Who says the holidays have to come with snow, freezing temperatures and hours spent preparing a big family meal? For families looking to change up their traditions, a warm-weather getaway offers a chance to celebrate Christmas a little differently.
I have a large family spread across the country, which has given us the opportunity to celebrate Christmas in all kinds of weather. We've experienced snowy holidays, chilly mornings and Christmases warm enough to spend the day at the beach. While I enjoy the traditions that come with a white Christmas, I've found that my favorite holiday memories involve sunshine, warm weather and simply being together.
Imagine trading winter coats for swimsuits, spending Christmas morning on the beach or exploring a tropical rainforest instead of staying home. Whether you're planning a quick long weekend or taking extra vacation days for a longer escape, these five warm-weather destinations offer something for families of all ages this holiday season.
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Warm-weather getaways for a long weekend
1. Key West, Florida: A laid-back holiday by the water
I've spent several Christmases in Key West, and there's something special about the ocean breezes and laid-back atmosphere of the Florida Keys.
Key West has plenty of character, especially during the holidays. Stroll through Old Town to see festive decorations or head to Mallory Square for its free nightly sunset celebration, complete with street performers and food vendors. Jimmy Buffett's influence can still be felt around the island, especially at local favorites like Hog's Breath Saloon.
For a little holiday magic, explore the Harbor Walk of Lights at the Historic Seaport, featuring a lobster trap Christmas tree and lit fishing buoys. Families can also take a holiday lights tour aboard the Old Town Trolley or Conch Tour Train.
For my family, though, the biggest attraction has always been the water. Spend the day snorkeling, kayaking through mangroves or simply relaxing by the ocean. Sunset cruises and seasonal holiday boat parades offer even more ways to enjoy the island.
For accommodations, Hampton Inn Key West is near Key West International Airport and Smathers Beach. Families looking for a resort experience might prefer Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton, which features a 1,100-foot private beach.
Money-saving tip: Compare the cost of flying directly into Key West with flying into Miami and renting a car for the scenic drive down the Overseas Highway. Along the way, you'll cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge, featured in movies such as True Lies.
2. Orlando, Florida: Holiday magic with theme parks and family attractions
No one does entertainment quite like Orlando, Florida. From world-famous theme parks to over the top holiday displays, it's a great destination for a long weekend, with something for nearly every age and budget.
During the holidays, Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando transform into winter wonderlands, complete with holiday decorations, seasonal entertainment and special events. But you don't have to spend every day at a theme park to enjoy Orlando.
Families can explore Disney Springs, where holiday decorations, entertainment and window shopping don't require park admission. Beyond the theme parks, Orlando offers everything from outdoor adventures and airboat rides to miniature golf and elaborate resort pools.
For accommodations, Hilton Orlando offers a resort-style experience with pools and family-friendly amenities near the major attractions. Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – Disney Springs Area is another option, especially for families who want to be within walking distance of Disney Springs.
Money-saving tip: Theme park tickets, parking and dining can quickly add up, especially for larger families. Instead of buying admission for every day, plan a mix of theme park visits and free or lower-cost activities.
A day spent exploring Disney Springs or enjoying your hotel's pool can give everyone a break while keeping vacation costs manageable.
Warm-weather destinations worth a longer vacation
3. Oahu, Hawaii: A tropical Christmas with something for everyone
If you're dreaming of spending Christmas in paradise, Oahu offers beautiful beaches, warm tropical breezes and plenty of activities for the whole family. It's a longer journey, especially for travelers coming from the East Coast, but the island offers enough to fill an entire week or more.
Spend Christmas morning relaxing on Waikiki Beach, go snorkeling or hike Diamond Head for spectacular views of Honolulu. Families can also visit Pearl Harbor, explore the North Shore or take a scenic drive along the coast. During the holidays, Honolulu City Lights brings festive decorations and a towering Christmas tree to downtown Honolulu, proving that Christmas magic doesn't require snow.
For accommodations, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort offers a beachfront location, multiple pools and a variety of dining options. Families looking for a more traditional hotel experience can consider Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach, just a short walk from the beach, restaurants and shopping.
