To inspire you to swap your snow boots for a swimsuit this Christmas, here are 13 warm-weather destinations that bring the spirit of joy to the holidays. From tropical coastal escapes to mesmerizing desert retreats, discover award-winning luxury hotels that offer a delightful blend of holiday magic with warm, sunny settings. Whether you’re looking to unwind with luxurious spa treatments, indulge in exquisite seasonal dining, or enjoy epic extravaganzas under the stars, these fun and festive destinations promise to make your holidays warm and bright.
Montage Laguna Beach – Laguna Beach, California
Looking for a balmy beachside setting? Celebrate the holidays in coastal luxury at Montage Laguna Beach, where Southern California’s vibrant arts community and scenic coastline take on a magical glow right now. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, this five-star retreat invites you to enjoy enchanting holiday experiences, including Afternoon Tea at the Lobby Lounge with fine teas, artful canapés, and delectable desserts. Admire the stunning Gingerbread House Display, a culinary masterpiece crafted by the talented pastry team to honor a beloved Laguna Beach landmark, debuting Thanksgiving weekend. For a creative touch, join wreathmaking classes in The Loft Wine Room, where you can craft a natural wreath with expert guidance while savoring Champagne and a delightful cheese plate. Montage Laguna Beach offers the perfect blend of seasonal charm and coastal sophistication.
San Ysidro Ranch – Montecito, California
If you crave a dose of rustic charm during the holidays, then you’ll enjoy San Ysidro Ranch. Nestled in the picturesque Montecito foothills of Santa Barbara, the 5-star property offers a serene and luxurious holiday retreat infused with a Western touch. The property transforms into a holiday wonderland each year, illuminated by over 60,000 twinkling lights, magical Christmas trees, and décor throughout. The Speakeasy at Plow & Angel enchants with over 6,000 ornaments adorning the ceiling, live holiday music, and a festive drink menu featuring a beverage called “The Grinch” and house-made eggnog. Looking to indulge your tastebuds? Enjoy a holiday pre-fixe menu at the award-winning Stonehouse Restaurant, which showcases seasonal favorites and locally sourced ingredients. For an intimate touch, Christmas trees can be arranged in-cottage, making it feel even cozier. With all dining included, San Ysidro Ranch just wants you to kick back, relax, and have a good old-fashioned time.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar – Del Mar, California
Nestled within 400 acres of pristine coastal canyon, Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers a luxurious Southern California retreat located just minutes from the Pacific Ocean. Renowned for its Tom Fazio-designed golf course, Forbes Five-Star spa, and San Diego’s only Michelin three-star restaurant, this award-winning destination becomes a holiday haven during the season. You can glide on the eco-friendly Glice skating rink, enjoy meet-and-greets with Santa, and participate in family-friendly activities like wreath decorating and holiday cookie decorating. Indulge in seasonal dining with a Holiday Afternoon Tea or the enchanting Nutcracker Tea featuring live performances by Scripps Dance Academy. Festive brunches, buffets, and prix-fixe dining at the signature restaurant, Amaya, round out the perfect holiday escape. Fairmont Grand Del Mar combines sophisticated luxury with the magic of the season for an unforgettable and active family getaway.
The Peninsula Beverly Hills – Beverly Hills, California
If you’re in the mood to get decked out and celebrate the holidays in elegance, head to The Peninsula Beverly Hills – the only hotel in Southern California to earn AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star ratings every year since 1993. This holiday season, the iconic hotel creates an enchanting atmosphere with cheerful décor, carolers singing from December 20-24, and a visit from Santa on Christmas Eve. Enjoy the Polar Bear Gift Shop, which is open December 1-26, and indulge in the Festive Afternoon Tea featuring holiday-themed pastries, Laurent Perrier Champagne, and a tower of sweet and savory delights. The Belvedere offers a special three-course pre-fixe menu on Christmas Eve, while exclusive Holiday Room Experiences include in-room Christmas trees or Menorahs. For a global twist, the hotel’s “12 Days of Christmas” offers sweet treats inspired by the 12 Peninsula hotels worldwide. From luxury shopping to unforgettable dining, The Peninsula Beverly Hills brings the magic of the holidays to life in the heart of Beverly Hills.
Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills – Beverly Hills, California
If you’re looking for a stylish getaway this winter, head to the heart of Beverly Hills, California. This holiday season, the renowned Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills transforms into a glittering Waldorf Wonderland, adorned with dazzling Christmas trees, menorahs, and lush garlands. Overlooking the twinkling lights of Rodeo Drive, the hotel offers sweeping panoramic views from The Rooftop Beverly Hills, perfect for catching a glimpse of Rudolph’s red nose. Holiday highlights include a Gingerbread Contest on December 7, Nutcracker Afternoon Tea every weekend in December, and exclusive Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining experiences. Recognized as the #1 Greater Los Angeles City Hotel by Travel + Leisure and the #1 Los Angeles Hotel by Condé Nast Traveler, this AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Five-Star property epitomizes California luxury and holiday cheer, offering an unforgettable seasonal escape in sunny Southern California.
L’Auberge de Sedona – Sedona, Arizona
Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s Red Rock region, L’Auberge de Sedona offers a luxurious holiday retreat filled with warmth and charm. The five-star resort brings the season to life with its Home for the Holidays package, where you can choose between Christmas or Hanukkah-themed decor in their private cottages, complete with twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and cozy touches like holiday pillows, throws, stockings, or dreidels and gelt. Every Friday leading up to Christmas, the resort hosts Holiday Illuminations, a dazzling celebration featuring holiday music, a hot chocolate bar, and sweet treats. On New Year’s Eve, you can indulge at a special event at Cress on Oak Creek, with live Spanish guitar, culinary stations, a “warm and fuzzy” s’mores and cider station, and an exclusive speakeasy offering curated cigars and soulful jazz. With its enchanting setting and thoughtfully curated holiday experiences, L’Auberge de Sedona creates an unforgettable warm-weather holiday getaway.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess – Scottsdale, Arizona
For a warm-weather escape infused with holiday magic, the AAA Five-Diamond Fairmont Scottsdale Princess delivers an awe-inspiring experience, especially for families with kids. Set against Arizona’s stunning McDowell Mountains, this luxurious resort transforms into a Southwest holiday extravaganza during its annual six-week Christmas at the Princess festival. Perfect for family fun, you and your loved ones can enjoy over-the-top attractions and entertainment, including Starlights: An Electric Symphony, an impressive light show choreographed to festive beats, and Aurora Ice: Christmas Classics, a frosty journey through iconic holiday movie scenes. From ice skating under the vibrant desert sky to riding the illuminated Princess Express Train, there’s something for everyone here. Exclusive dining experiences and cozy VIP igloos elevate the festivities, while holiday characters add whimsical charm, especially for kids. Recognized by Newsweek as the Best Christmas Light Display, this dazzling property promises a holiday escape like no other.
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota – Sarasota, Florida
Perched on Florida’s Gulf Coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota offers a luxurious holiday escape with a vibrant array of delightful experiences. From the resort’s stunning life-sized gingerbread display to unique wellness events like the Jingle Jog and seasonal spa treatments, every moment is crafted to delight. You and your family can partake in holiday traditions, including letters to Santa, gingerbread house decorating, and Breakfast with Santa on the Bay. Seasonal dining spans from Christmas Eve dinners to a lavish New Year’s Eve celebration at Rufa, the resort’s new al fresco lounge. Guests can also enjoy exclusive access to The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club, with its heated zero-entry pool, white sandy shores, and Ridley’s Porch beachfront dining. Whether indulging in the Club Lounge’s themed cookie decorating or playing a round of golf at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, this AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star resort transforms the holiday season into an unforgettable experience of warmth and sophistication.
