To inspire you to escape the cold this season, discover 35 gorgeous warm-weather destinations that offer everything from spectacular accommodations to enjoyable outdoor activities. From the pristine shores of Aruba and the vibrant coasts of Mexico to sophisticated retreats in America, Australia, and beyond, this curated list of award-winning 5-star hotels and resorts redefines the idea of opulence, by offering incredible accommodations, invigorating activities, fine dining, rejuvenating spa treatments, and more.
Whether you’re looking to stay at a haven that’s nestled along a rugged coastline or you’re dreaming of an escape tucked away in a serene desert landscape, each destination offers the perfect blend of indulgence and balmy weather, designed to encourage you to swap your snow boots for swimsuits right now.
Calabash Cove Resort and Spa – St. Lucia
Discover the allure of Calabash Cove Resort and Spa, a celebrated adults-only, all-inclusive boutique haven in Saint Lucia where Caribbean charm meets modern luxury. Tucked away in a lush paradise, the resort features just 26 uniquely designed suites—only three of which share the same layout—ensuring an intimate and personalized escape. Guests are treated to a host of amenities, from the sophisticated ambiance of Windsong Restaurant and the lively C-Bar overlooking an exquisite infinity pool to the serene sanctuary of the Ti Spa. The culinary team at Windsong caters to every palate with a menu that accommodates vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free, and other dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The all-inclusive package covers every meal and beverage—from room service and daily specials, including a seasonal lobster dish, to premium drinks, a fully stocked in-room bar, and an impressive selection of over 20 wines available throughout the day (aside from the exclusive “Reserve du Patron” section). For those looking to stay active, a compact Cybex fitness center awaits, while complimentary kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkeling gear invite guests to explore the sparkling Caribbean waters.
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort – Scottsdale, Arizona
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician offer an exquisite blend of Southwestern elegance and modern luxury, set against the dramatic backdrop of Scottsdale’s rugged desert landscape. These spacious suites feature sophisticated décor, expansive living areas, and private terraces that reveal breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons and manicured gardens. Guests enjoy direct access to the resort’s world-class amenities—from award-winning dining and an exceptional 18-hole golf course to an indulgent luxury spa, stunning pool, and immersive recreational experiences—making every stay an unforgettable escape into the heart of Arizona’s natural beauty. The dreamy property has received the AAA Five Diamond ranking as well as a Forbes Four Star ranking for the spa.
Rosewood Baha Mar – Nassau, Bahamas
Resting on Nassau’s Cable Beach within the Baha Mar Resort enclave, Rosewood Baha Mar is an exclusive sanctuary of ultra-luxury. The property’s private beach and resort pools are surrounded by lush gardens in a tranquil atmosphere with private cabanas and dedicated attendants. Accommodations include garden and ocean-view rooms and suites, multi-room suites, and oceanside villas. Guests have access to the Royal Blue Golf Course, ranked #1 on Golfweek’s Best of 2024 list. Wellness experiences include indulgent therapies at Sense Spa and flamingo yoga. The dining experience at Café Boulud received Wine Spectator’s 2024 Best of Award of Excellence and the property received Modern Luxury’s “Best of the Bahamas” 2024 Travel Award and U.S. News & World Report’s Gold Badge for Best Hotel Rankings.
AVA Resort Cancun – Cancún, Mexico
AVA Resort Cancun marks the debut of a new luxury all-inclusive resort brand owned by RCD Hotels, the trailblazing hospitality brand with an extensive portfolio of world-class, luxury properties in the world’s most desirable destinations. Inspired by the pristine white sand and translucent blues of the Mexican Caribbean, AVA Resort Cancun elevates the all-inclusive category with 1,743 ocean-facing rooms, countless culinary experiences, enriching events and programming, luxurious amenities, and a sustainable 2.8-acre AVA Lagoon powered by Crystal Lagoons® technology. Set above and apart from its all-inclusive peers, AVA Resort Cancun was designed by world-renowned Boris Pena Architects and Gensler Architects, with the vision to create a serene, carefree, and sophisticated setting defined by laid-back luxury and a chic coastal aesthetic—an homage to the stunning natural beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.
