Top Beach Getaways Timed for Your Perfect Winter Holiday

At first, the fresh, cold and crisp air of winter never seems too bad. However, after some time, once the chilly weather prevents you from getting into your car to make a simple trip to the store, “tis the season” tends to lose its magical charm fairly quickly.

If this sounds all too familiar, a warm getaway sounds like just the thing you need to help you cure those wintertime blues. Below are several signature destinations that are sure to perk up any snow day, just in time for the annual Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping cycles. This post is brought to you by the way courtesy of the good folks over at Poker Stars!

Kauai

For the no-muss, no-fuss type of traveler, many who visit the island of Kauai claim that all you need is a good pair of hiking boots, an adventurous spirit and an umbrella to completely enjoy its aquamarine-lined skies, golden honey-dipped sunsets, and luxurious beaches.

On the other hand, if you prefer resplendent to rural, seeing Kauai’s natural beauty and prized hiking trails on a premium level may cost more than a pretty penny. To have the best experience on the island, consider planning on visiting in the fall. During the winter season, room rates can reach up to $500 USD a night.

The Bahamas

Once you’ve thrown in the towel and have given up having to navigate your way through snow, slush, sleet and freezing weather, the islands of the Bahamas offer the perfect escape from home. You’ll get the least amount of rain between the months of December and April. Coupled with blue skies and warm temperatures, the beautiful islands and luxurious resorts draw tourists and families from around the world. Their first-class hotels give guests a number of gourmet dining options, but there are plenty of other places to visit on the islands that offer a more adventurous experience.

First opened in 1998, Atlantis is known as the most popular vacation spot located on Paradise Island, especially during the wintertime. Home to several pools and breathtaking waterslides, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants in its Marina Village, families everywhere will have something to keep their minds off the icicles waiting for them back home. For the adults, Atlantis is also home to the PCA (PokerStars Caribbean Adventure), one of the largest poker festivals in the world that offers tournaments with huge prize pools (which takes place every January – just in time for your winter holiday). And let’s not forget to mention the Atlantis resort has the Caribbean’s largest casino.

Sandals Emerald Bay is another popular wintertime destination in the Bahamas. Located on Great Exuma Island, Sandals can be the ideal getaway for those who want to feel a little more disconnected. But don’t let the location fool you! Sandals offers a variety of activities to keep guests entertained, including a full 18-hole golf course, sparkling pools, a deep water marina, scuba diving, island excursions, and much more.

Bora Bora

Described as the “the most beautiful island in the world” in Tales of the South Pacific, written by James Michener, the small island of Bora Bora absolutely overflows with beauty, despite being only 2.5 miles wide. And those dormant volcanoes? You’ll soon forget about them as soon as you feast your eyes on the lush jungles and aquamarine lagoon. One look at its luxurious resorts, clear sunny skies, and calming warm waters is all it takes to fall in love with the “pearl of the Pacific,” the very definition of a tropical getaway.

For the explorer, snorkeling and hiking are some of the most popular tourist activities. To get the lowest rates, it’s best to visit in the off-season, but the island does offer lower rates for accommodation if you visit between December and March. However, if that means having to cash in your retirement, consider taking a cruise that stops at Bora Bora to get at least a small taste of the island!

Costa Rica

When Costa Rica first comes to mind, many find that its charm lies in its abundance of undisturbed wildlife, beautiful lush rainforest, and unspoiled beaches. With landscapes bound to take anyone’s breath away and a myriad of creatures everywhere you turn, it’s clear to see why this country is one of the top vacation spots during the holiday seasons.

For the extreme adventurer, hiking Costa Rica’s active volcanoes is always an option. For another kind of rush, you can take a zip-line straight through the cloud-covered rainforests. Nature lovers can explore lush jungles and the beach bunnies can spend their day in the warm sun next to the turquoise waters.

Chase the Winter Blues Away

When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. But what do you do when life gives you the blues? Give yourself the vacation you’ve been waiting for. Dig out that swimsuit and bust out those shades. You’re going to the beach!