I’m a firm believer that dealing with winter is an option. As much as I love a nice break from the always 76° and sunny weather in Los Angeles in exchange for the occasional ski trip or cabin getaway, to me, there’s no reason why anyone should have to brave below zero temperatures all winter while others are frolicking on beaches around the world.
Sure, not everyone can live in cities that are warm throughout the entire year, but if you need to escape frigid temperatures in New York, Chicago, Boston or D.C. before spring and summer roll around, these beautiful beach destinations can provide the perfect winter escape.
Fuvahmulah, Maldives
Temperatures soar to the high 80s this time of year in the Maldives, and the weather is the closest thing to perfection that you’re likely to find on the planet. If you can make it here in February, congratulations, you’ve won at life!
Praia da Macumba, Brazil
It’s pretty much always beach season in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and a trip to Macumba Beach will help anyone shake off the winter blues.
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Bocas del Toro, Panama
You’ll almost certainly encounter rain in Bocas del Toro during the winter months but the warm weather and laidback atmosphere will make up for it.
Gili Islands, Indonesia
Made up of three islands called Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, this archipelago in Indonesia will have temperatures in the high 80s all winter, as well as a few rainy days. Still, I’ll take a few raindrops over bone-chilling weather any day of the week.
Lakawon Island, Cadiz, Philippines
This tiny island in the Philippines has just one resort, but the white sand beaches, warm water and endless rows of coconut trees will make you forget it’s snowing back home.
Melbourne, Australia
One day it might be 101° degrees in Melbourne, the next day it might be 70°, but the winter is still a great time to escape to destinations like Brighton Beach or sunny St. Kilda Beach to enjoy Australia’s summer.