Now is a great time to start planning a Christmas beach vacation. December is the perfect time of year to escape frigid temperatures for a few days in a sunny destination.
Here are some of the best places to spend Christmas on the beach in 2025. And don’t think you have to forgo a Christmas tree or meal with family. You can still celebrate all day long—you’ll just have a little more sun and sand than usual.
Key West, Florida
Key West, Florida
Quirky, free-spirited Key West doesn’t disappoint when it comes to Christmas. You’ll probably be sipping a festive rum punch rather than a hot toddy here.
There’s no shortage of holiday spirit here, though you’ll most likely spend at least part of Christmas Day lounging under a tropical sun.
As you spend your day in Key West, check out the lavish decorations festooning the houses. Cycling is a great way to get around, all the more so as there are no hills.
Take to the water on a catamaran cruise and look out for wild dolphins before jumping into the warm water to snorkel over dazzling corals.
Southernmost Point in Key West, Florida
Snap a selfie at the buoy marking the southernmost point of the United States. See the villa where writer Ernest Hemingway lived, or follow in his footsteps and try your hand at sport fishing.
Remember to make time for a snack stop to try the tangy Key lime pie that Key West is known for.
Cozumel
Playa Mia in Cozumel, Mexico
With so many beautiful beaches, scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, incredible outdoor adventures, and ancient history, Cozumel is a must-visit destination any time of year. But it feels especially exotic and luxurious to spend Christmas Eve on the beach here while looking out for dolphins in the water and feeling the tropical sun on your face.
If your goal for the holiday is to spend as much of it on the sand as possible, Playa Mia—one of Cozumel’s best beaches—may be the spot for you. In addition to having a gorgeous beach, beach chairs, kayaks, snorkel gear, and even an inflatable over-the-water obstacle course for adults, there’s more just away from the sand.
That includes several pools, a lazy river, a hydro-massage hot tub, and a swim-up cocktail bar. The weather is almost always warm and sunny in Cozumel, so you may want to swap your egg nog for a tequila sunrise instead.
San Gervasio in Cozumel, Mexico
If you prefer a more adventurous holiday in the Caribbean, Cozumel is still a top pick. There are several Mayan ruins near Cozumel, including San Gervasio, dedicated to birth and fertility goddess Ix Chel, and Chichen Itza, a massive Mayan city eventually taken over by the Spanish in the mid-1500s.
For a destination so close to the U.S., Cozumel offers the chance to spend Christmas in the Caribbean completely unlike the holiday you’d have back at home.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Las Teresitas Beach in Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and also the most mountainous. The volcano Teide, which is in fact Spain’s highest mountain, dominates the scenery. At Christmas, is likely to be sporting a snowy cap.
You can take a tour up the mountain for magnificent views down over the surrounding countryside and, of course, throw a snowball.
Santa Cruz in Tenerife, Canary Islands
Christmas is an important holiday in the Canary Islands, usually spent with family, but there’s still plenty to do. Soak up the festive scene; as well as Christmas trees and nativity scenes, the palm trees are wrapped with lights.
You’ll hear Christmas carols everywhere, and there’s even an annual concert in Santa Cruz on Christmas Day by the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra.
The novelty for most visitors, especially if you come from a cold country, is to spend Christmas day on a beach in Tenerife. With December weather typically warm and sunny, a lot of locals do this, and many of the beach restaurants and cafés are open over the holidays.
Mount Teide in Tenerife, Canary Islands
Hiking is one of the best things to do in Tenerife, which immerses you in nature as you stroll along clifftops and through verdant gorges. Winter is the perfect time to set out on a hike, as it should be sunny but not too hot.
The Galapagos
Galapagos
There’s something to be said for escaping the festive season completely, and there’s no better place to immerse yourself in nature than the Galapagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago scattered across the Pacific, 850 miles from mainland Ecuador.
You’ll see endemic species here that are found nowhere else on Earth. You can snorkel off sparkling black sand beaches to swim among Galapagos penguins and graceful sea turtles.
