay between a couple areas if you want to experience more of the island.) From those spots, it’s easy to explore everything from the Road to Hāna to Haleakalā National Park. While I’ve kept things concise here, you can find a much more detailed breakdown in my guide to unforgettable things to do in Maui.
Top Things to Do in Maui
- Drive the Road to Hana (this will take a full day)
- Drive to the summit of Haleakala
- Relax at Makena Beach State Park
14. Portland, OR (PDX)
Portland is one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit if you love food, nature, and a slightly offbeat city vibe. Known for its incredible coffee, creative food scene, and laid-back culture, Portland is compact, easy to get around, and surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest.
One of Portland’s biggest strengths is how quickly you can escape the city. Within an hour or two, you can hike in the Columbia River Gorge, visit waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, explore Mount Hood, or head west to the Oregon Coast for dramatic beaches and moody coastal views. Even if you stay mostly in the city, neighborhoods like the Pearl District, Alberta Arts District, and Hawthorne are perfect for wandering, shopping, and eating your way through town.
Portland is best visited in late spring through early fall. That’s when the weather is drier and the surrounding landscapes are at their best.
Whether you’re planning a food-focused trip, a nature-filled getaway, or a mix of both, Portland offers an easygoing pace with plenty to explore, making it a standout option for a Southwest Airlines trip in the Pacific Northwest.
Top Things to Do in Portland
- Go wine tasting in the Willamette Valley
- Chase waterfalls (Multnomah Falls is particularly stunning!)
- Day trip to explore the beaches on the Oregon coast
If you’re considering a road trip from Portland to Seattle, check out this ultimate Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary!
15. Albuquerque, NM (ABQ)
Albuquerque offers a totally different kind of Southwest Airlines destination. It blends desert landscapes, rich cultural history, and a slower-paced city vibe. Set along the Rio Grande and framed by the Sandia Mountains, the city is known for its wide-open skies, earthy color palette, and strong Southwestern character that feels both grounded and unique.
The city’s Old Town is a great place to start, with adobe buildings, historic churches, local shops, and plenty of spots to try classic New Mexican cuisine. Outdoor lovers will appreciate how easy it is to get into nature, whether that means hiking in the Sandia Mountains, walking along the Bosque trails, or taking the Sandia Peak Tramway for panoramic views over the city.
One of the biggest perks of visiting Albuquerque is how close it is to some of New Mexico’s most unique destinations. Just about an hour north, Santa Fe feels like a completely different world! It’s known for its adobe architecture, art galleries, historic plaza, and incredible food scene. It’s an easy and worthwhile day trip that adds a more artsy, elevated contrast to Albuquerque’s desert landscape.
If you’re up for a road trip, White Sands National Park, with its rolling dunes of bright white gypsum sand, makes for an unforgettable day or overnight trip. It is unlike anywhere else in the United States! Learn more about White Sands National Park here.
All in all, with its mix of culture, scenery, and easy Southwest access, Albuquerque is an underrated Southwest Airlines destination that’s well worth adding to your list.
Top Things to Do in Albuquerque
- Go on a hot air balloon over the Rio Grande
- Visit art galleries in Santa Fe
- Ride the Sandia Peak Tramway
16. Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
Phoenix, Arizona is a classic Southwest Airlines destination. It’s known for its desert landscapes, warm climate, and easy access to outdoor adventure. With dramatic mountain backdrops, sprawling desert scenery, and some of the best hiking in the region, Phoenix is an ideal spot for travelers who want sunshine and scenery without a long drive from the airport.
One of the highlights of visiting Phoenix is how close it is to Scottsdale. Scottsdale offers a slightly different vibe just a short drive away. It’s known for its walkable Old Town, stylish shops, art galleries, and dining scene, making it a great complement to Phoenix’s more spread-out feel. Together, the two cities offer a mix of nature, culture, and laid-back desert luxury.
From hiking Camelback Mountain and Papago Park to wandering Scottsdale’s Old Town or relaxing poolside, this area offers plenty to do year-round. With reliable Southwest service and endless sunshine, Phoenix is one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit, especially for winter getaways or outdoor-focused trips.
