For many of us the slushy, bundled-up daily commute is unavoidable for a few dark months per year. And sadly that time of year is upon us. So, the next time you find yourself scraping the windshield in polar vortex conditions or Googling “How to remove salt stains from shoes” imagine barefoot beach combing for seashells and sipping margaritas for lunch while listening to Jimmy Buffett, the sun and sand a warm reflection in your shades.
In part one of this two-part series we lauded the warmth and benefits of 4 sunny mainland destinations from San Diego to Miami Beach. Now, we explore 4 off-shore getaways sure to cure the wintertime blues.
Turks & Caicos
Beach House
A boutique hotel experience on a Caribbean beach. With just 21 rooms, this is the resort to book when you’re in that white linen and flipflops state of mind. Sit back with a Carl Hiaasen book and a glass of white — and bust out the binoculars between chapters and sips to scope out the humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles that live just off shore.
Alexandra
On the sand: let beach attendants set up your chairs and umbrellas for a day in the kingdom of salt spray, lapping surf, and sunshine. On the water: stand up paddle board, kayak, and snorkeling equipment use is free. In the resort: tough call—swim-up pool bar for daiquiris and pina coladas or spa.
Blue Haven Resort & Marina
Choose this nautical retreat, set apart from big resort bustle, if you want seclusion. The ocean view, interrupted only by yachts sailing past or perhaps a passing humpback whale, will stay with you back in the cold climes of New York or Boston or where ever you’re coming from.
St. Croix
The Buccaneer
Between white sand beaches and verdant hills, The Buccaneer delivers a one-of-kind island experience. Sunbathe or sail out on the blue waters for snorkeling or fishing. Dig into the near-400 year history of the property — from Maltan royalty to sugar farming — and wine and dine al fresco at the award-winning Terrace.
Panama
Casa Cayuco Eco Adventure Lodge
For those looking for the ultimate unplug, Casa Cayuco is the full ticket. Located on an island in Panama’s Bocas del Toro, the list of things to do during your all-inclusive, 3 night minimum stay is as exciting as it is long. Tour an organic chocolate farm, zip-line through the jungle, check out the nearby caves, snorkel through underwater gardens, and come home to an amazing meal of fresh-caught fish and other local delectables.
Hawaii
Honua Kai
The golden life on this Pacific archipelago never fails to recharge the battery. Honau Kai offers ultimate luxury on Kaanapali Beach. Hawaiian lomi lomi massage, a top restaurant and bar serving Hawaiian cuisine with a surf-history vibe, private lanais, and full kitchens to cook your own market-fresh fish. Temps remain high and tropical flowers bloom all year, so escape to the islands of aloha anytime.