Marine iguana in the Galapagos
Pick your way over the sand past snoozing sea lions, which, like all the Galapagos animals, are completely oblivious to humans. Gaze at thousands of craggy land and marine iguanas, posing like statues on the rocks, and look out for blue-footed boobies performing their curious courtship dance.
The pristine beauty of the islands, which are all different in appearance, and the chance to get so close to the wildlife is a truly life-affirming experience; a vacation here is one of the best Christmas gifts you can give yourself.
Ko Samui, Thailand
Ko Samui, Thailand
Tropical islands don’t come more dreamy than Ko Samui, a reef-fringed gem in the Gulf of Thailand.
Tall coconut palms arch over long, powdery-white beaches, and fish in dazzling colors flit over thriving reefs in the clear water. The island’s interior is mountainous and jungly.
Chaweng Beach in Ko Samui, Thailand
You could celebrate the festive season with a Thai massage on the beach or fresh coconut water straight from the shell.
Chaweng is one of the best beaches, where you’ll find a long sweep of sand with warm, shallow water. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants serving authentic Thai food, and there are plenty of umbrellas for shade.
You could combine Bophut Beach—one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia—with a visit to the enormous, gilded Big Buddha statue, housed in the colorful temple Wat Phra Yai.
For a much quieter beach, head to Maenam in the north of the island, or Lamai, where the mountains slope right down to the sea.
Ang Thong National Marine Park in Ko Samui, Thailand
Snorkeling enthusiasts could join a boat trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of 42 forested islands, with waterfalls, emerald lagoons, and monkeys scampering through the treetops. The beaches here are beautiful, and as you drift over the coral reefs, you may have green and hawksbill sea turtles for company.
Nassau, Bahamas
Pearl Island in Nassau, Bahamas
For a quick getaway from just about anywhere on the east coast, set your sights on Nassau in the Bahamas. Nassau is one of the easiest places to reach from the U.S., but that doesn’t mean it feels like anything you’d find in the States.
It’s colorful, friendly, welcoming, and has fantastic food, so it’s a perfect place to celebrate Christmas on the beach if you want to swap your mashed potatoes for conch chowder.
Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas
For a special Christmas, spend the day at the Atlantis Resort which packs an incredible amount of adventure into one lavish destination.
Walk (or take a waterslide) through a shark tank, explore a sprawling marine aquarium, visit the Aquaventure Water Park, or rent a private cabana for two by the pool or beach. There are also plenty of family and adults-only activities offered around the holidays.
Balmoral Island in Nassau, Bahamas
For an indulgent Christmas Day celebration, book a trip to Balmoral Island, just off the coast. The private beach resort has everything you need for a perfect Christmas at the beach, including loungers, snorkel gear rentals, a restaurant and bar, and opportunities to get in the water with stingrays and dolphins.
It’s just a quick ferry ride to the island, and beach floats and tubes are available so you could spend Christmas just drifting around in the sun.
Bahama Barrels Winery in Nassau, Bahamas
Take a break from the sun on a wine-themed adventure at the Bahama Barrels Winery, housed on the grounds of a 1930s church.
Oenophiles will probably know that it’s quite hard to grow grapes in The Bahamas, so the winery sources grapes from around the world to make incredible blends and varietals on-site.
Visits usually include a tour, a hands-on winemaking class, and even a chance to make your own custom blend. Now, there’s a perfect Christmas present.
Read: Best Beaches in Nassau
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
El Golfo in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Stark, volcanic Lanzarote offers a warm welcome at Christmas. Despite the fact that the island is usually bathed in sunshine, you’ll see Christmas trees, lights, and nativity scenes everywhere.
Geria Valley in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Lanzarote has many curiosities. Vines are grown in little pits in the ground, thriving on the fertile volcanic soil and protected from the wind. Raise a glass to happy holidays with one or more vintages from the Geria Valley on the island.