Kimpton Mas Olas Resort & Spa – Todos Santos, Mexico
Perched between the rugged Sierra de la Laguna Mountains and the endless waves of the Pacific, the five-star Kimpton Mas Olas Resort & Spa is a hidden paradise in Todos Santos, Mexico—where sun-seekers and wellness and nature enthusiasts find their perfect escape. Since its grand opening in April 2024, this 103-room boutique retreat has captivated travelers with its blend of laid-back luxury, locally inspired cuisine, and a spa that feels like a sanctuary for the soul. Guests can start their day with sunrise yoga, whale watching from their private rooftop deck, riding horseback along the golden sands, or wandering through nine lush gardens, foraging herbs and flowers to craft custom essential oils at the onsite apothecary. Recognized by Global Traveler Magazine for its seamless harmony with nature and featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide’s list of hotels in the region, Mas Olas offers an immersive experience with luxurious oceanfront villas and curated suites designed for indoor-outdoor living, an ethnobotanical culinary concept featuring a farm and Huerta, and a sprawling 25,000 sq. ft. wellness center and spa. Whether sipping a cocktail by the infinity pool or exploring the vibrant art scene of Todos Santos, every moment here feels like a postcard coming to life.
Baoase Luxury Resort – Curaçao
Curaçao is an unrivaled Southern Caribbean escape boasting over 35 stunning beaches, endless sunshine, and a rich cultural heritage influenced by 55 different cultures, where iconic attractions like Blue Room Cave and the vibrant Willemstad Handelskade blend with world-class snorkeling and adventurous Aquafari experiences. Just five minutes from downtown Willemstad, Baoase Luxury Resort—the island’s only five-star hotel—offers a secluded tropical oasis with Asian-inspired villas and Superior Beachfront Pool Suites featuring private gardens, pools, and bespoke touches imported from Indonesia. Catering to high-end travelers and celebrities with a strict “no photographs” policy to ensure privacy, the resort also delights with fine dining at Culinary Beach and the newly introduced, laid-back Bida Beach for a fresh take on private coastal luxury.
Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach – Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
Acqualina Resort & Residences embodies the allure of a Mediterranean villa blended with beachside elegance, set on 4.5 spectacular beachfront acres in Sunny Isles Beach. Its lush grounds, accented by vibrant red couches on manicured lawns and iconic red umbrellas, create a picturesque retreat where 98 meticulously designed guest rooms and suites and 188 residences offer breathtaking Atlantic views. Indulge in world-class dining at Il Mulino New York, the alfresco Costa Grill, Ke-uH Japanese, and Avra Miami, enjoy three majestic oceanfront pools, and explore versatile spaces perfect for elegant weddings and memorable events. The resort also features AcquaMarine, an innovative children’s program inspired by marine biology, and the Acqualina Spa—a 20,000-square-foot, two-story sanctuary dedicated to tranquility and rejuvenation. Family-owned and operated, Acqualina has earned prestigious accolades, including Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards for both its hotel and spa, the AAA Five Diamond Award, recently ranked #1 Best Resort in the Continental U.S. (as of 2025) by U.S. News & World Report, and membership in The Leading Hotels of the World.
Zafiro Palace Andratx – Mallorca, Spain
Zafiro Palace Andratx is a family-owned five-star retreat surrounded by the Serra de Tramuntana mountains with direct views of the turquoise sea. Set on the charming island’s Mediterranean coastline, the all-suite resort caters to those seeking exclusivity and authenticity with five restaurants, five garden pools surrounded by nature plus two indoor pools, spa and wellness center, bespoke amenities, and a striking low-rise architectural design that capitalizes on outdoor spaces. Guests have access to complimentary electric scooters to explore like a local and can now book an excursion on a 100%-electric llaut, the traditional boat of the Balearic Islands.
Amrit Ocean Resort – Riviera Beach, Florida
Escape winter’s chill at Singer Island’s Amrit Ocean Resort —a luxury beachfront sanctuary whose name means “elixir of life” in Sanskrit. Spanning 103,000 square feet over four stories, the Amrit Wellness & Spa is a transformative retreat that seamlessly blends Eastern wisdom with Western luxury, offering unrivaled wellness services such as Florida’s first indoor-outdoor hydrothermal water therapy circuit, Aayush, and a personalized web-based wellness platform. Among its highlights is one of South Florida’s few luxury hammams, a guided, authentic Moroccan-inspired experience featuring traditional products. Guests can also savor globally inspired, plant-forward dishes at TULĀ, the signature restaurant with panoramic Atlantic views, and unwind at LALA, the playful lobby bar and lounge that transitions seamlessly from day to night.
