Isn’t it funny how in the summer all we dream about are snowy getaways to ski towns and in the winter all we want is sunshine and fruity cocktails? While most of the country has been hit with at least one winter storm and is gearing up for round two in the coming weeks, we say combat SAD with a warm weather escape!
Pack your passport, 50+ SPF, and bikini because here are our top picks for the perfect winter getaway.
Grand Cayman
Want to make your friends really jealous? Book a flight to the Cayman Islands. The warm, teal green water and beautiful palm tree-lined beaches will instantly make your Instagram account the envy of all. Animal lovers will go crazy for Stingray City, where hundreds of stingrays are known to come right up to swim around you. The new Cayman Islands Brewery is not-to-be missed, and of course you have to take home some Caribbean rum.
St. Kitts
A lesser-known Caribbean island, St. Kitts is the perfect getaway for adventure lovers. Ziplines, 4x4s, snorkeling, hiking, and diving can all be done from one of the beautiful luxury resorts or B&Bs. Rent a car and drive along the coastal roads for amazing views and delicious food.
Todos Santos
Located about an hour north of Cabo, this artist colony/surfers paradise is less crowded than the spring break city you fly into to get there. There is fine dining, gorgeous, luxury resorts, and wine tastings, all with those beautiful Pacific coast sunsets as your backdrop.
Belize
5 hours from NYC, 4.5 from LA, and just 2.5 from Texas and boom, you’re in the lush, tropical Central American paradise of Belize. Snorkeling and fishing are hot adventure activities, but they're equally know for having one of the best coral reefs in the world for diving. Delicious food and cool Mayan culture await, if lying on the perfect beach is just too relaxing for you.
Bermuda
Calling all New Englanders: Bermuda is just a 2.5 flight from NYC and 3 hours from Boston, meaning you could be out of bed and in a hammock faster than you could take a train into the city. And don’t worry about the famed Bermuda Triangle, the only thing you’re going to lose is your winter coat and that horrible pasty skin. Don't forget the SPF!
Puerto Rico
A super easy getaway since you can leave that passport at home, Jet Blue always has amazing flight deals to Puerto Rico. Surfers should head to the west side of the island, where swells can reach 12 feet in the winter. Not a wave rider? The east side boasts the super cool national park (El Yunque rainforest with several waterfall hikes) and the cobblestone streets and Spanish fort in Old San Juan.