You’ll also see salt flats, rippling sand dunes, and volcanoes. One of the best things to do in Lanzarote is to visit Timanfaya National Park, which has an otherworldly feel and is dotted with craters.
Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Guides demonstrate the powerful geothermal heat by pouring water into a hole in the ground, only to have it whoosh skywards in the form of a geyser seconds later. There’s also a chance to ride a camel against a backdrop of sand dunes that change color during the day as the sun crosses the sky.
Playa del Reducto in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
The island is home to some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands, some with glittering black sand.
Playa del Reducto, the urban beach in Arrecife, the capital, is in fact a long sweep of golden sand. Make your way across the island to El Golfo to see its dramatic black sand beaches. A sandbar pounded by Atlantic rollers protects a green lagoon, making this an unusual and starkly beautiful spot to spend a few hours.
Grand Cayman
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman is home to some of the best beaches in the world. One of those is Seven Mile Beach, which is actually a long series of beaches, coves, and stunning vistas. This is a great stretch of sand on which to celebrate Christmas on the beach.
Relax on a beach chair, go for a snorkel, or pop by a local beach bar for an afternoon cocktail. You can then stroll on the beach and check out some of the nearby coves and tidepools. If you’re lucky, you can spot a sea turtle or two in the shallow water.
Hell, Grand Cayman
Going to Hell on Christmas Day may not sound appealing, but it is when you’re in Grand Cayman. The “Hell” rock formation is an extremely photogenic section of the island where black limestone formations create a jagged landscape reminiscent of Dante’s Inferno.
Stingray City, Grand Cayman
In Grand Cayman, you can also spend Christmas morning just west of the beach—and yes, that puts you in the middle of the ocean. Take a quick boat ride to one of the best Grand Cayman snorkeling spots—Stingray City, a sandbar just off the shore where stingrays and nurse sharks often congregate.
They’re incredibly used to people, and the water is very shallow, so you can hop off the boat with snorkel gear and swim just a few feet above them, or stand in the warm shallows. Tidbits offered by the guides lure rays, who will brush gently past your legs. It’s a thrilling encounter with such majestic sea creatures.
Celukan Bawang, Bali, Indonesia
Celukan Bawang in Bali, Indonesia
Serving as the gateway to Bali’s quieter, less-developed northern coast, Celukan Bawang was once rooted in the timber trade and now functions as the region’s primary port. It offers a chance to experience what many call the “real Bali,” whether exploring nearby fishing villages, browsing local markets, or walking along the waterfront.
When you’re ready to venture further, head to Lovina Beach for a day of sun, sand, and dolphin spotting. Dolphin watching tours start bright and early, when the sea is calmest and the dolphins are most active. While you might spot a few different species, the most common is the playful spinner dolphin.
Banjar Hot Springs in Bali, Indonesia
Just outside of Lovina is Banjar Hot Springs. The water here comes from natural sulfur springs underground, and many believe that the water has healing properties that help with skin conditions and joint or muscle pain. Banjar has changing rooms, showers, and even some small cafés nearby, but it’s best to bring your towel, sandals, and snacks if you get hungry.
West Bali National Park in Bali, Indonesia
To see rare wildlife like the endangered Bali Starling up close, head to West Bali National Park, or Taman Nasional Bali Barat, one of the best places to visit in Bali. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, from kayaking through mangrove forests to snorkeling around Menjangan Island.
Visiting Bali around Christmas means generally warm, humid weather with occasional afternoon showers. When possible, try to plan your excursions for early morning or late afternoon. You’ll get cooler temperatures and clearer skies.
St. Kitts
St. Kitts
Warm, tropical temperatures and a festive atmosphere make St. Kitts a refreshing choice for celebrating Christmas. During the holiday season, the island comes alive with live music, colorful decorations, and plenty of Christmas cheer with a Caribbean twist.