Oil Nut Bay in the British Virgin Islands – British Virgin Islands
Oil Nut Bay is a secluded island sanctuary spanning 400 acres, celebrated for its refined villas, exceptional amenities, and inviting boating lifestyle. This spring, the resort proudly unveils Sundara Spa, an architectural marvel offering panoramic 360-degree views and a floor-to-ceiling glass design that unveils the vibrant marine life below—marking it as the first overwater spa in the British Virgin Islands. The resort also features a reimagined beach club with three luxurious pools and a swim-up bar, alongside a state-of-the-art wellness center complete with a gym, pickleball and tennis courts, Nut House Kids Club, and a nature center. Whether indulging in curated island adventures such as turtle tagging, kite surfing, and sea bobbing or engaging with wildlife at the rescue barn, Oil Nut Bay offers an elevated experience for discerning couples and families alike.
JOIA Aruba by Iberostar – Aruba
Set on Aruba’s celebrated Eagle Beach, JOIA Aruba by Iberostar redefines luxury hospitality with its unique fusion of sustainability, culinary innovation, and captivating design. Recently opened just in time for winter, JOIA Aruba features 240 rooms and suites with sweeping views of the ocean. The resort is perfect for travelers who enjoy having unique meals and relaxing by bodies of water given that the property features seven dining venues, three pools (one being a rooftop infinity pool), and a world-class spa that offers a diverse wellness menu of treatments including hydrotherapy. The property also offers guests exclusive access to Tierra Del Sol, Aruba’s only 18-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The low-rise beachfront architecture, surrounded by divi-divi trees that naturally point southwest due to trade winds, frames breathtaking ocean views and crafts an atmosphere of serene luxury making it the perfect getaway.
The Ocean Club, Four Seasons, Bahamas – Nassau, Bahamas
The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Resort is a luxury Caribbean hideaway known for attracting celebrities. The gorgeous warm-weather destination is set along a white-sand beach on Paradise Island and secluded by 35 acres of surrounding Versailles-inspired gardens. Accommodations range from luxurious oceanfront rooms and suites to plunge pool bungalows to villa residences with private infinity pools. If you’re seeking adventurous aquatic escapades, you can enjoy sailing in paradise in addition to the iconic swimming with pigs (which is truly one of those Insta-worthy moments you can’t miss!). The Ocean Club Golf Course stretches over 7,100 yards on Paradise Island‘s eastern peninsula, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Nassau Harbour. The Ocean Club Spa made ELLE’s list of best spas to visit in 2024 and received a feature in Vogue’s Global Spa Guide. U.S. News & World Report ranked The Ocean Club #1 in Best Bahamas Resorts, #2 in Best Bahamas Hotels, and #1 in Nassau.
Hotel Christopher St. Barth – St. Barthélemy
Hotel Christopher St. Barth is an exclusive 42-room and suite property in St. Barth overlooking the sea, celebrated for its legendary pool, Caribbean poolside amenities, and award-winning Sisley Spa, all envisioned as a large family home with the ocean at its heart. Recently, the resort elevated its experience with the debut of Villa Saba—a five-bedroom villa uniquely perched on the southern hillside, offering unrivaled western views, a private elevated pool, and immediate access to the two new restaurants, lobby, and spa. Enhancing the culinary scene, famed French Michelin-starred chef Chris Coutanceau—known as a “Fisherman Chef” for his sustainable approach—has introduced The Christopher Restaurant and La Plage de Chris, both of which opened on October 25, 2024, following the property’s seasonal reopening. Because of its location, as the only resort with a wide and long-reaching western view, Hotel Christopher offers the ultimate sunset experience (and they have a cocktail menu, to match every color combo).
The Regent Grand – Turks & Caicos
The Regent Grand, located along the iconic Grace Bay Beach, is an all-suite resort that spans four oceanfront acres of lush palms and crystal-clear waters in Turks and Caicos. The property features luxurious accommodations ranging from studios to expansive three-bedroom suites, each thoughtfully designed with elegant living and dining areas, furnished balconies or terraces, and full kitchens for a true home-away-from-home experience. Guests can indulge in first-class amenities such as in-room massage treatments, a stunning Caribbean golf course, and a bespoke culinary experience with a private chef. With personalized service, curated experiences—from sunset cruises to snorkeling adventures—and a seamless blend of modern comforts with the natural beauty of the island, The Regent Grand offers an unforgettable escape defined by sophistication and tranquility.
