best beaches to visit for christmas

30 Tropical Christmas Vacation Ideas (Festive & Gorgeous Spots You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: August 19, 2022  - Last updated: January 4, 2024

Looking for a magical getaway this holiday season? Swap the cold, dreary weather for a warm, tropical Christmas! From palm trees and white sand beaches to festive traditions while experiencing a new culture, these are the best places to spend Christmas.

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Traveling over Christmas is one of the most popular times to vacation. There’s excitement in the air as the holiday approaches. From twinkling lights on palm trees to Santa hats throughout the airport, there’s just something special about traveling during the holiday season.

Whether this is your first time traveling over Christmas, or your family tradition is to pick someplace new, not every destination is great for holiday travel. The spots on this list have been hand-selected as amazing tropical Christmas vacations !

From popular Christmas vacations for families (hello Hawaii) to unexpected island getaways (see #8 and #25 below), you’ll love these Christmas vacation ideas!

And by the way, I’ve been checking places off my travel bucket list for years, but haven’t been everywhere…yet! So I’ve enlisted some of my fellow travel writers to help out with this list. Enjoy!

Map of the best places to spend Christmas

This list covers a lot of tropical destinations near and far. Use this map below as a visual, then check out the details for each spot below.

Pinch or zoom in to see the region and destinations based on your interest. Start daydreaming now…then planning after you check out the descriptions. 😉

Tips for traveling over Christmas

We’d all be lying if we said traveling over the holidays was super easy and stress-free. So before we dive into these tropical Christmas vacation destinations, let’s go over a few tips that will help reduce your stress and make your traveling quite jolly .✨

• Use a luggage tracker . We’ve all heard the horror stories – lost luggage does happen. Place a tile or AirTag in your checked bag so you know where it is at all times.
• Have a back-up plan for flights. Airlines are in a pinch right now. If you’re delayed and miss a connection or your flight gets canceled, be your own advocate and have an alternative plan to provide to the airline. You certainly don’t want to wait days for them to get you to your destination!
• Get TSA Pre-check and Global Entry. These will save you a ton of time and hassle, especially for international travel. Many travel rewards credit cards offer these as free benefits of the card.
• Never wrap gifts. Speaking of TSA, be sure not to wrap any gifts until you get to the destination. It’s a red flag and you’ll be forced to unwrap them and show what’s inside. Even in checked bags, they’re more likely to be searched and be unwrapped when you arrive.
• Bring your patience. Above all else, remember this is a vacation and kindness always wins!

Tropical Christmas: best destinations

Alright let’s get to the list already! These Christmas vacation ideas are going to blow you away. Get your bank account or travel rewards points ready to book this trip…your tropical getaway awaits!

Average temp:  high 85, low 74 Fly into:  Nadi International Airport, Nadi

When you’re looking for a tropical Christmas destination, then you can’t go past the  Pacific Coast in Fiji .

This southern region on the mainland has brilliant options with places to stay, things to do and less travel time than the Islands. Furthermore, December is right before the Monsoon season and the perfect time to catch those sun-filled days.

Your international gateway Airport is Nadi, and car transfers will take you anywhere on the rest of the mainland. Alternatively, you can catch a connecting domestic flight to Suva, depending on where you’re staying.

The resorts are packed full of daily activities from cooking classes, opening coconuts, Kava ceremonies or hand weaving your own baskets. This is a great way to learn about the Fijian culture and keep yourself entertained.

Imagine passing the days away by swimming or snorkelling in the beautiful, clear blue waters. Or walk the palm tree lined beaches, relaxing in the sun while enjoying a Fijian cocktail. On the other hand, you can book tours for zip lining through the rainforests, visiting waterfalls, scuba diving with the sharks or touring through a local village.

When looking for amazing places to stay, The Uprising Resort has cute huts on the beach, or The Pearl South Pacific Resort will help lap up the luxury. Either way, you’re not going to regret your time spent here!

Don’t forget, you’re on “Fiji Time” and destined to relax over your holiday vacation!

Recommended by Chris of The Aquarius Traveller

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2. Moorea, French Polynesia

Average temp:  high 81, low 62 Fly into:  Faa’a International Airport, Tahiti

If you are looking to head somewhere exotic for Christmas where you will feel like you are living in a desktop screensaver, head to Moorea, French Polynesia!

Moorea is one of the best islands in French Polynesia. While Bora Bora may be talked about quite often, it’s younger, more reasonable and cuter younger sister Moorea is the real gem of the islands. It offers the perfect balance of luxury and culture. 

How to get to Moorea French Polynesia ? The best part about visiting is that you just need to take a ferry from Tahiti there versus hopping on a seaplane. This saves you time and money. Most international flights arrive into Faa’a International Airport and you could stay a night or two in Tahiti to get adjusted to the time change and also see some spots there too!

After a night or two in Tahiti, take the quick ferry ride over to Moorea. If you rented a car , you can even take it on with you.

Once you are there, check out the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort or Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa . These 5-star resorts offer the best views and each of them have the option of staying in an overwater bungalow! If that’s not in your budget, Moorea is home to some of the best vacation rentals in the French Polynesia.

Christmas is a great time to travel with family so a vacation home might be perfect for that. 

Looking for things to do when you are there? Why not spend Christmas doing a boat tour! Voila Moorea offers half day trips and takes you to some very remote beaches. You also have the chance to swim with stingrays and other colorful fish.

Moorea in French Polynesia is one of the best places to spend Christmas! It’s an island you will not forget!

Recommended by Marisa of The Daydream Diaries

3. Big Island, Hawaii

Average temp:  high 82, low 67 Fly into:  Kona International Airport, Kalaoa

The Big Island in Hawaii has a plethora of activities available during the holidays. If you’re looking for hikes to waterfalls or adventurous tours, you will have a blast visiting Hawaii during Christmas. The best airport to fly to is the Kona International Airport.

The Captain Cook Memorial and Kealakekau Bay are a fantastic areas for snorkeling. The tropical fish are amazing, with a beautiful coral reef. Snorkeling tours will have everything you need and make a great experience, even if you have small children. 

If you want to see all the different scenery the island has to offer, make sure you check out Hilo Falls and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . It’s fun to see how the volcanoes shape the island and how it grows into a lush paradise! 

The Big Island in Hawaii is a wonderful island and is one of the most diverse islands in Hawaii and one of the best beach vacations in December. It has lots of places to adventure with lots of fun activities. You don’t get the same crowds as Oahu, and you will enjoy some fantastic and unique scenery.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

4. Turks and Caicos (one of the best beaches in December – or anytime!)

Average temp:  high 82, low 74 Fly into:  Providenciales International Airport, Turks & Caicos Islands

Perhaps the perfect tropical Christmas destination is in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. Turks and Caicos is a small archipelago of islands that welcome some of the most turquoise water and white sand you’ll ever see!

Turks and Caicos is one of the best Christmas vacations for families, couples or solo travelers. The main area for visitors near Grace Bay Beach is where you’ll find resorts decked out with holiday lights and decor. Each resort has it’s own celebrations, so if you’re staying along this popular stretch, expect to have a magical holiday.

Perhaps one of the best festivals during your Christmas stay in Turks and Caicos is on December 26th. Locals dress up for a masquerade festival, Maskanoo Parade, which celebrates the country’s history .

While you’re on Turks and Caicos, be sure to enjoy a beach at one of the best beaches in Turks and Caicos , Grace Bay Beach. There’s plenty of amenities along this popular beach. Rent clear kayaks or try jet skiing, too.

If you’re celebrating Christmas with young kids, they’ll love hunting for conch shells! While they can be found throughout the island, one of the best beaches for finding conch is Long Bay Beach.

You’ll love a vacation to Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean. It’s certainly deserving of a spot on this list of best places to spend Christmas!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

5. Krabi, Thailand

Average temp:  high 88, low 71 Fly into:  Krabi International Airport, Nuea Khlong

Krabi in Thailand  is definitely an absolutely fantastic choice for a tropical Christmas destination . At this time of year you can expect a dry climate, nice temperatures, plenty of sunshine and clear weather. It’s perfect if you want to escape winter during the Christmas season!

This beautiful region is located in the south of Thailand, on the Andaman Sea and is definitely one of the most beautiful places in the country. Here, rugged limestone cliffs, dense green jungle, snow-white sandy beaches, turquoise sea and tiny offshore islands fascinate!

The ambience is especially beautiful at Christmas, when the many restaurants and bars are decorated with colorful fairy lights as well as Christmas trees. 

One of the most beautiful attractions is the Railay Peninsula with its world famous Railay Beach and the even more stunning Phra Nang Beach. But also the quiet Tonsai Beach in Krabi and the wonderful Klong Muang Beach are worth a trip.

If you’re on a Christmas vacation, you should also take a trip to the offshore islands such as Koh Hong, Koh Poda and Chicken Island, where there is a chicken head rock.

Krabi has its own airport, Krabi International Airport, though many come from Bangkok. After landing, it’s best to take a cab, which will take you to the resorts in the area at a reasonable price.

The Nakamanda Resort and Spa might just be the perfect spot to stay. It convinces with direct beach location, beautiful view, large pool and very nice rooms!

Recommended by Martina of Places of Juma

6. San Juan, Puerto Rico (one of the best Christmas vacations for families)

Average temp:  high 85, low 67 Fly into:  José Martí International Airport, Havana

One of the best destinations for Christmas with the perfect mix of culture, festivities and amazing weather is San Juan, Puerto Rico. If you live in the US, you don’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, which is convenient as well.

And here’s the thing: Puerto Rico goes hard for Christmas! Celebrations start November 1st, when the historic city of Old San Juan gets decorated with trees, displays and lights. Holiday festivals and celebrations take place throughout Puerto Rico, although the place to be is San Juan, which is the heart of the action.

With so many things to do in Old San Juan , you won’t get bored! Be sure to visit El Morro, the historic San Juan Fort over 500 years old! Walk the cobblestone streets and check out the old architecture. Take a day trip to El Yunque National Rainforest and chase waterfalls!

And no tropical Christmas would be complete without beach time! While there are a few beaches in the San Juan area, some of the most popular in Puerto Rico are on the neighboring islands of Vieques and Culebra, Puerto Rico .

See also: Culebra vs Vieques: Which Island is Perfect for You?

You can take a day trip from San Juan or add a couple nights to your itinerary to stay on the smaller islands. These are some of the best beaches in December in the Caribbean!

You’ll want to spend at least a long weekend in Puerto Rico, although if you have the time you can easily fill a 2-week stay with the sights, activities and excursions in Puerto Rico around Christmas time.

Best places to spend Christmas

Some pretty incredible destinations have been listed already, but there’s so many more tropical Christmas destinations ahead…

7. Bali, Indonesia

Average temp:  high 82, low 77 Fly into:  Ngurah Rai International Airport, Kuta

One great tropical Christmas destination is the island of Bali, Indonesia in Southeast Asia. This island is becoming famous for its food, hotels, culture and many things to see and do.

For Americans, winter is a great time to visit Bali because it’s less busy and hotel prices are generally a bit lower than in high season.

One of the best areas to stay in Bali during your first visit is Ubud, which is known as the cultural center of Bali. A great hotel choice in Ubud is the Pondok Serayu guesthouse, which should fit almost any travel budget.

Some of the best  things to do in Ubud Bali  include visiting the markets, palaces, jungles and ancient temples. Of course there are lots of great cafes, restaurants, and comfy luxury hotels to enjoy. If you’re adventurous, there are also waterfalls and rice terraces to see while hiking in the areas near Ubud.

There are lots of international flights to the Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar International Airport) from many countries around the world. Most tourist accommodation is within a 30-45 minute drive from the airport, and private drivers are affordable and easy to hire in advance or upon arrival in the airport.

Recommended by David & Intan of The World Travel Guy

8. Sao Tome and Principe (one of the most underrated Christmas vacation ideas)

Average temp:  high 80, low 71 Fly into:  Sao Tome International Airport, Sao Tome and Principe

For a truly tropical Christmas destination, the remote islands of Sao Tome and Principe off the coast of Africa ticks all the boxes. It’s a great place to go if you want to escape all the usual commercial madness and clichéd festivities and what better way to spend Christmas than at the beach!

The main religion in the islands is Christianity, so Christmas is widely celebrated. It’s considered a national holiday and most people take the day off work to feast and party with their families.

As a visitor you can attend mass in the gorgeous local churches and join in the festivities, which often take place on the beach. Some of the larger hotels put on a celebratory dinner with live music to help get you in the mood.

There are lots of  activities in Sao Tome and Principe  to enjoy on Christmas day. You could celebrate by watching turtle hatchlings scurry down the beach to the sea or going snorkelling in a secluded bay lined by palm trees.

There are hiking trails and cacao plantations to explore too. One of the benefits to visiting the islands is that Sao Tome and Principe is still a newcomer when it comes to tourism, so you won’t be jostling for space with a bunch of other travellers. In fact, it’s more likely that you’ll be celebrating with the locals!

Despite the off-beat location, it’s relatively easy to get to the islands. The best way is via Lisbon on TAP Airways. Omali Lodge on Sao Tome makes a great base for exploring, and if you head to Principe, opt for a plantation stay at Hotel Roça Sundy .

Recommended by Heather of Conversant Traveller 

9. St. Croix, USVI (one of the very best places to spend Christmas)

Average temp:  high 82, low 72 Fly into:  Henry E. Rohlsen Airport, St Croix

Visiting the U.S. Virgin Island of St. Croix is always a great idea, but especially at Christmas. The weather is absolutely perfect, with most days hovering around 80 degrees and coastal tradewinds cooling everything down at night. The real reasons to visit, however, are all the festive events in December!

Starting the day after Thanksgiving, the entire island launches into holiday mode, and it lasts through the new year. One of the most anticipated events is Christmas Jump-Up in Christiansted.

The town-wide celebration involves live music and fire dancers in the street, local shops and vendors holding big sidewalk sales to jump-start the holiday shopping season, and all sorts of special events and performances. 

Another popular event is the St. Croix Christmas Boat Parade through the Christiansted Harbor. On the Frederiksted side of the island, family-friendly Holiday Fest features the big town Christmas tree lighting. 

The island’s biggest holiday event of all also happens in December, Crucian Christmas Festival, AKA  Carnival.  This colorful, lively event is a blast to participate in and really showcases the strong sense of community on St. Croix. 

Of course, you don’t necessarily have to attend events to enjoy Christmas in St. Croix! There’s plenty to do at the beaches and on the water. This is an especially great time to rent jet skis or join a guided kayaking tour to see the island’s  bioluminescent bay !

If you’re planning to visit St. Croix over the holidays, getting there is easy. The island has an airport just a few miles outside of Christiansted, with several flights a day coming in from Charlotte, Atlanta, and Miami.

And for fantastic accommodations, check out  Hotel on the Cay . It’s on its very own island with a private beach! A water taxi frequently runs back and forth between the island and Christiansted, and hotel guests can call it on demand. Best of all, the hotel is shockingly affordable!

St. Croix is one of the best Christmas vacation ideas if you’re looking for sunshine, white beaches and turquoise water.

Recommended by Taryn of Chasing Trail

10. Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Average temp:  high 82, low 70 Fly into:  Cancun International Airport, Quintana Roo

Are you looking for a tropical Christmas destination to give you all the festive feelings? If so, Playa del Carmen in Mexico is the perfect place for you! 

This vibrant and colorful town is located on the coast of the Caribbean Sea and is known for its stunning beaches, amazing nightlife, and delicious food. During Christmas, the town comes alive with festive decorations, markets selling traditional Mexican goods and plenty of holiday cheer. 

During the holidays 5th avenue (the main strip in Playa Del Carmen) is super festive and is turned into a magical Christmas wonderland. 

And, if you’re looking for a little adventure, you can even explore the nearby ruins of Tulum or take a dip in one of the many cenotes (natural pools). To get to Playa del Carmen, the closest airport is Cancun International Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive away. 

When  visiting Playa Del Carmen , you have a few options. There are several all-inclusive resorts in Playa Del Carmen that do a great job making things festive during the holidays. The Riu Palace Riviera Maya puts on a show with beautiful Christmas decorations and even holiday-related shows. Playa Del Carmen is one of the best places for Mexico all inclusive resorts!

For those that are looking to stay in the heart of Playa Del Carmen, check out the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort , which is located just steps from 5th Avenue.  

Whatever you decide to do, you’re sure to have a magical Christmas in Playa del Carmen!

Recommended by Taima of Poor in a Private Plane

11. Boracay Island, Philippines

Average temp:  high 84, low 78 Fly into:  Kalibo International Airport / Godofredo P. Ramos Airport, Malay, Aklan

One of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the world is Boracay Island, located in the Philippines . In December, temperatures average around 27 degrees Celsius, or 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s the best time to enjoy the beach with perfect weather.

There are many  Boracay beaches  to choose from, but the most popular is White Beach. Known for its turquoise water and powder white sand, this beach is one of the most-visited places on the island, so it’s also where you’ll find the most activities to celebrate a Christmas vacation.

White Beach is within walking distance to many restaurants, bars, and shops. Most meals cost just a few dollars, so it’s easy to experience authentic Filipino cuisine at affordable prices. 

During Christmas, you can even try Bibingka, a sweet rice cake that’s made with coconut milk and served throughout the holiday season. It’s baked inside banana leaves in order to impart a unique, tropical flavor to the Christmas treat.

If you feel like taking a short, easy hike, you can walk to the top of Mount Luho to get a panoramic view of the entire island . Since the island is only 7 kilometers long, this is a popular spot for travelers to go to watch the sunset over Boracay’s shoreline. Evening sailboat tours are another popular way to watch the setting sun.

There are no airports or flights in Boracay. To reach the island, you can fly into the closest airport, which is located in Caticlan. From there, you will transfer to Caticlan Jetty Port and then take a 15 minute ferry ride over to Boracay Island. 

For luxurious beachfront accommodation located near top attractions, stay on White Beach Station 1 at the Lind Boracay Hotel . If you’re looking for a tropical destination to spend Christmas away from home, definitely consider Boracay for your next holiday trip!

Recommended by Jillian of Adventure Dragon

12. Viñales, Cuba

Average temp:  high 81, low 62 Fly into:  José Martí International Airport, Havana

For an unforgettable tropical holiday, head to Cuba for delicious holiday feasts, perfect beach weather and local celebrations throughout the country.

While Havana might seem like an obvious choice for celebrating the holiday, travelers will see more of the most festive celebrations in the countryside, including smaller cities and towns like  Viñales , Trinidad, or even communities on the outskirts of the city of Havana.

In Cuba, the big celebrations around Christmastime occur on Christmas Eve and generally focus on food! Christmas Eve feasts usually include whole-roasted pig, often cooked on a spit and slow-roasted, fried plantains, rice and beans and all the fixings for a traditional Caribbean meal.

While you’re sure to find some big parties in the city, most people gather for meals with families. They’ll head to the countryside where they’ll gather to roast the pig, meaning you’re likely to have a more tropical Christmas experience outside of the city. 

Whether you’re traveling to the stunning Viñales Valley or anywhere in Cuba, make sure to stay at a casa particular – or, private home – for rent by local Cubans. You’ll support small business and have a much more culturally significant experience, meeting and learning from locals firsthand. 

Viñales is just a few hours away from Havana by car, so you’re sure to pass through Havana to arrive in Cuba, traveling onward from there. 

Recommended by Carley of Home to Havana

Best beaches in December for Christmas

When you think about a tropical Christmas getaway, there really are so many options! Laid-back island time or exotic cities, these are some pretty incredible destinations to consider.

Let’s keep going!

13. Key West, Florida (a fun spot on this list of best tropical vacations in December)

Average temp:  high 77, low 70 Fly into:  Key West International Airport, Key West

Grab a bathing suit, head to the most southern point in the United States, and enjoy all of the very best things to do in Key West in December .  Because as you might not know, Key West easily makes for one of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the world! 

Not only is the weather pleasant, with daily highs around 77F and daily lows around 70F, but there are a ton of holiday-inspired activities for visitors to enjoy. 

So, after flying into Key West International Airport, grab a local shuttle bus and experience the glitz and glamor of Duval Street with its many shops, restaurants and vibrant decorations. 

Greet Santa as he rolls into town during the Key West Holiday Parade, or check out the totally free classic car show.

No trip to Key West for the holidays would be complete without marveling at the totally unique, lighted boat parade. During this incredible event, you’ll see boats bedazzled in lights and holiday decorations aplenty as they navigate through Key West Bight.  

Finally, head indoors and enjoy the charming architectural grandeur of this historic town during a Historic Inns Holiday Tour.

Typically, this event is held on two days throughout the holiday season as various local bed and breakfasts open their doors to visitors so that they can admire the stunning holiday decorations during a guided tour.

And if you’re not sure where to stay, book an individually decorated, bohemian-style room at the Key West Bed and Breakfast . After all, this historic, Victorain-style building has a distinct tropical theme to it that is only enhance by an on site hot tub and sauna, making it an exceptional place to stay.

Recommended by Victoria of Florida Trippers

Related read: Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Awesome Activities You Need to Do

14. Antigua

Average temp:  high 84, low 73 Fly into:  V.C. Bird International Airport, Antigua & Barbuda

If you’re looking for blue skies and sunshine for Christmas, consider Antigua! One of the  best Caribbean islands to visit  for a tropical vacation, Antigua spells blissful rest and relaxation. It’s also close to the island of Barbuda, for twice the fun!

Antigua and Barbuda are renowned for their beautiful beaches , and they have 365 of them, so you won’t run out of options, even on a long visit! The white sandy beaches are made for savoring the sun, the crystal clear blue waters, and the warm ocean breezes in what is typically the dreariest month of the year. 

Activities on the water are a must when you visit Antigua. Go on a sailboat tour , or snorkel the coral reef bays that surround the island to find colorful fish. 

If you’re looking to do some holiday shopping for yourself or for gifts, St. John’s, the capital city, is renowned for its boutiques. Designer jewelry, designer apparel, textiles and pottery are all excellent options. Many stores offer duty free shopping. 

Looking for some festive cheer? St. John’s is decked out in Christmas decorations and lights . Nelson’s Dockyard, worth visiting any time of year, hosts a Christmas champagne party that anyone can join! Buy a bottle and celebrate with locals and other visitors. There’s live music and food. 

Fly into V.C. Bird International Airport, about 5 miles from St. John’s. Cocobay Resort is an all-inclusive, adult-only resort that’s perfect for a relaxing stay in Antigua, one of the best beach vacations in December.

Recommended by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

15. Koh Phangan, Thailand

Average temp:  high 85, low 77 Fly into:  Surat Thani International Airport in Hua Toei or Samui Airport in Samui

Koh Phangan belongs to the most dreamy of Thai islands and it’s a great place to visit during Christmas. In fact, it’s when the temperatures are nice and balmy, yet not much rain is expected anymore as the rainy season has just ended.

The best thing about the island is that there are so many diverse  things to do in Koh Phangan . When it comes to Christmas-related activities, it’s quite chilled there. Don’t expect some wild parades but those wanting a bit of that Christmas cheer can still find a few events.

First of all, there are different parties. Since they’re around year-round only with themes changing, in December it’s all about Christmas and New Year’s. Expat-run restaurants have special menus and often organize special events like live music.

