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Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection
While some people look forward to winter and its opportunities for cuddling by the fire, sipping hot cocoa, and making snow angels, many of us are ready to flee somewhere warm as soon as temperatures start to dip. If the freezing cold, snow, and ice have you down, we’ve got the cure: a getaway to one of these luxurious hotels and resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, Florida, and beyond. For anyone seeking upscale accommodations and toasty temps, here are our picks for the best winter getaways worldwide.
This beachfront Auberge Resorts Collection property on Riviera Nayarit’s Banderas Bay has 91 light-filled, ocean-facing guest rooms, suites, and villas.
Complimentary wellness classes, welcome craft beer or cocktail, natural Ram Ram bath amenities
When you check in to Susurros del Corazón — which you do at an art-filled, wood-slab table (no front desks here) — you’re assigned a cuate, which means “buddy” in Spanish. This personal butler tends to your every need, whether it's making reservations at the open-air, farmhouse-style Casamilpa restaurant or arranging a massage at the Ondita spa. In addition to lounging under an umbrella on the white-sand beach or next to one of the three cascading infinity pools, guests can book activities such as snorkeling off the nearby Marietas Islands, taking surfing lessons in front of the resort, or joining a seasonal whale-watching expedition with a naturalist. Parents appreciate Los Morritos, a fee-based kids’ club for ages 5 to 12, where children can make Mexican art and practice their fútbol skills with friendly counselors.
Residence-style suites at this refined beach resort on Maui’s northwestern shore start at a spacious 1,250 square feet.
Courtesy shuttle service within the resort, daily Hawaiian cultural activities, guided hikes and tide pool exploration, Gloss Moderne toiletries
If it’s space you’re seeking on a Hawaii winter getaway, Montage Kapalua Bay, with its ultra-roomy one- to four-bedroom residences, more than fits the bill. These homey spaces not only have full gourmet kitchens but also marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. That said, the outdoors beckon here, as the hotel occupies a prime beachfront location on 24 beautifully landscaped acres. While your kids spend time participating in the fee-based activities for children ages 5 to 12, you might book a treatment at the on-site spa, tee off at the nearby Plantation Course, or simply chill at the pool. The upscale resort also hosts its own sunset luau twice a week, year-round.
This lakeside property near the Magic Kingdom wows with its five-acre water park, featuring a huge family pool, winding lazy river, waterslides, and a splash zone.
Kids for All Seasons program (ages 4 to 12), children 5 and under eat free with paying adult, fitness center, courtesy transportation to Walt Disney World theme parks
For the ultimate kid-friendly winter getaway, make haste to Four Seasons Resort Orlando, where guests are entertained not only by the sprawling water park, but also by Disney character breakfasts, a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, fitness center, game room, and basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts. Guest rooms have private balconies, and some provide a view of the nightly Disney fireworks. There are six restaurants at this AAA Five-Diamond Resort, including the Michelin-starred Capa steakhouse. Soothe sore muscles after a day walking around theme parks with a massage at the on-site spa followed by a stint in a zero-gravity lounger in the Solarium lounge.
About 20 miles northwest of Tucson, this upscale retreat with three neighboring golf courses is among Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best resorts in Arizona.
Use of driving range and rental clubs, use of mountain bikes, daily group fitness classes, Frette linens, Asprey bath products
With the Sonoran Desert as its backdrop, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain makes a great home base for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Guests can kick back at one of three swimming pools: one with private cabanas, another with a 235-foot waterslide, and a third that’s reserved for adults only. The surrounding landscape is ideal for exploration on foot. Take a morning hike or sign up for informative treks into the wilderness to view ancient rock art, survey a variety of cacti, and even spot scorpions at night. Fee-based Ritz Kids Rangers programs focus on educational outdoor exploration for ages 5 to 12. Other highlights: a spa offering treatments inspired by indigenous rituals and Core Kitchen & Wine Bar, which has 2,800 bottles of wine to choose from.
This boutique resort on the northeast shore of Anguilla sits on a strip of white-sand beach and features a standout spa.
Kids’ club, complimentary breakfast buffet, tennis court, Frette linens, Malin+Goetz bath amenities, beach bag and flip-flops
Zemi Beach House has direct access to serene Shoal Bay Beach, where guests can borrow kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkeling equipment when they’re not floating in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. Relax at any of the four different pools, including an adults-only infinity pool. The resort’s spa is located in a 300-year-old Thai building that was transported to Anguilla and reassembled, providing a unique space for Asian- and African-inspired treatments and rituals, including some inspired by traditional Moroccan baths. Modern guest rooms reflect the colors of the outdoors with shades of tan and blue. Be sure to check out the Rhum Room, which stocks 140 kinds of small-batch, single-estate rums. Zemi Beach House is a member of Hilton’s LXR Hotels & Resorts, so you can use Hilton Honors points here.
