Best Beach Destinations for Christmas…. Sure, snow is beautiful. But do you really need Jack Frost nipping at your nose to know it’s the holiday season? I don’t think so! This year, consider trading in your Christmas sweaters and fleece-lined slippers for swimsuits, sunglasses, and short-sleeved T’s.
The following destinations practically include blue skies in the room rate, and have given Christmas meals, décor, and activities a balmy, sunshine-filled backdrop. Skip the frostbite without missing out on the season’s festive fun. The best Christmases are those that bring joy and perhaps a little sunshine into your life. Here are some amazing places in the Caribbean where you can find both:
Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos
The entirety of Grace Bay is excellent and breathtaking, with clean turquoise water and soft white sand, and no rocks, seaweed, or pollution. An extensive barrier reef is located about a mile offshore, and protects Grace Bay from the ocean swells of the Atlantic, which helps to keep the water at the beach calm and safe.
Grace Bay Beach is home to nearly all of the large and luxury resorts on Providenciales, and much of the boat and water sports traffic that takes place near Providenciales occurs in the shallow waters between the beach and barrier reef. So mesmerizing is this beach, which is considered a hallmark of the Turks & Caicos, that it is absolutely safe to say there isn’t a better place in these islands to spend a Christmas vacation. Visit our Turks & Caicos Travel Guide here.
Negril, Jamaica
Here, you won’t find the cruise ships and tourist trappings of Montego Bay or the urban bustle of Kingston. Instead, you’ll uncover an unhurried crowd reminiscent of the ‘60s and ‘70s when jetsetters, hippies, and musicians descended on the area. You simply can’t go wrong with Jamaica for a beach vacation. This island is a textbook Caribbean vacation destination that has soared in popularity over the years. There’s always something interesting to do in Jamaica, from lounging on amazing beaches and bathing in Jamaica’s waterfalls, to river rafting and enjoying gourmet cuisine at all-inclusive resorts in Negril. Visit the Best of Negril Jamaica here.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Nestled along Jamaica’s picturesque northern coast, with its stunning natural beauty, and a wealth of attractions, Ocho Rios is a stunning coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and exhilarating activities. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Ocho Rios is a true gem in the heart of Jamaica. From its iconic Dunn’s River Falls to thrilling water sports and luxury resorts, Ocho Rios is a traveler’s dream come true. Some of these will certainly hold adventures that are worth experiencing during your Christmas vacation. Visit the Best of Ocho Rios Here.
Dickenson Bay, Antigua
‘Tis the season to fly out to Antigua for a tropical Christmas getaway. If you’ve got this Caribbean island in mind, a stay around Dickenson Bay can be the best way to have a spirited island experience. Dickenson Bay is a popular beach in Antigua, an island with a whopping 365 beaches. Dickenson Bay is on the Northwestern coast of Antigua, and is the most developed beach on the island, with hotels restaurants and water sports facilities. It is a popular meeting place. The shallow calm waters and white sand provide a perfect setting for an active day. Visit the Best of Antigua & Barbuda here.
Rodney Bay, St. Lucia
Breezy and beautiful with greenery everywhere you look, Saint Lucia appeals to nature lovers and anyone looking to have a quiet Christmas near the sea. A horseshoe-shaped bay fringed with a sweeping stretch of white sands and a man-made lagoon, Rodney Bay sits on the northwest tip of Saint Lucia and is the island’s most vibrant visitor hub. Along with a good choice of hotels along the waterfront, Rodney Bay Village and its surrounds have plenty of shops, bars and restaurants and a vibrant but relaxed atmosphere making this the liveliest destination on the island. Beyond the beach, you can try your hand at kitesurfing, diving and snorkeling, go big game fishing, take a sunset cruise or hike in the nearby hills or rainforest. Spend Christmas in this island paradise. You’ll have a truly varied experience that can revolve around in-house Christmas celebrations at your resort, and festivities in various towns and villages. Visit our St. Lucia Travel Guide here.
