10 Best Christmas Beach Vacations in December?

If your idea of the perfect white Christmas involves sand instead of snow, you’ve come to the right place! A Christmas beach vacation is romantic and relaxing, and a wonderful way for couples to spend the holidays together and make new memories.

If you’ve been wondering, where should I go on a beach vacation at Christmas? or where are the warmest beaches in December? look no further. In this article, we’ll tell you all about the best Christmas beach vacations for 2022, including all-inclusive Christmas beach vacations, affordable Christmas beach vacations, and the best Christmas beach vacations in the U.S. Read on to learn our top 10 best Christmas beach vacations for couples.

Turks & Caicos, Caribbean

This stunning island is a popular Caribbean honeymoon and vacation spot. Since temperatures in December average around 80 degrees, it’s also an ideal Christmas beach vacation destination.  Turks & Caicos is home to the world’s third-largest coral reef system, and the incredibly clear water makes it a prime choice for divers and snorkelers. That gorgeous Caribbean also makes a stunning backdrop to the pristine white sand beaches that fringe the islands (where you can go horseback riding for a unique romantic activity).

Stay at the uber-luxurious tropical paradise s, Ambergris Cay Resort for a spectacular all-inclusive Christmas beach vacation. This amazing resort is secluded on a thousand-acre private island surrounded by shallow turquoise water and coral reef.

Lounge on the pristine white sand beach, which stretches for miles and is lined with palm trees. Enjoy complimentary watersports in the crystal clear Caribbean. Explore the island by bike or golf cart, or take an excursion by boat. Indulge at the spa. Swim in the lovely pool—or in your own pool (see below).

Accommodations at Ambergris Cay Resort are either suites or villas, with chic décor that’s light and bright. There are just 10 Beachfront Pool Suites; each offers beach and ocean views, a wraparound veranda with seating, a private plunge pool, and an outdoor shower (plus two rain showers in the spacious bathroom). The 20 villas are dotted around the island for privacy.

Rates at Ambergris Cay are steep, but the inclusions are spectacular—your transfer from Providenciales airport comes via private plane. Also included are all dining at 2 restaurants; unlimited beverages; stocked minifridge; 24-hour room service; non-motorized water sports; bonefishing from the shore; boat excursion; tennis and pickleball; use of the resort’s bicycles and golf carts; one 60-minute spa treatment per adult per stay; guided nature walks, bike tours, and kayak/paddleboard excursions; WiFi; and a catered lunch experience on a deserted island.

Grenada, Caribbean

Whether you’re looking for a beach paradise, rich culture, delicious cuisine, or adventurous excursions, tiny Grenada is a wonderful romantic Caribbean island for your holiday trip. From beautiful sandy beaches (with both white and black sand) to lush green hills filled with tropical fruit trees and spice plantations to spectacular dive sites, Grenada is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s perfect for couples who love outdoor activities.

Sandals Grenada offers a fantastic location for your all-inclusive Christmas beach vacation, sprawling across 17 lush acres next to the picturesque backdrop of Pink Gin Beach. Firepits, gazebos, and swinging chairs adorn the various courtyards and hideaways for lovers to steal away for romantic moments. There is also a pier where guests can get the best view of the vibrant sunset hues over the shimmering Caribbean Sea.

For true indulgence, Love Nest Suites include personal butler service, expansive balconies with Tranquility Soaking Tubs™ for two, and a private infinity-edge plunge pool.

Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa features 5 innovatively designed pools complete with waterfalls, lagoons, hideaways, swim-up bars, and one with a firepit placed smack dab in the middle. If you’re more inclined for a dip in the ocean, the beach offers complimentary watersports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skis, and more. In addition, the resort has a fitness center, spa, tennis courts, and 10 restaurants serving a wide variety of cuisines.

Andros Island, The Bahamas, Caribbean

Beautifully located along a serene beach amid lovely palm trees, Small Hope Bay Lodge is a chic and relaxed all-inclusive resort on secluded and pristine Andros Island in The Bahamas. Private beachfront cabins put you right by the water and offer hammocks and comfortable sun loungers to while away the day. 

Mouthwatering meals and tasty drinks, scuba diving lessons and water sports rentals, a library lounge and a game room, outdoor showers, as well as guided fishing excursions for an additional fee are some of the amenities available. Small Hope Bay Lodge is an affordable Christmas beach vacation option; the daily all-inclusive rates begin at $295. 

Negril, Jamaica, Caribbean

Jamaica offers warm winter temperatures, a laidback vibe, and plenty of holiday fun. The town of Negril features one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Seven Mile Beach, a beautiful stretch of powder-soft white sand along with the vivid colors of the Caribbean. You can stay on the best stretch of this gorgeous beach at Sandals Negril. One of six Sandals resorts in Jamaica, the adults-only all-inclusive Sandals Negril offers all sorts of ways to relax, spend quality time together, and have fun.

The water here is calm and crystal clear, perfect for swimming and watersports like wakeboarding, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can snorkel right off the beach at Sandals Negril and see colorful reefs and abundant marine life. You can also enjoy 3 pools (one with a swim-up bar) and 3 whirlpools.