See how beautiful Phoenix and Scottsdale are here!
Top Things to Do in Phoenix
- Explore the Desert Botanical Garden
- Hike around Lost Dutchman State Park
- Visit Old Town Scottsdale
Check out the 50 best things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale here!
17. Salt Lake City, UT (SLC)
One of the things I love most about Salt Lake City is that it’s an incredible year-round destination.
In the winter, it’s an ideal base for skiing and snowboarding in nearby Park City. Summer brings cooler temperatures than you might expect, along with lush mountain scenery and excellent hiking. Fall is especially beautiful, with vibrant foliage throughout the canyons. We captured the photo above while driving from Big Cottonwood Canyon to Park City, and the colors were unreal.
Beyond the mountains, the surrounding area offers plenty of variety. You can visit the Bonneville Salt Flats to see otherworldly salt flats, chase waterfalls near Provo, or explore scenic drives through Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Having so many landscapes within a short drive is what makes Salt Lake City and Park City such a rewarding combo.
Don’t overlook the city itself, either. Downtown Salt Lake City is clean, walkable, and full of beautiful architecture, parks, and viewpoints. Whether you’re planning a ski trip, a fall foliage getaway, or a summer hiking adventure, Salt Lake City is one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit. You can find my guide to the most photo-worthy spots in Salt Lake City here!
Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City
- Go skiing in the winter
- Go hiking in the summer
- Drive to the Great Salt Lake
18. Las Vegas, NV (LAS)
When most people think of Las Vegas, the first thing that comes to mind is the iconic Strip. While that bustling stretch of resorts and casinos isn’t necessarily my style, it definitely appeals to plenty of travelers. But what makes Las Vegas one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations for me, though, is actually everything you can explore just outside the city.
Las Vegas serves as a fantastic base for day trips and natural wonders that many people don’t realize are so close by. From here, you can visit the Grand Canyon, tour the Hoover Dam, snap colorful photos at the Seven Magic Mountains art installation, and – my personal favorite – spend a day at Valley of Fire State Park.
Valley of Fire almost feels like a hidden gem, with its striking red rock formations, unique hiking trails, and landscapes that feel more like a national park than a state park. Just keep in mind that summer temperatures can be intense! So plan your outdoor adventures for early in the day or choose a cooler season for hiking.
With its mix of classic Vegas energy and easy access to incredible natural sights, Las Vegas is a surprisingly well-rounded Southwest Airlines destination that offers a lot more than just the Strip.
Top Things to Do in Las Vegas
- Visit Valley of Fire State Park (See the best photo spots in Valley of Fire here.)
- Walk around the Vegas Strip (walking is the easiest way to see it all!) Check out the most Instagrammable places in Vegas here!
- Day trip to Grand Canyon West and the Hoover Dam
19. Austin, TX (AUS)
As the state capital of Texas, Austin offers a unique blend of laid-back, creative vibes and classic Southern hospitality. Known for its “keep Austin weird” spirit, the city is a haven for anyone who loves a mix of live music, outdoor adventures, and fantastic food.
One of Austin’s standout features is its abundance of natural swimming spots and green spaces. Whether you’re cooling off at Barton Springs Pool, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, or hiking up Mount Bonnell for a panoramic view of the city, there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had.
And of course, no visit to Austin would be complete without diving into its legendary food scene. From taco trucks and barbecue joints to eclectic cafes and farm-to-table dining, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Austin is right next to the Texas Hill Country, too, which is one of my favorite parts of Texas! It’s a stunning area between Austin and San Antonio. You’ll find charming small towns, a ton of caverns, and unique water holes like Krause Spring and Jacob’s Well.
With its quirky charm, live music culture, and Texas Hill Country access, Austin is a fantastic destination for a fun, laid-back trip with a little bit of everything.
Top Things to Do in Austin
- Swim at Barton Springs
- Go kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Travis
- Drive around the Texas Hill Country (Check out my favorite Hill Country hidden gems here!)