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui – Koh Samui, Thailand
Fans of the hit HBO Max show, White Lotus, will certainly be planning for their next trip to Koh Samui, Thailand, to experience the beautiful destination as shown in season three, launching in February. The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is a premiere hotel surrounded by oceanfront beauty that makes for the perfect luxury getaway destination — and the perfect escape from the cold with a vast number of beaches, swapping snow for the powdery white-sand beach at Choeng Mon, watching the sunset on Bophut Beach, or swimming at Chaweng (Koh Samui’s most popular beach). The hotel offers a one-of-a-kind Swim Reef with scheduled supervised fish feedings and immersive snorkeling activities to discover more of the crystal clear waters and get up close and personal with the wildlife. The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui’s Spa Village offers a vast menu of ritualistic body scrubs, massages, facials, baths, and fitness classes inspired by regional traditions and culture.
Princess Senses The Mangrove – Green Island, Jamaica
Nestled in a secluded cove on Green Island amidst a historic mangrove, Princess Senses The Mangrove transports you to an enchanting tropical oasis the moment you arrive. This adult-only, all-inclusive resort offers an unparalleled luxury experience with 401 ocean suites and 14 breathtaking overwater villas featuring partial glass floors, private infinity pools, and elegantly appointed balconies and terraces with swim-out options. Guests are invited to embark on a gourmet journey across 14 exquisite restaurants and 15 refined bars, relax in multiple pristine pools, and indulge in a sumptuous spa dedicated to ultimate rejuvenation. The overwater bungalows redefine luxury with individual infinity pools, indoor-outdoor showers, lavish king beds, and exclusive Platinum amenities such as private butler service, premium car transfers, and seamless in-suite check-in, ensuring an unforgettable escape that seamlessly blends contemporary opulence with the serene beauty of the Caribbean.
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club – Dana Point, California
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club is the ultimate 5-star luxury warm-weather getaway in Southern California, offering a quintessential coastal escape filled with sunshine, sweeping ocean views, and curated indulgences. Recognized as a AAA Five-Diamond resort and named one of Travel + Leisure’s 2024 Top California Resorts, this elegant seaside retreat is a testament to world-class hospitality and unforgettable experiences. Nestled on a Dana Point hillside across 175 acres of pristine coastal landscape, the resort offers 400 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, seven exceptional dining venues, a world-class spa, and three sparkling pools—including an exclusive adults-only infinity pool. Guests can embrace the coastal lifestyle with activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, guided nature hikes, whale-watching, and a Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed golf course, all perfectly capturing the resort’s blend of sophisticated luxury and playful charm.
Rosewood Bermuda – Bermuda
Located along the stunning beach waters of Bermuda, Rosewood Bermuda is the ideal getaway for travelers looking to escape the winter chill. The property redefines luxury in an enchanting island paradise where timeless charm meets modern sophistication. Nestled along a breathtaking coastline, the award-winning luxury resort harmoniously blends Bermuda’s storied heritage with contemporary design, offering sumptuous accommodations, refined dining, and world-class amenities. Only a 90-minute flight from several U.S. cities, this property is the perfect escape for warmer temperatures and enjoying weekend getaways in island style. Recently being recognized as the #1 hotel in Bermuda by U.S. News & World Report, travelers on the resort can indulge in dining venues with globally inspired flavors, experience a relaxing spa treatment a Sense, A Rosewood Spa, or exclusive access to Bermuda’s largest pink sanded beach to soak up the sun. If you’re planning a trip with your gal pals, make note that the property’s Girlfriends Getaway package offers you the opportunity to celebrate friendship and a weekend of connection with round-trip airport transfers, wellness and F&B credits, and glasses of chilled champagne upon arrival.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach – O‘ahu, Hawaii
At The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, a beautiful residential-style hotel offering luxurious multi-bedroom accommodations with unobstructed picturesque ocean views, guests are just a five-minute walk from the iconic beach and steps away from world-class shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures like hiking at Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park. Ideal for families and couples alike, visitors can enjoy spacious Sky Suites—with gourmet kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sunset lanais—two rooftop infinity pools, and exclusive amenities such as Little Paddlers surf lessons, Keiki Concierge adventures, and tailored ‘Languages of Love’ package for a romantic escape. Whether you come for a tropical adventure or stay for a relaxing getaway, this idyllic warm-weather destination will surely inspire you to swap your snow boots for swimsuits this season.