Charming one- to four-bedroom cottages with full kitchens nestle among lush landscaping on a private island just off Key West.
Continental in-room breakfast; use of tennis and basketball courts, including racquets and balls; use of fishing poles and bait
You’ll feel a world away from the daily grind at Sunset Key Cottages, yet its small private island is easily accessible from sister property Opal Key Resort & Marina, on Key West, via a 7-minute boat ride that’s covered by the resort fee. Yes, that $250 fee is hefty, but it includes a basket of breakfast goodies delivered to your porch daily, turndown service with local treats, and an ice cream cart that makes its rounds every afternoon. You certainly won’t go hungry here, as elegant Latitudes restaurant serves seaside breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Each treatment suite at the on-site spa has a full bathroom and shower, as well as a private patio.
Perennially named to Travel + Leisure’s list of World’s Best resorts in Central America, Nayara Springs is an adults-only rainforest retreat where each villa has its own plunge pool fed by natural mineral springs.
Complimentary laundry, in-villa or restaurant breakfast, daily yoga classes
We wouldn’t blame you if you never left your Springs Villa, with its terrace, canopied four-poster bed, mineral springs-fed plunge pool, and private garden with dual rain showers. But Nayara Springs’ tropical property on the edge of Arenal Volcano National Park invites exploration. Stroll a path on a hunt for resident sloths and admire the colorful bougainvilleas and philodendrons. Off-property excursions include hiking through the rainforest canopy on hanging bridges, bird-watching around the volcano, and rafting on the Peñas Blancas River. Unwind at the spa, where some treatments incorporate volcanic mud and coffee from a local farm.
St. Lucia’s extraordinary Jade Mountain is deliberately tech-free. There are no televisions, radios, or telephones in guest rooms, and visitors are asked to keep their phones on vibrate in public spaces.
Guided walks and hikes; daily in-room bento box; use of stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, and tennis racquets
Jade Mountain is an architectural marvel — it’s an ultra-luxe tree house of sorts, built into a mountain, with bridges and walkways that lead to guest rooms. Each of the 24 Sanctuary rooms has a large infinity pool with expansive views of the St. Lucia Pitons, while the five Sky suites offer 15-foot ceilings, an open fourth wall with fabulous vistas, and chromotherapy whirlpool tubs. Guests have use of two beaches: Anse Chastanet, below the resort, where cool minted spray, fruit kebabs, and sorbet are offered daily, and Anse Mamin, a 10-minute walk or a complimentary boat ride away.
Guests of Rosewood Mayakoba arrive at their spacious accommodations by boat, as the Riviera Maya property is set amid lagoons.
Complimentary kids’ activities, nonmotorized water sports equipment, in-room bottle of mezcal, toddler and baby gear
Rosewood Mayakoba has its very own stretch of white-sand beach, but its location nestled in a mangrove jungle is what sets it apart. Be sure to take the introductory eco-tour to learn more about the property’s flora and fauna. Accommodations range from studio suites with private plunge pools to the six-bedroom Founder’s Villa. Sense, A Rosewood Spa, is located on its own island, and the resort has eight different restaurants and bars. Find your fancy among four distinct pool areas, including Aquí Me Quedo, an adults-only hideaway with three beachfront plunge pools.
With no televisions in its 28 modern guest rooms, this adults-only boutique hotel in downtown Palm Springs invites communal gatherings.
Included continental breakfast, Tesla charging station, Cowshed bath amenities
Named among Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best resorts in California, this Palm Springs treasure opened in 1951. Its interior design maintains those mid-century roots with cobalt blue and white patterns throughout the property, as well as original works by such artists as David Hockney and Roy Lichtenstein. The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring Palm Springs; you’re just a couple of blocks away from the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Cactus to Clouds hiking trail. The property’s quiet, laid-back vibe also encourages relaxing by the pool under towering palm trees.
Courtesy of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
Occupying a prime location on mellow Choeng Mon Beach, the Kimpton Kitalay Samui shines with its spectacular Olympic-size swimming pool.
Daily complimentary social hour, complimentary use of kayaks and bicycles, expansive doggie play area and pet-friendly amenities
The design of this Kimpton property, which opened its doors in January 2022, is a nod to the area's fishing village heritage. A two-story main building features traditional steep-sloped roofs, dark wood, open-air verandas, and decor by local artisans. Especially impressive are the Garden Pool Villas, which have homey touches and nifty amenities: bookshelves with reading material, yoga mats, double vanities, deep soaking tubs, separate outdoor and indoor showers, and private patios with plunge pools.
