Pack your bathing suit and grab the kids! Here are easy-to-reach warm winter vacations for the whole family.
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Paradise Island, The Bahamas
Best for: Water park fanatics
We’ve got the skinny on the best-kept secret in the Caribbean: Paradise Island, just adjacent to the waterpark fun of Atlantis. Even better, I’ll tell you how to visit without spending big. You’ll enjoy the sunny skies and white sands of the beautiful island beaches, and be able to explore nearby Nassau just a short drive away. Check out the straw market for inexpensive souvenirs and the Junkanoo Museum to learn about Carnival any time of year. (You can join in the Carnival fun if you’re here in February).
Don’t miss: Try authentic Bahamian cuisine—including addictive conch fritters—at the Fish Fry, a series of seafood shacks and restaurants with a festive mix of locals and visitors.
Where to stay: Shhh, lean in and I’ll tell you the secret to an affordable stay in the Bahamas: Comfort Suites Paradise Island. A stay at this budget-friendly lodging option by Choice Hotels provides complimentary access to Atlantis Resort for the whole family, plus a full, free daily hot American buffet breakfast for everyone too. Not only that, but you can get a suite instead of a regular room for $150 in the middle of January—a fraction of what you’d pay to stay at Atlantis.
Waikiki, Oahu
Best for: Aloha spirit
Fabulous beaches, exceptional snorkeling, gorgeous scenery and plenty of kid-friendly places to eat and play—it’s no wonder Waikiki is so popular with families who want a warm-weather break from the snow and cold. Active families will appreciate the variety of nearby water sports, including surfing and paddle boarding, plus excursions to Diamond Head for hikes along the dormant volcano. Plus being in Waikiki means easy access to shopping and cultural attractions (there’s an actual palace here!) right at your doorstep.
Don’t miss: Pick up a real Hawaiian shaved ice doused in tropical-flavored syrups—POG, a mix of passion fruit, orange and guava, is an island favorite—at Ululani’s.
Where to stay: Aston Waikiki Beach Tower is located directly across from the famous Waikiki Beach and features spacious residential-style suites—complete with kitchens and washers and dryers—where families can stretch out. Kids can dive into the property’s complimentary on-site cultural activities including hula and ukulele lessons and lei-making classes. Need an extra perk? Guests also receive complimentary admission to the Bishop Museum, aka the Hawaii State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, and the Honolulu Museum of Art.
Delray Beach, Florida
Best for: Lazy beach days
This is one of my favorite under-the-radar beaches in South Florida. It’s just an hour north of Fort Lauderdale, and about 20 minutes south of Palm Beach, and it’s a fantastic find. This is where locals head for soft sand and gentle waves, and they definitely want to keep this beach a secret.
But there’s plenty to do beyond the beach: Atlantic Avenue is the main thoroughfare here, lined with family-friendly places to eat, lots of shops and live performers. Nearby is the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, one of my family’s favorite places to explore. There are giant koi to feed, bubble tea to sip and plenty of spots for parents to snap gorgeous pics, too.
Don’t miss: Make a stop at The Girls Strawberry Patch, a strawberry farm that’s a sweet treat for the whole family.
Where to stay: A hidden gem of Delray, the Seagate Hotel offers a unique amenity: a private beach that feels like an exclusive club. There’s also a saltwater pool for little swimmers that don’t like the sand. Plus, check out free weekend kids’ crafts, multiple restaurants and parent-friendly spa and yoga, among the many other amenities on offer.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Best for: Christmas at the beach
For spring-like weather all winter long, head to this beach destination on the Gulf Coast where temperatures hover in the low 70s. It’s the perfect temp to explore Gulf State Park’s sandy shores and nature highlights. Take the family on a guided eco-kayak tour of Lake Shelby, then enroll in Sand Castle University, where “school” involves molding the coast’s sugar-white sands into regal palaces—a sure-fire family pleaser. For family vacations at Christmas time, Gulf Shores really revs up the holiday spirit in December with illuminated boat parades and visits from Santa himself.
Don’t miss: Pick up fresh fruit, baked goods and other treats at the Farmer’s Market held every Saturday at Foley Park.
Where to stay: The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, is located right on the sands of Gulf State Park with direct access to the area’s 6,150 acres of outdoor experiences, including 28 miles of hiking and biking trails. Rates start at just $125 per night for a truly inexpensive family vacation in December.