Secret Bay – Portsmouth, Dominica
Ditch the frigid temps and escape to an award-winning, six-star hideaway on the Caribbean’s “Nature Island,” where lush rainforests meet the azure Caribbean Sea. Enveloped in nature and set atop a serene clifftop, Secret Bay is a secluded retreat featuring a collection of free-standing, open-air villas boasting private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and gourmet kitchens. Each stay includes a personal villa host who can manage everything from cooking breakfast to booking spa appointments to coordinating excursions. Enjoy several on-site amenities like the no-menu concept Zing Zing restaurant, an art gallery at Bwa Denn, spa treatments at the open-air Gommier Spa, and a sustainable Chef’s Table outdoor dining experience. Dominica is a haven for adventure travelers seeking a unique vacation that includes hiking and adventure, waterfalls, hot springs and lakes, diving and water sports, whale and dolphin watching, and canyoning adventures. Known as the “Nature Island” for its lush vegetation and sustainable tourism offerings, Dominica has more than 300 miles of hiking trails, 365 rivers, and more than 170 bird species, and is home to one of the last Indigenous tribes in the world, the Kalinago. If you’re traveling from the NYC Metro area, you’ll be pleased to learn that starting this month, United will commence offering non-stop flights from Newark to Dominica.
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa – Little Torch Key, Florida
Recently honored as a Three Key property by MICHELIN Guide, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is the only private island resort in the United States, accessible only via seaplane or boat. Nestled discreetly off the fabled Florida Keys coastline, this 4-acre, adults-only property delivers stunning panoramic ocean views, luxurious accommodations, and world-class dining. Favored by Hollywood stars, CEOs, and travel enthusiasts alike, Little Palm Island is set on a lush, private island dotted with crushed seashell pathways and surrounded by pristine turquoise waters. With no in-room telephones, televisions, or alarm clocks to distract, guests can truly unplug and unwind to ignite their senses and restore their well-being. From indulgent treatments in SpaTerre and sunrise yoga on the beach to nourishing in delectable cuisine via toes-in-the-sand experiences and lounging fireside in a private alcove, the resort delivers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club – Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, a Forbes 4-star award-winning destination, stretches across 300+ acres along the breathtaking Rendezvous Bay, renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Offering the ultimate winter escape, the resort blends luxurious accommodations with natural materials that capture the radiant beauty of the bay. Guests can indulge in diverse activities including culinary experiences at seven exceptional restaurants, wellness treatments at the expansive 27,000-square-foot Sorana Spa, and a wide range of watersports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The resort also features the largest collection of pickleball courts in the Caribbean, an innovative 6.8-acre Aurora Entertainment Park with waterslides, mini golf, and a world-class tennis center, along with golf clinics hosted by PGA-certified professionals at the #2 ranked golf course in the Caribbean. Complementing the experience, Aurora is home to the Caribbean’s leading organic hydroponic farm, providing fresh ingredients for its celebrated dining offerings.
Beach Club at The Boca Raton – Boca Raton, Florida
Escape to the newly redesigned Beach Club at The Boca Raton, a luxury destination where warm ocean breezes and stunning coastal views await. After a $130 million transformation, this private beach resort features 210 renovated rooms and suites, world-class dining including Marisol by Michelin-awarded chef Johnny Spero, and seaside dining at Onda. Enjoy wellness activities like beach yoga, water adventures, and curated rituals. Guests also have access to The Boca Raton’s renowned amenities, including golf, tennis, the four-acre Harborside Pool Club, and the award-winning Spa Palmera. With numerous accolades and awards, this Forbes Five-Star destination offers the perfect mix of luxury and relaxation in Florida’s sun-soaked paradise, with no passport required.
Rosewood Little Dix Bay – British Virgin Islands
Rosewood Little Dix Bay is the quintessential warm-weather getaway, offering an unparalleled connection to nature and barefoot luxury on the pristine shores of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush rolling hills, the resort is a secluded paradise where understated elegance meets unspoiled beauty. Guests can bask in the sun on half-mile-long white sand beaches, embark on private sailing excursions to explore hidden coves or rejuvenate at the clifftop spa overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With sustainable, open-air design and impeccable service, Rosewood Little Dix Bay provides a tranquil yet indulgent escape, perfect for those looking to unwind in the warmth of the tropics.