Since it’s a Sandals Resort, your stay includes unlimited fine dining, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, with seven restaurants to choose from. Several of the restaurants at Sandals Negril are beachfront, including the open-air Cucina Romana, Bayside, the Beach Bistro, and Barefoot by the Sea. Sandals Negril is another affordable Christmas beach vacation option, with rates starting at $266 per person per night (for an even more affordable choice, check out Sandals Ochi).

St. Lucia, Caribbean

St. Lucia is considered one of the most romantic Caribbean islands. Nestled between the South Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, it is often referred to as “little Hawaii.” This picturesque island is home to some jaw-dropping scenery, thanks to the Piton mountains and rainforest interior. You can enjoy spectacular views, stunning beaches, and a plethora of activities, making St. Lucia an idyllic destination for a romantic Christmas beach vacation. This is also a great choice for an all-inclusive Christmas beach vacation, as there are multiple luxury all-inclusive resorts here (including 3 Sandals adults-only all-inclusive resorts).

Couples looking for privacy will love the over-the-water bungalows at Sandals Grande St. Lucian. Glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time. Couples can also admire the beauty of the ocean from their private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two or an overwater hammock—or just slip right into the water from your deck.

The extended private sun deck is also equipped with an outdoor shower, sun loungers, and a bistro set for two. Butler Elite service, which handles every detail of your vacation with unobtrusive grace, and 24-hour room service are included to complete your over-water vacation.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian offers a huge assortment of complimentary water and land activities. And with 12 restaurants on-site plus 15 more at two nearby Sandals resorts, you’ll never run out of dishes to try. You also have access to 2 golf courses, with complimentary transfer and greens fees included, plus all facilities at the other two resorts.

Mexico

Mexico offers plenty of gorgeous spots where you can escape the chill of winter and enjoy a relaxing Christmas beach vacation. Here are some great Christmas beach vacation spots in Mexico.

Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is set on the stunning white sands of Akumal Beach (which has been voted one of the top ten beaches in Mexico). The calm Caribbean waters and a native sea turtle population make this a snorkelers’ paradise. The grounds are spectacular as well, featuring paths that wind through tropical landscaping. Suites here are spacious, and most offer sea views from their private balconies or terraces. They also come with whirlpool tubs for two. You can book a swim-out suite here as well.

Guests enjoy delicious dining at 8 restaurants and can choose from 5 bars including a swim-up bar, a beach bar, and a music lounge. There are plenty of activities such as non-motorized water sports, tennis, archery, bike tours, dance classes, and Spanish lessons, Onsite facilities include 3 pools, 2 hot tubs, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. Golfers get complimentary greens fees at the Riviera Maya Golf Club.

If you want to spend your romantic holiday escape in a relaxing environment on a sandy beach in front of the ocean, Excellence Playa Mujeres in Cancun is one of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. It offers great service, a variety of culinary experiences, and beautiful spacious rooms and suites with ocean views, swim-up access, and rooftop terraces with plunge pools. Guests enjoy the soft white sand beach and winding pools with gorgeous views.

Romantic extras here include couples’ massages and treatments at the world-class Miilé Spa, private dinners on the beach, and even an indulgent champagne breakfast in bed.

Belize

Belize is a charming country in Central America with lush jungles, Mayan ruins, fantastic diving and snorkeling, and gorgeous Caribbean beaches. For a super-romantic Christmas beach vacation, check out Cayo Espanto, a private island resort just off the coast of San Pedro, Belize. This hidden tropical resort, with its lush natural setting and just a handful of accommodations, is an ideal beach escape for couples—one that allows you to feel as though you have the whole island to yourselves.

For the ultimate privacy, book the exclusive over-the-water bungalow, Casa Ventanas. The 1000-square-foot one-bedroom villa is the most intimate accommodation on the island, with nothing but beautiful views from all around. Lounge on your private deck or slip into the warm Caribbean waters; you’ll feel like you’re the only couple for miles around.

Located at the end of a private dock, this incredibly romantic overwater bungalow comes with a butler, personalized meals, concierge services, and more. A glass insert in the floor gives you the unique experience of glimpsing sea life below, and a light lets you see what the fish are up to at night!

At Cayo Espanto, your activities and meals are personalized based on your preferences. The world’s second-largest barrier reef system is nearby if you like to dive or snorkel. You can also enjoy fishing, non-motorized water sports, or tours of Mayan ruins on the mainland. Or, try exclusive experiences like a day on the resort’s private yacht with an afternoon picnic on a deserted beach or a helicopter tour over the Great Blue Hole.

Maldives, Indian Ocean

If you’re looking for an exotic Christmas beach vacation, consider The Maldives, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean that are a popular exotic destination known for jaw-dropping beauty. It’s impossible to choose the most romantic island in The Maldives, as so many of them offer swoonworthy white sand beaches surrounded by brilliant turquoise lagoons. You’ll have your pick of amazing luxury resorts where you can enjoy an overwater bungalow for an unforgettable Christmas beach holiday.