Kimpton Kitalay Samui goes above and beyond with its included breakfast. There’s not only a vast buffet with a noodle cart, omelet station, and salad bar, but guests can also order dishes like crab Benedict and brioche French toast off the à la carte menu. Families will appreciate the outstanding children’s programming and the 5,400-square-foot, split-level Junio kids’ club, complete with a twisty slide from one level to the other, reading nooks, and a ball pit.
Sublime service awaits at this St. Regis property, which boasts the largest overwater bungalows in the South Pacific, starting at 1,550 square feet.
Butler service; children’s robes, slippers, and step stools; kids’ club for ages 5 to 12
Perched above a stunning turquoise lagoon, The St. Regis’ overwater bungalows with separate bedrooms and living areas are positively dreamy. But even the villas on the beach have their perks, as they come with their own private plunge pools. The resort’s private Lagoonarium is a sanctuary for marine life and an ideal place to don a mask and snorkel to view the underwater world, including the huge, humpheaded Napoleon fish. Unique spa treatments include Polynesian Taurumi massages with monoï oil and outdoor candlelit massages.
Courtesy of Six Senses
Perched on a cliff at Bali’s southernmost point, the accommodations at Six Senses Uluwatu all have sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.
Beaumont & Brown organic cotton sheets, Madison Collection towels and bathrobes, 24-hour Guest Experience Maker
Villas and suites are set among natural vegetation at Six Senses Uluwatu, providing privacy and tranquility. Visitors focused on wellness can book a consultation to receive personalized recommendations at the spa, which features eight treatment rooms, a fitness center, and a yoga pavilion. A showpiece of this Indonesian resort is the long cliff-edge swimming pool. The Six Senses brand focuses on sustainability initiatives, and guests at the Bali property can learn more with a tour of the property’s organic garden or a workshop at the Earth Lab. Sample some of the garden’s produce in the hotel’s restaurants, which include Watu Steakhouse and the ultra-scenic Cliff Bar, or during a five-course Chef’s Table dining experience.
Courtesy of Amanyara; Photo by Steve Passmore
This ultra-luxe Caribbean resort has a half-mile of pristine beach and overlooks both a marine reserve and an 18,000-acre nature reserve.
Daily complimentary snorkeling trips, use of kayaks and boogie boards, four Har-tru clay tennis courts with use of racquets, balls, and shoes
The Aman resort brand is known for its top-of-the-line luxury, and Amanyara, on Providenciales Island, is no exception. Accommodations, including 700-square-foot Pavilions and multi-bedroom Villas, are set on the edge of tranquil ponds or positioned along the oceanfront. Many feature private infinity pools and the services of a personal chef. The main restaurant menu features Caribbean favorites with Asian influences, and dishes incorporate fresh seafood, fruit, and vegetables from the resort’s aquaponic garden.
Keep active by borrowing a bike to cycle around the property or attend one of the daily group wellness and fitness classes. There’s also the Clubhouse, which has shuffleboard, pingpong tables, and a world-class soccer pitch. In the evening, guests can gather in the 30-seat media room for popcorn and family-friendly movies.
Courtesy of Belmond Napasai Koh Samui
Stand-alone villas at this resort on the north shore of Koh Samui are set among fragrant hibiscus and bougainvillea and feature teak furnishings and Gulf of Thailand views.
Coconut ice cream welcome treat, yoga and Thai boxing classes, nonmotorized water sports equipment, tennis courts
While it’s easy to laze away your days on Napasai’s white-sand beach or under an umbrella at the infinity pool, the hotel also offers several entertaining activities, including language lessons and culinary demonstrations. Guests can borrow the resort’s Hobie Cat for a spin on the sea, while young guests can take part in “My First Job” activities and learn about arranging flowers, making pastries, or gardening. Dine at the casual toes-in-the-sand Beach Restaurant or the sea-facing Lai Thai Restaurant, whose menu showcases produce from the resort’s Secret Garden. Borrow a bicycle to see if you can find it.
The Auberge Resorts Collection continues to hit it out of the park with one of its newest properties, Susurros del Corazón in Punta de Mita, Mexico. The brand took care to honor Mexico’s cultural heritage at this beachfront resort, while also providing its signature service, fine-dining experiences, and opportunities to engage in immersive activities. But no matter which of our warm weather getaways you choose, you can’t go wrong. After all, you’ll be luxuriating in toasty temperatures while your friends back home are shoveling snow.
There are thousands of hotels and resorts worldwide that fit the bill for upscale warm winter getaways, and so many could have been included on this list. We considered accommodations that the author and Travel + Leisure editorial staff were familiar with firsthand, properties that earned Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, and countless customer hotel reviews. We also looked at each hotel’s reputation and quality of service, its design and architecture, and notable amenities. We also considered each property’s dining options, whether there’s a spa on-site, and what kinds of experiences are available to guests.
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