20. Nassau, Bahamas (NAS)
With its stunningly clear turquoise waters and countless little cays scattered around, Nassau in the Bahamas is easily one of the top tropical Southwest Airlines destinations to put on your list. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your days snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, island-hopping, or just soaking up the sun on soft white-sand beaches.
Nassau itself blends laid-back island charm with a touch of history and culture. You can wander through the colorful streets of downtown, visit local markets, or tour historic sites like Fort Charlotte. And if you’re up for a little extra adventure, there are plenty of boat tours to take you island-hopping or exploring hidden cays and secluded islets.
With its mix of relaxation and adventure, Nassau is the perfect spot for a tropical escape!
Top Things to Do in the Bahamas
- Stay at and see the Marine Habitat at Atlantis
- Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay
- See the swimming pigs at Staniel Cay
21. Bozeman, MT (BZN)
As soon as Southwest announced flights to Bozeman back in 2021, we booked them! We’d been wanting to explore Yellowstone for so long!
Besides its proximity to Yellowstone, the Bozeman area is known for its mountain scenery, crisp air, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a mountain getaway, a ski vacation, or access to Yellowstone National Park, Bozeman is for you!
The drive from Bozeman to Yellowstone is about an hour and a half along an incredibly scenic drive. We spent five full days exploring Yellowstone. We fell in love with the park’s unique geothermal landscape, wildlife, and incredible views. Check out my post on things you should know before visiting Yellowstone for more park info!
And Bozeman itself is a charming town with great dining, a lively local culture, and plenty of spots to gear up before you head into the wild. It’s by far one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations if you’re craving both adventure and natural beauty.
Top Things to Do in the Bozeman Area
- Explore Yellowstone National Park
- Shop and dine in Bozeman’s charming downtown
- Go hiking and chase waterfalls in Hyalite Canyon
22. Lihue, Kauai, HI (LIH)
Okay, I know this is the third Hawaiian island I’ve added to this list. But can you blame me? Hawaii is incredible, and I’m just grateful that Southwest flies there! If you’re trying to figure out which Hawaiian island you should visit, I cover exact that in this article.
Anywho, if you’re looking for adventure coupled with insane natural beauty, Kauai is one of the best Southwest destinations to visit!
You’ll want to rent a car at Lihue Airport if you’re going to explore this tiny but adventure-packed island as much as possible. Even though the island is one of the smaller Hawaiian islands, it can take over an hour to reach the north side from the airport, and over an hour to reach the westernmost part.
Kauai is by far one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations for a combination of rugged nature and tropical vibes! Coming from Dallas, it did take almost a whole day to get to Kauai, and certainly a whole day to get back home (with the time change). So I’d recommend spending at least four full days on the island to make the travel time worth it. We visited for our babymoon and it was beyond epic. See our Kauai itinerary here!
Top Things to Do in Kauai
- Waimea Canyon State Park (and Kokee State Park; they’re connected)
- Relax at Hanalei Bay (visit in the morning for fewer crowds and dreamy lighting!)
- Hike to Queen’s Bath (this is our favorite spot on the whole island!)
23. Reno/Tahoe, NV (RNO)
Flying into Reno to visit North Lake Tahoe is one of the best Southwest destinations to visit, regardless of the time of year. The lake is about an hour away from the airport but the drive is really beautiful and the crystal-clear lake is worth it!
If you’re visiting in the winter, this area is great for skiing and other winter sports. But even if you’re not a skier (or are pregnant when you visit, like I was!!), there is still plenty to do here like hiking, scenic driving, and simply relaxing at your resort. (We loved our stay at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe… they’ve got beachfront access and a heated pool!)
Come summertime, you’ll love getting out on the crystal clear lake. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Tahoe are experiences like no other.
Check out my list of the best things to do in North Lake Tahoe in each season here!
TLDR; The scenery in North Lake Tahoe is spectacular and it’s worth visiting in any season!
