Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico© Dorado Beach, a Ritz Carlton Preserve

5 dreamy beachfront hotels that will make you forget it’s still winter


UPDATED FEBRUARY 3, 2020 5:50 PM EST

With the mere hope that spring and warmer temperatures are soon approaching, the reality is that we are still in the throes of winter. Tans have long faded from the summer and our body and soul are yearning for that mid-winter refresh. We put together some best beach vacations that are a quick flight (under four hours) away that are perfect for getting Vitamin D and R&R. Scroll through to virtually escape and become motivated to book your next beach travel getaway.

© Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Dorado Beach, Ritz Carlton Reserve

A new resort with so much history. Dorado Beach which is a mere 45-minute drive from the airport in San Juan, was originally the home of Clara Livingston and then ownership transferred to Laurance Rockefeller in the ‘50s. Since Rockefeller’s takeover, the property has been a luxurious escape for many looking to unwind and savior the flavors of Puerto Rico. The Reserve’s beachside restaurant Positivo Sandbar features an Omakase and Ceviche bar that is so convenient guests never have to leave the sand. While staying at Dorado Beach, a visit to the award-winning Spa Botánico is a must. The offerings include traditional treatments influenced by the island’s history of healing traditions that incorporate fresh locally collected herbs, healing oils and powerful affirmations.

© St. Regis Punta Mita

St. Regis Punta Mita

The ultra-lux guest experience at this resort is also the perfect relaxed family getaway. The property is vast and never feels crowded or too busy. Families have access to a beautiful pool and play area or the option to stay by the adult only pool and enjoy champagne and caviar.

During the day kids can hang out at the super adorable Tortuga Clubhouse or take part in the many activities planned daily just for them that include circus performances, piñatas and even sand castle competitions. You also have access to private childcare on site for those evenings you want to dance the night away to live music at Mita Mary's beachside with the most incredible passion fruit margaritas on the rocks in hand. Make sure to add the octopus ceviche tostadas that is addictive and a fabulous selection of fresh fish and lobster. Carolina’s is a more formal experience on property that pays homage to modern Mexican cuisine by showcasing local and fresh ingredients that elevate traditional Nayarit local flavors.

Finally, treat yourself at the REMEDE Spa- The experiences can be customized and the vibration chakra alignment is a must experience.

© Eden Roc Cap Cana

Eden Roc Cap Cana

The Relais & Chateaux five-star beach resort is in a convenient location but away from the hustle and bustle of Punta Cana. The white sand and pristine turquoise waters with a beverage in hand will make you forget all your woes. Whether you decide to stay in an ocean front bungalow or poolside suite, you cannot go wrong with the amenities in all.

The newest addition to the property is the 30,000 square feet Eden Roc Wellness & Spa that is the first spa of the Natura Bissé brand. Be sure to try a body wrap with pineapple and mango.

© Nobu Los Cabos

Nobu Cabo

The ninth property for Nobu Hotels also marks the brand’s first in Mexico, which opened at the end of 2019. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper are the co-founders of Nobu Hospitality who have brought the high level of service and excellence south of the border. The hotel has 200 rooms, four pools and an Esencia Wellness Spa. In addition to the staple Nobu, Malibu Farm is also on property for healthy and delicious fare.

If you are traveling with anyone whose downtime requires a round of golf, this Baja California Sur peninsula hotel is surrounded by the world famous Diamante course –designed by Tiger Woods and Davis Love III.

© COMO Metropolitan Miami Beach

COMO Metropolitan Miami Beach

With its authentic art deco look paired with a complete renovation, this 74-room hotel is right in the middle of the action in South Beach but feels like an oasis in its own. The rooms with their mint green and gray color scheme with white marble invite you to unwind and chill while looking at the crisp blue of the Atlantic. Miami’s famed chef Michael Schwartz’s Traymore is right off the lobby allowing guests to experience his culinary expertise without having to travel to the Design District. The Kim Chi Poached Eggs during breakfast are a must!

During the day, the two pools (one on the roof) or the beach are both great options to lounge with an outdoor restaurant concealed by palm trees for privacy to cater to every need. And at night, Sling Bar is the newest establishment on property that touches on Southeast Asian flavors, an homage to COMO’s homebase of Singapore.