Coronado, California
Best for: Urban explorers
The sunny shores of San Diego and Southern California are a breath of fresh (read: warm) air during the winter months. I especially love Coronado for its fabulous beach access and small-town feel. Also known as Coronado Island, this laid-back community comes complete with an ice cream parlor, retro diner, indie bookstore and authentic Mexican restaurant all within easy walking distance of the golden beaches of the Pacific Ocean. From here, it’s an easy hop to San Diego’s family-friendly Balboa Park, where you’ll find the fabulous San Diego Zoo, science museum and kid-size train that chugs around the park.
Don’t miss: Homemade ice cream at MooTime Creamery. The MooTacos are great dupes for the now-discontinued Choco Tacos of my youth, but these are filled with cookie dough ice cream—so they win!
Where to stay: The historic Hotel Del Coronado is the best-known resort on the island, but just across the street is one of my favorite budget picks: the Coronado Beach Resort. You’ll get spacious, apartment-style accommodations with kitchens and separate bedrooms, plus perks like bikes and access to daily amenities, including cocktail socials and crafts, all for around $200 a night. That’s less than half of what you’d pay across the street.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Best for: Beach with a side of culture
San Juan, on the fabulous island of Puerto Rico, offers an affordable combination of sun, city and culture. And since Puerto Rico is a U.S. Commonwealth, it’s also one of the easiest islands in the Caribbean to visit: You don’t need a passport, and you won’t have to change money or even worry about your cell phone working. My family and I have visited more than half a dozen times, and it’s hands-down one of the best warm winter vacations for families.
In San Juan, you’ll get a mix of palm trees and lapping waves on some of the most gorgeous beaches in the Caribbean. In addition, there’s easy access to the cobblestone streets and historic attractions of Old San Juan. Be sure to check out the ancient walls of El Morro Fortress, where kids love to climb and explore and peek out of the turrets at the sea below.
Don’t miss: El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, and it’s just a 30-minute drive from San Juan. Bring a bathing suit and you can swim under a waterfall in this lush paradise.
Where to stay: The Hilton DoubleTree San Juan, in the heart of the island’s vibrant Condado district, offers easy access to all of San Juan’s biggest attractions, including popular food-truck venue Lotte 23. Although you’re not right on the beach, there are golf carts to carry you to the hotel’s beach club, plus there’s a pool onsite. And who doesn’t love DoubleTree’s famous cookies at check-in? It all starts at around $200 per night.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Best for: Teens, tweens and golfers of all ages
This sun-drenched, popular family destination in the Phoenix metro area boasts the largest aquarium in the Southwest, a zoo and hotels with pools everywhere you look. The mid-70s temps and warm, high-desert sun are perfect for exploring and midday swimming, and you’re virtually guaranteed it won’t rain. There’s rugged mountain scenery and plenty to keep the whole family busy, including inexpensive outdoor activities like hiking, biking and tennis. Or, get adventurous exploring the desert in a Red Jeep Tour, take a hot air balloon ride or get swinging at one of the area’s 300 golf courses—just to name a few of the many warm-weather diversions on offer.
Don’t miss: See thousands of cacti at the Desert Botanical Garden, including Saguaros as tall as your house. Through the end of December, the garden has stunning light shows on select evenings.
Where to stay: Hotel Valley Ho has a prime location right in the heart of Historic Downtown Scottsdale, a walkable area filled with shops and restaurants that teens and tweens can explore on their own. The hotel has a fun retro vibe, two large pools and a great onsite restaurant, ZuZu, featuring an inventive kids’ menu with everything from mini corn dogs to a salmon bento box. Make sure to try the signature “brookies,” a cookie-brownie hybrid, big enough for the whole fam to share. There are large, apartment-style rooms with kitchens and living rooms available here, too.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Best for: All-inclusive fun
Fulfill all your warm-weather dreams with Punta Cana’s turquoise waters, pillowy sand and miles of uninterrupted coastline. Flanking the beach like a row of starfish are dozens of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, and the good news is they provide competition both in amenities and pricing. The bad news is you’ll need to choose one from a large number of options. Bonus: Punta Cana has one of the biggest airports in the Caribbean, which means you can usually find an affordable flight.
Don’t miss: Feeling adventurous? My son and I tried parasailing on Bavaro Beach and had a great time. Bring U.S. dollars: Prices are about $40 for a 15-minute boat and parasail ride.
Where to stay: If you’re looking for a one-and-done vacation that the kids will love, head to the Lopesan Costa Bavaro. The beachfront property has seven freshwater pools, seven restaurants, kid-friendly entertainment, an on-site water park, an ice cream parlor and even a bowling alley, all for one all-inclusive price.
