Christmas isn’t just a date...it’s a feeling. A hush in the air, a glow in the windows, and a sense that something special is happening. Whether you’re bundled up in the mountains, walking barefoot on a holiday beach, or wandering through twinkling market stalls abroad, these December getaways offer a fresh way to experience the season. They’re less about tradition, more about intention—and each one leaves you with something to carry into the new year.
Each destination reminded me that the spirit of the holidays doesn’t come from routine—it comes from presence. I remember thinking, “The most memorable Christmases are the ones we create together, wherever we are.”
Best Christmas Vacation Ideas
Unwrapping the holidays under the California sun
California at Christmas felt like rewriting the rules—in the best way. There were twinkle lights wrapped around palm trees, surfers in Santa hats, and sunsets that looked like watercolor on water. From wine country fireplaces to beach bonfires, the season took on a golden glow. I remember thinking, “The holidays don’t have to be cold to feel warm.”
What I Loved Most: Sipping mulled wine in Carmel after a coastal hike, with sea mist in the air and bells ringing from a nearby chapel.
Trip Highlight: Ice skating by the sea in Coronado, palm trees overhead, a chill in the breeze, and the scent of gingerbread drifting from the Hotel del Coronado.
Letting the season glow brighter in the Florida sun
Christmas in Florida felt playful and lighthearted. We wore sandals to see the lights, walked the beach after holiday dinners, and watched the sun set instead of snow fall. There was a festive charm in every coastal town—wreaths on pastel houses, parades on the water, and palms lit up like candy canes. I remember thinking, “This is joy—unwrapped and unexpected.”
What I Loved Most: Watching fireworks reflect over the Gulf in Naples on Christmas Eve, the crowd quiet, the night warm.
Trip Highlight: Exploring the NightGarden at Fairchild in Miami—thousands of lights strung through tropical gardens, with live music, interactive art, and hot cocoa by the orchids.
Chasing wonder through cobblestone and snow
Wandering through a Christmas market in Europe or sipping spiced cider in a mountain village halfway around the world, the holidays felt both familiar and entirely new. Every destination held its own rituals—wooden toys in Vienna, floating lanterns in Thailand, midnight mass in tiny churches. I remember thinking, “Magic multiplies when you leave home to find it.”
What I Loved Most: Standing in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral while a choir echoed through the square, holding a mug of vin chaud and feeling time soften.
Trip Highlight: Watching snow fall on the rooftops of Salzburg from a candlelit inn, the scent of cinnamon and wood smoke lingering in the air.
Finding stillness between the snowflakes
The mountains pulled us in with their hush and height. There was something about carving fresh lines down a powdery slope, then wrapping frozen fingers around a warm mug by the fire. From Colorado to British Columbia, ski vacations in December reminded me how much beauty exists in the balance of motion and rest. I remember thinking, “This is what it means to be fully present—cold air, warm heart.”
What I Loved Most: Watching snow fall from the window of a mountainside lodge, knowing the only plan for the day was joy.
Trip Highlight: Sleigh ride in Banff under a sky full of stars, bundled in wool blankets, laughter curling up with the steam of our breath.
More December Travel Inspiration
Looking for even more places to go this holiday season? Here are a few guides to help you plan your perfect December escape:
- Places to Visit in December
A curated list of destinations near and far where December feels magical—snowy, sunny, or somewhere in between. - Places to Visit in Southern California
From festive towns to warm coastal hideaways, find where California shines brightest for the holidays. - Places to Go in Florida
Discover top spots for winter warmth, seasonal events, and ocean breezes all December long.