The end of the year is definitely celebrated more and a few restaurants offer a New Year dinner with a fire show and even some fireworks. Since Koh Phangan is known for its Full Moon party, you can expect a Christmas- or New Years’-themed one too, depending on the moon cycle.

The good news is that it’s business as usual and the public holiday falls only on January 1st. You’re welcome to go for Koh Phangan’s numerous beaches, do yoga, hang out in the cool cafés and enjoy the island life. Please note Koh Phangan does get popular during December and there’s an influx of tourists.

To get to Koh Phangan, you can fly to Surat Thani on the Thai mainland and then take a ferry, or fly to the neighboring island of Koh Samui and then take a shorter ferry from there. Consider staying at the Seaflower Bungalows which are conveniently located and fall under the mid-range category.

Visit Thailand for some of the best beaches in December and a relaxing getaway.

Recommended by Veronika of Travel Geekery

16. Kerala, India (one of the most unique Christmas vacation ideas)

Average temp:  high 86, low 75 Fly into:  Cochin International Airport, Kerala

Located between the Arabian sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, Kerala is a beautiful state in India with a tropical climate. Boasting pristine sandy beaches, palm trees, lush backwaters, and waterfront resorts, Kerala is a warm destination year-round with perfect weather during the holiday season.

Begin your trip to Kerala by exploring Kochi, a major port city along the Malabar Coast, to get your bearings.

Spend a couple of days visiting the colonial buildings in Fort Kochi, watching the sunset by the Chinese Fishing nets, and strolling around Jew Town and Muziris, a spice hub. The Indo-Portuguese Museum in the city is also worth checking out.

Next, hop on a car and make your way directly to Kumarakom, a verdant green village on Lake Vembanad. Immediately upon arriving at this nature’s paradise, you’ll understand why the state of Kerala is also known as God’s Own Country. This area is known for traditional wooden houseboats you must spend a night or two in.

Alternatively,  Kumarakom Lake Resort  by the banks of Lake Vembanad is an incredible place to relax. Apart from taking in the serene views of the lake from nearly everywhere at the property, you can go for a sunrise canoe ride to explore the adjacent backwaters, a complimentary sunset cruise, or visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary . The nearby Alappuzha is also popular, though more touristy, for its backwaters and canals.

Cochin International Airport in Kochi is the largest airport in Kerala, with connectivity to most international and domestic cities. You can fly there and spend some days in Kochi or take a taxi directly to Kumarakom or Alappuzha. Some other places to visit in Kerala are Kovalam, Varkala, Kannur, and Mararikulam.

Recommended by Charu of Travel with CG

17. Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Average temp:  high 84, low 72 Fly into:  Puerto Escondido International, Oaxaca, Mexico

Puerto Escondido, Mexico   is located in the state of Oaxaca. It is the most popular and most visited beach town in this state.

Oaxaca (pronounced waa-haa-kah) is best known for its food, festivals and culture, but it also has gorgeous beaches on the Oaxacan coast. With perfect weather in winter, Puerto Escondido makes an ideal destination for a tropical Christmas.

Puerto Escondido is best known as a surf town, but that’s not the whole story. If you’ve never surfed before, but have always wanted to learn, there are several surf schools in Puerto Escondido, as well as beaches with beginner-friendly waves.

There’s also plenty to do for non-surfers. With about 10 beaches in town, you can visit a different beach per day and soak up the sun. The best beaches in town include Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Zicatela, Playa La Punta, Playa Bacocho and Playa Manzanillo.

Located about 30 minutes outside of town, don’t miss Laguna Manialtepec. It’s a bioluminescent lake , so many go at night to see the bioluminescence. You can also visit by day and paddleboard around the lake.

It is easy to get to Puerto Escondido, as there’s an airport only minutes from the beaches called Puerto Escondido International. Although the word “international” is in its name, there’s rarely international flights, though you can connect through Mexico City or Tijuana.

If you’re looking for a more laid back trip, you’ll want to stay around La Rinconada near Playa Carrizalillo. To stay where all the action is, book a hotel on Playa Zicatela or Playa La Punta.

Either way, Puerto Escondido is one of the best places to spend Christmas in Mexico!

Recommended by Shelley of Travel To Oaxaca

18. Costa Rica (perfect for adventure and tropical Christmas)

Average temp:  high 77, low 64 / varies by region Fly into:  Juan Santamaría International Airport, San José, Alajuela

One of the best Christmas vacations for families is in Costa Rica! Although it’s a beautiful and diverse country, one thing is the same: they go big for Christmas!

Predominantly a Christian country, the days leading up to Christmas are filled with excitement as events and festivals take place throughout the country. Christmas Eve is traditionally celebrated with family gatherings with traditional Christmas dinner and Midnight Mass.

Christmas Day is typically low-key with businesses closed, which means it’s a great day for visitors to hit the beach!

One of the biggest celebrations at Christmas in Costa Rica is the 26th of December, with the Tope Nacional de Caballos horseback parade . It’s a huge parade in San Jose where horsemen parade through the streets. Then on December 27th is El Carnaval , which is another huge festival on the streets of San Jose.

From the volcano in La Fortuna to the beaches in Manuel Antonio , there’s something to do for every vacation style in Costa Rica. Families will enjoy the wildlife and natural beaches at Manuel Antonio National Park. Or for more adventure, head to the Cloud Forest and experience ziplining in Monteverde .

Two other popular spots for visitors with resorts and plenty of amenities is in Tamarindo and La Fortuna. You’ll find plenty of tropical Christmas festivities to enjoy throughout Costa Rica!

Christmas vacation ideas

Wow, can you believe this list?! With just over 1/3 left, there’s so much more to see! More warm beaches and sunshine ahead…

19. Okinawa, Japan

Average temp:  high 69, low 57 Fly into:  Naha Airport, Naha

You won’t find snow or cold temperatures in Okinawa, Japan. Instead, you’ll find beautiful tropical beaches, botanical gardens, resorts and a great night life!

Okinawa is easily reachable from major cities in mainland Japan as well as other larger international cities. Naha, the capital of Okinawa is home to Naha International Airport. Visitors have the option to stay in the Naha area, or drive 40 minutes north to Okinawa City. Okinawa City is close to popular attractions like American Village and the Southeast Botanical Gardens.

Typically, Japan does not celebrate Christmas but there is a huge American population living on the island of Okinawa. Because of the population of Americans living on the island, Okinawa has adopted many American traditions and celebrations to include getting in the Christmas Spirit.

During Christmas many attractions will have illuminated light displays. Both Okinawa Zoo and the Southeast Botanical Gardens have holiday illuminations with over a million lights . Visitors come to see the tropical palm trees glowing with lights.

Another attraction worth visiting during a tropical Christmas vacation to Okinawa is American Village. American Village is a part of town that is quite touristy but beautiful at the same time. During the holidays, American Village is lit up and there are even Christmas decorations scattered about.

If lights and the holiday celebrations just aren’t for you, why not just relax on one of the many beaches around Okinawa. Since there are so many beaches here, chances are you’ll have a beach to yourself or  share it with very few people.

Since winters are pretty mild in Okinawa, many of the resorts still offer water activities so you can enjoy the water and sunshine during the holidays while it’s cold and snowy back home.

Okinawa is one of the best Christmas vacation ideas if you’re looking for a tropical getaway.

Recommended by Brandon of Zimmin Around the World

20. Maui, Hawaii (one of the best Christmas vacations for families)

Average temp:  high 83, low 66 Fly into:  Kahului Airport, Maui

Maui, Hawaii is the ideal tropical Christmas destination whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure or a combination of both.

There are plenty of lodging options throughout the island. Kihei, Wailea and Lahaina are 2 cities to consider. Regardless of where you stay, look into attending a luau to celebrate Christmas!

Maui offers beautiful beaches and resorts in the Wailea area. Enjoy snorkeling or laying in the sun on this part of the island. If you can afford to splurge and stay at the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa you won’t regret it! The resort is over the top and you will have a very relaxing experience!

For adventure, rent a car and drive the infamous Road to Hana . This road is known for waterfalls, hairpin turns, single-lane bridges and great views.

Near Hana, you can see the famous 7 Sacred Pools or hike to a red sand beach. Take a tour if you’d rather not feel the pressure of driving this road.

There are hotels in Hana if you’d like to spend more time in the area but it’s possible to experience the road to Hana in one, very long day.

For the road less traveled, consider taking the Kahekili Highway . Another day full of adventure, explore hikes, waterfalls and coastal views in northwest Maui.

Haleakalā National Park is also a must-do ! Exploring a landscape and location that is sacred to the Hawaiians is a special experience. Bring warm layers with you to Haleakalā; it’s at the top of a volcano so it can be chilly.

Stay for Haleakalā at sunset and stargazing afterward for a truly memorable experience!

Maui is a very popular Christmas destination so you need to plan early. Make sure you have your flights, lodging, rental car and activities booked well in advance otherwise you may miss out.

Recommended by Jami of Celiac Travel Pack

21. Belize (one of the best tropical destinations in December)

Average temp:  high 83, low 70 Fly into:  Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, Belize City

If you’re looking for the best tropical vacations in December, then look no further than Belize! A small country in Central America, Belize really packs a punch!

December in Belize means the hurricane season is over, so you’re met with plenty of sunshine for your winter escape! With festive celebrations all month long, December is a great time to get to know the local culture in Belize.

The Garifuna community show off traditional dances: Jankunu and Charikanari down in Hopkins throughout December. Or go to a traditional Christian Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve – found throughout the country.

For the most resort options on the cutest small island off the coast of Belize, stay in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. For less touristy and more genuine Belize experience, explore all the things to do in Placencia . And if you’re up for more adventures, discover the ancient Mayan ruins inland like Xunantunich , staying in San Ignacio as a home base.

Fly into the international airport in Belize City. If you’re staying in San Pedro, arrange a ferry ride over then rent bikes or a golf cart for your stay. Otherwise, Belize is a very drivable country and renting a car is a great option for visitors.

Regardless of how or where you decide to visit in Belize, it’s an incredible country and one worth visiting, especially during the holiday season!

22. New Zealand

Average temp:  high 74, low 58 (varies by region) Fly into:  Auckland International Airport, Auckland

Perfectly timed for the Southern Hemisphere summer, New Zealand is the best tropical Christmas destination for outdoor lovers and adventurers. Escape the northern hemisphere winter and fly across the Pacific Ocean into Auckland International Airport, the launch pad to discover volcanic mountains, wild sandy beaches, breathtaking hiking and world-class wineries.

Kiwis love to get out of main cities for their summer break, so do as the locals do and take your pick of the countless options for spending the Christmas holiday. 

Head to the beach and spend Christmas barbecuing, surfing and enjoying a game of beach cricket in the Coromandel. Or head to the South Island to spend Christmas at the lake, swimming, kayaking and cycling around Queenstown.

Adventurous types can explore the mountains on a multi-day hike on one of the Great Walks in Fiordland. For a getaway with friends, hit one of the multi day dance music festivals, such as Rhythm & Vines, set in a beautiful vineyard.

The classic New Zealand holiday is to simply rent a campervan and follow a South Island road trip itinerary to explore some of the country’s best sights. 

With long days and sunny skies, Christmas is a great time of year to explore New Zealand . Be sure to book accommodation and transport well in advance as it’s a popular vacation time for locals too.

Recommended by Laura of Laura the Explorer

23. Antigua, Guatemala

Average temp:  high 74, low 54 Fly into:  La Aurora International Guatemala Airport, Guatemala City

Guatemala is a great tropical destination to spend Christmas . In Guatemala, Christmas is the most important holiday and by visiting the country during this time, you can attend some special events that are organised for this occasion. 

A great place to be in Guatemala during Christmas time is Antigua. You can easily get here in an hour and a half from Guatemala City, where the main airport in the country is. There are minibuses that leave towards Antigua when full, in front of the airport. 

On Christmas Eve, there is a very interesting parade that starts from the main church and goes around the city. The locals dress up in the most bizarre costumes and follow a procession with different statues of Jesus and Mary led by the local priests. At midnight on Christmas Eve, there is a big fireworks display, celebrated by all locals. 

On Christmas Day, most of the businesses closed. However, there will be restaurants that stay open, as well as some touristic experiences, such as  the cooking class you can take in Antigua . The market is closed as well, but there are a few vendors that will still come to sell their produce. 

A great place to stay in Antigua during Christmas time is Selina Antigua . They organise special dinners for their guests, combining the traditional Guatemalan dishes with other traditional holiday foods from the countries of their employees.

Recommended by Joanna of The World in my Pocket

24. Sayulita, Mexico (one of the best tropical Christmas vacation ideas on this list)

Average temp:  high 82, low 64 Fly into:  Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Jalisco

If you’re looking for a laidback place to enjoy Christmas, Sayulita, Mexico should definitely be on your list! This sleepy town, located approximately an hour north of the glitzy resort city of Puerto Vallarta along the Riviera Nayarit, is the perfect destination for a low-key holiday. 

Sayulita’s chill vibes are thanks to the activity that put this town on the map: surfing! Although December is not the best month to catch gnarly waves here, the town enjoys up to 15 consistent and gentle surf breaks all year long, making this the perfect place for both beginner and expert surfers alike. 

If surfing isn’t your jam, there’s tons of other things to do in Sayulita . Try your hand at other water sports like stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. December is also prime time to go on a tour to spot a beloved annual visitor to Sayulita’s warm lagoons, the magnificent humpback whale , who migrates from the Arctic to these waters to breed and raise their calves. 

While Sayulita does not have any kind of large organized Christmas events, it’s a popular destination around the holidays, both for local families and visitors all around the world. The town, which always has quite a lively party-atmosphere, feels even more jovial due to the influx of visitors.

On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, most of the town’s colorful shops, bars, and restaurants close and everyone heads to the beach. So stock up on drinks and food the day before and celebrate the holidays by soaking up the sun, cerveza in hand.

Sayulita is one of the best places to spend Christmas for a tropical getaway!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Tropical Christmas vacations

So many tropical destinations around the globe perfect for the holidays. From the best beaches in the Caribbean, South America, Europe and Australia, there’s much more to see…

25. Mauritius, Africa (another one of the best beach vacations in December)

Average temp:  high 84, low 75 Fly into:  Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, Plaine Magnie

Spending Christmas far away from the cold is a dream of many, and Mauritius is happy to fulfill that wish.

This island smack dab in the Indian Ocean is not an obvious choice for spending the end of the year in tropical comfort, though it still has all the amenities for all types of travelers . Whether you want to be pampered in a beachside resort such as Riu Creole or get in touch with local culture at a guesthouse like Villa Orchidée à Pereybere , you can find it all.

The most famous place to stay is at Le Morne, an iconic inselberg on a peninsula surrounded by a turquoise lagoon. That’s where you can learn about the island’s history and go hiking.

Join a tour to the nearby waterfalls and taste Mauritian rum, or join a boat trip to Crystal Rock and Île aux Bénitiers . Mauritius is a fantastic destination to try out a new watersport, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, snorkeling, diving, kayaking and dinghy/pirogue sailing.

Mauritians adhere to a variety of religions, of which Christianity is only one. Christmas is widely celebrated but doesn’t interfere with business; December and January are the most important months for tourism in Mauritius. Restaurant owners will often offer a Christmas menu with a choice of vegetarian or non-vegetarian.

If you’re staying over New Year as well, it’s important to know that the first week of January sees irregular opening times. Getting to Mauritius is fairly straightforward as there’s only one airport on the island from where you can take a taxi to anywhere.

Recommended by Iris of Mind of a Hitchhiker

26. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Average temp:  high 85, low 74 Fly into:  Rio de Janeiro Galeão International Airport, Rio de Janeiro

Brazil may not usually be a destination associated with a tropical Christmas getaway, but it is a great place to go during the holidays. There is one city in particular that blooms during the high season: Rio de Janeiro.

The city is at its best during the summer season. Especially during the holidays, you’ll find a wide variety of parties, shows and cultural events around the city. You’d have to work really hard to get bored when visiting Rio during the holidays!

Here are a few things you should definitely experience while in Rio de Janeiro:

• Try rabanada, a typical Brazilian Christmas sweet
• Go to a traditional samba at Pedra do Sal
• Visit the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon in the evening to see the floating Christmas tree lit up
• Watch the sunset at Arpoador (spoiler alert: applaud when the sun goes down!)
• Visit the iconic  Maracana Stadium  if you’re a sports fan

The best way to get to Rio from abroad is to fly to Rio de Janeiro Galeão International Airport. Stay in the neighborhoods of Ipanema, Copacabana or Botafogo for the best location and culture.

One of the best hotels in Rio is Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro . They have an incredible rooftop bar (with amazing views!) that you can visit even if you choose to stay somewhere else.

Recommended by Fernanda of Mauka Travels

27. Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

Average temp:  high 69, low 57 Fly into:  César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport, Lanzarote

Wanting to escape the frigid cold that most of the northern hemisphere experiences during the winter holidays? Look no further than to the volcanic island of Lanzarote. This dry and sub-tropical Canary Island in Spain has the perfect weather during Christmas, with temperatures in the 60’s and 70’s.

For anyone in North America, Lanzarote is a little tricky to get to, as there are no direct flights to the island. Connections can be made in various European cities including London, Edinburgh, Paris and Madrid, to name a few. Direct flights from Madrid are frequent to Lanzarote Airport and take around 2.5 hours.

Timanfaya National Park and Caldera Blanca are 2 great places to explore to immerse yourself into the volcanic region. These areas offer unique experiences to walk through black lava rocks, hike to massive 1km wide craters and feel the heat literally at your feet.

If you’re wanting to get into the holiday spirit, Lanzarote puts on quite a show with their nativity scenes throughout the island. The Nativity Scene of Yaiza is a particular popular one to visit around Christmas.

Many Europeans flock to Lanzarote over the holidays to enjoy the sun, so book well in advance for accommodations and tours . Unlike the neighboring Canary Islands, Lanzarote doesn’t offer as much selection when it comes to large resorts as there are only 3 on the entire island.

Opting for a vacation rental or guest houses will allow you the freedom to explore the far reaches of the island. Ecofinca La Buganvilla is an eco friendly guest house that is in San Bartolomé. It offers a pool, BBQ and kitchenette. 

You’ll love spending a tropical Christmas in Lanzarote. It might just be the perfect spot you’re looking for this holiday season.

Recommended by Deirdre of Build and Board Travel

28. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (one of the most tropical Christmas vacations)

Average temp:  high 85, low 71 Fly into:  Punta Cana International Airport, Punta Cana

Punta Cana, located in the Dominican Republic, is a beautiful sea-side area to relax during your Christmas vacation. It just so happens to be one of the best times to visit Punta Cana, as the rainy season has passed and you are likely to have incredible weather for your Christmas getaway.

While there are many beaches and areas to stay within Punta Cana, staying in the Cap Cana area is the best option. It has beautiful beach access and a multitude of stunning resorts which are all exceedingly safe. 

Fly into the Punta Cana International Airport and hop in taxi. It’s only about a 15 minute ride to paradise at the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana and Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana .

Punta Cana is incredibly festive and it’s one of the best Christmas vacation ideas on this list!

Resorts go all out with their decorations, and you’ll find Christmas trees in lobbies, palm trees decorated with lights, special shows and parades are put on, and most resorts even have a Christmas dinner gala. There’s also a pretty good chance you’ll see Santa by the pool or the beach!

Just keep in mind that all day tours are cancelled on Christmas Day.

Recommended by Taylor of Traverse With Taylor

29. Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Average temp:  high 88, low 74 Fly into:  Cairns Airport, Cairns City

Christmas in Cairns is a truly unique experience. Situated in the far north of Australia, Cairns enjoys warm weather and beautiful tropical beaches at Christmas time.

On Christmas Day, head to the beach! With its white sand and clear blue water, with sandmen wearing Christmas hats instead of snowmen. Cairns is the perfect place to relax and soak up the festive spirit. 

If you’re feeling more adventurous during your stay, there are plenty of things to do in Cairns , why not try some of the many water sports on offer? Christmas is also a great time to explore the Great Barrier Reef – one of the 7 wonders of the natural world. 

You can take a boat trip out to the reef , or even go snorkelling or diving to get up close and personal with the colourful fish and coral. 

And when Christmas dinner rolls around, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the amazing selection of seafood on offer in Cairns or a good old Aussie Barbecue!

Walk along the esplanade at night time to see the palm trees filled with Christmas lights, or take the Kuranda Railway to Kuranda village to see a truly magical Christmas display. There’s nothing like a warm night singing to carols by candlelight in Fogarty Park. 

The Shangri-la is a beautiful place to stay as it’s located right on the Cairns Marina, where you can watch the sunset on a warm summers night from your balcony on Christmas Eve and wait for Santa to arrive in the morning. 

Recommended by Fiona of Travelling Thirties

30. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Average temp:  high 81, low 62 Fly into:  San Jose Del Cabo International Airport, Baja California Sur

Located in Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is a popular winter getaway.

Christmas is a perfect time to visit this popular resort town thanks to perfect weather and many opportunities for outdoor like surfing, hiking and diving.

Whether you want to watch the spectacular sunset from the boat, visit the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas or go on a zip line tour , there are plenty of things to do in Cabo San Lucas to keep you busy during your Christmas vacation. 

Cabo San Lucas is also a popular destination for foodies. Visitors enjoy many food tours that offer a glimpse into the Baja California cuisine and good party scene with many bars, restaurants and night clubs where you can party away like the Squid Roe or Cabo Wabo. 

Cabo San Lucas is also a getaway to the best surfing spots in Mexico , with winter bringing some of the best conditions. Many travelers spend a few days in Cabo San Lucas before heading to other destinations in Baja California to catch the wave. 

The city boasts a year-round sunny climate with dry and warm weather, which is perfect for spending time outside. Cabo’s temperatures in December hover between high 70’s and low-80’s, which makes it a perfect spot to escape snow and grey skies and have a nice, sunny getaway.

Most travelers come to Cabo San Lucas via San Jose Del Cabo International Airport located about 35 minutes away. The airport has flights from many major airports within the United States.

Recommended by Daria of Explore Baja California

Tropical Christmas vacation ideas

Whew what a list! Those are the very best places to spend Christmas that are actually warm and amazing. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed vacation or one full of adventure, there are so many incredible Christmas vacations for families, couples, friends or solo travelers.

Let’s go through that list again, in a much more condensed list…

• Moorea, French Polynesia
• Big Island, Hawaii
• Turks and Caicos
• Krabi, Thailand
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Bali, Indonesia
• Sao Tome and Principe
• St. Croix, USVI
• Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• Boracay Island, Philippines
• Viñales, Cuba
• Key West, Florida
• Koh Phangan, Thailand
• Kerala, India
• Puerto Escondido, Mexico
• Okinawa, Japan
• Maui, Hawaii
• New Zealand
• Antigua, Guatemala
• Sayulita, Mexico
• Mauritius, Africa
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
• Cairns, Queensland, Australia
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Related content you might like: 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold) Amazing Food, Culture and Beaches in Puerto Rico 21 Best Beaches in Florida for Families You’ll Absolutely Love Sunsets, Sea Turtles and Hiking in the Hawaiian Islands Best of the Caribbean: Aruba, Belize, Turks and Caicos (Plus More)

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Saturday 3rd of December 2022

I plan to visit Dublin in December! I won’t be swimming but I will enjoy castle hopping. Great roundup.