Turks & Caicos
Best for: Sunbathers and lovers of water sports
The tropical beaches on the island of Providenciales (or Provo, as the locals call it) have it all: 12 miles of white, buttery-soft sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and a laid-back vibe that can make even the most stressed-out parent say “aah.” This breathtaking locale is what most people envision when they think Caribbean vacations, so it’s no surprise Grace Bay Beach has been voted best beach in the world more than once.
Spend the day relaxing on shore and swimming in the calm, clear water. Or, if you’re a family who loves to be on the go, you can snorkel, scuba dive or try out jet skiing, water-skiing and windsurfing. And there are numerous nonstop flights here from the East Coast for affordable prices (I booked round trip airfare from the New York area for around $300).
Don’t miss: When tummies start to rumble, head over to Omar’s Beach Hut for fresh conch, island mac and cheese and beachy cocktails.
Where to stay: I love Wymara Resort & Villas. They provide ample space, so if you’re coming with a large group or another family everyone can spread out. There’s a big pool, and the location is smack in the middle of the white sands of Grace Bay. Don’t miss paddling in clear-bottom kayaks to look for sea life, or learning how to sail on a Hobie Cat—both activities are complimentary!
Wymara recently debuted the first “ocean pool” in the Caribbean. A natural swimming pool carved out of coastal rock and replenished with fresh Atlantic seawater, it’s surrounded by a tiki bar, sun loungers and umbrellas—truly the perfect spot to enjoy the warm weather. (Tip: Join the free Leading Hotels of the World’s loyalty program, and you’ll receive perks during your stay such as complimentary breakfast.)
Panama City, Panama
Best for: Explorers
Offering a rich blend of adventure and fun educational opportunities, plus excellent value for the money, Panama is an excellent destination for families. Panama City in particular is chock-a-block with things kids will adore, starting with the wonders of the Panama Canal, where they can witness massive ships navigating through the locks. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the city’s old quarter, Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO Heritage site, then check out the interactive Biomuseo, billed as the world’s first biodiversity museum. For little ones who love animals, don’t miss Metropolitan National Park or the Rainforest Discovery Center, where families can climb the observation tower and see birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss: For an enriching cultural experience, take a day trip to visit the Emberá, one of the seven indigenous groups that inhabit Panama.
Where to stay: The incredibly favorable exchange rate means you can stay in a five-star resort for the price of a chain hotel in the U.S. One I have on my list: the Westin Playa Bonita Panama, a five-star luxe beach resort with multiple pools right on the Pacific Coast. The hotel is just 20 minutes from the city center and has prices starting around $175 a night.
Mexico City, Mexico
Best for: Foodie families
My family just visited Mexico City, and we can’t stop raving about our stay. Yes, this is a city experience, and not a beach one. But if your family loves food, and wants to stay on a budget, I truly don’t think there’s a better option for a vacation. Think: The best tacos you’ve ever tried for about $1.50 a pop. Concha, aka sweet rolls topped with crackling sugar, can be had warm from the oven for about $2 (my favorite are the chocolate ones at Tomasa). And there are numerous sit-down spots that welcome families, too. My fave: the Cabuya rooftop restaurant in the Andaz Mexico City for upscale seafood with plenty of room for kids to spread out.
Plus, the cultural institutions here are beyond amazing, many costing just a few dollars. The Anthropology Museum in the expansive Chapultepec Park museum is the largest of its kind in the world (twice as big as NYC’s Central Park!), and is filled with highlights such as full-sized Aztec temples.
Don’t miss: Visit the Teotihuacan pyramids, just an hour from the city, for a memorable day trip.
Where to stay: The Hyatt Regency Mexico City was my family’s home base on this trip, and I highly recommend it for a number of reasons, but especially for the large pool facility with indoor and outdoor seating, and the outdoor tennis courts. The location, next to Chapultepec Park and a quick walk to the Anthropology Museum, is pretty awesome, too.
Orlando
Best for: Theme park thrills
I visit Orlando and its theme parks three or four times a year, and I’m here to tell you that winter is when you want to go. As long as it’s not a holiday, the crowds are light, and with temperatures in the delightful 60s-to-70s range there’s none of crushing heat and humidity that can often make a visit to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando feel like you’ve booked a vacation in an oven. Hotels and theme park tickets are cheaper, too. (Be sure to check each park’s online calendar to see when admission is least expensive, since both now use dynamic pricing.)
Winter brings other perks. At Disney, you’ll want to head to Animal Kingdom, where the wildlife becomes more active and easier to spot in the more temperate weather. Or spend some time at Epcot for the International Festival of the Arts, which celebrates with food and art around the park for most of January and February. Over at Universal, check out the new Epic Universe, where you can find everything from Super Nintendo World to Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic.