Fairmont Orchid – Waimea, Hawaii
Fairmont Orchid is a luxury oceanfront oasis nestled along the pristine Kohala Coast of Hawaiʻi Island, where bucket list adventures, rich cultural experiences, and newly refreshed guest rooms await. Set against a backdrop of lush tropical landscapes and vibrant marine life, guests can explore the secluded Pauoa Bay, indulge in fresh island-inspired cuisine, and unwind while watching breathtaking oceanfront sunsets that embody the spirit of aloha. The resort offers immersive cultural experiences—from traditional hula performances to guided nature hikes—that showcase Hawaiʻi’s unique heritage, ensuring every moment is steeped in local charm. Recognized as one of the ‘Top Five Resorts in Hawaiʻi’ by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards and ranked among the top ten hotels in Hawaiʻi by Travel + Leisure, Fairmont Orchid truly is where the aloha spirit comes alive in a setting of unparalleled luxury.
Alphonse Island Lodge – Seychelles
Blue Safari Seychelles leads in eco-tourism and experiential travel, located in the pristine Seychelles Outer Islands. Alphonse Island is a secluded tropical paradise situated in the Indian Ocean, surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine white beaches. This exclusive island offers elegant beach villas, bungalows, and luxurious retreats, all set against the backdrop of rich biodiversity, from vibrant marine life to unique plant species. Guests can plunge themselves into nature, adventure, and serenity, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway in the Seychelles. Elevate your experience with outdoor activities including swimming with sailfish, snorkeling, diving, conservation efforts, and fly fishing, to name a few.
Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi – Lāna‘i City, Hawaii
The AAA Five Diamond, Forbes Five Star Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi features 213 guest rooms nestled in a series of low-rise buildings along the rugged Pacific coastline, offering a private residential experience that harmonizes luxury with the natural beauty of the island. Each elegantly appointed room reflects a refined yet relaxed aesthetic, inviting guests to unwind in a serene setting that captures the spirit of island living. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at outdoor restaurants, including the renowned NOBU LĀNA‘I, where innovative flavors meet local ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience. The resort also caters to active lifestyles with championship golf and tennis facilities, while families enjoy the vibrant kids club, pristine beach, and inviting pool area. Complementing these offerings are rejuvenating spa and wellness classes, enriching cultural programming, an on-site observatory for stargazing, and luxury retail boutiques, all of which combine to create a truly immersive and elevated escape.
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas – U.S. Virgin Islands
Set on 30 acres of pristine oceanfront, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is a luxurious Caribbean retreat that blends timeless island charm with modern elegance. Located on the island’s picturesque east end, the resort offers sweeping views of Great Bay and easy access to nearby St. John and the British Virgin Islands. Guests can unwind in beautifully designed rooms and suites that showcase the natural surroundings, or explore the turquoise waters with activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing. The resort features an adults-only infinity pool, a family-friendly pool with a waterslide, and serene soaking tubs on Coconut Cove beach. For an unforgettable maritime adventure, the Lady Lynsey II catamaran provides gourmet dining and breathtaking excursions across the Caribbean Sea.
Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale – Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Located in the yachting capital of the world, the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale is where relaxing in the warm South Florida sun meets the sophistication of luxurious amenities and around-the-clock service. From winding down in the property’s modern spa to enjoying the local cuisine on Fort Lauderdale Beach, the hotel elevates every experience to reflect a classic yacht club lifestyle. Its ship-inspired design mirrors the winding waterways of the coastal city, inviting travelers to escape the cold weather and soak up the sunshine in luxury. As Fort Lauderdale’s only Five-Diamond Destination, it was named one of the “Best New Hotels in the World” by Travel + Leisure’s 2023 It List and received the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler “Readers’ Choice Awards”. The hotel has also been recognized by Forbes Travel Guide, honored in “TripAdvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards”, and won a bronze prize in Architecture in Hotels & Resorts by the International Design Awards among other accolades.
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman – Cayman Islands
Lastly, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is a luxurious oasis that perfectly captures the essence of Caribbean hospitality. Located on the stunning Seven Mile Beach, this 5-star resort offers guests unparalleled elegance and comfort. With its award-winning restaurants, a lavish spa, and a range of activities including snorkeling and sailing, the resort is a haven for those looking to unwind in warm surroundings. The Ritz-Carlton has been honored with multiple awards, including Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure recognition, making it a premier destination for travelers escaping the winter chill.
