Shake Off Those Winter Blues: The Best Snow-Free Winter Beach Vacations

Tired of ice and snow? Grab your suntan lotion and hit the beach! Read on for the best winter beach vacations.

Most of us get excited at the first snowfall of the season. But, before long, we’ve all had enough of the dry skin, chapped lips and brittle hair. Not to mention the freezing temperatures, slush and serious lack of sunshine.

Which is why it makes great sense to head off to warmer climes during the winter. Not only will you appreciate the sunny weather more, but you’ll also get a much-needed boost of vitamin D.

Here are some great winter beach vacations for you to enjoy a snow-free break.

Musandam, Oman

This under-the-radar Middle Eastern destination makes for one of the best winter beach vacations. Its impressive landscapes include mountains, sweeping deserts, and beautiful beaches. In fact, the Oman coastline is nearly 1,300 miles long.

For the best winter beaches in Oman, head to the Musandam peninsula. Here you’ll find Zighy Bay, with balmy temperatures in the 80s, white sand and turquoise waters for the perfect relaxing winter break.

Koloa, Hawaii

There’s never a bad time to visit Hawaii, but it makes even more sense when the forecast back home is freezing temperatures with a side of slush.

Koloa is a stunning spot on the island of Kaua’i. And, with 80-degree temperatures all year round, incredible hiking trails and gorgeous beaches such as Lawa’i Beach and Poipu Beach, it’s perfect for a winter beach vacation.

Eagle Beach, Aruba

Shake off the winter blues and head to Aruba, which claims to be the Caribbean island with the highest number of sunny days per year.

While the island boasts 20 stunning beaches, Eagle Beach is considered one of the best in the world. And, the powdery white sand and 82-degree days make this a winter beach you won’t want to leave.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Not only does Rio have stunning rainforests and mountain scenery, but it’s also home to some of the best beaches to visit in December and early January. The weather’s hot at this time of the year, and it’s before the madness of Carnival takes hold.

Join the toned and tanned locals on Ipanema or Copacabana in mix-and-match bikini separates for a different look every day. Accessorize with a fresh coconut or a caipirinha, and enjoy the scene that makes Rio one of the best beach destinations in the world.

Koh Lanta, Thailand

January is the ideal time to visit Thailand. Temperatures are around the mid-80s and it’s the dry season, so torrential rains won’t stop you enjoying the beach in winter.

Unlike most Thai islands, Koh Lanta has somehow remained fairly under-the-radar. But, it still has everything you could want from one of the best winter beach vacations, including family-friendly hotels, stunning beaches, and amazing diving sites.

Marco Island, Florida

For warm beaches in December that are a little closer to home, head to Marco Island. As the only developed island of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, this is a truly unique spot for a winter beach vacation.

Swap snowy landscapes for the white shores of Tigertail Beach, and bring your pets out to play at Canine Cove. Alternatively, you might prefer to explore the island’s beautiful bike paths or take a cruise to nearby Keewaydin Island.

The Best Winter Beach Vacations

Just because it’s cold and dreary at home, doesn’t mean you have to wait until summer to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.

And, whether you’re looking to jet off across the world or prefer to stay in the US, there are lots of great winter beach vacations to choose from.

That said, if a heading off on the road with your BFF is more your idea of fun, check out this guide to the ultimate girly road trip.