Starting in Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts, you’ll find several historical and cultural attractions worth exploring. Inspired by London’s Piccadilly Circus, the Circus and Berkeley Memorial features a central fountain and the Berkeley Memorial Clock Tower.
For locally made souvenirs, head to the Amina Craft Market, where vendors offer everything from handmade jewelry and paintings to ceramics and soaps—a great way to support local artisans.
Paddleboarding in St. Kitts
Whether you’re up for a snorkeling adventure or want to soak up some much-needed vitamin D, St. Kitts has a beach to suit every interest. South Friars Beach, located on the southern shore, is an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling. If you’re feeling more active, you can also rent a jet ski or stand-up paddleboard.
Cockleshell Beach is another one of the best beaches in St. Kitts. Situated on the island’s popular southern coast, Cockleshell is famous for its nearly two miles of powdery white sand and bright blue waters. With its warm weather and laid-back vibe, it’s no surprise that St. Kitts is often considered one of the best destinations for Christmas beach vacations.
Cockleshell Beach, St. Kitts
That said, beaches aren’t the only draw for travelers visiting St. Kitts. The island also has a rich history of colonial conflict and European settlement. One of the best ways to explore that past is with a visit to Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a remarkably well-preserved fortress often called the “Gibraltar of the Caribbean,” thanks to its strategic role during the Nine Years’ War and the American Revolutionary War.
Admission includes access to the visitor center, museum, and small restaurant. While it’s technically possible to walk to the entrance, it’s best to go by car or bus—the fortress sits atop a 972-foot volcanic hill, and the climb is steep.
Bimini, Bahamas
Bimini, Bahamas
Just 50 miles from Miami, Bimini is one of the easiest Bahamian islands to reach, especially for a last-minute winter escape. You’ll find plenty to do here during your Christmas on the beach, from relaxing on the island’s many beaches to enjoying live Junkanoo music.
One of the most popular spots is Radio Beach near Alice Town. The water here is calm and perfect for swimming, and the vibe is relaxed. Its proximity to town makes exploring local bars and restaurants easy.
Spook Hill Beach is a short drive away if you’re after something quieter. It has the same powdery white sand and turquoise waters, but a more secluded, peaceful feel.
Bimini Road, Bahamas
For the ultimate snorkeling adventure, head to Bimini Road. The “road” refers to the large underwater rock formations arranged in a linear pattern, resembling a pathway. While some people believe these formations are connected to the legend of Atlantis, scientists aren’t sure about Bimini Road’s exact origins. Regardless, snorkeling here is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
SS Sapona shipwreck in Bimini, Bahamas
Another unique snorkeling spot in Bimini is the SS Sapona shipwreck. Unlike many other wrecks, the SS Sapona rests in relatively shallow waters, making it suitable for snorkelers of all levels, including complete beginners. Thanks to the clear Bahamian waters, visibility is excellent, and you’re likely to encounter a variety of colorful fish, such as parrotfish, sergeant majors, and angelfish.
The Bimini Nature Trail on South Bimini is a great choice if you’re looking for a land-based adventure. The loop winds through mangrove trees and lush forests, just under a mile long. Most people finish the trail in under half an hour, but you can take your time to appreciate the local flora and fauna fully. While a moderately challenging hike can increase your heart rate, the shaded jungle path offers a welcome break from the sun.
Puerto Rico
Isla Verde, Puerto Rico
By December, the Christmas spirit is in full swing in San Juan. The festivities start in mid-November with the Festival de Pascuas. This three-day event officially kicks off the holiday season. During the festival, attendees can enjoy live music, artisan markets, interactive workshops showcasing Puerto Rican crafts and traditions, and plenty of local dishes to sample.
From mid-December through January 6, NaviTown transforms Old San Juan into a festive winter wonderland. The city lights up with over 50,000 Christmas lights, parades, Santa’s workshop, and amusement park rides. Around the same time, San Juan Bay hosts the annual Christmas Boat Parade, adding even more magic to the season.
