Where to Go to the Seaside for Christmas This Year? We Have Great Tips for You

What about to spend Christmas by the Sea? Nothing beats escaping winter’s chill for a beachside Christmas!

Whether you’re dreaming of palm trees strung with lights or hoping to spot Santa surfing, here’s your guide to the perfect coastal Christmas getaway.

From budget-friendly spots to luxury destinations, let’s dive into America’s best seaside Christmas destinations and a few international gems.

We will introduce them to you in this article!

U.S. Coastal Destinations

Imagine swapping your winter boots for flip-flops this Christmas! U.S. coastal destinations offer a magical twist on traditional holiday celebrations, where palm trees sparkle with lights and Santa might just arrive by speedboat.

From the sun-kissed beaches of Florida to California’s scenic shores, America’s coastlines transform into unique holiday wonderlands. You can build sandcastles instead of snowmen, enjoy festive beach bonfires, and watch spectacular holiday boat parades while enjoying mild temperatures.

Key West, Florida

Trade snow for sand in the Conch Republic! Key West’s Holiday Fest features lighted boat parades and historic inns decked in tropical holiday splendor. Watch the sunset at Mallory Square while sipping egg nog with a Caribbean twist.

San Diego, California

Experience the magical “December Nights” in Balboa Park and catch the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. With average temps in the high 60s, you can build sandcastles instead of snowmen!

Family favorite: The Hotel del Coronado’s beachfront ice skating rink

Hawaii’s Big Island

Imagine Santa arriving by canoe! Experience a traditional Hawaiian Christmas with beachside luaus and “Mele Kalikimaka” celebrations. The Kona Coast offers perfect swimming weather and festive resort activities.

Splurge-worthy: Book a Christmas Eve sunset dinner cruise

Savannah, Georgia

Southern charm meets coastal beauty. Stroll Tybee Island’s beach before exploring Savannah’s historic district, which is adorned with magnificent Christmas decorations.

Charleston, South Carolina

Experience a Lowcountry Christmas with holiday boat parades and historic homes tours. Folly Beach offers peaceful winter walks and amazing seafood restaurants.

Caribbean Escapes

Puerto Rico

No passport needed! Old San Juan transforms into a holiday wonderland with traditional parrandas (caroling) and festive markets. The weather is perfect for beach days and exploration.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Enjoy duty-free Christmas shopping in St. Thomas or the quieter beaches of St. John. Experience the Crucian Christmas Festival on St. Croix.

Family perk: Easy travel with U.S. currency and no passport requirements

International Beach Destinations

Cancun, Mexico

Perfect for families and couples alike, Cancun offers all-inclusive resorts with special holiday programs. Combine beach time with exploring Mayan ruins decorated for the season.

Bahamas

Nassau’s festive Junkanoo parade on Boxing Day is unforgettable! Paradise Island offers both family-friendly and luxury resort options.

Costa Rica

Perfect for adventure lovers, this combination of beach time and rainforest exploration is perfect. Many resorts offer special Christmas packages with local traditions.

Budget-Friendly Options

South Padre Island, Texas

Surprisingly affordable with mild winter temperatures. The Holiday Sandcastle Village offers unique photo ops!

Money-saver: Consider condo rentals for family groups

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Beautiful beaches with Southern hospitality and wallet-friendly accommodations. The annual Christmas lighted boat parade is spectacular.

Local secret: Visit nearby Fairhope for magical Christmas lights

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Off-season rates make this family favorite budget-friendly. The Carolina Opry Christmas Special is a must-see!

Deal alert: Many hotels offer holiday packages including show tickets

Luxury Picks

Maui, Hawaii

Five-star resorts go all out for Christmas with luaus and special events. Whale-watching season begins in December!

Worth it: Book a Christmas Day champagne brunch

15. Palm Beach, Florida

Luxury shopping, gorgeous beaches, and sophisticated holiday events. Worth Avenue’s holiday decorations are Instagram-worthy.

Splurge: Book tea at The Breakers decorated for Christmas

Exotic Luxury Destinations

Dreaming of an extraordinary Christmas that combines ultimate luxury with exotic charm? Imagine celebrating the holidays in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora, watching the sunset from Dubai’s glittering beaches, or discovering Thai traditions while lounging at a five-star resort.

These exotic destinations redefine holiday magic, offering a perfect blend of festive spirit and tropical paradise. Here, Christmas carols might be accompanied by gentle ocean waves, and Santa could arrive by yacht, camel, or even elephant!

Dubai, UAE

Experience Christmas in the desert with a beach twist! Dubai goes all out for the holiday season with spectacular decorations and events.

Must-see spots:

• Madinat Jumeirah’s Christmas market with waterfront views
• Dubai Miracle Garden’s holiday displays
• Palm Jumeirah’s luxury beach resorts
• Burj Al Arab’s legendary Christmas brunch
• Desert safari followed by Christmas dinner under the stars

French Polynesia (Ultimate Romantic Escape)

Celebrate Christmas in overwater bungalows surrounded by turquoise lagoons.

Romantic experiences:

• Private Christmas dinner on Bora Bora’s beaches
• Couples’ spa treatments with holiday specials
• Sunset cruises with champagne
• Christmas morning breakfast delivered by canoe
• Pearl shopping for unique Christmas gifts

Why is Thailand So Popular for Christmas?

Thailand has become an increasingly popular Christmas destination, and it’s easy to see why. During December, the country enjoys its best weather of the year, with perfect temperatures, low humidity, and clear blue skies that seem designed for postcard-perfect holiday photos.

