Dreaming of a magical holiday escape? These festive Christmas vacation ideas blend snowy wonderlands, cozy towns, and sparkling city lights perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories.
Highlights:
Unique Escapes
1. For Families: Christmas in California
I like:
"Celebrate the season and enjoy easy coastal charm on a warm winter trip."
West Coast travelers can plan a relaxing family Christmas in California where charming coastal towns offer a number of holiday events.
Highlights:
- Enjoy holiday events and festive charm in Newport Beach
- Stroll through wineries and boutique shops in Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Explore unique museums and coastal attractions in Monterey
- San Diego is great for kids with the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, and more
More info: visitcalifornia.com
2. For Those seeking a mild climate: Christmas Getaways in Florida
I recommend:
"Escape the cold and savor festive, family fun in sunny, affordable spots."
Florida is a great destination to visit for Christmas and New Year’s because of warm sunny weather.
Highlights:
- Enjoy warm, sunny weather during Christmas and New Year’s
- Explore romantic beaches and vibrant coastal cities
- Visit tropical spots like Key West and Miami
- Choose from weekend getaways to full holiday vacations
- Stay at Florida island resorts for privacy and pristine beach views
For Nature Fans
3. For Adventurous travelers: International Christmas Vacation
I love:
"Explore new cultures and admire global holiday sights on an exciting seasonal trip."
Christmas is a great time to plan a trip to a unique destination that your family has always dreamt to visit.
Highlights:
- Choose from exotic islands, resort towns, and iconic cities
- Top warm-weather escapes include the Caribbean, Maldives, Bali, and Mauritius
- New Zealand offers a mix of adventure, beaches, and scenic beauty
- Perfect for families looking to escape the cold and try something new
4. For Outdoor enthusiasts: Ski Vacation in North America
I enjoy:
"Hit the slopes and enjoy thrilling winter fun with family or couples."
Whether you would like to visit one of the best family ski resorts in North America or head to a slope near you, a snowy Christmas is a lot of fun, especially for kids.
Highlights:
- Enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and ice skating
- Warm up with a cozy hot chocolate after a day on the slopes
- Take a magical sleigh ride through a winter wonderland
- Unwind at ski hotels offering spas, saunas, pools, and relaxing massages
5. For those seeking a relaxing desert getaway: Omni Tucson National
I like:
"Golf under desert skies and relax during a romantic, easy winter retreat."
Check into the 650-acre Omni Tucson National Golf Resort & Spa in Arizona which offers luxury rooms & suites, 36 holes of golf and a spa.
Highlights:
- Offers 167 elegant rooms, suites, casitas, and haciendas
- Casita Suites feature fireplaces, living areas, and kitchenettes
- Enjoy 36 holes of championship golf and a full-service spa
- Dining options include the Catalina Grille, Legends Bar & Grill, and poolside Cabana Bar
- Convenient access—18 miles from Tucson Airport and 1.5 hours from Phoenix
Coastal Escapes
6. For Luxury travelers: The Lodge at Sea Island
I Recommend:
"Savor coastal luxury and explore scenic sights on a romantic weekend escape."
The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club is a relaxing beach getaway in southeastern Georgia.
Highlights:
- Luxurious beachfront retreat with 40 private guest rooms and suites
- Access to five miles of private beach and scenic Nature Tours
- Home to a 65,000-square-foot spa & fitness center
- Activities include boating, fishing, tennis, golf, and Camp Cloister for kids
- Features three championship golf courses and a world-class Learning Center
- AAA Five-Diamond resort with 24-hour butler service and elegant amenities
More info: The Lodge at Sea Island
7. For those seeking a beach vacation: Casa Del Mar in Santa Monica
I like:
"Walk along the beach and enjoy a romantic winter trip with ocean views."
Casa del Mar is a luxury hotel in Santa Monica, a renowned Southern California seaside community.
Highlights:
- Glamorous 1920s-inspired decor with Italian marble baths and velvet draperies
- Palm Terrace offers ocean views, a plunge pool, and sunbathing spots
- On-site spa and health club with massage cabanas overlooking the Pacific
- Dining options include Oceanfront restaurant, a lobby lounge with live music, and casual terrace dining
- Perfect for a romantic Christmas or couples’ spa getaway near Los Angeles
More info: Casa del Mar
Family-Friendly Hotels
8. For those who enjoy large resorts: Gaylord Palms in Orlando
I enjoy:
"See dazzling holiday displays and enjoy kid-friendly attractions on a magical Christmas trip."
Gaylord Palms Hotel is a fun getaway, offering a choice of accommodations, dining and activities.
Highlights:
- Features 4.5 acres of indoor gardens, waterways, and themed areas
- Dedicated kids’ pool with slides, waterfalls, and sand play zones
- Coquina Dunes Recreation Park offers mini-golf, volleyball, and more
- Enjoy 5 on-site restaurants and lounges with nightly live entertainment
- Seasonal magic includes a 54-ft Christmas tree, 2 million lights, and ICE! exhibits
- Relax at the full-service spa with steam rooms, massages, facials, and wraps
- Over 1,400 rooms and suites, including spacious options for families and groups
More info: Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
9. For Foodies: Manoir Hovey in Quebec, Canada
I like:
"Admire snowy lake views and savor a cozy, romantic winter escape."
Celebrate Christmas surrounded by snow and ice at the picturesque Manoir Hovey in Quebec.
Highlights:
- Celebrate with the "Christmas Celebration" package featuring sleigh rides, festive dinners & s’mores
- On-site Le Hatley Restaurant serves gourmet holiday meals and brunch
- Enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skating, and spa treatments
- Accommodations include 37 elegant rooms and suites with lake views and luxury amenities
- Heron Suite is ideal for families—2 bedrooms, kitchen, fireplaces, and a hot tub
More info: Manoir Hovey
10. For Romantics: Terranea Resort in Southern California
I like:
"Explore coastal trails and relax with couples’ spa time on a warm getaway."
A quick weekend vacation from Los Angeles, Terranea Resort in Southern California is a spectacular getaway for the senses.
Highlights:
- 50,000-square-foot spa featuring ocean views and signature treatments
- Unique experiences like falconry, horseback riding, hiking, and biking
- Perfect for romantic escapes or family weekend getaways
More info: Terranea Resort
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
What types of Christmas vacations are available?
- Whether you're planning a holiday trip to a nearby resort or a tropical beach, there are many great Christmas vacation options to choose from.
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What makes these Christmas vacation destinations special?
- The destinations on our list offer travelers something unique, including spectacular views, luxurious spas, and activities for kids.
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