Don’t miss: Disney Springs is Disney’s no-admission-charge shopping zone with restaurants, shops and entertainment, including a new free nighttime drone show that’s as dazzling as any version you’ll see with a pricey park ticket.
Where to stay: There are lodging options for literally every price range in Orlando, but if you’re traveling with kids you’re going to want a short ride to the parks and a big pool. The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress delivers on both, with a location just a mile from Magic Kingdom and a massive pool complex complete with a water slide, waterfalls and caves. Plus, there are several kid-friendly dining options (including an extensive breakfast buffet) and even colorful macaws that make visits to the lobby. Rates start at just $144 a night.
![Malecón de San Francisco de Campeche [Campeche Esplanade/Seawall], San Francisco de Campeche, Campeche, Mexico](https://www.rd.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GettyImages-1394607294-e1764175936374.jpg?w=700)
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Pacific Coast waves
Puerto Vallarta is the perfect holiday escape, blending golden beaches, vibrant culture, festive spirit and stunning sunsets along Mexico’s Pacific coast. You can’t beat its dazzling shores and sparkling waters for warm weather fun, and the charming old town area can’t be missed. And there’s lots to keep families busy, from snorkeling day trips to strolling the malecón (boardwalk) where you can snack to your heart’s content (hello, paletas ice pops) and pick up affordable souvenirs at handicraft stands.
Don’t miss: If you’re looking for a rainy day activity, it’s hard to beat making your own sweet treats at the ChocoMuseo Puerto Vallarta.
Where to stay: Nestled between the lush Sierra Madre mountains and the serene Pacific Ocean, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta offers an all-inclusive escape on the secluded Las Estacas Beach. Every one of the 335 suites have ocean views, spa-style bathrooms, private balconies and modern amenities like smart TVs. The resort has 10 dining spots and four infinity pools, including a kid-friendly option, as well as the KidZ Club, featuring arts and crafts, games and even seasonal sea turtle programs for kids ages 4 to 12.
Palm Springs, California
Best for: Desert sunshine
When the weather starts to chill near my East Coast home, my family heads west to the desert sunshine of Palm Springs, California, and the surrounding Palm Desert area. We always choose a spot with a pool to dive into, but beyond our lazy pool days, we love to explore the desert. That means easy hikes under the swaying fronds of Indian Canyons (there are trails here for kids of all ages), bouncing along the canyon slots of the San Andreas Fault with a Red Jeep Tour and heading way up into the San Jacinto Mountains on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the longest rotating tram in the world. Plus, there’s the Palm Springs VillageFest, a street fair that’s held every Thursday night, and the Living Desert Zoo where you can feed giraffes, always a family favorite.
Don’t miss: A quick one-hour road trip brings you to Joshua Tree National Park, which looks like a Dr. Seuss book brought to life.
Where to stay: If you think a desert sounds too dry for a winter vacation, you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you check into the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa. The 240-acre retreat has its own waterpark, Splashtopia, with two massive slides, a 425-foot lazy river, a splash pad for the little ones, a cliff-side hot tub for the grown-ups, a sandy beach and water-play zones. Plus, there are three additional pools for swimming and sunning! Kid’s activities range from arts and crafts to family bingo, and there’s a kids’ club during holidays.
Costa Rica
Best for: Animal lovers
Have kids who ooh and aah over every wildlife program and puppy they encounter? Then this one’s for you! Families can explore lush rainforests, stunning beaches, active volcanoes and abundant wildlife in the Central American nation of Costa Rica. National parks, including Manuel Antonio and Tortuguero, offer safe, accessible trails where children can see monkeys, sloths and colorful birds up close—meaning you don’t need to book a pricey and far trip to Africa or Asia to have a truly spectacular wildlife experience. Costa Rica’s beaches are also perfect for families, with calm waters and gentle surf ideal for swimming and water sports (a great way to cool off from temps that can linger in the low 90s).
Don’t miss: Combine a sweet treat with a learning experience at one of the country’s chocolate farm tours.
Where to stay: Situated between the Pacific Ocean and a lush tropical rainforest of Cararara National Park, Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort puts you within reach of five rainforest microclimates bursting with sloths and lush plant life. Plus, you get Herradura Bay’s sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes. Beyond the beach, there are complimentary Spanish lessons for both children and parents, plus there’s nearby hiking, zip-lining and horseback riding. After a long day, parents and their little ones can make their way to Los Sueños Marina Village for a variety of dining and shopping options. Nightly rates starting at $200 a night, so families can go on their Latin getaway without breaking the bank.
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