Tuesday 6th of December 2022

Oh that sounds like the perfect holiday getaway! Enjoy!!

Friday 2nd of December 2022

Wow, that was a great tip to not wrap the gifts. Thank you for sharing.

One of the many benefits. Thanks for visiting :)

Friday 26th of August 2022

These look amaaaaazing! Now I think about it, I have never been somewhere hot for Christmas. It would be such a fun change that now you are totally getting me to consider it. Christmas in Okinawa would be a dream!

Tuesday 30th of August 2022

Josy it sounds like a warm Christmas getaway is in your future! Okinawa is sooo pretty!

Thursday 25th of August 2022

This was such a comprehensive list. I definitely bookmarked a few of these posts to come back to later when I plan to go to Belize and Costa Rica!

Oh awesome, Robin. I love both Belize and Costa Rica, although all of these locations are lovely ❤️

I am ready for a tropical Christmas vacation! All of these places would be amazing!

Fun, Lisa! I hope you have a warm and sunny Christmas this year ☀️

• DESTINATIONS

10 Beach Destinations to Visit for Christmas

Swap snow for sand this Christmas. These ten beach havens, scattered across the globe, offer sun, sea, and festive cheer in abundance.

If you want to spend Christmas sun-tanning on a beach rather than shoveling snow, this is the list for you. We’ve scoured the world for some of the best beaches to visit in December and compiled them into one easy-to-read list. Here are our top 10 beach destinations to visit for Christmas. 

1. Bali, Indonesia

If you don’t mind a true rainforest climate with a lot of humidity then look no further than Bali, Indonesia. It has an average December high temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Bali is also famous for its yoga retreats and three popular west coast surfing beaches, Kuta, Kegian and Seminyak.

 2. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun was designed as a resort area on the snowy white beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula, where the average December high is 84 degrees Fahrenheit. With its emerald blue waters, there’s nothing more tranquil than gently falling asleep to the fresh sea breeze swirling above you. If hiking is more your cup of tea, you’re just a bus ride away from their famous Mayan ruins. 

3. Montego Bay/Ocho Rios/Negril, Jamaica

Jamaica has one large airport in Montego Bay that is close to all 3 of Jamaica’s resort towns. Montego Bay is the most glamorous, high-end destination, Ochos Rios has a hip vibe and Negril is famous for its easy-going lifestyle. The December average high is 86 degrees Fahrenheit. 

4. Puerto Vallarta, México

This warm and sunny tourist haunt with a December average high of 86 degrees Fahrenheit is on Mexico’s Pacific coast. During the 50s, it was a celebrity stomping grounds, and the city still retains a lot of mid-century modern charms. Be sure to make time for a food tour and enjoy all the wonders that Mexican food has to offer. 

5. Punta Cana/Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has two major resort communities, Punta Cana on the eastern tip and Puerta Plata on the northern shore and each has a cluster of about 200 safe hotels with its own beautiful beaches. The average December high is 83 degrees Fahrenheit. 

6. Tamarindo/Guanacaste, Costa Rica 

If you love nature, you will love Costa Rica, which has volcanoes and rainforests in its interior, accessible from any of its resorts along its Caribbean and Pacific coasts. The large centrally located airport makes it easy to fly there. Be sure to check out the Tamarindo Night Market when you are there. This once-a-week festival features live music performances, fire dancers, and entertainment for all ages. Enjoy the many types of different cuisines available locally in the plaza as well as from the multitudes of food trucks nestled near the pavilion.

7. Ambergris Coye/Caye Caulker, Belize

Belize has two island resorts just off the coast of Belize City. They are the perfect place to go if you’re in need of a Christmas getaway. The average December high is 81 degrees Fahrenheit. The diving and snorkeling here are among the best in the world, but there are not many swimming beaches - so book a hotel with a pool when you visit. 

8. Panama City, Panama

A lot of money flows into Panama, and the country is home to some great beach resort areas that border the edge of this bustling city. The average December high is 90 degrees Fahrenheit.  It boasts both modern and older Spanish architecture as well as great cuisines, so you’ll love the history and culture. While you’re in town, take a trip to the Suez Canal, and see the mega-ships cross from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

9. Phuket, Thailand

If you want to meet people, party, spend some time in the heat, then Phuket is the place. It is an island with 12 different beaches, including the often-crowded Patong beach. Custom suits, Thai-massages, sun-bathing, delicious food, and a party atmosphere await you when you visit, and you can fly right into Phuket’s airport making the trip a bit quicker. The average high is 88 degrees Fahrenheit. 

10. Goa, India

Goa is a state in India with several smaller beaches and historic hotels that are famous hippie hangouts for Europeans. Resorts have everything you need, including delicious food and drinks, and beaches attached to them. The average December high here is a toasty 91 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Be sure to book your trip now to give yourself the Christmas gift of a tropical paradise this year.

Escape the winter chill and embrace the holiday spirit at these top 10 beach destinations to visit for Christmas. Swap snowflakes for seashells and create unforgettable yuletide memories in tropical paradises around the world. Whether you dream of unwrapping presents on powdery sands or sipping eggnog by crystal-clear waters, these beach getaways offer the perfect blend of sun, sea, and holiday cheer. Discover the ideal Christmas beach destination for your festive escape.

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• 1 Trunk Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
• 2 Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos
• 3 Laguna Beach, California
• 4 The Baths, Virgin Gorda
• 5 Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas
• 6 Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda
• 7 Smathers Beach, Key West
• 8 Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
• 9 Mauna Kea Beach (Kauna’oa Bay), Hawaii
• 10 Spanish Wall Beach, Rincon, Puerto Rico

10 Incredible Beaches to Visit This December

When winter comes calling and changing leaves are replaced by habitual flurries, it's time for a sunny escape. Here, 10 of the best beaches around—each begging us to flee the cold this December.

P.S. Check out What to Pack for a Beach Vacation before your next seaside getaway!

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Trunk Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

Velvety-soft sands, mild island breezes, and serene, crystalline surf greet visitors at Trunk Bay in tropical St. John. Even in December, you’ll find agreeable weather at the Virgin Islands National Park shoreline, where average land and sea temps hover in the 80s. While sunbathing is one of the main draws, you can always snorkel the Trunk Bay Underwater Reef Trail , a 225-yard-long family-friendly path dotted with colorful fan coral and exotic marine life.

RELATED:  Save BIG with our incredible deals on beach hotels going on right now >>>

Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

Scoot on over to the Northeast coast of Providenciales (Provo, if you want to fit in) and you’ll find the 12-mile-long, barrier reef-protected Grace Bay Beach . The postcard-perfect stretch of white and pink sand consistently lands international ‘best of’ lists for its impossibly turquoise waters, calm surf, and nearly year-round sunshine. Winter in Provo—get a load of this—means air temps in the mid-80s while the ocean remains tepid as well, in the mid-70s.

Laguna Beach, California

Late November and certainly December may spell out descending temps and snow flurries for most regions of the U.S., but on the West Coast, Cali still clings to a sliver of sun. Drive yourself down the state’s rugged coast on the scenic Pacific Coast Highway and make a pit stop in Laguna Beach. Though the luxe Orange County town was sprung to reality TV fame in 2004 thanks to a high school-age Lauren Conrad (and co.), it’s an indisputable destination in its own right with mild temps and eight miles of rambling coves and beaches , including downtown Main Beach—Laguna’s “Window to the Sea.”

RELATED :  7 Hidden California Beaches for Crowd-Free Paradise

The Baths, Virgin Gorda

If you’ve never heard of Virgin Gorda, let us properly introduce you. The 8.5-mile mountainous island, the third largest in the British Virgin Islands, is home to one of the Caribbean’s most visited natural wonders: the Baths . On the southern end of the isle lies a maze of eroded, volcanic granite boulders, tidal pools, natural cave tunnels, and rocky grottoes that attract holiday-makers in search of primo snorkeling spots.

Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

Though most dedicate the bulk of their Bahamian trips to Nassau or Paradise Island—AKA mega-resort central—those in the know hop a ferry to Harbour Island to spend a lazy day on Pink Sands Beach . The three-mile expanse of coral reef-protected shore is laid-back in all the ways that its resort-town siblings never could be. Serene Atlantic waves meet a crowd of friendly locals and few visitors, and bet you didn’t guess it: pale pink sand. An added bonus? The sand is always delightfully cool to the touch, so you can walk barefoot without worrying about burning your toes.

Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

The 21-mile-long island of Bermuda isn’t aching for beautiful beaches, that’s for sure; so topping our list takes quite a lot. One of our highest regarded is the fine, white and pink-sand Horseshoe Bay . The Atlantic shoreline, rimmed with limestone rocks and dotted with intimate coves, is named for its curved shape. While the beach can be overrun by overzealous sun-seekers, you can easily jaunt to nearby vacant inlets—like Rocky Port Royal Cove (AKA Baby Beach) to the west, and Peel Rock Cove to the east—to avoid the masses. If you’re down for some time in the water, don’t miss out on killer snorkeling; parrot fish, angel fish, and snappers are just some of the colorful aquatic species you may encounter.

RELATED: 17 Incredible Caribbean Vacations

Smathers Beach, Key West

We’re going to be upfront on this one: rumor has it that the sand on Key West’s Smathers Beach isn’t native to Florida, but…the Bahamas. After hurricane season comes and goes each year, dutifully wiping away the beach’s shore, the state ships in the good stuff from the Caribbean to replenish and rebuild. Despite borrowing one of its best assets from international beaches, the spot is especially popular among spring breakers, sunbathers, and those in search of an exceptional sunset. Since the tide isn’t strong enough for surfing, it’s particularly ideal for swimmers and snorkelers, and it’s also conveniently located—just a mile or so from Duval Street in Old Town, one of the liveliest areas in Key West.

Image Courtesy of Grenada Tourism Authority

Grand Anse Beach, Grenada

Situated in the Caribbean Sea between Trinidad and Tobago, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is Grenada, an isle home to no less than 45 pristine beaches. More than a few are certainly worth their salt, but it’s the 2-mile, palm and almond tree-lined Grand Anse , on the southwestern coast, that steals the show time and time again. Despite drawing hoards of locals and throngs of cruise ship shoobies, it’s large enough to accommodate everyone without feeling congested. Take to the calm waters for a dip, or go extreme sport-mode and try your luck water-skiing, parasailing, or sea kayaking.

Mauna Kea Beach (Kauna’oa Bay), Hawaii

One thing every Big Island vacationer should know: all BI beaches are public access (read: completely free!), and while there are a handful to choose from, Mauna Kea (also known as Kauna’oa Bay Beach) is our go-to. Since access is controlled by the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel , the quarter-mile, sublime stretch keeps crowds to a minimum. The hotel has only 40 parking spots for non-guests, so your best bet is to get there bright and early—by 9 a.m., otherwise you’ll be stuck staking out a spot. Daytime visitors can bank on sloping white sands that feed into a gentle surf, while those who make nighttime pilgrimages are treated to manta ray sightings as a result of the hotel’s floodlights that attract their favorite snack: plankton.

RELATED :  The Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Every Type of Traveler

Spanish Wall Beach, Rincon, Puerto Rico

If you’re looking for a beach far off the beaten path (sorry for the cliche, but it’s apt), the largely ‘secret’ Spanish Wall is one few tourists make it to. This is in part because the shallow and secluded coast—at the very western top of Rincon, where the Atlantic crosses paths with the Caribbean—requires a hike from the wildly popular Domes Beach along the Domes Trail. Word to the wise: not only is the unspoiled stretch still relatively toasty in the winter, but that’s when surfers will actually find the best breaks.

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Best Beach Holidays, Destinations & Vacations in December (Travel Guide)

As the days draw in, the clocks go back and the temperature plummets into single figures, you might be starting to dream about the best beach holidays in December so you can start planning your trip to enjoy some winter sun! I’ve scoured the globe for you to find a whole host of warm beaches in December so you just need to pick one of the following destinations and start planning your getaway.

As the northern hemisphere starts cooling down throughout autumn and winter, you need to start looking slightly further afield to get your sunshine fix. Check out tropical destinations like Goa, Belize, and Malaysia for your next December vacation.

Just think, while everyone else is wrapped up in their slippers with a cup of tea you could be kicking back on the beach with a cocktail in hand! What’s not to love?!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

Best beach holidays in December

As Mexico is such a huge country it makes a fantastic year-round destination as you can always find somewhere with some sun no matter the time of year.

If you fancy seeking out the sunshine in December, you’re best off visiting Puerto Vallarta or the Yucatan Peninsula as these receive the highest temperatures which will allow you to while away your trip on the beach.

Besides beaches, the Yucatan Peninsula also has charming colonial cities like Merida, Mexico , known as the Cultural Capital of Yucatan.

Tulum , Playa del Carmen, and Cancun all boast average daytime temperatures well into the 20s (Celsius), with the weather rarely dropping into the teens, even overnight! As the Yucatan region has a fairly tropical climate, however, it does receive a certain amount of rain throughout December, with somewhere between 7 and 15 days a month.

But fear not, these are usually quick, heavy downpours rather than long drizzly days so they shouldn’t affect your trip too much! The Yucatan boasts the perfect mix of pristine beaches, great temperatures, incredible local cuisine, stunning cenotes, and intriguing Mayan ruins which allow you to have the best of all worlds during your December vacation.

Puerto Vallarta is located on the other side of Mexico (on the Pacific Coast), with a warm but much less tropical climate. PV is ideal for a relaxing beach holiday in December as it receives highs of 30C and lows of 20C, with an average of just four days of rain a month.

The sea temperature is a balmy 25C which is perfect for a dip when the heat of the day gets too much. Spend your days reclining on the warm sands, drinking, dining, and dancing along the boardwalk, or taking day trips to the surrounding mountains and countryside for some more adventurous activities.

Check out some interesting activities: – From Puerto Vallarta: San Pancho and Sayulita day trip – Cancun: Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Lunch and Open Bar

Check out more excursions from Playa del Carmen . 

You might also be interested in the  Xpu Ha Beach which makes a great day trip from Playa del Carmen.

If your idea of a beach holiday in December involves kicking back on a paradise island in the sun, then look no further than Fiji, the spectacular island state in the South Pacific. This collection of islands is geared up to create an awesome beach vacation, with warm waters, idyllic palm-fringed beaches, and coral reefs that could keep you entertained for weeks on end!

When you’re not enjoying the attractions of the underwater world, you can glide across the top of the water on a kayak, hike through the island wilderness, or get to know the friendly locals that live and work on the islands.

While Fiji does receive quite a lot of rain throughout the month of December, this again is likely to come in heavy downpours, so you can chill out inside eating local cuisine or enjoying a massage while you wait it out. With temperatures in their high 20s and 30s, the landscape will dry out in no time and you can be back out on the beach soaking up the sun.

As December is the height of summer in Fiji, the country receives 13 hours of daylight, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the island. Fiji can also be a great beach add-on to a trip to Australia or New Zealand.

3. Southern Sri Lanka

The small island of Sri Lanka has a variable climate throughout the year depending on where you are in the country. Thankfully, the south of Sri Lanka receives the best weather in December, which is ideally where some of the most beautiful beaches are located!

The beachside destinations of Mirissa, Galle, and Hikkaduwa receive average daily highs of around 31°C, which is perfect for relaxing on the sand or taking a quick dip in the water. While there will be the occasional downpour, the rain shouldn’t really affect your trip.

With evening temperatures sitting around 24°C, Southern Sri Lanka is ideal for dining on the coast, eating fresh seafood with your feet in the sand!

December is also the beginning of the season for climbing Adam’s Peak, so if you want to add some adventure to your beach vacation you can include some hiking and safari-going too!

The area around Colombo and Negombo also receive good weather in December, so you can easily spend a couple of days in a beach hotel here at the beginning or end of your trip.

You might want to check out this: Southern Sri Lanka: Sea, Sand & Marine Life 2-Day Tour

The Caribbean offers some of the best beach holidays in December, with Jamaica being up there are one of the top destinations for a beach break over Christmas and the New Year. Temperatures range from 22-29°C with an average of 9 hours of sunshine a day! This weather makes it ideal for unwinding on Jamaica’s beaches, sipping cocktails, and reading books to your heart’s content.

The sea temperature is usually around 28°C in December which makes the Caribbean Sea feel like a bathtub as you head in for a dip!

Thanks to the coastal location of many of Jamaica’s hotels, visitors are blessed with a cool sea breeze which enables you to stay on the beach for the whole day without overheating.

Although rain frequency intensifies somewhat throughout December in Jamaica, the afternoon downpours actually bring a bit of respite from the heat.

You might like an excursion to Negril’s famous 7-Mile white sand beach .

5. Australia

If you live in Europe you might just be dreaming of the other side of the world when the autumn leaves begin to fall. If so, you may well be wondering whether December is a good time to visit Australia. Well, the answer is a resounding yes! Australia, in particular, the Gold Coast, is absolute epic at this time of year, with the southern hemisphere sun beaming down on the beaches all the way from Sydney to Port Douglas.

Visitors can opt for a city/beach combo trip with the likes of Sydney or Brisbane, or just go all out to the beach with time spent at Byron Bay, Coff’s Harbour, Cairns, or the Whitsundays! Australia’s Gold Coast has so many beaches to choose from that it’s often hard to pick just one, so a road trip may well be your best bet.

Temperatures along the Gold Coast range from around 20-30°C throughout the month of December, with Cairns receiving the highest temperatures and Sydney a little lower. There may be some rain on and off throughout the month but nothing to stop you from having a great time exploring the beaches, snorkeling the coral reefs, or surfing on some world-class swell.

6. Goa, India

December is a delightful time to travel to Goa in India thanks to its excellent climate making it seem a million miles away from the cold winters of Europe. Average daytime temperatures in Goa are 27°C and the state receives an average of just one day of rain per month in December so you won’t have to worry about rain affecting your holiday.

Goa is definitely one of the best beach destinations in December as the sun, sea temperature, culture, and cuisine all work together to create the perfect vacation! While December may be a little warm for practicing yoga in one of Goa’s many retreat centers, it is ideal for lounging around on the beach and going for a swim.

Each year on the 19th of December, Goa celebrates Liberation Day, recognizing its separation from Portugal. The region celebrates with parades and parties that end at the Campal Ground in Panjim and are not to be missed! December in Goa also sees the Serendipity Arts Festival spring into action, the nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles, and the flow of the Dudhsagar Falls powering down the cliffside!

There is therefore plenty to keep you entertained throughout the month of December in Goa and there really is no excuse not to go!

You might like this Goa Beach Tour .

7. Philippines

The dry season is well underway in the Philippines by December so you can expect long sunny days, clear skies, and a drop in humidity that makes the daytime temperatures of 22-32°C more than bearable.

As the majority of the country has been drying up since the start of November, pretty much all islands and remote regions are fully accessible by December, so you have free rein as to where you can travel.

Palawan is arguably the most famous and most impressive beach destination in the Philippines, with sights such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Honda Bay, and El Nido being must-sees. The landscapes and lagoons here are absolutely mesmerizing and they certainly make for one of the best beach vacations in December!

You might like: Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping & Optional Massage

While many destinations across the Philippines receive more rain in December than say, January or February, it is still a fantastic destination for Christmas and the New Year with guaranteed warm weather.

Visitors can spend December diving among shipwrecks, exploring coral gardens, and lounging around on picture-perfect beaches with the turquoise waters lapping at the shore – dreamy!

8. Mauritius

On the whole, Mauritius has pretty fantastic weather in December, with hot, balmy days and bath-like sea temperatures that will lure you in at any time of day or night! Daytime highs reach around 28-30°C while evenings are a little cooler (around 22°C) which makes it comfortable for sleeping.

Although December does have around a 50/50 chance of rain, it is likely to be tropical downpours with sunshine either side rather than full days of showers. This means that you can pop inside for an afternoon siesta while it rains and then head back out to enjoy the rest of the 8 hours of glorious sunshine a day!

The joy of traveling to Mauritius in December is that the inland temperatures (such as in the Chamarel Mountains) are cooler, allowing you to add some hiking in the verdant landscapes to your itinerary if you so desire.

Be aware that the sun can be extremely strong in Mauritius in December so you’ll need to lather up with plenty of sun cream throughout the day to avoid getting burnt!

If you’re searching for winter sun this December, then why not head to Belize where you can enjoy 11 hours of bright daylight, temperatures in their 20s and more attractions than you could ever dream of!

Caye Caulker is one of the most idyllic beach destinations out there, with azure water, well-kept coral reefs, spectacular dive sites and miles of palm-fringed coastline for you to recline on and top up your tan. The beach resort has a real laid-back atmosphere where you can chat with locals, drink rum cocktails and dance the night away with your new-found friends!

Add to this a range of Mayan ruins, some intriguing wildlife and tons of incredible trekking trails and you have the perfect December vacation destination.

Each Christmas the Garifuna community get together to perform their traditional Joncunu dance which is followed by a Grand Ball for those who want to enjoy some elegant festivities. Most beach resorts in Belize also put on fun New Year’s Eve celebrations so you can ring in 2020 while watching fireworks with your toes in the sand.

While Cuba is known for its extraordinary history and culture, it is also home to a number of stunning beaches which are the perfect place to take a break in winter. Cuba sees just 7 days of rain throughout December (with only 36mm for the whole month), so you can expect long, hot days and plenty of sunshine!

The average maximum temperature throughout December is 27°C and sea temperatures are a soothing 26°C, so it is perfect for a beach vacation. The best beach destinations in Cuba in December are Varadero, Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, and Playa Los Pinos.

For the ideal Cuba holiday, combine your beach break with a couple of days in the capital, soaking up the atmosphere, dancing salsa, drinking rum, driving around in vintage cars and seeing Havana’s awesome architecture.

If you happen to be in Cuba on Christmas Eve, listen out for locals celebrating Noche Buena with feasts and dancing into the wee hours!

11. Langkawi, Malaysia

The island of Langkawi in Malaysia is another tropical beach destination that offers glorious sunshine and warmth throughout the month of December. While there will potentially be more days where you have some rainfall than not, that doesn’t mean that there won’t be time to hit the beach! You can expect frequent afternoon downpours but also at least 7 hours of sunshine a day that will keep the smile on your face.

Temperatures in Langkawi in December range from 23-32°C with lovely averages of around 28°C (both in and out of the water).

Unlike some of Malaysia’s other destinations, Langkawi is all about the beach, with resorts perched right on the shore and plenty of restaurants where you can hear the sound of the sea while you dine. The island features a wonderful selection of bars, restaurants, shops, and hotels so there really is something for everyone and it makes the perfect place to get away from winter!

12. South Africa

While most people think of safaris when they think of South Africa, it’s important to point out that both Cape Town and the Garden Route have some beautiful beaches that are just begging to be explored. December is a fantastic month for this as you can enjoy 11 hours of sunshine, less than 7 days on rain per month (on average) and comfortable temperatures of around 26°C which is both ideal for sunbathing and walking through some of South Africa’s breath-taking landscapes.

The list of South Africa’s beaches is pretty much endless but Arniston Beach, Kommetjie, Camps Bay, Hout Bay, and Boulder’s Beach are just a few to help you get started! Although November and December are molting time for the penguins at Boulder’s Beach (and therefore not the cutest time of year) it is still fascinating to see these creatures in such close quarters!

The further up the coast you go, the cooler the temperature and the more the average rainfall, but either way the weather will still be much better than that of North America and Europe at this time of year!