InterContinental Hayman Island Great Barrier Reef – Queensland, Australia
If you’re looking for an incredible adventure Down Under, celebrate the holiday season in unparalleled tropical luxury at InterContinental Hayman Island Great Barrier Reef. Located on a private island in Queensland, Australia, this iconic retreat offers 182 elegantly designed accommodations nestled among lush rainforest gardens, sparkling pools, and panoramic ocean views. This year, holiday festivities include a grand Christmas Day arrival by Santa and his elves, a chic Aperol Spritz pop-up, and a dazzling All That Sparkles New Year’s Eve celebration featuring a four-piece band, midnight fireworks, and beachfront revelry. Indulge your senses while dining at the Christmas Eve Mediterranean buffet at Amici, Christmas Day seafood lunch at Pacific’s, or a gourmet six-course cabana dinner with Whitsunday Island views. Whether enjoying soothing spa treatments or immersing yourself in the island’s festive magic, Hayman Island offers a gorgeous holiday escape.
NUMU Boutique Hotel – San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
San Miguel de Allende, with its charming streets adorned in beautiful lights and poinsettias, offers an enchanting Christmas experience, and NUMU Boutique Hotel provides the perfect retreat to immerse yourself in the magic. From its stunning rooftop, one of the city’s best vantage points, enjoy breathtaking views of San Miguel’s iconic fireworks, vibrant holiday markets, and touching nativity scenes that make the town a top holiday destination. At NUMU, holiday celebrations come alive with special programming, including a delightful Christmas Dinner at NOIA Restaurant, featuring classic dishes like roasted turkey with saffron champagne sauce. For New Year’s Eve, NUMU hosts an elegant gala with a five-course tasting menu, live music, and free-flowing champagne, offering an intimate and unforgettable way to toast the New Year against the backdrop of dazzling city fireworks.
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba – Palm Beach, Aruba
Celebrate the season with a tropical twist at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, where holiday magic meets beachfront luxury. Located on the famed Palm Beach, the premier resort (which was renovated in 2023), transforms into a Yuletide paradise, offering family-friendly holiday experiences including visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, Mama and Papa Claus Picture Time on Christmas Day, and a whimsical Christmas Pajama Party at the Ritz Kids Club. If you’re in the mood to feel pampered and relaxed, unwind with seasonal spa treatments like the Chocolate Peppermint Pedicure or Cranberry Body Polish at the resort’s luxurious spa. For a truly good time, ring in the New Year at The Grand Cirque Affair, a spectacular soirée featuring a lavish dinner and mesmerizing, circus-inspired entertainment. Perfect for guests of all ages, this stunning Caribbean retreat ensures a joyful holiday season filled with fun, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa – Roatán, Honduras Bay Islands
Recently recognized as one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 3 Resorts in Central America, National Geographic’s Best Hotels in the World 2024, and Travel + Leisure’s Favorite Resorts in Central America, Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa offers a unique and memorable holiday escape. This season, the resort unveils The Grand Holiday Chalet, a hidden speakeasy pop-up bar that promises an intimate and sensory-rich experience. When you uncover this enchanting retreat, you’re greeted with a personalized QR code that unlocks a curated song to complement your chosen cocktail from the exclusive holiday menu. Surrounded by the warm glow of lights and the nostalgic sounds of classic Christmas tunes on a vintage vinyl player, savor your drinks and capture memories in a whimsical photo kiosk before returning to the resort’s idyllic beaches and award-winning spa.
The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos – Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
Experience the holidays in tropical luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, set along the stunning shores of Grace Bay Beach. This season, take part in joyful holiday traditions such as carols and warm eggnog on Christmas Eve, followed by a delightful Christmas Day brunch featuring holiday-inspired dishes and an Enchanting Sail and Snorkel adventure aboard the resort’s private catamaran, Lady Grace. During balmy evenings, satisfy your sugar cravings and cozy up by the fireplace during the nightly Christmas Sparkle & S’mores offering. Get ready to kick up your heels by ushering in the New Year with toast-worthy celebrations, including the glamorous Gatsby Golden Night New Year’s Countdown on the pool deck and the elegant New Year’s Soirée in The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom – complete with dancing and a midnight toast.
Stay tuned for more fun-filled vacation inspiration! In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing a variety of amazing holiday escapes, from iconic city getaways to dreamy global destinations, all ideal for celebrating the holiday season. To discover other award-winning hotels and outstanding vacation ideas, visit the Travel section on Inspirations & Celebrations.
[Header image c/o The Peninsula Beverly Hills. Hotel images c/o featured properties.]
