Where to Escape This Winter: 11 Tropical Getaways That Deliver on the Promise of Sun and Sand
For travelers craving warmth, the world’s best tropical destinations offer more than just a beach towel and a cold drink. Think swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives, pedaling past pineapple fields in French Polynesia, or exploring mangrove forests in the Philippines. These 11 spots serve up nature at its finest—think powdery sand, clear water, and jungle trails—without the crowds.
In the Maldives, Baa Atoll is a UNESCO-protected haven where manta rays gather by the hundreds from July to October. Stay at .Here Baa Atoll, where just seven residences sit on a private sandbank, offering quiet luxury and a full water sports center.
Naples, Florida, delivers Gulf Coast charm and 90 golf courses, plus eco-tours through the Everglades. The newly rebuilt Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons property, blends Old Florida style with modern comforts and a rooftop pool.
South Caicos, with a population of just 1,000, is the quiet side of Turks and Caicos. Bike to Bell Sound lagoon for bird-watching or paddle the shallows. Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort, greets guests with hibiscus tea and blush-toned rooms facing the beach.
St. Barts packs French flair into 10 square miles, with 14 beaches and over 20 dive sites. For seclusion, Hotel Le Toiny sits on the wild southeastern tip, offering infinity pools and minimal-chic suites.
Siargao Island in the Philippines is the surfing capital of the country, home to the legendary Cloud 9 break. Nay Palad Hideaway offers whimsical villas wrapped in nipa palms, see-through kayaks, and traditional hilot healing.
Harbour Island in the Bahamas is known for its pink sand beaches, thanks to crushed shells and coral. Coral Sands Inn & Cottages leans into the theme with seashell detailing and Pink Mermaid cocktails.
Moorea, French Polynesia, rivals Bora Bora with its jagged peaks and waterfalls. Hike the Mont Rotui trail for 360-degree views, or book an ATV tour through pineapple fields. Sofitel Kia Ora sits on Moorea’s longest private beach, offering coral planting and lagoon tours.
Trancoso, Brazil, was once a quiet fishing village. Now it’s home to Uxua Maré, a rewilding project with indigo-dyed textiles and sloths in the trees, set against the sound of crashing waves.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, offers palm-lined beaches and whale-watching. The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort provides tranquility with Dominican artwork and Latin Caribbean flavors at Cassava restaurant.
Nayarit, Mexico, stretches 200 miles along the Pacific, with surf beaches and jaguar-filled woods. Rosewood Mandarina blends jungle and sea, with peyote balm massages and horse-riding lessons.
Kauai, Hawaii, is the Garden Isle, home to the dramatic Nā Pali Coast and Hanalei Bay. 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay takes an eco-driven approach, with a spa using native kava and noni plants.