You might be interested in some great beach destinations in South Africa like Knysna and Mossel Bay . 

Panama is well and truly located in the Tropics so you can expect balmy year-round temperatures and on-and-off rain throughout the year. The main dry season runs from December to April though, so by visiting Panama over the festive period you’re likely to miss the wettest months.

On the whole, the Pacific side of Panama is drier than the Caribbean side but you are sure to enjoy gorgeous temperatures and sunny days in both throughout December. Temperatures in both Bocas del Toro and The Pearl Islands range from 25-31°C which is ideal for relaxing on the beach.

As most of the country is just coming out of the wet season, landscapes are likely to be lush and verdant which makes hiking and day trips an excellent addition to any beach vacation.

It’s worth noting that Christmas Day is a public holiday in Panama and pretty much everything shuts down so you’ll want to make sure your hotel has some sort of food offering as you don’t want to go hungry on Christmas Day!!

14. Aqaba, Jordan

Aqaba is the only coastal town in the country of Jordan which makes it an interesting alternative beach destination for those seeking a mix of culture, weather, and beach relaxation.

Unlike many of these tropical destinations, Aqaba also only has an average of one day of rain throughout the whole of December so if you’re looking for somewhere with pretty much-guaranteed sunshine and dry days this could be the place for you! Temperatures are lower than elsewhere though – mostly in the high teens – but there are usually 7 hours of sunshine a day which is great for enjoying cafe culture and coastal walks.

Of course, as Jordan is mainly a Muslim country there may not be many Christmas celebrations, but if you’re looking to spend time with family or just want to get away from it all there are many things to do in Aqaba.

You might want to check out: A 7 day Jordan itinerary. 

15. Puerto Rico

While Puerto Rico isn’t the hottest destination in December it is certainly warmer than most places in Europe with daytime temperatures ranging between 16°C and 21°C. The island receives between 6 and 9 hours of sunshine a day throughout December which gives you plenty of time to get out on a kayak on the water, walk through the cobbled streets of Old San Juan or to ride the somewhat crazy El Monstruo zip-line in the El Toro Adventure Park!

When you’re not out exploring you can pick the warmer days to relax on the beach and maybe take a dip in the water. While the sea temperatures may be a little chilly for some (around 21°C) they will feel balmy compared to Christmas day swims on the beach in Britain!

December is the beginning of the high season in Puerto Rico which means that prices will start to rise (and availability decrease) but it just goes to show that it is a great beach vacation destination for Christmas.

So, there you have it, the best beach destinations in December! Whether you fancy something tropical, cultural, paradisiacal or pristine, there is a beach location for you. Now you have absolutely no excuse not to escape the winter blues and enjoy some sunshine.

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13 Best Places to Spend Christmas on the Beach

To spend the Christmas day on the beach is something that over 90% of people would like to experience at least once in a lifetime.

The reason is that as a whole in the U.S. , Canada and Europe this is impossible, at least in most places.

The cold winter weather makes the idea to spend the holidays along the coast of some tropical destination really irresistible.

The good news is that in order to escape the freezing, gray and wet winters are needed only a few hours by plane, and you will find yourself in a completely different world.

1. Sydney, Australia

Average daytime christmas temperature: 26°c, average sea temperature: 24°c.

If you want to experience an original and really colorful Christmas on the beach, one of the best places the world for this purpose is the Australian city of Sydney , and in particular, the popular Bondi Beach.

You can often see something interesting there, such as Santa Claus and Snow White driving water ski or jet ski along the shore of the famous beach.

This is why they often call Sydney ‘World’s Christmas Beach Capital’.

The city is located in the southern hemisphere so at this time of the year the first really hot summer days begin.

2. Cartagena, Colombia

Average daytime christmas temperature: 31°c, average sea temperature: 29°c.

One of the hottest and most colorful tourist destinations in winter is the pearl of Colombia , Cartagena.

Once the city was pretty infamous, but today it is a favorite place to enjoy the Christmas holidays for many rich and famous people, including a number of Hollywood celebrities.

The city combines beautiful architecture, many entertainment options, good prices, bright colors, plenty of sunshine, friendly people, wonderful beaches and high temperatures in the middle of winter.

3. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Average daytime christmas temperature: 29°c.

Every year during the winter season from December to February the Brazilian megalopolis Rio de Janeiro becomes one of the world capitals of fun.

This part of the year passes mainly under the sign of hot weather and beautiful golden beaches, the most famous of which are those of Barra da Tijuca, Ipanema and Copacabana .

Since Rio is located in the southern hemisphere, the period during the Christmas and New Year holidays is the hottest and most dynamic time of the year.

At the same time, the period between December and February is when most of the celebrations, festivals and carnivals are held.

4. Riviera Maya, Mexico

Average sea temperature: 27°c.

Riviera Maya (as they call the Mexican Riviera) is one of the best places in the world to visit if you dream about of a sunny Christmas vacation at the beach.

This applies to the entire coastal area south of the popular Mexican resort of Cancun, especially for the resort centers of Tulum and Playa del Carmen.

Riviera Maya is popular winter destination for many European and American tourists.

In addition, winter is the best time to visit this area because this is a good way to enjoy the great beaches and at the same time to avoid the heat during the hottest summer months.

5. Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Average daytime christmas temperature: 30°c, average sea temperature: 28°c.

Whitsunday Islands , which lie just off the coast of the Australian state of Queensland , offer an amazing combination of unique nature consisting of many endemic plant and animal species, wonderful beaches (some of them among the most beautiful in the world), peaceful atmosphere and perfect climate.

The place becomes increasingly popular destination for spending the Christmas holidays year after year, and it already attracts more than half million visitors per year.

The islands are a popular destination for yacht tourism.

6. Miami, Florida, USA

Miami is one of the warmest places in the continental United States . In addition, the city is known for the fact that here the weather is more pleasant in winter than it is in summer.

Considering also the fact that it offers endless possibilities for entertainment and numerous restaurants and bars near the beach, Miami is a top winter sun destination in the country.

Here is the best place to spend the Christmas Day near the shore enjoying the white sand and warm ocean waters, while in other parts of the world people are trying to deal with the thick snow cover.

7. Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

Average daytime christmas temperature: 27°c, average sea temperature: 25°c.

The most vibrant and dynamic city in Hawaii will make you forget that winter season exists.

The weather in Honolulu is superb throughout the year, summers are very nice and warm, and winters will make you want to stay here forever.

Not accidentally Hawaii is among the most popular places for winter break not only for Americans but also for a growing number of tourists from Europe and Asia, especially China .

Honolulu is a rare combination because it is a modern looking American city, which, however, is touched by the deep traditions of the local population.

8. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is among the most preferred places to spend your Christmas and New Year holidays on the beach.

It is one of the most attractive Mexican resorts and offers superb beaches, delicious Mexican cuisine, as well as the opportunity to experience and touch the rich and diverse Mexican culture.

The weather here is lovely all year round and the Christmas temperatures do not differ significantly from those in the height of summer.

9. Costa Adeje, Tenerife, Spain

Average daytime christmas temperature: 23°c, average sea temperature: 21°c.

Costa Adeje is one of the warmest places in Europe and there’s an easy explanation.

The site is located on the southwest coast of Tenerife , not far off the African coast ( Morocco and Western Sahara ).

Costa Adeje consists of several very popular resort towns, including Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas . Costa Adeje is a very popular tourist destination among European tourists.

They come here throughout the year because of the glory of Tenerife as one of the places with the best climate on the planet .

10. Jurerê Internacional, Brazil

Average sea temperature: 23°c.

The luxury Brazilian resort Jurerê Internacional is a popular place that every summer attracts the elite of Brazil .

The Christmas and New Year holidays are probably the period that attracts the biggest crowds of tourists.

In this part of the year people usually have a lot of free time, and in addition, the warm weather is guaranteed.

During the late December the summer heat reaches even the cooler southern part of Brazil, so this is the perfect time to spend at least a few days here.

The place is often compared to Miami Beach and the similarity is really obvious. The beach is exceptional, covered with fine golden sand.

Over the Christmas holidays here are often organized various beach parties, which guarantee that you will not be bored.

11. Los Cabos, Mexico

If you need to determine which is the most popular destination for American tourists in winter, Los Cabos will definitely share the top spot with Florida and Hawaii.

Located in the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, the resort center undoubtedly offers one very important advantage and this is the guaranteed dry, warm and sunny weather.

The probability of rain throughout your holiday is extremely small because the climate here is traditionally very dry, so you can really enjoy an entire Christmas holidays without missing even a single day of your vacation staying in the hotel room because of a rainfall.

12. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The popular Dominican resort of Punta Cana is a top destination for winter holidays, attracting thousands of tourists from around the world, especially in December, during the Christmas holidays.

It is believed that the beaches of Punta Cana are among the best in the world. They are snow-white, and the sea water is irresistible with its azure colour.

As Punta Cana offers the best winter weather you could think of, it is considered one of the most attractive places to spend Christmas and New Year along the coast.

At the same time, the temperature is very pleasant and you don’t need to deal with unbearable heat or very high humidity.

Another advantage is that during the winter months there are no hurricanes , which are quite common in the region during the summer months.

13. Phuket, Thailand

Despite the tragedy that happened in Phuket in December 2004, when a devastating tsunami hit the coast of the Indian Ocean in Thailand , today the country is again among the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and Phuket attracts a huge numbers of visitors.

The island is so beloved as a tourist destination that it usually occupies the leading positions in almost every ranking of must visit places, whether it comes to beaches, opportunities for fun, food, climate and or something else.

Although Buddhism is predominant in Thailand, locals are strongly influenced by the constant flow of thousands and thousands of tourists from Europe and America and their western culture.

That’s why today Christmas is something quite common here, and many local people celebrate despite their religion is very different.

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10 Best Christmas Beach Vacations in December?

By: Author Ashley Brown

Posted on Published: November 12, 2022

If your idea of the perfect white Christmas involves sand instead of snow, you’ve come to the right place! A Christmas beach vacation is romantic and relaxing, and a wonderful way for couples to spend the holidays together and make new memories.

If you’ve been wondering, where should I go on a beach vacation at Christmas? or where are the warmest beaches in December? look no further. In this article, we’ll tell you all about the best Christmas beach vacations for 2022, including all-inclusive Christmas beach vacations, affordable Christmas beach vacations, and the best Christmas beach vacations in the U.S. Read on to learn our top 10 best Christmas beach vacations for couples.

Turks & Caicos, Caribbean

This stunning island is a popular Caribbean honeymoon and vacation spot. Since temperatures in December average around 80 degrees, it’s also an ideal Christmas beach vacation destination.  Turks & Caicos  is home to the world’s third-largest coral reef system, and the incredibly clear water makes it a prime choice for divers and snorkelers. That gorgeous Caribbean also makes a stunning backdrop to the pristine white sand beaches that fringe the islands (where you can go horseback riding for a unique romantic activity).

Stay at the uber-luxurious tropical paradise s,  Ambergris Cay Resort  for a spectacular all-inclusive Christmas beach vacation. This amazing resort is secluded on a thousand-acre private island surrounded by shallow turquoise water and coral reef.

Lounge on the pristine white sand beach, which stretches for miles and is lined with palm trees. Enjoy complimentary watersports in the crystal clear Caribbean. Explore the island by bike or golf cart, or take an excursion by boat. Indulge at the spa. Swim in the lovely pool—or in your own pool (see below).

Accommodations at Ambergris Cay Resort are either suites or villas, with chic décor that’s light and bright. There are just 10 Beachfront Pool Suites; each offers beach and ocean views, a wraparound veranda with seating, a private plunge pool, and an outdoor shower (plus two rain showers in the spacious bathroom). The 20 villas are dotted around the island for privacy.

Rates at Ambergris Cay are steep, but the inclusions are spectacular—your transfer from Providenciales airport comes via private plane. Also included are all dining at 2 restaurants; unlimited beverages; stocked minifridge; 24-hour room service; non-motorized water sports; bonefishing from the shore; boat excursion; tennis and pickleball; use of the resort’s bicycles and golf carts; one 60-minute spa treatment per adult per stay; guided nature walks, bike tours, and kayak/paddleboard excursions; WiFi; and a catered lunch experience on a deserted island.

Grenada, Caribbean

Whether you’re looking for a beach paradise, rich culture, delicious cuisine, or adventurous excursions, tiny  Grenada  is a wonderful romantic Caribbean island for your holiday trip. From beautiful sandy beaches (with both white and black sand) to lush green hills filled with tropical fruit trees and spice plantations to spectacular dive sites, Grenada is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s perfect for couples who love outdoor activities.

Sandals Grenada  offers a fantastic location for your all-inclusive Christmas beach vacation, sprawling across 17 lush acres next to the picturesque backdrop of Pink Gin Beach. Firepits, gazebos, and swinging chairs adorn the various courtyards and hideaways for lovers to steal away for romantic moments. There is also a pier where guests can get the best view of the vibrant sunset hues over the shimmering Caribbean Sea.

For true indulgence, Love Nest Suites include personal butler service, expansive balconies with Tranquility Soaking Tubs™ for two, and a private infinity-edge plunge pool.

Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa features 5 innovatively designed pools complete with waterfalls, lagoons, hideaways, swim-up bars, and one with a firepit placed smack dab in the middle. If you’re more inclined for a dip in the ocean, the beach offers complimentary watersports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skis, and more. In addition, the resort has a fitness center, spa, tennis courts, and 10 restaurants serving a wide variety of cuisines.

Andros Island, The Bahamas, Caribbean

Beautifully located along a serene beach amid lovely palm trees,  Small Hope Bay Lodge  is a chic and relaxed all-inclusive resort on secluded and pristine Andros Island in The Bahamas. Private beachfront cabins put you right by the water and offer hammocks and comfortable sun loungers to while away the day. 

Mouthwatering meals and tasty drinks, scuba diving lessons and water sports rentals, a library lounge and a game room, outdoor showers, as well as guided fishing excursions for an additional fee are some of the amenities available. Small Hope Bay Lodge is an affordable Christmas beach vacation option; the daily all-inclusive rates begin at $295. 

Negril, Jamaica, Caribbean

Jamaica offers warm winter temperatures, a laidback vibe, and plenty of holiday fun. The town of Negril features one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Seven Mile Beach, a beautiful stretch of powder-soft white sand along with the vivid colors of  the Caribbean . You can stay on the best stretch of this gorgeous beach at Sandals Negril. One of  six Sandals resorts in Jamaica,  the adults-only all-inclusive Sandals Negril offers all sorts of ways to relax, spend quality time together, and have fun.

The water here is calm and crystal clear, perfect for swimming and watersports like wakeboarding, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can snorkel right off the beach at Sandals Negril and see colorful reefs and abundant marine life. You can also enjoy 3 pools (one with a swim-up bar) and 3 whirlpools.

Since it’s a  Sandals Resort , your stay includes unlimited fine dining, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, with seven restaurants to choose from. Several of the restaurants at Sandals Negril are beachfront, including the open-air Cucina Romana, Bayside, the Beach Bistro, and Barefoot by the Sea. Sandals Negril is another affordable Christmas beach vacation option, with rates starting at $266 per person per night (for an even more affordable choice, check out Sandals Ochi) .

St. Lucia, Caribbean

St. Lucia  is considered one of the most romantic Caribbean islands. Nestled between the South Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, it is often referred to as “little Hawaii.” This picturesque island is home to some jaw-dropping scenery, thanks to the Piton mountains and rainforest interior. You can enjoy spectacular views, stunning beaches, and a plethora of activities, making St. Lucia an idyllic destination for a romantic Christmas beach vacation. This is also a great choice for an all-inclusive Christmas beach vacation, as there are multiple luxury all-inclusive resorts here (including  3 Sandals adults-only all-inclusive resorts ).

Couples looking for privacy will love the  over-the-water bungalows  at  Sandals Grande St. Lucian . Glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time. Couples can also admire the beauty of the ocean from their private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two or an overwater hammock—or just slip right into the water from your deck.

The extended private sun deck is also equipped with an outdoor shower, sun loungers, and a bistro set for two. Butler Elite service, which handles every detail of your vacation with unobtrusive grace, and 24-hour room service are included to complete your over-water vacation.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian offers a huge assortment of complimentary water and land activities. And with 12 restaurants on-site plus 15 more at two nearby Sandals resorts, you’ll never run out of dishes to try. You also have access to 2 golf courses, with complimentary transfer and greens fees included, plus all facilities at the other two resorts.

Mexico offers plenty of gorgeous spots where you can escape the chill of winter and enjoy a relaxing Christmas beach vacation. Here are some great Christmas beach vacation spots in Mexico.

Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya  is set on the stunning white sands of Akumal Beach (which has been voted one of the top ten beaches in Mexico). The calm Caribbean waters and a native sea turtle population make this a snorkelers’ paradise. The grounds are spectacular as well, featuring paths that wind through tropical landscaping. Suites here are spacious, and most offer sea views from their private balconies or terraces. They also come with whirlpool tubs for two. You can book a swim-out suite here as well.

Guests enjoy delicious dining at 8 restaurants and can choose from 5 bars including a swim-up bar, a beach bar, and a music lounge. There are plenty of activities such as non-motorized water sports, tennis, archery, bike tours, dance classes, and Spanish lessons, Onsite facilities include 3 pools, 2 hot tubs, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. Golfers get complimentary greens fees at the  Riviera Maya  Golf Club.

If you want to spend your romantic holiday escape in a relaxing environment on a sandy beach in front of the ocean, Excellence Playa Mujeres  in Cancun is one of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. It offers great service, a variety of culinary experiences, and beautiful spacious rooms and suites with ocean views, swim-up access, and rooftop terraces with plunge pools. Guests enjoy the soft white sand beach and winding pools with gorgeous views.

Romantic extras here include couples’ massages and treatments at the world-class Miilé Spa, private dinners on the beach, and even an indulgent champagne breakfast in bed.

Belize is a charming country in Central America with lush jungles, Mayan ruins, fantastic diving and snorkeling, and gorgeous Caribbean beaches. For a super-romantic Christmas beach vacation, check out Cayo Espanto, a private island resort just off the coast of San Pedro, Belize. This hidden tropical resort, with its lush natural setting and just a handful of accommodations, is an ideal beach escape for couples—one that allows you to feel as though you have the whole island to yourselves.

For the ultimate privacy, book the exclusive over-the-water bungalow,  Casa Ventanas . The 1000-square-foot one-bedroom villa is the most intimate accommodation on the island, with nothing but beautiful views from all around. Lounge on your private deck or slip into the warm Caribbean waters; you’ll feel like you’re the only couple for miles around.

Located at the end of a private dock, this incredibly romantic overwater bungalow comes with a butler, personalized meals, concierge services, and more. A glass insert in the floor gives you the unique experience of glimpsing sea life below, and a light lets you see what the fish are up to at night!

At Cayo Espanto, your activities and meals are personalized based on your preferences. The world’s second-largest barrier reef system is nearby if you like to dive or snorkel. You can also enjoy fishing, non-motorized water sports, or tours of Mayan ruins on the mainland. Or, try exclusive experiences like a day on the resort’s private yacht with an afternoon picnic on a deserted beach or a helicopter tour over the Great Blue Hole.

Maldives, Indian Ocean

If you’re looking for an exotic Christmas beach vacation, consider The Maldives , a group of islands in the Indian Ocean that are a popular exotic destination known for jaw-dropping beauty. It’s impossible to choose the most romantic island in The Maldives, as so many of them offer swoonworthy white sand beaches surrounded by brilliant turquoise lagoons. You’ll have your pick of amazing luxury resorts where you can enjoy an  overwater bungalow  for an unforgettable Christmas beach holiday.

  Kandolhu Maldives  is an idyllic resort set on a lush emerald green island with wide sandy beaches and a colorful and vibrant coral reef. Located southwest of Male in the North Atoll, this exclusive adults-only island resort can be reached in 25 minutes by seaplane.

Kandolhu blends modern architecture with the natural elements of the Maldives for comfort and an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the colorful sunset each day from the private deck of your spacious overwater or beachfront villa. The all-inclusive package here includes meals at 5 intimate, à la carte gourmet restaurants; unlimited premium beverages; a private snorkeling tour or sunset cruise; and complimentary watersports.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia, South Pacific

Another top exotic Christmas beach destination is the South Pacific, featuring one of the most famous romantic islands in the world: Bora Bora . This paradise in French Polynesia is what many people picture when they think of the ultimate romantic escape. The lush island features beautiful beaches, clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, and warm hospitality. Stay over a stunning turquoise lagoon in one of the iconic overwater bungalows for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora  has long had a reputation for providing service of the highest standard with the comforts you expect in a 5-star luxury hotel, mixed with Polynesian hospitality, making it a top choice for a Christmas beach vacation.

Adventures on water and land welcome you at this sand-fringed idyll in the shadow of Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu. Toast sunsets from your private plunge pool, stretch out on the white sand beach, marvel at the Tahitian night sky, or lose yourself in the lagoon, where the waters teem with exotic reef fish and colorful corals. The Four Seasons can create unparalleled luxury experiences for the ultimate in romance.

The Florida Keys, U.S.

If you want to stay closer to home for the holidays, the best Christmas beach vacations in the U.S. are in south Florida, which has warm temperatures throughout the winter. The best Christmas beach vacations in Florida are in the Florida Keys , a string of tiny gorgeous islands just off the southern tip of the state. Here are some of our top places to stay for Christmas beach vacations in the Florida Keys:

An adults-only all-inclusive resort in a tropical garden along 1000 feet of shoreline,  Bungalows Key Largo  is an opulent but casual oasis. It offers a lovely white sand beach, two pools and jacuzzis, two open-air waterfront restaurants, a gourmet fine dining restaurant, several bars, and a full-service spa with a Zen garden.

Elegant bungalows are spacious and feature private verandas, loungers, outdoor soaking tubs, and outdoor showers. Choose from waterfront or garden settings. Accommodations here include welcome drinks and refreshments, all meals, premium alcoholic beverages and select wines, kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel gear, group yoga classes, a fitness tiki, recreational activities, live entertainment, cruiser bikes, high-speed WiFi, valet parking, turndown service, and transportation in a 5-mile radius.

Kona Kai in Key Largo  is a tranquil adults-only resort set along the water amid beautiful botanical gardens. This intimate retreat has just 13 rooms and suites, a private beach, and a waterfront pool and jacuzzi.

Cheeca Lodge and Spa in Islamorada  offers luxurious rooms and suites on 27 acres of lush gardens, a long stretch of waterfront, 3 restaurants, a 9-hole golf course, a spa and fitness center, an oceanfront tiki bar, adult and family pools, and plenty of watersports. Lounge on the palm-fringed beach or go kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or scuba diving; fish from the longest pier in the Keys, or book a sportfishing charter to get out into the deep water.

Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel and Resort  in Marathon lives up to its name with a stunning setting on the water. Stay in a beautifully decorated room or private beach house and enjoy the white sand beach, watersports, 3 pools, beachfront tiki bar, and award-winning restaurant.

Maui, Hawaii

The other top spot for Christmas beach vacations in the U.S. is Hawaii . With mild year-round temperatures and a wealth of things to do, Hawaii is a fantastic place to spend the holidays, especially for couples who live on the West Coast and can get there in just a few hours.

