As the days grow shorter and the air colder, winter has arrived!
While the colder months bring opportunities for skiing, sledding, snowman building, and holiday celebrations, they might be challenging for those not fond of frigid weather.
Luckily, there are numerous warm-weather destinations that provide a welcome escape from the chilly temperatures. From Hawaii, the British Virgin Islands, and the coast of California, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel this winter to escape the cold, offering a range of experiences, from cultural exploration to beach relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
Virgin Gorda, part of the British Virgin Islands, enjoys tropical temperatures tempered by trade winds, making December to April particularly pleasant at around 75-77 °F.
Where to Stay: Explore the eco-tourism haven of Oil Nut Bay, a remote resort across 400 acres, with half preserved as green space. Developed by David V. Johnson with a commitment to sustainability, the resort offers immersive nature activities, eco-friendly rentals with private pools, and stunning views. Amenities include a beach club with dining and three-tiered pool, wellness center, watersports equipment, animal rescue barn, Nova overwater restaurant, full-service marina, Kids Club, diverse dining options, and scenic hiking trails. New wellness journeys include everything from a full moon ceremony to reiki/energy healing, while eco-adventures entail a turtle tagging adventure and a children’s ranger program around the island. Additionally, next year Oil Nut Bay will debut a stunning new overwater spa and sanctuary named Sundara, inspired by the Sanskirt word for beauty (estimated to open in Q3 2024). Offering resort guests and owners the opportunity to unwind among the elements of water, wind and sun, the spa will be a place for tuning into the inspiring, grounding and healing power of the sea, and nurturing the mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.
Oahu, Hawaii
During Oahu’s legendary “Big Wave Winter,” swells can reach up to 50 feet, drawing thrill-seekers and surfing icons to the island’s epic shores. Amid the waves, Oahu’s temperatures stay mild all winter – with highs in the 70s and lows in the 60s.
Where to Stay: The Twin Fin Hotel has partnered with Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience to launch the Jamie O’Brien School of Surf Waikiki, offering private and group surf lessons for all levels starting in January 2024. The new Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador offers various room types, creative design, unique programming, and easy access to outdoor activities, including surfing Waikiki’s legendary waves. Guests enjoy Romer Waikiki’s Swim & Social Club with weekly programming such as fitness pop-ups, poolside readings with an in-house astrologer, and live music with local musicians. Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa, with a grand opening slated for March 2024, is the Renaissance brand’s first location in Hawaii and the first new hotel in Honolulu in 25 years. Situated near the city center, the 39-story oasis features luxurious rooms, Oahu’s first traditional Japanese ofuro soaking tubs, along with a private club lounge set against ocean views, and easy access to Oahu’s renowned beaches. ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach boasts one of the world’s best pool decks, featuring a saltwater infinity pool, cabanas, fire pits, and sustainable dining at SWELL Pool Restaurant Bar as well as holistic health & wellness offerings at Fit Waikiki, Spa U’ilani Drip Hawaii.
Montecito, California
Montecito’s Mediterranean climate means moderate weather – it’s not uncommon to have sunbathing, beachgoing weather in January and February.
Where to Stay: Named by Franciscan monks who first occupied the land in the late 1700s, San Ysidro Ranch pays homage to San Isidore, the patron saint of agriculture. Following its history as a working citrus ranch, the property has welcomed countless guests since it first opened in 1893, slowly building its legacy into the California icon that it is today. As the longest-standing luxury resort in the community, the Ranch has served as an icon of the region for over a century and prides itself on five-star service, ultimate privacy, and A-list discretion. Award-winning restaurants, including the Stonehouse (housed in the original 1889 citrus packing house), offer exceptional service, mouthwatering cuisine, and a rustic romantic setting. San Ysidro Ranch recently opened The Speakeasy at Plow & Angel, a seductive craft cocktail lounge pouring one-of-a-kind spirits inspired by the clandestine bars of the prohibition era.