St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Barbados is a coral island, pushed out of sea by volcanic activity in a far away time. On the West Coast of Barbados, coral shore beaches of fine white sand stretch along a blue-green sea. Coral reefs fringe the Barbados shoreline to provide excellent snorkeling and Scuba Diving. Along the East Coast a lively surf is blown briskly by the strong and constant trade winds and the waves pound against a rocky shore. The constant breeze of the trade winds give Barbados a mild and pleasant tropical climate. One destination where you’re bound to have a memorable Christmas vacation is St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados. Visit the best Barbados Travel Guide here.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
You will have fun filled, sunny days to remember with a Montego Bay Jamaica vacation. For those of you who pictured yourself lying back on perfectly white, sandy beaches, the sky above blue and sunny, while cooling down with delicious drinks at your leisure – Montego Bay is your ideal destination. In this beautiful part of Jamaica, you’ll be able to enjoy a peaceful Christmas vacation with lots of options for things to do, including free concerts on the beach at venues like Dump Up Beach and Events Park. Visit the Best of Montego Bay here.
The Exumas, The Bahamas
With sapphire-blue water everywhere, The Exumas are an exotic collection of dream destinations. Footprint-free beaches and ultra exclusive resorts and islands fit for celebrities make this tropical paradise an absolute gem. Here, nature outnumbers man, coastlines remain flawless and private homes play host to some of the world’s most famous stars. You can have a Christmas vacation while island-hopping in The Bahamas. This tropical archipelago is made up of several different islands and cays, and in this territory, you can experience an authentic Caribbean Christmas. Visit the best of the Exuma Islands here.
Willemstad, Curacao
With its delightful Dutch colonial architecture, bustling commercial capital and excellent history museums, go-go Curacao feels like a little piece of Europe on the edge of the Caribbean. That is, a little piece of Europe with glorious hidden beaches, amazing onshore snorkeling and diving, and a wild undeveloped windward coast.The Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao is one of those destinations where you’re bound to have a Christmas vacation that will always stay close to your heart. This island stands out for many reasons including its friendly people, great shopping, and amazing beaches like Jan Thiel, which plays host to a Christmas fair on the beach during the holidays. This island fair usually happens during the third week of December and it involves live music, food and drinks, and the perfect seaside ambiance. Experience Curacao and visit our Curacao Travel Guide Here.
Saint Vincent, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines
Saint Vincent & the Grenadines will immerse you in white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, swaying palm trees, all the hallmarks of a tropical getaway in the Caribbean, without the tourist traffic of other Caribbean islands. A string of 32 islands and cays comprises the nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. St Vincent has long been the destination of choice for the elite travelers who moor their private yachts off its secluded shorelines. Visit the best St. Vincent and the Grenadines Guide here.
St. George’s, Grenada
Life in Grenada might seem a little slower than what you’re used to, and for some, this is exactly why it works for a Christmas getaway. This island is famous for its spice production, so much so that it is often referred to as Spice Island. While in Grenada, you’ll have a chance to embark on spice and culinary tours that can start your holiday vacation on just the right note. Some other things you might like to do while on this island include exploring the Underwater Sculpture Park, visiting some of the beautiful beaches like Pink Gin Beach and Grande Anse Beach, and staying at one of the all-inclusive resorts in Grenada. Before you leave the Spice Isle, try the local black cake, punch-a-creme (spiced eggnog), and if time permits, visit the festive Christmas Park. For more information, visit our Grenada Island Travel Guide.
Nassau, The Bahamas
The Bahamas comprises several different islands with New Providence being home to the capital of Nassau. Nassau is a lively destination year-round but even more so at Christmas time. Things come alive in this Caribbean territory during the holiday season and typically this means you can expect lots of activities happening around town. Nassau boasts miles of spectacular beaches and stretches of vivid coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. Shop, dine, and sight see, particularly along busy Bay Street, or if you’re a James Bond fan, visit the British Colonial Hotel, which was used as a filming location for two of the Sean Connery-era movies. Visit the best Nassau Travel Guide here.
Jamaica is one place I’m planning to visit this year. I especially like the info you’ve provided on Montego Bay and other hotel option that is affordable. It’s good to read good review about many vacation deal around the globe upon landing on your site I’ve had a wonderful learning experience. Thank you and looking to read more.
Great Anthony! Please let me know if I can provide you will any additional information or help with the planning.