Maui  is popular because of its amazing landscape, including both black and golden sand beaches, lush greenery, waterfalls, and Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano in the world. It also has calm waters that are great for snorkeling, as well as world-famous sunsets. Maui is a laidback and relaxed island that’s good for couples who love the beach and outdoor activities.

For a luxurious Christmas beach holiday, try the Four Seasons Maui . It is one of the most luxe beachfront resorts in Maui, set along the glorious golden sands of Wailea Beach. Four Seasons resorts are known for their amazing service, and here your every need will be attended to. As you lounge on the beach, drinks, food, and cold towels will be delivered to you. You can go snorkeling right from the shore and will usually encounter some of the sea turtles that live nearby.

There’s a beautiful salt-water infinity-edge pool for just adults, two other swimming pools, a full-service spa, a choice of fine-dining and beachside restaurants, tennis courts, a games room, and a range of free daily activities.

You can arrange exceptional tailor-made trips and experiences to make your stay truly special. Romantic activities include couples’ massages, training in massage techniques to learn how to pamper each other at home, romantic private picnics on the beach, and candle-lit dinners without another soul in sight.

Elegant and spacious rooms and suites come with large private balconies or lanais (Hawaiian patios), deep soaking tubs, and glorious views of the gardens, mountains, or ocean. There are 5 different restaurants onsite.

Ashley has always loved to explore new places and indulges her passion for travel whenever she can. She has been to 12 countries and 32 states so far.

Ashley has worked as a freelance writer for more than 20 years, specializing in the areas of travel, marketing, personal development, and the pursuit of happiness.

Favorite destinations include Sorrento and Capri, Italy; Haarlem, Netherlands; Paris; Sydney and K’gari, Australia; Rotorua and Waiheke Island, New Zealand; the American West; Palm Beach; the Florida Keys; and her hometown of New Orleans. Ashley has a goal of visiting every state plus many more international destinations.

10 Fantastic US Beach Vacations to Take This Winter

As the cold weather settles in, we start daydreaming about long weekends filled with warm sunshine and soft-sand beaches . Then the reality of actually getting there kicks in: The financial outlay, the time commitment, the hassle of frittering away precious hours waiting in an immigration line.

Thankfully, there are plenty of stunning US beaches that are perfect for a last-minute escape from the cold. So perfect, in fact, you might forget you're still in the country.

1. St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida

This 35-mile stretch of beach boasts an incredible 361 days of sunshine per year, so you're pretty much always guaranteed a beach day. In addition to lounging in the sand, check out the approximately 30 craft breweries and restaurants; FarmTable Cucina, by chef Michael Mina (he runs a namesake, Michelin-starred restaurant) is a sure bet. And if you're looking for some shade, duck into one of the many museums nearby, including the Dalí Museum, which houses the largest collection of the master's work outside of Spain. Stay at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, a family-friendly resort with Gulf views and castle-perfect sand.

2. Laguna Beach, California

Made famous by an MTV reality show, Laguna Beach is an ideal domestic beach getaway. Why? Temperatures hover in the high 60s in January, and the cozy town is filled with high-end restaurants, California-chic clothing shops and art galleries galore. Even if it's a little too chilly to take a dip in the ocean, you can still walk along the boardwalk or the coastal canyons, taking in endless views of the Pacific along the way. Or, simply stay at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel (the Tier 7 starts at 60,000 Ritz-Carlton Rewards points per night) and get those same views from the comfort of your ultra-plush bed.

3. South Padre Island, Texas

It's pretty incredible to feel like you're on a tropical island while you're in Texas. South Padre Island has 34 miles of white sand and perfectly clear blue water. You can certainly lounge on the beach all day, but there's also dolphin-watching, bird-watching at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center and famous Texas Gulf shrimp to be had. There are plenty of affordable motels on the island, and there's also a Hilton Garden Inn. (Hilton Honors members can get a room for $88 in January, or 22,000 points).

4. Palm Beach, Florida

Mansions, galleries, top-notch restaurants and great beaches: Palm Beach is the ultimate beach destination for a luxury domestic vacation. You can step back in time to the Gilded Age by touring the famous Whitehall home, walk along Worth Avenue, which is dotted with high-end shops such as Bottega Veneta, or lounge on the picturesque Midtown Beach. As far as where to stay, there's the pink-hued Colony Hotel, which has been around since 1947. The Breakers, meanwhile, has one of the world's most Instagrammable lobbies and there are affordable points hotels galore.

5. Grand Isle, Louisiana

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If New Orleans is a fantastic city escape, Grand Isle is a shoo-in for a beachy retreat. The barrier island, just off Louisiana's Gulf Coast, maintains average temps in the low 60s during the winter months, making it ideal for hiking or fishing. Head to Grand Isle State Park, where there are more than 280 species of fish, numerous trail loops and a 400-foot-long pier (the oldest on Louisiana's coast). There aren't many notable places to stay, but the waterfront Blue Dolphin Inn & Cottages is a solid choice.

6. Edisto Island, South Carolina

Located an hour south of Charleston, Edisto Island is a nature-lovers paradise. It's one of the few relatively untouched beaches remaining, meaning there are more marshes, beaches and wetlands than hotels. Even in the middle of winter, you can partake in many outdoor activities like kayaking, boating and fishing. Even if the air is brisk, you can take a walk through the driftwood forest at Botany Bay or learn about the history of the Gullah settlers during an island tour. The best news of all? You can score a beachfront rental for a fraction of the summer cost.

7.  St. Simons Island, Georgia

Major development has yet to hit this beautiful stretch of Georgia coastline, making it ideal for travelers escaping the hustle of city life. Here, you'll find golf courses surrounded by trees draped with Spanish moss and popular beaches like East Beach, where sea turtles and whales are often spotted. Be sure to visit to the historic lighthouse or one of the many plantations. Use Ocean Lodge as your jumping off point each day and unwind with a glass of wine from the rooftop lounge at night.

8. Orange Beach, Alabama

Travelers often look to Florida for those Gulf Coast beaches . But neighboring Alabama has some pretty stunning ones as well. Orange Beach, for example, is 95% quartz, so it truly sparkles in the sunlight. And the nine-miles stretch is filled with restaurants and hotels making it easy to grab a bite or plan an activity in between lounging on the beach. Just in case you get bored with sandy activities, there's always The Wharf. There you'll find shopping, dining and an open-air amphitheater. Dolphins love the waters around here so much that Dolphin Cruises aboard the Cold Mil Fleet guarantees sightings (90-minute tours from $20).

9. La Jolla, California

This upscale town, just north of San Diego, is the Palm Beach of the west. You'll find designer boutiques and plenty of pricey restaurants with ocean views, as well as rocky cliffs and white sand beaches. Pay a visit to the seals and sea lions at La Jolla Cove or go kayaking through one of the many sea caves. There's certainly no shortage of luxury hotels to spend the night, but The Lodge at Torrey Pines, a member of Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, is particularly stunning.

10. Oahu, Hawaii

Though it can be a bit of a trek for East Coasters, Oahu is worth it; you can do the magnificent hike to the top of Diamond Head State Monument, hit up Waikiki Beach and sneak away to hidden coves. There are plenty of points hotels on Oahu (the Royal Hawaiian , the Laylow and the Hilton Hawaiian Village , just to name a few) but if you choose to go the cash route, Halekulani, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, and the Four Seasons Ko Olina are both excellent choices.

Feature photo by John Coletti / Getty Images

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8 Incredible Places to Spend Christmas on the Beach in 2024

By Suzie Dundas, Sue Bryant

Last updated: December 20th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

Now is a great time to start planning a Christmas beach vacation. December is the perfect time of year to escape frigid temperatures for a few days in a sunny destination.

Here are some of the best places to spend Christmas on the beach in 2024. And don’t think you have to forgo a Christmas tree or meal with family. You can still celebrate all day long—you’ll just have a little more sun and sand than usual.

Key West, Florida

Quirky, free-spirited Key West doesn’t disappoint when it comes to Christmas. You’ll probably be sipping a festive rum punch rather than a hot toddy here.

There’s no shortage of holiday spirit here, though you’ll most likely spend at least part of Christmas Day lounging under a tropical sun.

As you spend your day in Key West , check out the lavish decorations festooning the houses. Cycling is a great way to get around, all the more so as there are no hills.

Take to the water on a catamaran cruise and look out for wild dolphins before jumping into the warm water to snorkel over dazzling corals.

Southernmost Point in Key West, Florida

Snap a selfie at the buoy marking the southernmost point of the United States. See the villa where writer Ernest Hemingway lived, or follow in his footsteps and try your hand at sport fishing.

Remember to make time for a snack stop to try the tangy Key lime pie that Key West is known for .

Playa Mia in Cozumel, Mexico

With so many beautiful beaches, scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, incredible outdoor adventures, and ancient history, Cozumel is a must-visit destination any time of year. But it feels especially exotic and luxurious to spend Christmas Eve on the beach here while looking out for dolphins in the water and feeling the tropical sun on your face.

If your goal for the holiday is to spend as much of it on the sand as possible, Playa Mia—one of Cozumel’s best beaches —may be the spot for you. In addition to having a gorgeous beach, beach chairs, kayaks, snorkel gear, and even an inflatable over-the-water obstacle course for adults, there’s more just away from the sand.

That includes several pools, a lazy river, a hydro-massage hot tub, and a swim-up cocktail bar. The weather is almost always warm and sunny in Cozumel, so you may want to swap your egg nog for a tequila sunrise instead.

San Gervasio in Cozumel, Mexico

If you prefer a more adventurous holiday in the Caribbean, Cozumel is still a top pick. There are several Mayan ruins near Cozumel , including San Gervasio, dedicated to birth and fertility goddess Ix Chel, and Chichen Itza, a massive Mayan city eventually taken over by the Spanish in the mid-1500s.

For a destination so close to the U.S., Cozumel offers the chance to spend Christmas in the Caribbean completely unlike the holiday you’d have back at home.

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Las Teresitas Beach in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and also the most mountainous. The volcano Teide, which is in fact Spain’s highest mountain, dominates the scenery. At Christmas, is likely to be sporting a snowy cap.

You can take a tour up the mountain for magnificent views down over the surrounding countryside and, of course, throw a snowball.

Santa Cruz in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Christmas is an important holiday in the Canary Islands, usually spent with family, but there’s still plenty to do. Soak up the festive scene; as well as Christmas trees and nativity scenes, the palm trees are wrapped with lights.

You’ll hear Christmas carols everywhere, and there’s even an annual concert in Santa Cruz on Christmas Day by the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra.

The novelty for most visitors, especially if you come from a cold country, is to spend Christmas day on a beach in Tenerife . With December weather typically warm and sunny, a lot of locals do this, and many of the beach restaurants and cafés are open over the holidays.

Mount Teide in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Tenerife , which immerses you in nature as you stroll along clifftops and through verdant gorges. Winter is the perfect time to set out on a hike, as it should be sunny but not too hot.

The Galapagos

There’s something to be said for escaping the festive season completely, and there’s no better place to immerse yourself in nature than the Galapagos Islands , a volcanic archipelago scattered across the Pacific, 850 miles from mainland Ecuador.

You’ll see endemic species here that are found nowhere else on Earth. You can snorkel off sparkling black sand beaches to swim among Galapagos penguins and graceful sea turtles.

Marine iguana in the Galapagos

Pick your way over the sand past snoozing sea lions, which, like all the Galapagos animals , are completely oblivious to humans. Gaze at thousands of craggy land and marine iguanas, posing like statues on the rocks, and look out for blue-footed boobies performing their curious courtship dance.

The pristine beauty of the islands, which are all different in appearance, and the chance to get so close to the wildlife is a truly life-affirming experience; a vacation here is one of the best Christmas gifts you can give yourself.

Ko Samui, Thailand

Tropical islands don’t come more dreamy than Ko Samui , a reef-fringed gem in the Gulf of Thailand.

Tall coconut palms arch over long, powdery-white beaches, and fish in dazzling colors flit over thriving reefs in the clear water. The island’s interior is mountainous and jungly.

Chaweng Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand

You could celebrate the festive season with a Thai massage on the beach or fresh coconut water straight from the shell.

Chaweng is one of the best beaches, where you’ll find a long sweep of sand with warm, shallow water. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants serving authentic Thai food , and there are plenty of umbrellas for shade.

You could combine Bophut Beach—one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia —with a visit to the enormous, gilded Big Buddha statue, housed in the colorful temple Wat Phra Yai.

For a much quieter beach, head to Maenam in the north of the island, or Lamai, where the mountains slope right down to the sea.

Ang Thong National Marine Park in Ko Samui, Thailand

Snorkeling enthusiasts could join a boat trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of 42 forested islands, with waterfalls, emerald lagoons, and monkeys scampering through the treetops. The beaches here are beautiful, and as you drift over the coral reefs, you may have green and hawksbill sea turtles for company.

Nassau, Bahamas

Pearl Island in Nassau, Bahamas

For a quick getaway from just about anywhere on the east coast, set your sights on Nassau in the Bahamas. Nassau is one of the easiest places to reach from the U.S., but that doesn’t mean it feels like anything you’d find in the States.

It’s colorful, friendly, welcoming, and has fantastic food , so it’s a perfect place to celebrate Christmas on the beach if you want to swap your mashed potatoes for conch chowder.

Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas

For a special Christmas, spend the day at the Atlantis Resort which packs an incredible amount of adventure into one lavish destination.

Walk (or take a waterslide) through a shark tank, explore a sprawling marine aquarium, visit the Aquaventure Water Park, or rent a private cabana for two by the pool or beach. There are also plenty of family and adults-only activities offered around the holidays.

Balmoral Island in Nassau, Bahamas

For an indulgent Christmas Day celebration, book a trip to Balmoral Island, just off the coast. The private beach resort has everything you need for a perfect Christmas at the beach, including loungers, snorkel gear rentals, a restaurant and bar, and opportunities to get in the water with stingrays and dolphins.

It’s just a quick ferry ride to the island, and beach floats and tubes are available so you could spend Christmas just drifting around in the sun.

Bahama Barrels Winery in Nassau, Bahamas

Take a break from the sun on a wine-themed adventure at the Bahama Barrels Winery, housed on the grounds of a 1930s church.

Oenophiles will probably know that it’s quite hard to grow grapes in The Bahamas, so the winery sources grapes from around the world to make incredible blends and varietals on-site.

Visits usually include a tour, a hands-on winemaking class, and even a chance to make your own custom blend. Now, there’s a perfect Christmas present.

Read: Best Beaches in Nassau

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

El Golfo in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Stark, volcanic Lanzarote offers a warm welcome at Christmas. Despite the fact that the island is usually bathed in sunshine, you’ll see Christmas trees, lights, and nativity scenes everywhere.

Geria Valley in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Lanzarote has many curiosities. Vines are grown in little pits in the ground, thriving on the fertile volcanic soil and protected from the wind. Raise a glass to happy holidays with one or more vintages from the Geria Valley on the island.

You’ll also see salt flats, rippling sand dunes, and volcanoes. One of the best things to do in Lanzarote is to visit Timanfaya National Park, which has an otherworldly feel and is dotted with craters.

Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Guides demonstrate the powerful geothermal heat by pouring water into a hole in the ground, only to have it whoosh skywards in the form of a geyser seconds later. There’s also a chance to ride a camel against a backdrop of sand dunes that change color during the day as the sun crosses the sky.

Playa del Reducto in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

The island is home to some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands , some with glittering black sand.

Playa del Reducto, the urban beach in Arrecife, the capital, is in fact a long sweep of golden sand. Make your way across the island to El Golfo to see its dramatic black sand beaches. A sandbar pounded by Atlantic rollers protects a green lagoon, making this an unusual and starkly beautiful spot to spend a few hours.

Grand Cayman

Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is home to some of the best beaches in the world. One of those is Seven Mile Beach, which is actually a long series of beaches, coves, and stunning vistas. This is a great stretch of sand on which to celebrate Christmas on the beach.

Relax on a beach chair, go for a snorkel, or pop by a local beach bar for an afternoon cocktail. You can then stroll on the beach and check out some of the nearby coves and tidepools. If you’re lucky, you can spot a sea turtle or two in the shallow water.

Hell, Grand Cayman

Going to Hell on Christmas Day may not sound appealing, but it is when you’re in Grand Cayman. The “Hell” rock formation is an extremely photogenic section of the island where black limestone formations create a jagged landscape reminiscent of Dante’s Inferno.

Stingray City, Grand Cayman

In Grand Cayman, you can also spend Christmas morning just west of the beach—and yes, that puts you in the middle of the ocean. Take a quick boat ride to one of the best Grand Cayman snorkeling spots—Stingray City, a sandbar just off the shore where stingrays and nurse sharks often congregate.

They’re incredibly used to people, and the water is very shallow, so you can hop off the boat with snorkel gear and swim just a few feet above them, or stand in the warm shallows. Tidbits offered by the guides lure rays, who will brush gently past your legs. It’s a thrilling encounter with such majestic sea creatures.

Escape to the beach this winter on a Christmas cruise . You’ll be whisked from one stunning beach destination to another while indulging in world-class dining, unmatched service, and festive Christmas decorations on board.

Suzie Dundas

Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and photographer. Her work has appeared in Business Insider, Forbes, Outside Magazine, TripSavvy, the San Francisco Chronicle, Frommer’s Fodors, and many more. She was a contributing author on Lonely Planet’s Sustainable Travel and is the upcoming author of a trail guide to the northern Sierra Nevada. Follow her on Instagram at @hikeupyourskirt or explore more of her work at suziedundas.com.

Sue has been writing about cruising for 20 years and is lucky enough to have sailed all seven continents. She lives in London, where she is cruise editor of The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers, as well as a freelance contributor to magazines and websites worldwide.

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The 31 Best US Beaches in December (2023)

• October 7, 2023

Looking for the best US beaches in December? Or maybe you have your mind set on spending Christmas or NYE at the beach? I’ve rounded up the 31 best US beaches – plus all the details about each of them – for you to celebrate at for the holidays! 

Winter is coming, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your dreams of a beach vacation. There are plenty of amazing beaches in the US that are still warm and sunny in December.

So, if you’re looking to escape the cold weather and soak up some sun—without a passport and immigration lines—I’ve got a list of the best US beaches to visit in December that’s perfect for you.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach to relax on or a lively beach with plenty of activities, you’re sure to find the perfect place to enjoy a winter beach vacation in the US.

Let’s get started on planning your December beach vacation! 

Key Takeaways

• The best US beaches in December with the warmest temperatures are on the US islands – Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 
• In the continental US, the states with the warmest beaches in December are in California, Florida, and Texas.
• While the islands will offer swimming temps, the continental spots might be a little too chilly for taking a dip in the ocean. (Luckily many hotels have heated pools!)

Table of Contents

31 best us beaches in december.

The 31 best US beaches in December on my list are scattered across a few states and US territories. I noted the best beaches in each major region in each of them. That way, you can determine which area you would like to stay during your trip.

They all have warm weather in December, and besides California, all of them even have water warm enough that you can swim in without a wetsuit.

(Just keep in mind that Mother Nature does whatever she wants, so we can never predict a random cold front.)

Now let’s get to the good stuff! 

Oahu, Hawaii

1. waikiki beach.

December temperature: High 82 / Low 67

Waikiki Beach is not only one of the best US beaches in December, but it’s also one of the most popular destination in the winter months. The weather is perfect, the beach is gorgeous, and the water is clear with vibrant coral reefs.

In addition to being able to lounge on the beach, December is the perfect time to learn how to surf because the waves are perfect for it.

Waikiki Beach is centrally located too, so you will be close to everything you could want—shopping, dining, desserts, plenty of amazing hotels, and countless activities.

There are also many festivals and events for Christmas in the area. The Honolulu City Lights festival includes a tree lighting, parades, and lots of family fun! 

 Take this 3-hour snorkeling + waterslide + Diamond Head cruise! It’s earned 5 stars and a Badge of Excellence!  ➡️  Check prices and book this traveler-favorite cruise from Waikiki!

The Best Hotels Near Waikiki Beach

✅ For a family paradise: check prices and book the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort here!

✅ For beautiful, old-school Hawaiian vibes: check prices and book the The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort here! 

2. Waimea Bay

December temperature: High 79 / Low 67

If you want a quieter beach experience on Oahu, head to the North Shore. And once you’re on the North Shore, Waimea Bay Beach is THE beach to visit.

It’s one of the most beautiful islands not only on the island, but probably in all of Hawaii! The water is crystal clear with amazing views everywhere you look, plus there are fun activities like cliff jumping!

On the North Shore, you’ll be near countless other amazing beaches, the Dole Plantation, Waimea Falls, and the famous Polynesian Cultural Center (that you MUST visit!) 

➡️  Check out this 5-star surf lesson on the North Shore of Oahu! 

This Badge of Excellence surf lesson is two full hours and family friendly too, so bring the kids!

The Best Hotels Near Waimea Bay

✅ For the most renowned North Shore hotel:  check prices and book your stay at the Turtle Bay Resort

✅ For an affordable family-friendly stay:  check prices and book your stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore  

3. Ko Olina Lagoons

December temperature: High 82 / Low 66

On the sunnier, drier west side of Oahu, the Ko Olina Lagoons are four pristine, man-made beach coves. They are protected by a barrier reef, making them safe for swimming any time of year.

They’re all connected by a walkway and they all have restrooms and showers.

There’s plenty to do including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding. You can also rent gear, hang out at the outdoor bar, or visit the resorts.

Lagoon 1: The busiest of the four because it’s attached to the Four Seasons and Aulani Disney Resort. It also has the least amount of parking, so if you’re not staying here it would be better to park somewhere else and walk over.

Lagoon 2, Honu: Not attached to any resorts, but gets busy fast. A few beach umbrellas are offered. Best for snorkeling.

Lagoon 3, Nai’a: Attached to the Marriot Ko Olina Beach Club.

Lagoon 4, Ulua: furthest away from the other lagoons, isn’t attached to resorts, and has the most parking so it’s the least crowded.

The Best Hotels Near Ko Olina Lagoons

✅ For a Disney experience:  check prices and book your stay at Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa here!

✅ For a family friendly stay with an awesome pool:  check prices and book your stay at Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club here!

Kauai, Hawaii

4. poipu beach.

December temperature: High 82 / Low 65

The Garden Isle’s Poipu Beach is very well-known as one of the best beaches for families on the island. It’s on the south, more bustling and touristy side of the island.

Clear waters and a natural wading pool make it perfect for small kids (or even adults who want to relax in calm waters—like me, I loved it).

This beach has everything you’ll need—lifeguards, bathrooms, picnic area, showers, big parking lot, even a playground. You can spend a full day here. Close by is Sprouting Horn, a blowhole—the water can reach up to 50 feet!

If you only do one excursion in Kauai it MUST be a Na Pali Tour!

➡️ Check prices and book this sunset cruise of one of the most beautiful coastline in the world here!

The Best Hotel Near Poipu Beach

✅ For the most popular family-friendly resort:  check prices and book your stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa 

5. Hanalei Bay

December temperature: High 80 / Low 66

On the north, quieter side of Kauai is Hanalei Bay. It’s a huge bay with a beautiful mountain backdrop. The beach is wide, two miles long, with white, powdery sands. The water is clear and warm.

There is a long pier to walk out on to really see the views. Restrooms, lifeguards, and picnic tables on site and rental shops and dining options within walking distance.

