6 Beach Getaways for the Holidays

Family travelers looking to create lifelong holiday memories in the sand instead of the snow should check out these six destinations with kid-friendly fun, holiday cheer, beachfront stays and coastal vibes.

Destin-Fort Walton Beach

This holiday season, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, offers warm weather, sunny beaches and festive coastal charm. Spend the day dolphin watching, building sand castles and taking scenic strolls. The city also hosts festive events like Destin Boat Parade & Fireworks, Jolly Jubilee at Destin Commons, Breakfast with Santa at HarborWalk Village, local holiday markets and more. For a festive stay, book a night (or more) at Henderson Beach Resort & Spa. The resort offers family-friendly stays with Gulf views and private beach access. During the season, the property offers events like the Holiday Kick-Off Celebration with Santa, holiday crafts and a festive Christmas Day Brunch.

Malé, Maldives

Check out Malé Local Market for festive treats and handmade crafts, go to the National Museum to spark imagination, and take long walks along the Malé Waterfront featuring twinkling lights and nice breezes. At night, watch boats come alive with twinkling lights at the harbor. On New Year’s Eve, watch colorful fireworks at Hulhumale Central Park. Book your stay at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi in its three-bedroom overwater villa with a pool. This villa fits up to six adults and three kids, and features two infinity pools, a personal concierge, custom robes for everyone, and a glass-floored room.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach turns into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Families of all ages enjoy the Holiday Lights at the Beach display featuring millions of holiday lights lighting up the boardwalk and Neptune Park. A highlight includes enjoying the coastal breeze while sipping hot chocolate and watching the New Year’s Eve fireworks. Make Embassy Suites by Hilton Virginia your homebase while exploring the destination. The hotel features indoor and outdoor pools, a splash pad for kids, and complimentary evening events.

Grand Cayman Islands

With sunny and warm days and light sea breezes, Grand Cayman is the ideal destination for a winter holiday escape. The destination offers beaches, snorkeling adventures, hiking, water sports and much more. Grand Cayman rings in the holiday season with sparkling lights, community events and the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies. Stay at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa and enjoy Christmas dinner on Seven Mile beach, beachside movie nights, holiday mason jar making, a candy cane scavenger hunt, photos with Santa and story time with a visiting mermaid.

Laguna Beach, California

Laguna Beach comes alive during the holidays with events like the Sawdust Art Festival’s Winter Fantasy featuring live music, artisan markets and holiday décor; and Hospitality Night, a beloved community block party filled with holiday spirit and family fun. Stay at Montage Laguna Beach, the brand’s flagship property. Families will love the resort’s 350-pound gingerbread house created by the resort’s pastry team and 50-foot Pacific Lawn Christmas tree sporting 6,000 lights.

The Bahamas

Families will not be disappointed by Bahamian holiday traditions thanks to the colors, music and island cheer showcasing the rich heritage of the African diaspora. The Junkanoo, also known as “The Greatest Show on Earth,” is a can’t miss. It features beautiful costumes; energetic dances; and live music featuring cowbells, horns and goatskin drums. Families are even invited to participate in the fun by wearing costumes, learning the drums or joining the dance group. Months of planning goes into this event to make it a one-of-a-kind, festive experience for the holidays. Top it all off with a stay at Atlantis Paradise Island featuring pools, waterparks and marine life.