Money-saving tip: Hawaii can be expensive, especially during the holidays, but some of Oahu's best experiences are free. Spend time at public beaches, explore scenic coastal areas and compare hotel resort fees and parking charges before booking. If you're staying in Waikiki, consider renting a car only for the days you plan to explore beyond Honolulu rather than paying for one throughout your stay.
4. Costa Rica: A holiday adventure filled with wildlife and natural wonders
If your family prefers adventure over traditional holiday celebrations, Costa Rica offers a Christmas getaway unlike any other. With lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, volcanoes and incredible wildlife, it's a destination where exploring the outdoors can become a new family tradition.
December marks the beginning of the dry season in much of Costa Rica, making it a popular time to visit. Families staying near San José can explore Poás Volcano National Park, visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens or take a guided nature walk and search for tropical birds and other wildlife. Coffee plantation tours and exploring the markets and museums of San José offer a nice change of pace.
Costa Rica is worth a longer vacation, especially if you want to venture beyond the Central Valley to explore its beaches and more remote rainforests. Travel between regions can take several hours, so allow plenty of time for sightseeing.
For accommodations, Homewood Suites by Hilton Cariari San Jose offers spacious suites with in-room kitchens, complimentary hot breakfast and an outdoor pool. Located near San José's international airport, it's a convenient base for exploring the Central Valley.
Money-saving tip: Compare the cost of guided excursions with visiting attractions independently, especially if you're traveling with a large family. Choosing accommodations with complimentary breakfast and kitchen facilities can also help keep dining expenses manageable. Be sure to factor in rental cars, transportation and park admission fees when planning your adventures.
5. San Juan, Puerto Rico: Sunshine, beaches and festive cultural traditions
Puerto Rico takes Christmas celebrations seriously, with colorful decorations, lively music and holiday traditions that continue well into January. For families looking to combine sunshine with a festive atmosphere, San Juan offers the best of both worlds.
Spend the morning exploring the colorful streets of Old San Juan, visit the historic El Morro fortress or relax on one of the area's beautiful beaches. During the holidays, towns across Puerto Rico host Encendidos Navideños, public Christmas tree lightings featuring music, food and lively celebrations. Families visiting in early January can also experience Three Kings Day on January 6, one of the island's most cherished holiday traditions.
Another perk for U.S. travelers is that American citizens flying directly from the mainland don't need a passport to visit Puerto Rico, making it an easier tropical getaway for families.
For accommodations, Caribe Hilton offers a beachfront setting near Old San Juan, with swimming pools, tropical gardens and family-friendly amenities.
Money-saving tip: Some of San Juan's best experiences cost little or nothing, from strolling the colorful streets of Old San Juan to enjoying public beaches and holiday celebrations. Compare the cost of rental cars with taxis or rideshares, especially if you're staying near the city's main attractions. Traveling outside the busiest Christmas and New Year's dates may also help reduce airfare and hotel costs.
How to save on a family holiday vacation
A warm-weather holiday getaway comes with a price tag, but the memories you make together can be priceless. With a little planning, you can make the most of your vacation budget while enjoying experiences your family will remember for years to come. Here are a few ways to keep costs manageable:
- Look beyond airfare and hotel rates. Factor in transportation, meals, attraction tickets, resort fees and taxes to get a clearer picture of what your vacation will actually cost.
- Choose accommodations that fit your family. Connecting rooms, suites and kitchen facilities can make traveling with children or extended family more comfortable and may help reduce dining expenses.
- Be flexible with travel dates. Flying around Christmas and New Year's can be expensive. Compare different departure and return dates to see whether shifting your trip by a few days could save money.
- Take advantage of hotel amenities. Pools, recreational activities and on-site entertainment can give families something to do without leaving the property. Just check what's included in your rate.
- Check hotel rewards and promotions. Hilton Honors members can compare cash rates with points bookings and look for seasonal offers. Hilton also waives resort fees on eligible stays booked entirely with points.
Whether you're celebrating Christmas on a beach or enjoying holiday lights in shorts, the best memories often have little to do with the weather or how much you spend. For my family, the greatest gift has always been the opportunity to spend time together, wherever we happen to celebrate.
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