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s beaches offer a lively, urban vibe and are easy to reach from Old San Juan. Condado Beach is perfect for relaxing after experiencing the city’s Christmas festivities. The waves can be strong, so staying on the sand is best. If you want some shade, vendors nearby rent umbrellas and lounge chairs. Shops, restaurants, and bars are a short walk away.
Puerto Rico also offers land-based adventures like El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. There are several hiking trails to choose from, so there’s something for all skill levels. For the best views, opt for paths that lead to La Mina Falls and the Yokahú Tower, both of which provide stunning panoramic vistas of Puerto Rico’s landscape.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena, Colombia
Christmas overlaps with the dry season in Cartagena, Colombia, which brings sunny skies, tropical temperatures and very little rainfall. The days are warm without being too hot, making it ideal for a casual stroll through Cartagena’s historic Old Town or a full day at the beach.
Cartagena’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is especially charming during the holiday season. Streets and plazas are decorated with lights, and many hotels and venues have Christmas trees as part of their decor. You might hear locals singing Spanish carols or catching fireworks lighting the bay.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas in Cartagena, Colombia
One of the best things to do in Cartagena is to visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas for a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Built in the 16th century to defend against pirates and foreign invaders, the fortress is now among the city’s most iconic photo ops.
Like many strongholds, location was key, and Castillo San Felipe is no exception. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas was built on San Lázaro Hill, giving a full view of the city and coastline in case invaders attacked. The sloped walls, watchtowers, and underground tunnels would confuse invaders if they somehow make it that far.
These tunnels also served as escape routes and moved troops without giving enemies their location. Fortunately, they are well-preserved, and you can see them during your visit.
Bocagrande Beach in Cartagena, Colombia
There are several beaches to choose from in Cartagena. Bocagrande Beach is the closest to the city center and very accessible. Given its location near hotels, shops, and restaurants, the vibe is lively and a bit urban. Convenience is a major draw here, with beach chairs and umbrella rentals available, plus plenty of food and drink vendors nearby.
Playa de Castillo Grande is close to Cartagena’s city center but offers a quieter, more local experience. While it may not be as visually striking as Bocagrande, many prefer it for a low-key beach break with fewer crowds.
Antigua
Beach in Antigua
Christmas in Antigua is lively and festive, offering visitors a real taste of local culture. In the weeks leading up to the holiday, the streets come alive with lights, and you’re sure to hear some Caribbean-influenced Christmas carols in the air.
Most festivities occur in and around St. John’s, the island’s main town. Easily explored on foot, St. John’s has a bit of everything: charming boutiques, restaurants, museums, and scenic waterfront walks.
Make sure to visit the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda to explore the island’s rich and sometimes dark history, including its indigenous roots and the colonial and slavery periods. For shopping, Heritage Quay is your go-to for duty-free stores and souvenirs, while Redcliffe Quay showcases unique crafts from local artisans.
Beach in Antigua
One of the best ways to experience Antigua is by boat—specifically, on a catamaran. This breezy journey takes travelers to prime snorkeling and swimming spots. Longer excursions even sail to Hell’s Gate and Bird Island.
Dickenson Bay is among the most popular beaches, and for good reason. Its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters create the perfect setting for sun, sand, and surf.
Dickenson Bay, Antigua
You can easily spend the whole day here, with bars, restaurants, and shops all within reach. On any given day, you’ll see people jet skiing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing and soaking up the sun.
If hiking is more your pace, Fig Tree Drive is a scenic route that winds through rainforests, quaint villages, and historic plantations. Take your time to soak in the sights—vibrant tropical flowers up close and birds soaring overhead. From certain viewpoints, you’ll see the full diversity of Antigua’s landscape, from rolling hills to sparkling coastline.
Grand Cayman
Escape to the beach this winter on a Christmas cruise. You’ll be whisked from one stunning beach destination to another while indulging in world-class dining, unmatched service, and festive Christmas decorations on board.