You’ll really feel like you’re on a tropical vacation on the North Shore. It’s peaceful, incredibly lush, with plenty of gorgeous beaches to visit—and a lot less crowds than the south.

The Best Hotel Near Hanalei Bay

✅ For a lush resort with an amazing pool:  check prices and book your stay at Hanalei Bay Resort here!

Big Island, Hawaii

6. hapuna beach.

Not only one of the best US beaches in December, Hapuna Beach is regularly voted among the best beaches in the world! It’s roughly 200 feet wide and stretches for about a half mile. It’s a breathtaking beach with pure white sand and a gradual slope into the ocean.

Besides being beautiful, the beach has everything you will need. There are restrooms, picnic tables, beach and gear rentals, food concession stands, lots of trees for shade, lifeguards, and a large parking lot. Snorkeling is good on the north and south sides too.

You can enjoy holiday dining and décor at the nearby Westin and on Christmas Eve, Santa visits Hapuna Beach!

Note: the beach is currently undergoing water work that will make showers unavailable until 2024.

➡️ Check out this  5-star Night Manta Ray Adventure tour!

Take a short cruise at sunset to swim with manta rays all equipment and light refreshments are included. and if you don’t see any manta rays, they’ll book you on another tour for free..

The Best Hotel Near Hapuna Beach

✅ For the ultimate luxury stay:  check prices and book your stay at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort here!  

7. Punaluu Beach

What about a BLACK sand beach? One of the most famous in all of Hawaii! This beach is not only one of the best US beaches in December, but also one of the most unique.

Right in the middle of the island—in between the popular, busy west side and the volcanic, quiet east side is Punaluu Beach.

The beauty of this beach is unbelievable. The sand is truly back and made of cooled lava, there are numerous picturesque coconut trees, and you can spot sea turtles lounging on the beach.

There are tide pools to check out, picnic tables, and vendors that sell food and souvenirs. Don’t forget your water shoes—the sand gets hot fast (I mean, it IS black) and there are rocks.

The Best Hotel Near Punaluu Beach

✅ For an affordable family-friendly stay: check prices and book your stay at the Colony I at Sea Mountain here!   

Maui, Hawaii

8. baldwin beach.

On the quieter North Shore of Maui is Baldwin Beach, long, wide, and perfect for surfers AND little ones. It’s the most popular beach on the north side, but there’s plenty of room to spread out.

While the main stretch of the beach gets great waves (especially in the winter), there are protected swimming coves on both sides with calm pools—on the west is Baby Beach and on the east is Baldwin Cove. It’s also a fully equipped beach with lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a pavilion, and shady trees.

Baldwin Beach is on the Hana Highway and a half mile away from Paia town—where some of the best food on the island is (including Mama’s Fish House!) Enjoy a meal before or after your beach day or get something to go and eat it at the beach.

The Best Hotel Near Baldwin Beach

✅ For a chic and charming boutique hotel in a perfect location:  check prices and book your stay at the Paia Inn here!  

9. Wailea Beach

December temperature: High 83 / Low 63

Wailea Beach, another one of Hawaii’s beaches that is consistently on the world’s best beaches list, is the beach for the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons resorts. So, if you’re feeling fancy, this is your spot.

Wailea Beach is wide, has soft golden sand, and umbrellas and cabanas are sprinkled along the water. There’s a paved walkway that runs the length of the beach, bathrooms, showers, and free public parking.

When the ocean is calm, boogie boarding, body surfing, and snorkeling are great to do here.

If you’re looking for festivities in Wailea, you’ll be able to shop the Holiday Marketplace in December, meet Santa on Wailea Beach on Christmas Eve, and dine on delicious holiday menus.

➡️ Check out this 5-star Clear Kayak and Snorkel Tour !

View the perfectly clear waters and sea life of Maui through a clear kayak, then enjoy some snorkeling!

The Best Hotel Near Wailea Beach

✅ For the best, most glamorous resort in all of Maui:  check prices and book your stay at the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort here!  

10. Ka'anapali Beach

December temperature: High 80 / Low 71

A previous winner for America’s Best Beach, Ka’anapali Beach has beautiful golden sands, clear waters, and a fun vibe.

There are seven resorts that line the beach plus a neighboring mall and many restaurants and activities around. So, if you want action, this is your spot.

Snorkeling is excellent around Black Rock, especially at the north end of the beach. I saw every single color of fish when I went!

You can also visit the booths along the beach and sign up to go parasailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, on a boat, or sign up for surfing lessons.

One of the coolest (and most famous) attractions is the cliff diving ceremony every night at sunset. A cliff diver lights the torches along the cliff and dives off of Black Rock. It is awesome to watch!

➡️ Check out this 5-star snorkel tour!

Awarded the Badge of Excellence, this 2.5 hour tour takes you to an underwater reef with beverages included.

The Best Hotels Near Ka’anapali Beach

✅ A condo resort for the best family-friendly stay (we LOVED it):  check prices and book your stay at Honua Kai Resort and Spa here!

✅ For a luxury stay with breathtaking views in front of the famous Black Rock (we LOVED it here too!): check prices and book your stay at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa here!

11. Napili Bay Beach

Napili Bay is one of Maui’s most visited beaches. And not only because of the white sand and clear, turquoise water..

Families love that it’s the calmest beach on the west side with small and gentle waves perfect for littles. They also love the low-key, less commercialized vibe; it’s more basic and homier than neighboring Ka’anapali.

Water lovers love that it’s great for snorkeling, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and boogie boarding. There are great opportunities for snorkeling and because the water is so calm, even kids can do it.

Since there are hotels in the area, there are plenty of spots to pick up some food. The Gazebo is well-known and a perfect spot to pick up breakfast before you head to the beach!

The Best Hotels Near Napili Bay Beach

✅ For a cozy stay with amazing beach views:  check prices and book your stay at the Napili Kai Beach Resort here!  

Puerto Rico

12. el escambron beach.

December temperature: High 82 / Low 76

Walking distance from San Juan, El Escambron Beach is the most popular beach in the area, for tourists and locals—and for good reason.

First of all, it’s gorgeous. It has beautiful, clear waters, the sand is soft, plus there are mountain views to stare at. There are also plenty of palm trees for shade, and even a couple of spots you can hang a hammock to really relax.

Not only is it huge but it offers two different experiences on each side. On one side there’s a protected cove so the waves are calm and it’s the spot for swimming and lounging around. On the other side, the area is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Plus, there’s restrooms, showers, lifeguards, plus numerous restaurants and cafes nearby. This beach is a total crowd pleaser!

The Best Hotels Near El Escambron Beach

✅ For the best hotel around San Juan:  check prices and book your stay at the Caribe Hilton here!

13. Monserrate Beach

December temperature: High 85 / Low 70

My favorite beach in the area! Located in Luquillo, Monserrate Beach is perfect for everyone. It has an amazing calming vibe with swaying palm trees welcoming you as soon as you step in. It’s huge, so you’ll have plenty of room and the backdrop of lush green mountains is amazing.

You can have a relaxing day in the water or enjoy some snorkeling, because it’s protected by a coral reef so the waves are calm (also great for small kids!) The added bonus for this beach is it’s within walking distance of the famous Luquillo Kiosks. There are numerous kiosks that offer local food and souvenirs.

A short drive away from Monserrate Beach is the famous El Yunque Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest in the US. It is a MUST SEE if you are in Puerto Rico. Many tours couple the tour with a beach visit too, but I did them separately because I wanted to explore the beach on my own.

➡️ Going to El Yunque Rainforest is the ONE tour you must take!

Check out prices and book this five-star tour by clicking here –  and be led through the rainforest, slide down waterslides and cliff jumps!

The Best Hotels Near Monserrate Beach

✅ For a crowd-pleasing beachside hotel: check prices and book your stay at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort here!  

14. Crash Boat Beach

December temperature: High 85 / Low 65

In Aguadilla, on the west, more local side of the island is Crash Boat Beach. It’s the most popular beach in the area, and probably one of the most popular beaches on the island.

Locals rave about it because there is something for every type of person. You can swim, snorkel, or scuba dive in the clear, calm turquoise waters.

There’s also a fun vibe here (even called the island’s party beach) There’s music, food kiosks, banana boat rides, and even a long pier that you can jump off into the water.

The Best Hotels Near Crash Boat Beach

✅ For a hidden gem hotel:  check prices and book your stay at the Hotel El Faro here!  

15. Vieques Island

December temperature: High 83 / Low 72

For ultimate relaxation and seclusion. Vieques island is a small island off the eastern coast of the mainland of Puerto Rico. Choose from over 40 jaw-dropping beaches like La Chiva or Blue Beach, which is ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

The big draw of Vieques though, is Mosquito Bay, a bioluminescent bay—and even though there are three to choose from just in Puerto Rico, this one is known as the best one. There are guided kayak tours offered at night to view the water light up.

➡️ Check out this HIGHLY rated Mosquito Bay Bio Bay tour here!

Note: to do this tour you will have to stay in Vieques overnight as there are no more ferries or flights out that late.

The Best Hotels On Vieques Island

✅ For a waterfront hotel in the perfect location: check prices and book the Malecon House here!

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

16. magens bay beach.

December temperature: High 84 / Low 76

Consistently voted one of the top-10 most beautiful beaches in the WORLD, Magens Bay Beach is what you picture when you think of a tropical beach. Crystal clear turquoise water, bright white sand with a touch of pink, a lush backdrop, swaying palm trees… it’s postcard worthy.

Since it’s a bay the water is calm and so are the vibes. Snorkeling is great, swimming is safe, and you might even catch adults laying on floats with a drink in hand.

The beach has food options, a rental shop, showers, restrooms, picnic tables, changing rooms, and lifeguards. Only downside is that there’s an entrance fee for anyone 13+.

The Best Hotels Near Magens Bay Beach

✅ For a low-key resort on the bay:  check prices and book your stay at Flamboyan on the Bay Resort here!  

17. Secret Harbor Beach

December temperature: High 84 / Low 74

If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach with a fun vibe, Secret Harbor Beach is the place to go. It’s one of the best beaches on the island for small kids.

The water is calm and crystal clear, so snorkeling is amazing. Palm trees are scattered on the beach and hammocks are hung up between them. A floating raft is anchored in the middle of the bay that kids can jump into the water from.

Along with that, the beach has food on-site and a rental shop. This is a beach where you can spend the whole day!

The Best Hotels Near Secret Harbor Beach

✅ For an upscale boutique resort on the beach with condo options:  check prices and book your stay at Secret Harbor Beach Resort here!

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

18. rainbow beach.

December temperature: High 84 / Low 73

If you’re looking for easy beach days with local Caribbean vibes, Rainbow Beach is it.

Rhythms, the restaurant/bar on the beach, serves up local foods and drinks. There’s a spot to rent beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling equipment, and jet skis.

If you want a lively time, visit on Sundays, which are called Sunday Fundays, are when the beach lights up with locals and live music. Avoid visiting on a Tuesday though, that’s when cruise ships dock and the beach gets crowded.

The Best Hotels Near Rainbow Beach

✅ For one of the best resorts on the island:  check prices and book your stay at the Carambola Beach Resort St. Croix here!  

19. Buccaneer Beaches

Buccaneer Beach (on The Buccaneer Hotel property) is actually three beautiful beaches in one! Mermaid, Grotto, and Whistle Beaches are right next to each other and offer different types of beach vibes. And even though they’re on hotel grounds they’re still open to the public.

Mermaid Beach gives you everything you’ll need for the best beach day—lounge chairs, a restaurant and bar, restrooms, a rental shop, a dock, snorkeling, and games like volleyball and cornhole. Grotto Beach offers many of the same amenities, but it quieter and a great snorkel spot. All the way at the end is Whistle Beach; it’s tiny, secluded and never crowded.

The Best Hotels Near Buccaneer Beaches

✅ For a heavenly beachside resort:  check prices at The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort here!

St. John, Virgin Islands

20. trunk bay beach.

St. John’s most visited beach, most photographed beach, AND voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world by Conde Nast! It’s pretty much the best overall beach in St. John.

Trunk Bay is long with fluffy white sand, and has calm waters and thriving coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. It has all the amenities you’ll need too—a snack shack, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, beach chairs, and a rental shop for beach gear. Unfortunately, there’s a small entrance fee though.

The beach can get crowded (especially on cruise dock days). Luckily, if you head left from the entrance, you’ll get more privacy and better snorkeling. And if you continue beyond the rocks, you’ll discover a small secret pocket beach, Jumbie Beach!

The Best Hotels Near Trunk Bay Beach

✅ For a beachfront apartment with glorious views:  check prices and book Peter Bay Gatehouse here!

✅ If you’d rather stay in the city and take the drive into Trunk Bay Beach, book the most luxurious and family-friendly resort on the island: click here to check prices at the Westin St. John Resort Villas. 

21. Salt Pond Bay Beach

December temperature: High 79 / Low 68

If you want an adventure, seclusion, and amazing snorkeling, Salt Pond Beach is your spot. All the way on the southern tip of the island, a 10-minute hike on a gravel trail will lead you to this secluded beach. (And If you want to continue the adventure, Drunk Bay and Ram’s Head hiking trails are right there!)

The beach is crescent shaped, and the sand is sugary white. The water is shallow and calm so it’s great for swimming. Salt Pond Beach is known as one of the best spots on the island for snorkeling.

Because of its location, there aren’t many amenities. It has a few picnic tables and portable restrooms. A couple miles north you’ll find a Caribbean restaurant and a grocery store if you want to stock up on food.

The Best Hotels Near Salt Pond Bay Beach

✅ For a quaint lodge:  check prices and book your stay at the Concordia Eco-Resort here!  

22. Smathers Beach, Key West

December temperature: High 78 / Low 68

Key West’s largest beach and one of the best (if not THE best)! Clear blue waters, white sands, lined with palm trees— the ultimate tropical vibes.

Not only is it beautiful, but it gives you everything you’ll need plus more. Beach chairs and umbrellas, volleyball courts, food trucks, restrooms, picnic tables, jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, parasailing, boats, floats, and parking.

While it’s on the quieter side of Key West, there is a free shuttle, the Duval Loop bus, that takes you to bustling Old Town, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. Many hotels also offer free shuttle rides to popular areas of town.

➡️ Check out prices for this awesome parasailing adventure – for a one, two, or three-seater ride here! 

The Best Hotels Near Smathers Beach

✅ For a family-friendly resort with amazing amenities:  check the prices and book your stay at Margaritaville Beach House Key West here!

✅  For an adorable, refreshing house rental: check prices and book Atlantis House here!  

23. Fort Myers Beach

December temperature: High 77 / Low 57

Fort Myer’s Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast is a beach lover’s dream. Sugary white sand, clear and warm waters, swaying palm trees, and unforgettable sunsets.

Aside from swimming and lounging on the beach, watersports like kayaks, jet skis, and parasailing are available. Fishing is popular on the pier, and while you’re up there you might spot pelicans and dolphins too.

Right next to the beach is Times Square, a lively shopping and dining area. You can take the free trolley all around town too! And if you have a car, Fort Myer’s bustling downtown area, River District, is about 20 minutes north.

If you’re into holiday festivities, Fort Myers has a tree lighting downtown, Santa’s block party, a boat parade, candy cane cruises, and a Santa visit on the beach!

Speaking of dolphins, check out this top-rated dolphin and manatee adventure by clicking here!

The Best Hotels Near Fort Myers Beach

✅ A family-friendly heaven with huge pools:  check prices and book your stay at the Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina her e!  

24. Hollywood Beach

December temperature: High 76 / Low 69

Read my full guide to Hollywood Beach here!

Named one of Fodor’s Best Beach for Families, Hollywood Beach is amazing—it’s wide, goes on for miles, and the water is clear.

The beach has a lot of options for water activities—jet skis, surf lessons, kayaking, parasailing, paddleboats, or just swimming. There are multiple volleyball nets set up on the beach too. And some resorts have full service on the beach, so you can get food and drinks right at your beach chair.

The beach is lined by the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, full of restaurants, boutiques, dessert shops, live music, and great people watching.

A free shuttle ride away is Young Circle, the downtown area, with even more activities and many holiday events like Christmas Near the Beach festival and market!

The Best Hotels Near Hollywood Beach

✅ For the ultimate beachside resort:  check prices and book your stay at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach here!   (This is one of my top 5 favorite hotels in the country! It is so good!) 

25. South Beach, Marco Island

December temperature: High 76 / Low 58

South Beach is one of the best beaches on quiet Marco Island—powdery white sand and turquoise waters for miles. And along with being beautiful, it’s one of the best shelling beaches in the country!

South Beach offers a good old fashioned beach day. Calm waters are great for swimming or renting a kayak or paddleboat. If you want more action, jet skis, parasailing, and boat tours are available. There are plenty of restaurant options within walking distance too.

And if you’re in the holiday spirit, the festivities around town include a tree lighting celebration in the park, a Christmas Tree parade, and the Marco Island holiday boat parade.

 Check out this five-star Wildlife Sightseeing and Shelling tour!

The Best Hotels Near Marco Island

✅ For an upscale beachfront resort with amazing amenities:  check prices and book your stay at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort here!  

26. Main Beach, Laguna Beach

December temperature: High 68 / Low 43

Main Beach is the beach hot spot in iconic Laguna Beach, so you know it’s good.

You’ll be there all day using all the amenities—basketball, volleyball, a big grassy area, a boardwalk, and a play structure for the kids.

As for water sports, (you’ll need a wetsuit because the water is chilly!) you can body board, snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard.

The beach area is so walkable, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, museums, art galleries, and shopping. In December, the Sawdust Winter Fantasy Festival is a must see along with the Surfboard Menorah on Main Beach!

The Best Hotels Near Main Beach in Laguna

✅ A charming beachside inn with amazing location and perfect views: check prices and availability at Pacific Edge Hotel by clicking here!

27. Coronado Central Beach, San Diego

December temperature: High 66 / Low 49

Coronado Beach is pretty famous—it was voted #1 beach in America by Dr. Beach, top US beaches on TripAdvisor, and even featured in the old film “Some Like it Hot.”

It’s a picturesque California beach town. It’s long and wide and even sparkles due to the mineral mica in the sand. There are beach chairs and cabanas, volleyball, firepits, tidepools, and calm waves for swimming or boogie boarding.

Orange Avenue, full of restaurants and shops, is just a stroll away. For holiday fun, Hotel Del Coronado turns into a winter wonderland—there’s ice skating, a light show, beachside igloos, smores, gingerbread houses, and pictures with Santa. You can also catch over 80 decorated boats float by during The Parade of Lights in San Diego’s Bay.

The Best Hotels Near Coronado Central Beach

✅ The absolute best resort in San Diego for everyone:  check prices and book your stay at Hotel Del Coronado here!

28. Mission Beach, San Diego

December temperature: High 66 / Low 48

Read over my full guide to San Diego here!

Mission Beach is the best family friendly beach in San Diego. There are two parts of it—Mission Beach next to Belmont Park (the beachside amusement park), which is more popular and crowded, and South Mission Beach, which is quieter with a slower pace.

Mission Beach is a great gathering place for families because it’s high energy with plenty to do—a bustling boardwalk, swim, surf, boogie board, beach games, even bonfires. There’s even a surfing wave machine at Wave House.

South Mission Beach is super wide with plenty of opportunities to play beach sports like volleyball, softball, basketball courts, and it’s even a great place to go fishing. Both are great for whatever type of vibe you’re looking for.

And if you want to venture around San Diego for holiday events, check out Balboa Park’s December Nights—a holiday festival with food and drinks, free entry to museums, and holiday lighting. 

29. Santa Monica Beach, Los Angeles

December temperature: High 65 / Low 51

Santa Monica is the quintessential SoCal beach town. It has beautiful beaches, delicious dining, tons of events, shopping, and just an overall fun, vibrant atmosphere.

Santa Monica Beach is three miles long and it’s also very wide. Its split into three different beaches.

Santa Monica Beach is the active area next to the famous Pier. You’ll see muscle beach and a set of aerial rings. Ocean Park Beach is further south and is a pretty active area with volleyball nets, beach tennis, surfing, and beach loungers. South Beach is less crowded and more of a local beach near downtown.

There are plenty of restaurants, rental shops, and playgrounds just steps away. And in December, Santa Monica goes hard for Christmas! There are events, special menus, and festive desserts all around the beach. Both Downtown Santa Monica and Third St. Promenade are lit up with art installations, plus there’s a tree lighting and ice skating!

The Best Hotels Near Santa Monica Beach

✅ A hotel of suites a short stroll from everything:  check prices and book your stay at Le Merigot Santa Monica here!  

30. Isla Blanca Beach, South Padre Island

December temperature: High 72 / Low 57

Did you know you can get tropical vibes in Texas? South Padre Island is 34 miles of light sand beach between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre Bay. And with 300 days of sunshine, this is a great spot for a December beach vacation.

Isla Blanca Park is known as the best beach in the area. Besides lounging on the beach, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are also popular activities. for the more adventurous, there’s beach horseback riding, jet skis, and parasailing. There are plenty of food options to choose from in the area too.

In December, enjoy a lighted boat parade, the holiday sandcastle village, a tree lighting, Christmas parade, and even breakfast with Santa!

The Best Hotels Near South Padre Island Beach

✅ For an upscale resort on the beach:  check prices and book your stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island here! 

FAQs: Best US Beaches in December

Where is the warmest beach in the united states in the winter.

The warmest beaches you’ll find in the United States in December are in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

In Puerto Rico, the beaches of El Escambron, Monserrate, or Crash Boat Beach are warm, and the water is a swimmable temperature.

The beaches in the US Virgin Islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix are also very warm in the United States.

Are there any warm beaches in the US in December?

There are plenty of warm beaches in the US in December! The warmest are in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.

The Hawaiian Islands of Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and Kauai stay in the high 70s in December. Puerto Rico and US Virgin Island beaches can hit up to the mid-80s.

In addition, Florida, California, and Texas have warm beaches too.

Who has better beaches, the East or West Coast?

While both coasts have beautiful and unique beaches, if you’re looking for white sand beaches with clear blue water, the Gulf Coast beaches in Florida are where you’ll find that.

Where is hot in USA in December?

The states with the warmest temperatures in December are:

• Hawaiian Islands of Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and Kauai
• US Virgin Islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix
• Puerto Rico and its surrounding islands of Culebra and Vieques
• Southern Florida
• Southern California
• South Texas 

Wrapping up: Best US Beaches in December

And there you have it! The 31 best US beaches in December. Whether you want to flee the cold weather or spend Christmas on the beach, you have plenty of choices.

And no matter which one of these amazing beaches you choice, you will have a great time.

So hurry up and get planning! 

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20 Places To Spend Christmas On The Beach

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As the famous Andy Williams song goes, Christmas is ‘the most wonderful time of the year’. It’s a time for reunions. For families, friends and loved ones to get together, exchange gifts, eat good food and celebrate. It’s a time to live, love, laugh and….lay on the beach.

Ok, so granted, that last bit might not traditionally be what many people first think of when planning a Christmas vacation but we at Travel2next see Christmas as a most wonderful time of the year to visit the beach.

Whether you want to enjoy a gentle stroll along the shoreline after you’ve finished your Christmas dinner or would rather take yourself away for a couple of weeks of coastal sunshine and hassle-free Christmas preparations, there are a host of fantastic options available.