 Kandolhu Maldives is an idyllic resort set on a lush emerald green island with wide sandy beaches and a colorful and vibrant coral reef. Located southwest of Male in the North Atoll, this exclusive adults-only island resort can be reached in 25 minutes by seaplane.

Kandolhu blends modern architecture with the natural elements of the Maldives for comfort and an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the colorful sunset each day from the private deck of your spacious overwater or beachfront villa. The all-inclusive package here includes meals at 5 intimate, à la carte gourmet restaurants; unlimited premium beverages; a private snorkeling tour or sunset cruise; and complimentary watersports.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia, South Pacific

Another top exotic Christmas beach destination is the South Pacific, featuring one of the most famous romantic islands in the world: Bora Bora. This paradise in French Polynesia is what many people picture when they think of the ultimate romantic escape. The lush island features beautiful beaches, clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, and warm hospitality. Stay over a stunning turquoise lagoon in one of the iconic overwater bungalows for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora has long had a reputation for providing service of the highest standard with the comforts you expect in a 5-star luxury hotel, mixed with Polynesian hospitality, making it a top choice for a Christmas beach vacation.

Adventures on water and land welcome you at this sand-fringed idyll in the shadow of Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu. Toast sunsets from your private plunge pool, stretch out on the white sand beach, marvel at the Tahitian night sky, or lose yourself in the lagoon, where the waters teem with exotic reef fish and colorful corals. The Four Seasons can create unparalleled luxury experiences for the ultimate in romance.

The Florida Keys, U.S.

If you want to stay closer to home for the holidays, the best Christmas beach vacations in the U.S. are in south Florida, which has warm temperatures throughout the winter. The best Christmas beach vacations in Florida are in the Florida Keys, a string of tiny gorgeous islands just off the southern tip of the state. Here are some of our top places to stay for Christmas beach vacations in the Florida Keys:

An adults-only all-inclusive resort in a tropical garden along 1000 feet of shoreline, Bungalows Key Largo is an opulent but casual oasis. It offers a lovely white sand beach, two pools and jacuzzis, two open-air waterfront restaurants, a gourmet fine dining restaurant, several bars, and a full-service spa with a Zen garden.

Elegant bungalows are spacious and feature private verandas, loungers, outdoor soaking tubs, and outdoor showers. Choose from waterfront or garden settings. Accommodations here include welcome drinks and refreshments, all meals, premium alcoholic beverages and select wines, kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel gear, group yoga classes, a fitness tiki, recreational activities, live entertainment, cruiser bikes, high-speed WiFi, valet parking, turndown service, and transportation in a 5-mile radius.

Kona Kai in Key Largo is a tranquil adults-only resort set along the water amid beautiful botanical gardens. This intimate retreat has just 13 rooms and suites, a private beach, and a waterfront pool and jacuzzi.

Cheeca Lodge and Spa in Islamorada offers luxurious rooms and suites on 27 acres of lush gardens, a long stretch of waterfront, 3 restaurants, a 9-hole golf course, a spa and fitness center, an oceanfront tiki bar, adult and family pools, and plenty of watersports. Lounge on the palm-fringed beach or go kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or scuba diving; fish from the longest pier in the Keys, or book a sportfishing charter to get out into the deep water.

Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel and Resort in Marathon lives up to its name with a stunning setting on the water. Stay in a beautifully decorated room or private beach house and enjoy the white sand beach, watersports, 3 pools, beachfront tiki bar, and award-winning restaurant.

Maui, Hawaii

The other top spot for Christmas beach vacations in the U.S. is Hawaii. With mild year-round temperatures and a wealth of things to do, Hawaii is a fantastic place to spend the holidays, especially for couples who live on the West Coast and can get there in just a few hours.

Maui is popular because of its amazing landscape, including both black and golden sand beaches, lush greenery, waterfalls, and Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano in the world. It also has calm waters that are great for snorkeling, as well as world-famous sunsets. Maui is a laidback and relaxed island that’s good for couples who love the beach and outdoor activities.

For a luxurious Christmas beach holiday, try the Four Seasons Maui. It is one of the most luxe beachfront resorts in Maui, set along the glorious golden sands of Wailea Beach. Four Seasons resorts are known for their amazing service, and here your every need will be attended to. As you lounge on the beach, drinks, food, and cold towels will be delivered to you. You can go snorkeling right from the shore and will usually encounter some of the sea turtles that live nearby.

There’s a beautiful salt-water infinity-edge pool for just adults, two other swimming pools, a full-service spa, a choice of fine-dining and beachside restaurants, tennis courts, a games room, and a range of free daily activities.

You can arrange exceptional tailor-made trips and experiences to make your stay truly special. Romantic activities include couples’ massages, training in massage techniques to learn how to pamper each other at home, romantic private picnics on the beach, and candle-lit dinners without another soul in sight.

Elegant and spacious rooms and suites come with large private balconies or lanais (Hawaiian patios), deep soaking tubs, and glorious views of the gardens, mountains, or ocean. There are 5 different restaurants onsite.