I bet Philippines in December would be so much fun. The temperatures are very just right. I bet living on a beach would make me absolutely ecstatic. I mean, I am getting all hyped just thinking about it. The hotels you recommended for this destination seem really nice as well.
Surely, I would love to spend some time on the Coast Boracay. I do, however, believe that it might be too expensive for me and my family at this time. My hope is to find that Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast will be in our budget, but if not, I bet we’ll just choose a hotel for the sake of a place to sleep at night.
Either way, I really loved how diverse and abundant in terms of the information the article was! Thank you!
Have a Wonderful Day!
Rasa
You are very welcome Rasa. I am sure you can find one of the hotels to be budget friendly. Also if you go to the hotel link, there will be some suggestions there for you. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
What should I say, its like you have been reading my mind. After a 12 months of hard work with my family, I has been looking for a great place to spend the holiday with my lovely family. Your list of Christmas Vacation Destination is exceptional and you were so comprehensive in your review, you made my day. I fall in love with Boracay, Philippines. The place looks superb and the hotel, The Lind Boracay is amazing, can’t wait for the days. This should be the most memorable Christmas ever
It really will be and Boracay is a wonderful choice, especially to stay at the The Lind Boracay! Please let me know if you need any additional information.
I’m all about being all hot in winter. In that sense, I believe Cartagena is where I want to be. One of my best friends has visited the place during Christmas time. He was in absolute awe as it was so damn worth. An unconventional Christmas he said, but one of his best ones, ever.
I’ve also never really been afraid of the crowds. For me it has always been the philosophy of the more people, the more opportunities to interact. And more opportunities for interactions mean more adventure. Which I’m always after. It makes life that much more enjoyable in my opinion.
Would absolutely love to meet the natives and hang out with them on Christmas!
Cheers and thank you for all the insights, I really appreciate it!
Matiss
You are very welcome Matiss, and I couldn’t agree with you more. Sometimes I like some quiet and relaxation, but I always end up diving in with the crowds. I am a people watcher too, so makes it much more interesting.
Hi Leahrae,
your site is interesting and I love this article! I never imagined spending Christmas on the beach with palms above me. In my country, it is usually -5 or -15 celsius at this time… I have to say that I was sitting in a cafe last year while it was snowing, and it was really cold outside, so I made a wish for a sunny and hot summer day. I like cold day more than ultra hot day, but this was like I think – 24 C.
I have a list of things that I haven’t tried and want to do in the following year… and maybe this is just what I will add. It would be a new experience for me.
Thanks for sharing this with us,best of luck to you,
Susan
Great Susan, I agree that the warm weather, nice beaches, and the sand between your toes is much better than snow! I hope you can make it next year!
Hi,
I just visited your site and article on “Best Christmas Vacation Destination.” It is nicely written. One thing I like about your site is that it is well balanced. Each section has good balance in your photos and information.
I have always wanted to go to Jamaica. I have heard that it is not so safe to go there, what do you think? I spent every summer going to Mexico, growing up. I learned so much about the real culture of the country. How nice the people were and even learned the language, which I practiced there. Now some places are not so safe to go, but it still has its protected spots.
Would love to return to your site when I am ready to go on a trip. Thanks for letting me view your site.
Cynthia Bruni
I am glad you enjoyed and good question. The areas that I listed in Jamaica are all fairly safe, you would just take the same precautions that you would take for any travel to a foreign country. Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay are probably the safest destinations in Jamaica. Thanks for visiting and taking time to leave me comments.
Before I was a parent, we would always go away for Christmas. Typically we would go to Cancun or Punta Cana. It was such a treat getting a little slice of summer weather instead of the cold winter that we were accustomed to.
Then once we had a kid, we knew we had to stay home in order to keep the Santa magic alive. A few times we would kick off the holiday season with a Disney trip right after Thanksgiving, but were always home for Christmas.
Now that my daughter knows that there is no Santa, we are thinking about going away for the holidays, maybe for 2019 we will check out Panama City, Panama. Seems like a great present for the whole family.