There are some truly incredible beaches to visit on Christmas Day itself or during the holiday period. So embrace your thalassophile spirit, get your trunks or bikini at the ready, and seek inspiration from our list of 20 great places to spend Christmas on the beach.

1- Miami Beach, Florida

2- nassau, bahamas, 3- south padre island, texas, 4- bavaro beach, punta cana, dominican republic, 5- hilton head island, south carolina, 6- siesta key, sarasota, florida, 7- flamenco beach, puerto rico, 8- myrtle beach, south carolina, 9- trunk bay, st. john, usvi, 10- palm beach, florida, 11- varadero, cuba, 12- bondi beach, sydney, 13- cannon beach, oregon, 14- qamea island, fiji, 15- laguna beach, california, 16- grace beach, turks & caicos, 17- smathers beach, key west, 18- cabo san lucas, mexico, 19- waikiki beach, oahu, hawaii, 20- jimbaran bay, bali.

Where To Have A Beach Holiday At Christmastime

December is the start of the peak travel season in Miami Beach, so you won’t be spending Christmas alone here.

But the temperature is warm, the humidity high and the beach is truly magnificent. Remember the opening credits of CSI Miami with those stunning aerial shots?

Top up your tan under the sun and with a nightlife scene that rivals anywhere in the world, you can party every night like it’s 1999.

To stay very much in the Christmas spirit, head on over to Santa’s Enchanted Forest not far from Miami Beach.

It’s one of the world’s largest holiday theme parks and will get you right into the Christmas mood.

How does spending Christmas swimming with dolphins and stingrays sound to you?

You certainly can’t do that in Utah or Maine, but this is precisely what you’ll be doing in Nassau in the Bahamas.

At least on Balmoral Island, anyway.

For a truly spectacular Christmas Day experience, snorkel, swim and chill out on a lounger at the private resort there.

The food is excellent, so swap a home-cooked turkey dinner this year for a festive ceviche instead.

For many years those sneaky Texans kept a little Christmas secret from the rest of us – South Padre Island.

But now that secret is well and truly out.

Located at the southernmost tip of the state, South Padre Island is a 34-mile (55 km) long and half-mile wide barrier reef that contains an exotic mix of palm trees, rare birds, wildlife and, of course, exquisite beaches.

The island is the perfect spot to escape the winter blues and is known for its locally caught fresh fish, like Red Snapper, Whiting, Croakers, Sand trout, and Black Drum.

All of which can make an excellent alternative to your traditional Christmas turkey dinner.

Looking for something fun to do this Christmas? Try these:

• Christmas in London
• Christmas in China
• Christmas in Mexico
• Christmas in Florida
• Christmas in California
• Christmas in Rome
• Christmas in Spain
• 20 Christmas Dresses
• Christmas in Portugal
• Christmas in Quebec City
• Christmas in Toronto
• Christmas in Vienna
• Christmas on the Beach
• Christmas is Around The Corner
• Christmas in Lapland
• Christmas in Texas
• A Cowboy Christmas
• Christmas in Croatia
• Christmas With A View
• Christmas Island
• Christmas in Caribbean
• Christmas in India

The Dominican Republic has been a popular Christmas vacation spot for British tourists for many years now, and it is starting to become attractive to Americans too.

You will want to go to Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana, which is known for its exceptional beaches, great nightlife and fabulous, family-friendly five-star resorts.

Most run gala dinners on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and are suitably festively decorated.

As the Dominican Republic is a predominantly Christian country, there is always a church nearby to visit if you want to attend mass.

If the pristine beaches of Hilton Head Island in South Carolina aren’t enough of a drawcard for you, then the way they embrace Christmas surely will be!

From its Christmas Village to its Christmas parade, and the sensational lights on display at Dove Street, Harbour Town and Shelter Cove (think palm trees covered in sparkling lights and flashy, luminous signs) you will well and truly get into the festive spirit here.

If that’s not enough, then the excellent range of local cafes, restaurants, bars and golf courses should seal the deal.

Who says a white Christmas has to be reserved purely for snow?

Well, at Siesta Key, you will get the gift of a long stretch of gleaming, white sand to enjoy.

It’s consistently named as one of the best beaches in Florida and once your feet hit the soft sand, you’ll hear ‘jingle bells’ playing in your head.

At Sunset Point, there is even a Christmas tree on the beach.

Other Christmas activities include ‘An Evening with Santa Claus’, the ‘Atomic Holiday Bazaar’ and the ‘SantaFest and Holiday Gift Market’.

Fancy Christmas with a bit of Puerto Rican flavour? Then Flamenco Beach is where it’s at!

Stretching for a mile around a protected, horseshoe-shaped bay, Flamenco Beach is picture perfect.

Think white sand, idyllic palm trees and turquoise waters – you know – the kind of thing you would see on a laptop screensaver.

It’s a popular surfing and diving spot too. Some say the best in the world. And at Christmas, the locals well and truly get into the festive spirit.

Best of all, as Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, Americans don’t need a passport to visit there.

Ok, so you might think Myrtle Beach is just a spring break destination. But you would be wrong!

December is a top month to visit as the weather is excellent, the beach is amazing and Christmas activities abound.

For a start, there is some excellent shopping and plenty of fabulous Christmas shows to see.

Many excellent restaurants offer homely meals for Christmas Day if you don’t feel like cooking.

Away from the beach, there are a couple of fabulous indoor waterparks to splash around in.

Another place where Americans don’t need a passport is the US Virgin Islands, perfect for those wanting to swap their Christmas tree for a palm tree.

With stunning white beaches like Trunk Bay, the capital city of St. John provides a wonderful base for a Caribbean Christmas.

Hearing ‘Santa Claus is coming to town’ played out on steel drums as you lay on the beach sipping a beer or cocktail is exactly the kind of thing you would have been dreaming of during those previous 11 months you’ve been slaving away in the office.

You’ll probably already know that Palm Beach is blessed with some exceptional luxury resorts and five-star hotels.

But did you know that at Christmas they really come into their own?

Most of these resorts offer a fantastic Christmas experience for guests.

From festive furnishings to seasonal gourmet delights, they go the extra mile to make your holiday time with them a truly memorable experience.

Many of the Christmas events around the town are based near the beach, with boat parades at Palm Beach and Boynton Beach.

In addition, Sandi, a 700-ton Christmas tree made – you guessed it! – of sand is a must-see at West Palm Beach.

With pure white sand and aquamarine water, Varadero Beach in Cuba is often voted as one of the best beaches in the world. 

So the chance to stay here around the Christmas period should not be missed.

Varadero is just a couple of hours up the road from Havana on the Hicacos Peninsula.

It is a perfect stretch of 20km of gorgeous white sand and a great place to visit if you want a quiet, no-frills Christmas break.

But if you do want to retain some elements of the Christmas spirit, then the resorts, with their fancy lights and decorations and the mass services at the local churches, should comfortably provide you with that.

When it comes to a true beach Christmas, no one can beat the Aussies.

Every year thousands of people head down to Bondi Beach on Christmas Day.

So much so that it’s practically a tradition for many Sydneysiders.

The party starts from sunrise, though it kicks into full swing from around lunchtime when cafes and shops open to provide you with festive delights to eat.

On the beach, you’ll find locals wearing Christmas themed bikinis or swimming trunks, and you may even spot the odd lifeguard wearing a Santa hat too.

Anything Sydneysiders can do, the good folk of Cannon Beach in Oregon can do better.

Every year, this quaint seaside community transforms into a real-life Christmas village.

With its beautiful lights and holiday displays, you will swear you have stumbled onto the set of the Christmas Chronicles.

There are many festive events to attend and an eclectic mix of boutique stores to peruse. And there are plenty of restaurants to provide you with a delicious feed too.

Down at the beach, the imperious Haystack Rock, which juts out majestically along the Pacific Coast, is a major attraction you will want to see.

Want something a little different? Then hop on a plane and jet off to Fiji.

The beach at Qamea Island is renowned for being one of the most spectacular beaches in the country – the usual pristine white sand and lush palm trees rules apply.

You can access this beach directly from several resorts that line the beach, all of which provide splendid Christmas Day meals and festivities.

As a bonus, most of the resorts have units that directly face the sunset.

So, sip a cocktail before Christmas dinner while taking in this incredible natural phenomenon.

Want to see Santa surfing on Christmas Day? Then make your way over to Laguna Beach in California.

Granted, it might not be the real Santa you see, but nonetheless, locals do like to dress up in Christmas-themed attire, like Santa suits, to ride the waves on this special day.

If you stroll down to the beach around Christmas, you will also find lifeguard towers decorated with holly and maybe even a decorated Christmas tree too.

There are plenty of Christmas-themed events and parties away from the beach to keep you in a festive mood.

The people of Turks & Caicos have the right idea when it comes to Christmas because they start celebrating it on November 24th!

Clearly, it’s a population that loves to party.

The annual Turks and Caicos Conch Festival is the official kick-off of the Christmas season.

Featuring pre and post-Christmas parties on its iconic Grace Beach, this is the place to celebrate the festive period.

The Maskanoo Parade, which takes place on Boxing Day, should not be missed too.

It is always lovely to see a community embrace the Christmas spirit, and few places do it as well as Key West.

When it comes to Christmas, everyone gets involved and most homes, businesses and hotels shine with decorative lights and displays.

Even the marina and beaches get a makeover, which lends itself to a congenial festive atmosphere.

After you’ve eaten, head on over to Smathers Beach, where you can see out your Christmas day sipping a drink straight from a coconut or indulge in a slice (or two!) of Key Lime Pie.

Will Smith, George Clooney, Cameron Diaz and Jennifer Aniston are just some celebrities who might have celebrated Christmas in Cabo San Lucas.

They all own homes in this beautiful part of Mexico anyway.

Christmas in Cabo San Lucas is a wonderful experience; not only is the beach a magnificent stretch of golden sand to walk and relax on, but the downtown plaza is also a joy to see.

It’s beautifully decorated with festive lights and ornate decorations, hosting plenty of Christmas-themed activities with lashings of Mexican flair.

There are also some fabulous art exhibitions and several excellent restaurants in the area to entertain off the sand.

Fancy singing ‘Mele Kalikimaka’ on Waikiki Beach this Christmas? Well, that is exactly what you can do if you make your way to Oahu.

Christmas is a magical time at Waikiki, where you can swim, surf and chill on one of the world’s most iconic beaches.

And when you are not doing that, Christmas festivities like the Waikiki Holiday Parade and the Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade will excite you.

The Honolulu City lights are also a must-see, while the Waikiki Beach Walk hosts live and very entertaining, nightly Christmas music performances in the week running up to, and including, Christmas Day.

A unique experience you may not have thought of is eating your Christmas meal directly on the beach, which is exactly what you can do at Jimbaran Bay in Bali .

You’ll dine on the freshest seafood – caught that day – and cooked on one of the many beachfront barbeques that line the foreshore.

Time it right, and you can turn the romance levels up a notch or two by choosing to eat at sunset.

After a leisurely day of swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing or kayaking, can you think of a better way to spend the rest of Christmas Day?

For more beaches around the world read:

• 20 Places For Christmas On The Beach
• 20 Sunshine Coast Beaches
• 20 Best Beaches In Italy
• 20 Best Beaches In Spain
• 12 Beaches In Australia
• 20 Nordic Beaches
• 21 Longest Beaches In The World
• 20 Best Beaches In Egypt
• 20 Best Beaches In Asia
• 20 Best Beaches in China
• 20 Indonesia Beaches
• 20 Best Beaches In Vietnam
• 20 Dominican Republic Beaches
• 21 Malaysia Beaches
• 20 Cambodia Beaches
• 20 Maldives Beaches
• 20 New Zealand Beaches
• 20 Beaches In Illinois
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For some people, the perfect Christmas vacation involves fully leaning into winter on a snowy mountain somewhere, curled up next to a crackling fire. Others prefer to lounge on a beach as far away from cold weather as possible. Wherever you choose to spend "the most wonderful time of year," you're likely to find some version of holiday cheer.

From the sunny shores of Saint Lucia to the storybook town of Solvang, California, to Santa Claus' own hometown in Finnish Lapland, these are the best places to visit for Christmas this year.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is an idyllic ski destination perched in the beautiful Tetons of Wyoming. Late December here is packed with holiday programming that typically includes ice skating, skiing with Santa, and caroling. The festivities usually kick off with a Christmas tree lighting and end with fireworks on New Year's Eve.

There are several stunning slopeside lodges to choose from, including the luxurious Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa and the ski-in, ski-out Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole . Looking for gifts in downtown Jackson? The iconic elk antler arches that frame the Town Square are illuminated for the holidays, making it feel magical. For a unique adventure that embraces the hot and cold, plan a trip to the Granite Hot Springs Pool , which can be accessed only by snowmobile, fat bike, dog sled, or skis.

New York City

There's truly nothing like Christmas in New York City . The city lights shine brightly year-round, but holiday lights add to the magic. You'll hardly have to look for activities or entertainment with all the famous displays: the enormous tree at Rockefeller Center and the smaller but still dazzling tree at Washington Square Park, the LED-lit Saks Fifth Avenue facade, and the animated window displays at Macy's Herald Square, to name a few. You can sip hot chocolate while you shop for last-minute gifts at German-style Christmas markets and partake in the age-old tradition of watching the Radio City Rockettes perform their annual Christmas Spectacular on a holiday vacation in NYC.

Bruges, Belgium

KavalenkavaVolha/Getty Images

The Bruges Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe. This enchanting event takes over the Markt, the square at the heart of the city, with stands and wooden chalets selling everything from handmade Christmas ornaments to waffles and woolly socks. The colorful storefronts surrounding the square are adorably festooned with holiday decorations, and you'll find confectioneries serving Belgian hot chocolate — no doubt some of the best you'll ever taste. The festivities extend to a smaller market in nearby Simon Stevinplein square. Elevate your stay with a suite overlooking the picturesque canal at the luxurious and historic Hotel Van Cleef .

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Another place to experience the holidays on the ski slopes is Beaver Creek, Colorado, about 12 miles over the road from bustling Vail. This picturesque ski village typically sees festive activities for the whole family, from an annual Christmas tree lighting to changing events like holiday movie nights and cookie-baking competitions.

As for a cozy place to rest your head, The Osprey offers luxurious accommodations and a heated outdoor pool all mere feet from the chairlift. Otherwise, you can book one of just 60 rooms at The Pines Lodge . Both offer ski-in, ski-out access.

Saint Lucia

If your idea of a white Christmas involves soft, powdery sand, consider going to this beautiful Caribbean island. The luxurious Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort , typically offers a full lineup of holiday activities such as visits from Santa, a traditional family Christmas meal, and a New Year's Eve beach bash. Of course, you can also spend your days lounging on the stunning beach between St. Lucia's iconic peaks, the Pitons, or enjoying the resort's regular amenities and activities, including a pool, spa, dive facility, and kayak rentals.

Highlands, North Carolina

If you're looking for a charming, small-town Christmas experience that feels like it's straight out of a Hallmark movie, head to Highlands, North Carolina. This picturesque town is in the southern Appalachian Mountains, within the Nantahala National Forest. Throughout December, you'll find storefronts along and around Main Street decorated with wintry displays. The city runs a competition, so cast your vote on which you think is the best. Visit with Santa in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on any Saturday in December leading up to the big day. Old Edwards Inn and Spa and Half-Mile Farm ( favorite hotels among Travel + Leisure readers) offer cozy accommodations with a side of holiday decorations and Christmas cheer.

Salzburg, Austria

Christmas markets, warm glühwein (mulled wine), medieval castles, and a museum wholly dedicated to Christmas will surely get you into the holiday spirit while visiting Salzburg. As you probably know, the city is the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of "The Sound of Music," a movie that seemingly plays on repeat over the holidays. Ice skate around a statue of the iconic composer at Mozartplatz and soak in stunning views of the snow-capped Alps on the south-facing terrace of the Hohensalzburg Fortress . The most luxurious place to stay? That would be Hotel Goldener Hirsch right in Old Town.

Solvang, California

If you won't have a chance to wander through a storybook town in Denmark this holiday season, you can get a similar feel in Solvang. The small city in Santa Ynez Valley was founded by a group of Danes in the early 1900s. They created this adorable community, now known for its Danish businesses and architecture. Solvang typically hosts Julefest , a month-long village celebration complete with outdoor gatherings and holiday decorations. Make the stay even more Christmassy with a stay at The Landsby or the Winston , two of Solvang's coziest boutique hotels.

Stowe, Vermont

A popular ski destination among East Coasters and one of the most picture-perfect places to go for Christmas, Stowe is within driving distance of several major northeastern cities (Boston, Albany, and Montreal, to name a few). The ski season typically starts in November, so this is an ideal place to hit the slopes if you're looking for a white, powder-filled Christmas. Stay at The Lodge at Spruce Peak for beautiful mountain views and ski-in, ski-out access.

Edinburgh Castle, arguably the city's most recognizable landmark, glows over the holiday season. The annual Castle of Light event began in 2019 and draws crowds with spectacular displays projected onto the exterior walls of the 12th-century stronghold. The projections typically get a refresh every year, and have included everything from fire-breathing dragons to flowers. Other holiday must-dos include the festive afternoon tea at Dome , where the stately Georgian Tea Room is enhanced with seasonal decorations. Sip mulled wine at one of the Christmas markets and ice skate on George Street for the full experience. If you're around on New Year's Eve, participate in Hogmanay, Scotland's own end-of-year celebration. Edinburgh puts on a Hogmanay festival that includes a torchlight procession, concerts, and a disco party.

Washington, D.C.

See the National Christmas Tree, ice skate at Washington Harbour, and sing along with a choral concert at the National Cathedral this December. Washington, D.C., hosts an array of holiday happenings throughout the season, and many of them are free, so go ahead and spend some extra money Christmas shopping. Head to one of the renowned Smithsonian museums to escape the cold weather, bundle up and admire the lights at the National Zoo, or walk along the National Mall with a hot cocoa in hand. When it comes to accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown can hardly be beat.

Florida Keys

With pleasantly warm December weather, the Florida Keys are an ideal escape for those looking to spend the holidays in a U.S. beach destination. Kick off your Christmas vacation with a scenic road trip through the Florida Keys, stopping at islands en route to Key West. This is a popular time to visit, so consider staying away from the crowds at the secluded Sunset Key Cottages , a 27-acre private island resort accessible by ferry. Upon arriving, you'll find serenity just a short trip from the attractions of Key West.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a great place to visit any time of the year. Loved for its culture, food, and picturesque setting, the city typically hosts a number of holiday events throughout December. Annual highlights include the Santa Fe Botanical Garden's Glow light display and Christmas concerts inside the impressive Loretto Chapel leading up to December 25. You can even find winter sports at Ski Santa Fe , about 15 miles away. For a special hotel experience, book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe , which offers a range of festive amenities, or spend the night on the historic and holiday-lit Santa Fe Plaza at La Fonda .

Buenos Aires

Christmas is a summer holiday in the Southern Hemisphere, and Buenos Aires celebrates it with outdoor asado feasts and fireworks. High temperatures in December range from the upper 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit, which means Papá Noel sometimes wears a tank top. The sunny weather is perfect for sipping cocktails and picnicking on the Plaza Intendente Alvear. While you're in the Argentine capital over the holidays, sample the pan dulce ("sweet bread"), admire the decorations that usually take over the Galerías Pacífico shopping center, or make like a local and escape the city to a nearby beach.

There's just something especially magical about London at Christmastime. Between the glittering lights, cider-slinging holiday markets, themed pop-up bars, and ice skating rinks from Hyde Park to the Queen's House in Greenwich, the city really comes alive for the holiday season. Stay at The Lanesborough for a truly festive experience — the luxurious hotel has beautiful holiday decorations, in-suite shopping from Harvey Nichols, and the option to have your room fully decorated with the hotel's Christmas in Residence program.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Why not spend the holidays in Santa Claus' hometown? Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is home to Santa Claus Village and SantaPark , where you'll find the man himself and his reindeer sidekicks. During the winter, the arctic landscape is covered by a thick blanket of pretty snow. You'll also have the best chance of the year at spotting the northern lights. There are several hotels in the area with glass igloo accommodations, which provide stunning 360-degree views of the aurora borealis from inside.

The Maldives

If you'd rather wear sandals than snowshoes, the Maldives might be the ideal place for you to spend Christmas. Winter is the dry season, when the weather here is at its best. Daily highs average in the mid-80s Fahrenheit — perfect for a holiday beach getaway. At the end of the day, kick back in luxurious accommodations at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island or The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands .

Bavaria, Germany

Spend your Christmas holidays in this picturesque region in southern Germany. Start your adventure in Munich, where you can sip mulled wine as you stroll through a genuine German Christkindlmarkt. Then head out of the city to find Christmas spirit in small towns like medieval Rothenburg or go skiing in the Alps. Wherever you go, beware of the spooky Krampus, a frightening Christmas beast of local folklore.

Quebec City

Quebec City is about as European as it gets outside of Europe itself. The predominantly French-speaking Québécois celebrate the season with German-style markets, ice skating at Place D'Youville, and shopping in Old Quebec, transformed into a dreamy scene. For a truly Canadian experience, take a ride on Au 1884 (aka the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide), one of Quebec City's oldest attractions. The slide runs right past Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , a castlelike hotel where you can stop for soup or coffee to escape the cold.

The Bahamas

Just a short flight south for East Coasters, The Bahamas is another popular choice for travelers seeking sun and sand during the holidays. Mid-December is the start of the high season here, probably because daily highs in the 80s are such a welcome change to chilly temperatures in much of the U.S. Thanks to a wide range of accommodation options — from resort complexes like Baha Mar with seemingly endless amenities to more intimate private island resorts like T+L reader favorite Kamalame Cay — there's a perfect Christmas vacation waiting for you in this sunny oasis.

The 10 best beaches in the US to visit right now

L aguna, La Jolla, Clearwater , Miami – there’s no doubt that the US does a sterling job in stellar beaches . But sometimes such over-subscribed destinations can make carving out your own slice of paradise without the crowds something of a challenge.

Thankfully, the US is home to over 95,000 miles of shoreline, with 30 states boasting a coast, meaning there are plenty of secret surf and sand spots, whether you’re looking for family beaches , supreme sunset viewing points , dramatic cliffs, or simply a place to connect with nature.

There are plenty of options to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best secluded, underrated beach locations in the United States .

From isolated sandy stretches in North Carolina to hidden spots on California ’s rugged coastline and the breathtaking sunsets across Hawaii ’s Polihale Beach sand dunes, each of these would make an unforgettable holiday that’s far from the madding crowd.

Read more on US travel :

• The ultimate USA travel guide
• Best USA holidays for the ultimate American experiences
• Why Wynwood is the best day out in Miami

Cannon Beach, Oregon

While some beaches trade off their sunshine quota, Cannon Beach in the Pacific Northwest is unique by virtue of being a marvel to visit whatever the weather. This long sandy stretch of coastline is home to the dramatic Haystock Rock, a giant towering rock formation that’s accessible on-foot at low tide. Adjacent stone “needles”, tidalpools and flocks of seabirds combine to make this an atmospheric spot. While a summer stroll is always pleasant, visiting in winter, with crashing waves and brooding skies is an unforgettable experience. Don’t leave without checking out the many art galleries and specialist shops that populate the town.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

North Carolina’s Outer Banks are a 100-mile plus stretch of barrier islands separating the mainland through a series of sounds and inlets. Home to wild horses, lighthouses and blissfully isolated expanses of sand, it’s the ideal place to seek out a spot away from the crowds. Hit the surf at Cape Hatteras, go fishing at Rodanthe Pier, or scramble up Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest living sandy dune system on the east coast.