The Beach Tulum – Tulum, Mexico
Nestled between the crystal-clear Caribbean Ocean and the lush jungle of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Tulum is a tropical oasis perfect for escaping the frigid temperatures and blizzards of North American winters. With the recent expansion of direct flight routes between major U.S. cities and Tulum International Airport, Tulum is easily accessible for snowbirds looking for a warm-weather getaway. Guests can stay at 5-star, adults-only boutique resort The Beach Tulum, and enjoy a beachfront room with a private plunge pool or hot tub and an assigned double beach lounger on the resort’s private beach. While at the resort, guests will enjoy daily yoga classes in the expansive rooftop palapa, workouts in the on-site fitness center, Mexican cooking classes, tequila and mezcal tastings, salsa dancing lessons, exciting off-site excursions, and much more.
Milaidhoo Maldives – Maldives
Milaidhoo Maldives is a captivating boutique luxury resort, nestled in the heart of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The property provides an authentic Maldivian experience, combining natural beauty and cultural significance to rejuvenate travelers who flock to the warmth of the Maldives when the weather is colder. The resort’s commitment to crafting personalized experiences rooted in Maldivian heritage sets it apart from other resorts, promising a taste of the true Maldives. This remote paradise effortlessly balances adventure and relaxation, guided by the soothing rhythm of the Maldives, promoting inner peace and revitalization. Furthermore, Milaidhoo’s yoga pavilion hosts daily yoga and meditation sessions, offering a tranquil space to synchronize the mind, body, and soul under the guidance of experienced instructors. Whether it’s yoga, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, basking on pristine beaches, or exploring lush tropical landscapes, Milaidhoo Maldives ensures a tropical paradise for those wishing to escape the cold.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – Maldives
Experience the epitome of luxury at the captivating Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, set against pristine white sands and crystalline blue waters and reached by a scenic 45-minute yacht ride from Velana International Airport. The resort offers 11 exquisite dining venues—from the culinary mastery of Michelin-starred chef Dave Pynt and the magnetic allure of Zuma Maldives to the exclusive Terra, home to the Maldives’ only private hand-crafted bamboo dining pods—while a world-class spa and pioneering aqua wellness center invite you to rejuvenate in style. Completing this lavish escape is the resort’s Private Island, a 32,000-square-meter retreat featuring 119 sumptuously designed beaches, reefs, and overwater villas with private pools, alongside intimate accommodations for up to 24 guests in two bespoke villas and four-bedroom residences designed for celebrating life’s milestones with cherished company.
Crown Towers Perth – Perth, Australia
Crown Towers Perth embodies the pinnacle of 5-star luxury in Australia with personalized service and exceptional design. The resort’s spacious, non-smoking guest rooms and suites are styled in serene neutral tones with premium furnishings and cutting-edge technology and include a top-floor deluxe villa offering butler service and panoramic floor-to-ceiling views. Guests enjoy unrivaled amenities—from lagoon pools, plush day beds, and a well-appointed gymnasium to a suite of world-renowned restaurants such as Rockpool Bar & Grill, Silks, Bistro Guillaume, Nobu, and the expansive Epicurean dining venue. The opulent Crown Presidential Villa, featuring a wrap-around balcony and breathtaking views of the Swan River and city skyline, stands as the ultimate in luxury accommodations. Recently honored with five stars in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2025 Star Awards, Crown Towers Perth is celebrated as one of the elite hotels in Australia and the Asia Pacific region.
Montage Palmetto Bluff – Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina
Nestled along the scenic May River in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Montage Palmetto Bluff is set within a vibrant 20,000-acre community that bridges the allure of Hilton Head Island and Savannah. Guests are invited to embrace an active, nature-infused lifestyle, exploring an expansive nature preserve, two charming villages with Southern-inspired dining, a bustling riverfront marina, and a distinguished Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Elegant accommodations—including spacious cottages, refined guest rooms, sumptuous suites, and village homes—pay homage to the region’s storied heritage, while an array of exceptional amenities—from a Shooting Club, Lawn & Racquet Club, and equestrian facilities to freshwater and saltwater fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, biking and walking trails, a world-class spa, and a dedicated Children’s Program—ensure an unparalleled retreat experience.
From Florida and Hawaii to Jamaica and the Virgin Islands, these dreamy destinations offer the ultimate warm-weather retreats to beat the chill this season.
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[Images c/o featured properties. Header and footer image credits: Christina-Lauren Pollack for Inspirations & Celebrations.]