Oh yes, everyone will enjoy Panama City. Just seeing the canal alone is a site. Then you add the great food, culture, and wonderful beaches…and you have a perfect vacation. Thanks for visiting James.
Hey there. Thank you for this amazing and informative article. I love your website by the way. Christmas is the time of the year we all know as being cold and snowing. Unlike most of the world, there are places where summer just started.
How amazing is that? Me and my family are thinking traveling to Philippines this Christmas. Never travelled there and got many recommendations. Thank you for showcasing the options and hotels we have for this Christmas.
I wll make sure i check Lind Boracay, hopefully it is not too expensive.
Also, have you traveled to Philippines before?
Strahinja
Yes, always nice to get away from the cold and the snow. For me, I live in the sunshine state, but it has been super cold (under 60) which is a little cold for me. So any of these are of course, enticing 🙂 Lind Boracay is a great choice, and it really depends on when you are going. The hotels I have listed are all highly traveler ranked, so any would be a good choice. I have not been to the Philippines, but it is on my bucket list .Thanks for stopping by beach travel destinations.
Nice and great post, Very timely also. I know a lot of places where one can spend this Christmas period and to be honest you have listed almost everything I have in mind, I think Puerto vallata is such a great place, the environment is friendly and one can meet a lot of amazing people.
I love to vacation to places with a unique culture from mine here in the U.S. All of these locations will give you that, along with the beautiful blue skies and emerald blue waters. And what a great time to vacation, during Christmas 🙂 Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
Hey there! I’ve really enjoyed reading this article as it’s fun, interesting and contains tonnes of valuable information. I’ve actually lived in Coast Boracay when I was in Philippines and one thing I can guarantee is that it’s an amazing hotel. I really enjoyed the room service and the bar though. It was affordable for me and I can’t wait to go back next year.
Thanks a lot for taking your precious time in writing this article!
I thing the Coast Boracay is the best option of all the hotels. And you are right that it is an amazing hotel. Enjoy your return trip!
WOW, wonderful article!
Christmas is a great time to go on vacation and escape the cold. It’s freezing right now where I live:). Colombia has been a dream of mine since I was youth and today, I am going to make it real!
Also, I don’t like too many crowds, so this place will be perfect:)
I’ve been told that there are a lot of crimes and kidnapping in Colombia. Is that true? If so, what are the places you wouldn’t suggest going?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Daniella and thank you for visiting the Best Christmas Vacation Destinations! You will feel safe heading to Cartagena Colombia. You would take the same precautions that you take on any vacation you would take. There is not going to be higher crime here than any other travel destination. I hope this helps.
I would be so into Montego Bay/Ocho Rios/Negril, Jamaica! I’ve always wanted to go to Jamaica. I’m a huge fan of Reggae music, as well as my wife.
I can only image spending a couple of weeks sitting on the beach, listening to music, and just taking a slow pace to life. It sounds amazing.
I would have to agree JB! That is the perfect way to spend a couple of weeks, especially in December. Thanks for visit the best Christmas Vacation Destinations.
Hi Leahrae,
I wish I could convince my wife to trade the white snow for some white sand. I would love to spend Christmas holidays on the beach!
I still remember a trip we took some years back to Puerto Vallarta. We thoroughly enjoyed the Art Market at the Marina Malecon. There was some great food and some unique crafts, sculptures, clothes, etc. Do they still have this going on over Christmas and New Years?
We stayed at the Casa Velas. It was a little pricey but what a beautiful hotel! But, it was worth it – no kids allowed – and all-inclusive!
I don’t know if I could talk my wife into a trip to Boracay – even though I’ve always wanted to see the Philippines.
As far as the other tourist destinations, I have Montego Bay, Jamaica, on my “places to visit for the first time” list – and the Hyatt, with its adults only all-inclusive offer, sounds like the place I would want to stay!
Jim
Wow Jim, I am jealous that you and your wife stayed at Casa Velas…..wonderful hotel! And yes, they still have the market open and the Malecon is always open as well. Yes, Boracay is on my list too. The Philippines have beautiful beaches, and same as Jamaica. All wonderful locations, and especially for Christmas! Thanks for visit the best Christmas Vacation destinations.