Avalon Beach, New Jersey

Don’t be put off by its association with reality TV show Jersey Shore : this Atlantic region is home to 127 miles of sublime coastline, with plenty to interest and inspire. Head to Avalon on the Seven Mile Beach for white-sand beaches perfect for swimming, boating or kayaking, while North Wildwood is home to gentler waters and completely free to visit. Commercial boardwalks with amusements, water parks, shops and restaurants make this an ideal destination for a family break.

Kauaʻi, Hawaii

Hawaii ’s beaches are renowned the world over for their soft, white sands and tropical waters, but KauaÊ»i is best known for its dramatic cliffs, canyons and lush rainforests. Known as the “Garden Isle” for its verdant interior, it’s an ideal destination for trekking and kayaking, as well as being home to some of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches.

PoÊ»ipÅ« Beach Park is one of KauaÊ»i’s most popular beaches, with a wading pool for younger swimmers and the occasional Hawaiian monk seal appearance, but travellers who really want to escape the crowds should head to the remote Polihale Beach. Located at the end of a dirty road, it’s a whopping 17 miles long, making it the longest stretch of beach in the entire state of Hawaii. Expect giant sand dunes, desert cacti and jaw-dropping sunsets. Polihale is notorious for being a very dangerous beach for swimming, however, so swap the dip for a steady stroll along the sands.

Cape Charles, Virginia

On the National Register of Historic Places, Cape Charles has one of the largest concentrations of turn-of-the-century buildings on the east coast. This quaint Victorian-era town is home to award-winning golf courses, two nature preserves ripe for exploration, and watersports galore, including kayaking, paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Plus, Cape Charles’ soft, sand beach is free to access, with calm and shallow waters making it suitable for waterbabies.

Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

A 15-minute drive from downtown Corpus Christi is Padre Island, the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island. This conservation area, stretching around 66 miles, is a major migratory bird route and home to 350 different species, with nearly half of all north American migratory bird species passing through here at different times of the year. Explore this charming stretch of coastline by kayak or canoe, watch sea turtles being released, or simply walk along this untouched stretch of coastline. And if the prospect of returning to four walls doesn’t appeal, you can also camp here.

Seal Beach, California

California ’s not short of excellent beaches, but Seal Beach is an underrated gem. This laid-back town south of Los Angeles ’ Long Beach has soft white sand, incredible views from the second longest wooden pier in the state, and a 965-acre wildlife refuge you can visit. It’s also the start (or end) point of the San Gabriel River Trail, a 36-mile long cycle route that’s one of the best traffic-free spots in the valley for biking.

Dauphin Island, Alabama

Skip the crowds at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and take the 40-minute ferry ride to the more secluded Dauphin Island. Known as the “sunset capital of Alabama”, this island is home to seven miles of white-sand beaches, great weather and crystal clear waters. Hike through the ancient maritime forest of Goat Tree Reserve, where you can spot birds including vireos, flycatchers and owls and sign up for a chartered fishing expedition, before feasting on crab and lobster at the acclaimed Skinner’s Seafood.

Wellfleet, Massachusetts

Cape Cod has long been a major draw for visitors on the east coast, but it’s also prone to overcrowding. Wellfleet, meanwhile, is a pretty, small and peaceful town surrounded by coast on both sides and centrally located, meaning it’s easy to travel around if you start to yearn for more action. It’s also famed for its excellent oysters, making it an dream destination for foodies. Head to Mac’s on the Pier for some of the best. And don’t leave without visiting the Wellfleet flea market, the biggest on Cape Cod.

Wildcat Beach, California

Fancy a challenge? Rewards don’t come easy at Wildcat, with visitors required to hike five miles to reach this remote California beach, but it’s more than worth the trek. Short on time? Mountain bike on the Stewart Trail, before cooling off in the Pacific. This peaceful spot is home to seals, striking cliff views and some incredible sunsets. And if you’d prefer to spread the hike over a few days, you can rest your bones at Wildcat Campground. For a more active trip, pack up and hike north up the coastline to discover more secret beaches.

Torn between skiing and surfing? Here’s how to hit both slopes and the waves on a California weekend

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23 US Cities That Go All Out for Christmas

By Caitlin Morton

Think of the phrase “Christmas in America” and you’ll likely imagine the usual suspects: giant trees festooned in twinkling lights, people of all ages caroling and singing “Silent Night,” ubiquitous tributes to the jolly man in red named Santa Claus, and gingerbread. Lots of gingerbread. But take a closer look and you may be surprised: Christmas celebrations across the United States can look very different, depending on the environment, local history, and present-day cultures of the people who live there. Not everything is a winter wonderland—in fact, maybe a warm-weather destination for the holidays is exactly what you need. Regardless of temperature, these 23 destinations are some of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

These places below are known for the ways they come alive at Christmastime: from the glitzy and glam festivities of big cities like New York or Chicago to the Santa-hats-and-shorts vibes of Santa Fe and St. Augustine. Of course, your Christmas vacation ideas in the US are far from limited to just these places. Here's one idea: Head out on a multi-destination road trip to check out some fantastical drive-through Christmas lights displays . And while there are a great many places to celebrate Christmas around the world , experience one Christmas in America and you’ll be a person changed for the better.

Here are some of the best places to go for Christmas in the United States this year, ranging all types of atmosphere and styles: from Kennebunkport to Las Vegas , from Dallas to North Pole, Alaska (note the missing the ). No matter where you choose, there are plenty of activities to participate in, events to check out, and places to stay. Happy holidays, y’all.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alexandria, Virginia

Why we go: Located about 20 minutes south of Washington, DC, Alexandria is a picture-perfect place to spend the holiday season. The Old Town’s row houses and centuries-old brick streets look even more charming when adorned with snow and Christmas wreaths, and you can expect a ton of seasonal activities. The festivities kick off along the Potomac River shoreline with the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (December 2 at 5:30 p.m.) and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (December 3). Come Christmas Eve, try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Get a taste of the Christmases of yore at nearby Mount Vernon (George Washington’s former home), where you can take a candlelit guided tour, and enjoy some cider and cookies (with special events on November 24 and 25, December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 17).

Stay here: Book a stay at The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection , which is on King Street, in the heart of Alexandria’s shopping and entertainment area.

Asheville, North Carolina

Why we go: Asheville is easily one of the country’s best places to spend Christmas, offering all the light displays and holiday shopping—not to mention the perfect tucked-away location in the Blue Ridge Mountains —any vacationer could wish for. Some of the city’s seasonal offerings include a lit-up wonderland at the North Carolina Arboretum , and the 29th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn (on display from November 27 to January 2).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Christmas at Biltmore Estate is just as spectacular as it sounds, with 100 hand-decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 holiday lights drawing visitors through the new year in January.

Stay here: Cozy up in The Foundry , a hotel that opened in 2018 with a James Beard-nominated chef running its in-house restaurant. It’s Asheville’s best boutique hotel, filled with authentic touches—from lots of exposed brick to the restaurant’s modern spins on comfort food.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: This Christmas, visit the little town of Bethlehem—in Pennsylvania, that is. The city’s German-inspired Christmas City Village and Christkindlmarkt (November 17 to December 17) feature rotating displays by artisans, live music, and glass-blowing demonstrations. After stocking up on handmade ornaments and nutcrackers, take a carriage ride through Downtown Bethlehem to take in all the Christmas lights.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Winter Light Spectacular (through December 31) at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, about 30 minutes northwest of Bethlehem, features more than a million lights and illuminated scenes throughout the zoo.

Stay here: The Sayre Mansion Inn has warm and comfortable rooms, private six-course dinners, and beautiful Christmas decorations. If you want to venture out into the town, Lehigh University, St. Luke’s Hospital, the Steel Stacks Performing Arts Center, and the Wind Creek Casino are all nearby.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Why we go: Normally, you wouldn’t expect an Arctic experience in southern Kentucky, but Bowling Green is shaking up the holiday game this year. The Christmas spirit is definitely alive at the city’s Reindeer Farm , where families can feed reindeer, watch holiday movies, and drink cocoa while writing letters to Santa. (There's even wine tasting for the grown-ups.)

The one thing to get you in the spirit: End your festive vacation at the SoKY Marketplace Ice Rink , an outdoor rink where you can skate with Santa and the Grinch.

Stay here: Opened in mid-2019, the Lodge at Olde Stone offers 12 cozy, Kentucky-inspired suites and a restaurant serving up Southern dishes. And if you’re a golfer, be sure to pack your clubs: the property boasts 9- and 18-hole courses onsite.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Branson, Missouri

Why we go: Sort of like a family-friendly little sister to Las Vegas, Branson pulls out all the stops every holiday season. The Ozark Mountain town transforms into a winter wonderland with 1,500 Christmas trees in and around town, ice skating under the Branson Ferris Wheel, and several drive-through light displays .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Head straight to the 1880s-themed amusement park Silver Dollar City for the annual An Old Time Christmas festival. The party lasts until December 30 and includes 6.5 million lights, 1,000 trees (including an eight-story one), outdoor shows, parades, and, of course, rides.

Stay here: Chateau on the Lake is one of the nicest hotels in town, with beautiful lake views, a full-service luxury spa, and the Chateau Marina, where activities include fishing, water skiing, and tubing (though you may want to wait for warmer weather—or not, if that’s your thing).

Charleston, South Carolina

Why we go: Charleston is the perfect destination for any fan of the holidays, but not of the frigid weather that often comes with the season. There are plenty of Christmas-oriented events and festivities in the city that are fit for every type of tourist. Check out the Festival of Trees at The Charleston Place , where 16 Christmas trees, each one decorated by a local Charleston business or organization, will be on display throughout the beautiful hotel’s second floor. For something that sounds (and is) magnificent, catch The Sound of Charleston , where you can hear the music that tells the city’s story: gospel spirituals, music by George Gershwin, Civil War songs, and jazz. For something pleasantly aquatic, head over to the South Carolina Aquarium, which presents the dazzling light show Aquarium Aglow after the sun goes down on select evenings this November and December (be sure to say hi to “Scuba Claus” in the Great Ocean Tank).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: As far as classically Christmassy merrymaking goes, it doesn’t get any more traditional (minus the freezing temperatures) than the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park featuring a spectacular light show that features over two million tiny light bulbs.

Stay here: There are plenty of options in South Carolina’s beautiful port city: There’s the perennial favorite French Quarter Inn , which welcomes guests with a glass of Champagne and is just a few steps away from the famous Charleston City Market. Meanwhile, The Vendue , the city’s first art hotel concept, offers an ever-evolving experience—the hotel has a full-time docent and rotating exhibits. And for something classic, there’s Hotel Bennett , voted the very best hotel in Charleston by Traveler readers in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2023 ; its old-world grandeur and good ol’ Southern charm make this Marion Square hotel irresistible. (The place also hosts a holiday tea on Thursdays and Fridays until Christmas.)

Chicago, Illinois

Why we go: From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket (from November 17 to December 24) to light shows galore (there’s the Let It Shine drive-through Christmas lights display), Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 51-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cozying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights (from November 17 through January 7), an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here: As far as hotels go, travelers truly have their pick of the litter in the Windy City. One top choice is The Langham, Chicago , housed in a landmark Mies van der Rohe building along the Chicago River. It's just a Chicago hotdog’s throw away from Magnificent Mile, where you can get all your holiday shopping done. For the sportier among us, there’s the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel , which has a strong local following for its historic lobby, indoor bocce, foosball in its game room, and the gem-like Milk Room bar, among other things. On the rooftop, and mostly enclosed by an atrium, Cindy’s cranks it up with large format cocktails, shareable dishes, and some of the best views of Millennium Park.

Dallas, Texas

Why we go: Proving you don’t need cold temperatures to get in the Christmas spirit, the holiday celebrations in Dallas put most northern cities to shame. Most notable is Holiday at the Arboretum (now through January 5), a Christmas village with millions of lights, a 50-foot tree with lights animated to music, and visits with Santa Claus. Elsewhere in town, you can drive through the Dallas Zoo Lights route (from November 17 to January 2) and skate next to the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree at the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Throw a few back at Miracle , a Christmas-themed pop-up bar that returns to Dallas this year at the cocktail bar Royal 38 in Uptown Dallas.

Stay here: If you really want a festive experience, check in at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , where the grounds are beautiful and the food is so tasty, you could dine on property every night.

Denver, Colorado 

Why we go: Unwrap the magic of the holidays in Denver this season with special events and millions of twinkling lights. Enjoy a family outing to the Denver Zoo Lights , or a fun day of shopping and ice skating downtown. Get a dose of culture with a viewing of A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker (see the full calendar here ), then visit the Mile High Tree at the 16th Street Mall (it’s actually 110 feet tall, but that’s still pretty impressive).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Denver Christkindlmarket (one of the best German markets in the country) returns to Civic Center Park this winter, open daily now through December 23.

Stay here: The Crawford Hotel , a boutique property in LoDo’s Union Station, boasts Art Deco rooms, and the city’s most beautiful lobby. Soaring ceilings and sky-high chandeliers hang overhead, while oversized sofas and leather chairs create a casual and bustling “living room” frequented by travelers and locals alike.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go: If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude ; check out the site and you’ll see a live countdown to the event’s start date—it’s that highly anticipated. It’s an 11-day bash that’s about as New England as it gets: one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. Speaking of, the legendary lobster rolls at hotspots like Scales , The Highroller Lobster Co. , and Miyake will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat.

Stay here: According to this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Traveler readers love the 14-room Cape Arundel Inn & Resort for its oceanside location and restaurant serving up fresh seafood—and, unlike a lot of Maine resorts, it’s actually open during the winter months.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why we go: If you thought Las Vegas was dazzling before, just wait until you see it decked out for Christmas. Basically, the entire Strip transforms into a winter wonderland full of festive events for the entire family. This year's activities include rooftop ice skating at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (beginning December 2), colorful displays outside The LINQ promenade , a 6-foot-tall gingerbread man at ARIA , and a massive holiday display—complete with a 42-foot Christmas tree—at the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Catch an iconic show at the Fountains of Bellagio to see performances set to “Santa Baby,” “Carol of the Bells,” and other holiday classics.

Stay here: It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to the hotels on the Strip in Las Vegas , especially as each property tries to outdo each other—whether for the holidays or just around the year. That said, for a classic experience, stay at The Venetian . The whole place is so marvelously over-the-top that it doesn’t matter that it looks nothing like the real Venice . That’s not the point. This is Vegas, baby.

Nashville, Tennessee

Why we go: The Music City is all about the—wait for it—music during the holiday season. From November 10 through January 1, enjoy “Country Christmas” at Gaylord Opryland , with tons of Christmas shows, plus ice skating and acres of light displays. Or head to the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway and take the two-mile drive through Jingle Beat , a light show set to remixed versions of classic Christmas carols. And when in doubt, you can always catch a yuletide show at the Grand Ole Opry .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Given the Christmas season, a hotel named Noelle seems as perfect a place as any to spend the season. Its Holiday Glow Package is a nice deal, but even cooler is its Ralphie’s Christmas experience, inspired by A Christmas Story, which features Oval-tinis and other seasonal bites (happening in the hotel’s Hidden Bar until January 8).

Stay here: Well, it’s obvious, isn’t it? Stay at the Noelle—officially Noelle, Nashville, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. It’s in the center of the downtown Nashville action, and its emphasis on art, design, and local artists and designers will help you get to know the city all the more.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why we go: It’s no surprise that New Orleans leans into the holiday season, but we still get all tingly thinking about Christmas in the city. NOLA lights up with events like LUNA Fête , where the Central Business District around Lafayette Square fills up with installations and animated graphics from December 7 to 10. City Park also becomes a wonderland for the entire month with Celebration in the Oaks (November 23 to December 30), a festival with vendors, food and drink stands, and decorations adorning the centuries-old oak trees.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual Christmas Eve lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the Mississippi River is a seasonal tradition that's as authentically “New Orleans” as they come.

Stay here: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans has lots of holiday offerings this year, including gingerbread house building and a four-course dinner on Christmas Eve.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Central Park, window shopping along Fifth Avenue, visiting the tree at Rockefeller Center, seeing the Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, or lurking around 34th Street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Prepare to be incredibly and thoroughly overwhelmed (in a good way!) by the Christmas spirit in this Brooklyn neighborhood, which famously goes all out on the holiday decorations each year. Think candy cane lanes, giant snowmen, illuminated snowflakes, and too many glowing Santa Claus figures than the census can count. Lights go up after Thanksgiving and last through the New Year, so whether you’re driving through in a car or taking the pedestrian route, there’s plenty of time to take in the wall-to-wall displays of life-size nutcrackers, enormous twinkling trees, and lawn ornament reindeer. Big sleigh.

Stay here: Easy answer: The Plaza . If you've ever watched Home Alone 2 , you’ll recognize it as the hotel where young Kevin McCallister, while lost in New York, lived lavishly in a posh suite for the holidays. Fittingly, the hotel has a “Home Alone 2: Fun in New York” experience package, offered throughout the year, that lets guests mimic memorable moments from the movie. It includes a limousine ride all over the city to landmarks like Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, a large cheese pizza (to be eaten in the limo, naturally), and the Home Alone sundae, made to fit Kevin’s exacting taste (specifically: 16 scoops of assorted ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&M’s, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel, and raspberry sauce). If a more traditional Christmas is what you’re looking for, there’s also the “Suitest Season of All” package that comes with a seven-foot-tall decorated Balsam Hill tree placed directly in your suite.

Newport Beach, California

Why we go: The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the longest-running holiday festivals in the entire country, celebrating its 115th anniversary this year from December 13 to 17. (To compare, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting has been running for 90 years.) The “parade” takes place in the harbor of Newport Beach, where yachts, boats, and kayaks have been known to show off up to $50,000 worth of decorations to millions of visitors.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: View the parade from Balboa Island , where the decorated houses threaten to upstage the passing boats.

Stay here: The nautical, all-American feel at Lido House, Autograph Collection fits in perfectly with the theme of the holiday events—especially with the addition of bright, colorful Christmas decorations in the cottages.

North Pole, Alaska

Why we go: Even though this North Pole is 1,700 miles south of the true North Pole, the quaint Alaskan town is 100 percent saturated with Christmas cheer. Most famous for the Santa Claus House (the self-proclaimed “official” home of St. Nick), the North Pole’s nominal spirit even extends to its street names: Snowman Lane, Saint Nicholas Drive, Holiday Road, and Santa Claus Lane, which has light poles shaped like candy canes. Just as adorable is the town’s post office, which gets flooded with tens of thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus each year.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual tree-lighting ceremony has plenty of photo ops with Santa himself.

Stay here: The North Pole Cabins are comfortable and warm log cabin retreats, located just a mile from the Santa Claus House.

Park City, Utah

Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.

Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest ever seen. In nearby Deer Valley, there’s also the iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge , a luxurious chalet with easy ski-in/ski-out access. And just 25 minutes from downtown Park City Auberge Resorts’ The Lodge at Blue Sky is a perfect place to unwind in luxury.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go: Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights—but the holiday spirit doesn’t start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi , holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art , holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret , and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe —both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Fe’s annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk , a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings, is sure to get you in a pleasant and festive mood for the occasion.

Stay here: Condé Nast Traveler ’s Readers’ Choice Award favorite Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi has a tangible warmth to it, with gaslit kiva fireplaces and hand-carved four-poster beds adorning the rooms.

Seattle, Washington

Why we go: Aside from the delightful sight of a Christmas tree atop the Space Needle, there are plenty of reasons to visit Seattle over the holidays. Your one-stop shop for holiday cheer is Winterfest at Seattle Center (November 24 to December 31), which has family-friendly activities like train rides and ice sculpting demonstrations. There’s also a huge celebration just eight miles east of Seattle in the town of Bellevue: Snowflake Lane (November 24 to December 24), a nightly light show with caroling and snow machines ensuring a white Christmas.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sheraton Grand Seattle ’s annual Gingerbread Village is probably Seattle’s most beloved holiday tradition, in which the city’s top architecture firms and culinary teams get together to create next-level gingerbread houses. This year’s event runs from November 21 to New Year’s Day.

Stay here: With its mountain lodge interiors, The Edgewater Hotel is one of the best places to cozy up in the Pacific Northwest. If you like to fall asleep while staring out at gentle waves glistening in the moonlight, you won’t find a better spot in the city.

Seneca Falls, New York

Why we go: It’s a Wonderful Life may have been shot on an RKO soundstage in Los Angeles, but the fine folks of Seneca Falls , New York, swear that their five-square-mile upstate hamlet is the inspiration for the real Bedford Falls . Each December, they host an array of old-timey activities to prove it. This year, the event runs from December 7 to 10 and will include special film screenings, gingerbread house contests, and museum exhibits.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The “It's a Wonderful Bonfire” event on Friday, December 8, which includes caroling, a visit from Santa, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Stay here: The Gould Hotel has elegant rooms and a restaurant serving hearty, local meals that will warm you from the inside out.

St. Augustine, Florida

Why we go: Christmas in St. Augustine is truly something to behold. The holiday season kicks off this year with the city’s annual Christmas Parade, then continues through January 28 with the famous Nights of Lights festival. During the celebration, St. Augustine glows with three million tiny white lights over the Bridge of Lions and through 20 city blocks in the historic district. Bonus: You can enjoy the whole show without wearing a coat and gloves, because, you know, Florida.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Climb aboard the Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour, which departs nightly from November 19 through January 28.

Stay here: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens pairs all the charm of a bed and breakfast with all the amenities of a true luxury hotel. No little detail is overlooked, from interesting on-site activities (like watercolor painting in the courtyard) to immaculate turndown service. The hotel has an age minimum of 16, making this a great retreat for harried parents.

St. Louis, Missouri

Why we go: It’s been almost 80 years since Judy Garland first graced the world with “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” at the end of Meet Me in St Louis , and the Missouri city has embraced its role as one of America’s yuletide capitals ever since. Make sure you hit all the classics, like Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo, the poinsettia show at Jewel Box in Forest Park , and ice skating at Steinberg Rink . For the third year running, there's even a Polar Express -themed train ride at the Union Station development.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Walk among a million dazzling lights at the Missouri Botanical Garden’s annual Garden Glow , which runs from November 18 to January 6.

Stay here: You can’t beat the glittering, Gateway Arch-facing views at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis .

Washington, D.C.

Why we go: There are few holiday displays in the nation that compare with Washington, DC’s National Christmas Tree, but other seasonal perks include private igloos at the Watergate Hotel, the Downtown Holiday Market (now through December 23), and a glorious absence of field trip groups in the Smithsonian museums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Make it a priority to amble over to the Ford’s Theatre, which puts on an annual run of A Christmas Carol for the holidays.

Stay here: The InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C., an IHG Hotel , is just a few blocks away from the White House and National Christmas Tree, and offers a holiday afternoon tea and tons of gorgeous decorations. You’ve heard it a thousand times: “There's no place like home for the holidays.”

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