Top Things to Do in North Lake Tahoe
- Explore Sand Harbor
- Do the Monkey Rock Hike
- Get out on the water in the warmer months
- Go skiing during ski season
24. Washington, DC (DCA)
Washington, DC is one of those Southwest Airlines destinations that’s extra special for me, since I actually grew up in the area. I’ve flown into DC countless times, and no matter how often I do, I still get that little thrill of spotting the Washington Monument from the airplane window. It’s like a welcome-home beacon that never gets old.
Beyond the iconic landmarks like the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums (which are all free!), and the Capitol Building, DC offers so much more than just politics and monuments. Each neighborhood has its own personality, from the historic charm of Georgetown to the vibrant arts scene in the U Street Corridor.
Washington, DC is one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations for a mix of history and culture.
Top Things to Do in Washington, DC
- See cherry blossoms in the spring (and the magnolias at Enid Haupt Garden, pictured above)
- Dine, shop, and stroll through Georgetown
- Visit museums and monuments
25. Miami, FL (MIA)
When we visited Miami in January, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. I’d always associated the city with its party reputation, which doesn’t really align with our travel style. But Miami completely surprised us! While the nightlife is certainly there if you want it, there’s also a softer, more design-forward side of the city filled with beautiful neighborhoods, colorful Art Deco architecture, and thoughtfully curated shops and cafes.
Beyond the beach, Miami offers a wide range of experiences. You’ll find botanical gardens, state parks, and easy access to the Everglades, along with excellent museums, diverse dining, and creative districts like Wynwood and the Design District. One of our favorite stops was the Frost Science Museum, where the multi-story aquarium alone is worth the visit.
Miami also works beautifully as a starting point for a longer trip. If you have extra time, you can turn your visit into a road trip by driving down to the Florida Keys for a completely different pace and landscape. With its mix of culture, nature, and iconic coastal scenery, Miami is one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit!
Check out the most Instagrammable places in Miami here!
Top Things to Do in Miami
- See the gardens at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
- Visit the Cape Florida lighthouse on Bill Baggs State Park
- Shop and dine on Ocean Drive
26. Panama City Beach, FL (ECP)
Last but not least, Panama City Beach.
As I’m writing this, I’m actually on a Southwest flight headed to Panama City Beach – and it’s far from my first time visiting. I’ve been here multiple times, and each trip has reinforced why this stretch of Florida’s Panhandle keeps pulling us back. Panama City Beach is a great destination in its own right, but it’s also perfectly positioned next to one of my favorite areas in Florida: Scenic Highway 30A.
Just a short drive from the Panama City Beach airport, you’ll find charming coastal towns like Rosemary Beach, Seaside, and Alys Beach, each known for its beautiful architecture, walkable town centers, and relaxed beach-town atmosphere. My husband’s family has been vacationing in Rosemary Beach for years, and it has become our go-to summer spot as well. Having Panama City Beach as your arrival airport makes accessing 30A especially easy.
Think powdery white sand, Caribbean-blue turquoise water, and a collection of postcard-perfect seaside towns all in one area. With its mix of beautiful beaches, charming coastal communities, and easy Southwest access, Panama City Beach is one of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit for a laid-back beach vacation with plenty to explore nearby.
Top Things to Do in Panama City Beach
- Shop and dine in Rosemary Beach or Seaside along Highway 30A (find more things to do in Rosemary Beach here!)
- Do a dolphin boat tour or jet ski tour that stops in Shell Island
- Explore nearby state parks, such as Conservation Park, St. Andrews State Park, and Camp Helen State Park.
In conclusion…
I hope this list of the best Southwest Airlines destinations to visit has been helpful!
From iconic US cities to national park gateways and tropical escapes in the Caribbean and Central America, Southwest opens the door to an incredible range of destinations.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled trip, there’s no shortage of places worth adding to your list.
So, which of these Southwest Airlines destinations are you most excited to visit?
And here are some more posts you may find helpful:
- Best US Babymoon Destinations
- Ladies, Don’t Forget These Travel Essentials When Packing!
- Most Charming Towns to Visit in the USA
- America’s Best Walkable Cities and Small Towns
Safe travels!
Jasmine
2 Responses
Southwest Airlines is just amazing!!
I completely agree!