I found your post to be very interesting and inspiring, I have always had an interest in traveling and seeing different hot spots, such as you have brought together in this beautifully organized post, the gorgeous images are extremely inspiring, I’m hoping that soon my wife and I can make a stay at one of these luxurious places.
I am so glad you enjoyed visiting beach travel destinations and reading about the best Christmas vacation destinations. I hope you and your wife can enjoy one of these wonderful destinations as well!
i totally agree with you that snow is beautiful, but for me it’s one of those things that I prefer to see form a photo.
So much so that I left England over 20 years ago and now live in The Philippines and Thailand.
No more snow for me. i don’t even own a coat haha
I saw that you featured Boracay which is great to see.
I actually lived there for a year about 5 years ago and it really is paradise.
Even more so since it’s closure earlier this year to tourism.
It has re-opened and is now very controlled. Very little in water sports and no more big parties.
So for those people who are really looking for peace and quiet (and no snow) it’s the place to be.
The amount of tourist being allowed on the island is restricted right now, so book early to avoid disappointment.
But its a great place to go now!
Happy holidays!
Tim
Thanks for all the tips on Boracay Tim! I agree, it is paradise and a great place to go for a peaceful and relaxing beautiful vacation. You do live in paradise. I live in a warm climate too, but I do have coats for when I visit family LOL Thanks for stopping by and visiting my best Christmas Vacation Destinations.
I definitely prefer the warmer weather when choosing holiday destinations and the beach seems to call my name. I was impressed with your selections as I wouldn’t have thought of going to any of these places. The resorts all look beautiful, the quality seems high for a reasonable price.
My only concern is the safety aspect of some of these destinations. I like the look of Cartagena, Colombia. How safe is it for women to travel around on their own during the day and at night?
Hi Suzie, and yes all wonderful great destinations. Colombia is somewhat not save, but Cartagena is probably a lot safer. You would just exercise the same caution you would traveling to any foreign country. Of course, with any travel and being a woman myself :), I don’t generally like to travel at night unless it is right in the thick of the tourism area.
Okay, you got me! These warm inviting vacation spots all sound so much better than any snowy destination ever for Christmas!
I have always wanted to go to Puerto Vallarta! I have heard so many wonderful things about it, but have always lacked the funds. Well next year I am saving for such a trip and Christmas sounds like the perfect time to take it too!
Thank you for the superb idea on how to spend Christmas being warm and swimming versus freezing by the fire.
Stacie
I agree Stacie! Actually Puerto Vallarta is not super expensive, so you won’t have to break the bank next Christmas and you will enjoy the warm weather and beautiful beaches for sure. Thanks for visiting the best Christmas Vacation destinations.
When it comes to vacations i think Christmas is a perfect time to travel. This year i’ve been researching different places to go and i’m glad i found this post.
Personally i think Boracay, Philippines is for me. It’s warm and the hotels look amazing! Can you share some recommendations on good places to eat?
Thank you again!
Yes, I can Barry. And great choice! Ok, Nonie’s is a must, the Prana Restaurant and the Boracay Street Market. All worth a visit! Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Panama is great! As I said, everyone needs to see the ships going thru the canal. It is a must! Also need to visit Bocas del Toro. It is an amazing beach. Also check out San Blas, unique is what I will say. Panama City does have a lot to offer and what a great way to spend Christmas. I might have to consider this!
I agree Eric 100% and yes, Bocas Del Toro is a must beach to visit.
I’ve been to Panama twice and loved it each time. If visitors can pull themselves out of the beautiful hotels you recommended, I’d say to check out the Canal District where you can see ships passing through this world wonder!
I agree Eric! That is a wonder that everyone needs to experience seeing. Yes, the hotels are wonderful, but I do think I would be able to get my self out and about 🙂 Thanks for visiting the best Christmas Vacation Destinations.
Thanks for sharing this website. It’ll be nice going to a nice and warm place for Christmas. It would seem weird to me that it’s 80° or 90° during the Christmas holiday because I’m used to it being cold. Those are some nice destinations though.
They are all wonderful, and not super expensive. I tried to select locations that would be somewhat easy on the budget, warm, and have an exotic feel 🙂 You would enjoy any of these at Christmas!