This dry season creates ideal conditions, from peaceful beach days to exciting island-hopping adventures.

What truly sets Thailand apart is its incredible value for luxury experiences. Visitors can indulge in five-star resorts, private villa stays, and world-class spa treatments at prices that would barely cover a standard hotel in many Western destinations.

Imagine spending Christmas morning in a private pool villa, followed by a massage at a luxury spa, all while staying within a reasonable holiday budget.

Top Thai Christmas Destinations:

Phuket

Phuket turns into a tropical holiday paradise during Christmas. Luxury resorts host special programs with gala dinners and unique Thai-style Santa appearances, blending traditional and local culture. Beach clubs offer lively parties where you can dance in the sand and enjoy festive cocktails.

Day trips to the beautiful Phi Phi Islands let you snorkel or relax on stunning beaches—experiences you won’t find back home! In the evening, Phuket’s Old Town shines with Christmas lights, enhancing its charm and providing perfect spots for holiday photos and enjoyable walks.

Koh Samui

The laid-back island of Koh Samui offers a more intimate Christmas experience. Here, you’ll find yourself celebrating in boutique resorts that specialize in personal touches and intimate holiday gatherings. The island’s legendary spa retreats offer special seasonal treatments, perfect for holiday relaxation. Christmas takes on a different flavor with festive night markets and boat trips to the stunning Angthong Marine Park, where you can spend Christmas Day exploring hidden lagoons and viewpoints.

Krabi

In Krabi, adventure meets the festive spirit in a unique way. Rock climbing enthusiasts don Santa hats while scaling the famous limestone cliffs, creating memorable holiday photos. The area’s Christmas beach BBQs have become legendary, combining fresh seafood with traditional holiday favorites. Day trips to the Hong Islands offer a peaceful escape during the busy season, while visits to the Tiger Cave Temple provide a cultural touch to your holiday experience.

Luxury Christmas Cruises

Set sail into the holiday spirit with luxurious Christmas cruises that offer an unforgettable way to celebrate the season. These cruises combine the joy of festive traditions with the beauty of breathtaking destinations. Enjoy lavish meals, glittering decorations, and world-class entertainment, all while surrounded by the tranquil waters and stunning views.

Join us as we explore the delights that await on these holiday voyages!

Caribbean Holiday Cruise

Choose from Royal Caribbean’s Christmas voyages, Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime Cruises, or Celebrity Cruises’ holiday island-hopping adventures. Enjoy unique onboard activities like gingerbread house competitions, Christmas carol sing-alongs, and holiday-themed shows. Meet Santa at sea, indulge in special Christmas Day menus, and experience the magic of the holidays like never before—surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Mediterranean Christmas Cruises

Celebrate the holidays with a Mediterranean Christmas cruise that blends festive cheer with cultural discovery. Visit enchanting Christmas markets in historic ports, experience unique holiday traditions from different countries, and enjoy festive shore excursions that immerse you in the season’s magic. Onboard, take part in holiday cooking classes to learn regional recipes, and savor the joy of exploring the Mediterranean’s timeless beauty during the most wonderful time of the year.

Why Spend Christmas at the Sea?

Break from Tradition: trade snowy slopes for sunny shores this holiday season, create unique family memories with a tropical getaway and embrace new cultural experiences.

Health Benefits: Escape the winter chill, avoid the stress of hosting, and reap amazing health benefits. Enjoy a Vitamin D boost, reduce stress, better sleep with soothing ocean sounds, and a natural lift in mood.

Practical Advantages: Tropical destinations are often cheaper than ski resorts, are less crowded, and offer a wide variety of dining and activities. They’re the perfect way to relax, recharge, and reconnect with loved ones.

Fun Facts & Interesting Tips

Did You Know?

• Santa arrives by surfboard in Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach
• Dubai’s malls have skiing AND beach access
• Some tropical destinations import snow for Christmas
• The world’s largest floating Christmas tree is in Rio de Janeiro
• Caribbean beaches often have “Christmas winds” – perfect for windsurfing

Travel Hacks for Beach Christmas

Travel Hacks for a Beach Christmas

Swap snow for sand this holiday season and enjoy a laid-back, sun-soaked Christmas by the beach! Whether you’re heading to the Caribbean, Hawaii, or the Mediterranean coast, these tips will ensure your trip is stress-free and festive.

Top Tips for a Perfect Beach Christmas

1. Pack Smart: Include sunscreen, lightweight holiday outfits, and a small travel-friendly Christmas decoration like fairy lights or a mini tree.
2. Book Early: Beach destinations fill up fast during the holidays, so lock in flights and accommodations well in advance for better deals.
3. Embrace Local Traditions: Research how the locals celebrate Christmas and join in on unique holiday festivities for a memorable experience.
4. Plan a Holiday Feast: Find beachfront restaurants offering special Christmas menus or organize a picnic with local delicacies.
5. Bring the Festive Spirit: Play holiday tunes, exchange small gifts, and enjoy a sunrise or sunset to make the day feel extra special.

With a little preparation, your beach Christmas can be the perfect mix of relaxation and holiday cheer.

Whether you’re seeking warm weather, adventure, or just a different kind of holiday magic, whether you’re building sandcastles or snowmen, these seaside destinations offer something for everyone. Remember, Christmas is about making memories; sometimes the best ones happen with sand between your toes!

Happy coastal Christmas planning!