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10 Tropical Destinations For a New Year's Eve Escape

Relax by the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, savor the fresh fruits of Playa del Carmen, and relish in the breezes of Fiji.

By Sofia Quintero

Posted on 22 December 2024

The idyllic resort sits between the El Yunque National Forest and the Espiritu Santo River State Preserve. Courtesy of The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort.

The winter's icy grip often sparks a yearning for escape, with many of us stuck dreaming of sun-drenched destinations with the promise of warm breezes and a feeling of renewal. These tropical regions and islands, famous for their lush green landscapes and crystalline waters are still to this day the most refreshing environments, and destinations perfect for a New Year's Eve holiday.

Whether you're drawn to waves perfect for surfing, hidden waterfalls waiting to be discovered, or the simple pleasure of savoring local delicacies in ocean-front restaurants, these sanctuaries offer an antidote to winter's dullness. For those planning to trade snow for sand this holiday season, here are our ten favorite tropical destinations, paired with accommodations that transform a simple getaway into an unforgettable retreat.

Courtesy of Eden Rock St Barths.

St. Barths

St Barths is a magical destination for travelers seeking a blend of French sophistication and Caribbean charm. Whether you're flying in from St. Martin, taking a ferry from a neighboring island, or connecting from San Juan, landing in St. Barths combines the best of both worlds. You’ll find pristine flora and fauna found in beaches like Saline, Gouverneur, and Colombier, and premium shopping and dining along the capital city's waterfront promenade.

We suggest: Eden Rock - St Barths Hotel

Following an extensive two-year restoration in 2017, the legendary St. Barths hotel, nestled on a rocky promontory along the St. Jean Bay, reopened in 2019 with enhanced amenities and classic vintage charm. The new additions on the property include the stylishly redesigned Sand Bar with dishes by Jean Georges, the new Rémy Club, a sea-facing lounge and speakeasy, and the serene Eden Spa.

Courtesy of Round Hill Hotel and Villas.

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Known for its world-class golf course, Cinnamon Hill, Montego Bay's clear blue skies and white sandy beaches make it a go-to spot for those seeking adventure, exquisite local cuisine, and lots of music. Thrill seekers can explore the mesmerizing Blue Hole in Ocho Rios, bamboo rafting in the Martha Brae River, and Doctor's Cave Beach— perfect for water activities and sunbathing.

We suggest: Round Hill Hotel and Villas

Situated on 110 acres of former pineapple groves, the idyllic hotel offers panoramic views of the Caribbean, unique Jamaican dining, and interiors designed by Ralph Lauren. Guests can raft down the pristine tropical rivers, zipline through the island, hike along hidden waterfalls, and of course, discover the countless lush beaches.

Courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba.

Playa del Carmen, México

Stretching about 80 miles, Playa del Carmen blends Mexican Caribbean charm with cosmopolitan flair, mainly due to its Quinta Avenida—a vibrant pedestrian street bustling with shops and eateries. For those looking for adventure and culture, the coastal resort town is the perfect melting pot. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the cenotes (sinkholes), visit ancient Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza, Coba Ruins and the Tulum Ruins, and swim with sea turtles in Cozumel. Travelers can also visit the enchanting Isla Mujeres, where island time prevails, and its barefoot-friendly beach restaurants are a must.

We suggest: Rosewood Mayakoba

The luxurious all-inclusive sanctuary sits among winding lagoons overlooking the Caribbean. Guests can enjoy the views from the seven different Michelin-guide restaurants, each highlighting Mexico’s regional cuisine, lounge by the beachfront pools, and retreat at the award-winning spa. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the 2.5 miles of scenic hiking trails throughout Mayakoba, while adventure seekers can charter the resort's private yacht or discover underwater wonders through scuba diving classes.

Courtesy of Anantara Maia.

Anse Louis, Seychelles

The sheltered bay of Anse Louis is nothing short of spectacular, tropical, and serene. The hidden gem located on the island of Mahé is known for its fine sand, volcanic rock formations, and soft waves. The area offers rich experiences beyond its beaches, like venturing into the lush wilderness of Morne Seychellois National Park, visiting the bustling Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke's Market, or unwinding at secluded beaches like Petite Anse and Anse Takamaka. If you're a rum enthusiast, be sure to check out the famous Takamaka Distillery, an iconic heritage site that houses its own museum, medicinal garden, and historical ruins.

We suggest: Anantara Maia

Designed by the American landscape architect Bill Bensley, this resort sits on a private peninsula close to deserted beaches and uninhabited islands, offering complete privacy. Guests can indulge in exceptional experiences: from curated wine tastings to soaring above pristine islands in a helicopter tour that reveals the archipelago's grandeur. The resort's five distinctive restaurants celebrate local flavors with contemporary twists.

Courtesy of Six Senses Fiji.

Malolo Island, Fiji

Malolo Island is the largest island in the Mamanuca archipelago, and alone worth visiting Fiji. The Pacific Ocean gem is home to some of the best dining in the South Pacific, full of tropical fruits, local vegetables and fresh fish. The island is also an incredible destination for surf lovers—home to many world-famous breaks such as Cloudbreak, Wilkes Passage, and Namotu Left.

We suggest: Six Senses Fiji

Seamlessly blending Fijian architectural heritage with a beachfront setting, Six Senses Fiji has direct access to pristine waters and sweeping ocean vistas. Guests can get a taste of the island's culture by participating in traditional music and dance ceremonies, while culinary enthusiasts can master local recipes in hands-on cooking classes. With environmental consciousness in mind, the resort offers unique opportunities ranging from marine conservation initiatives and underwater cleanups. Visitors can also explore the resort's dedicated Iguana Reserve.

Courtesy of St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort.

Puerto Rico

From the charming historic district of old San Juan, to the extraordinary bioluminescent bays, the Caribbean island is a quintessential tropical paradise. With over 300 beaches gracing its shores and a historic Spanish heritage, it’s a destination perfect for every type of traveler. Couples can sway to salsa music, while solo travelers can savor local dishes and marvel at centuries-old architecture. Popular attractions also include El Morro, a large fortress with the oldest lighthouse on the island, exploring the beaches on the west coast of the island such as Crash Boat Beach and Buye Beach, and venturing to the untouched Palomino Island.

We suggest: St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

The resort sits between the El Yunque National Forest and the Espiritu Santo River State Preserve, on a former coconut farm of over 483 acres, including two miles of private beachfront. With Atlantic Ocean views, the property boasts a world-renowned golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and an exceptional spa where guests can indulge in treatments that highlight organic local ingredients. Daily hotel activities also include festive Champagne Saberings, traditional afternoon tea with a tropical twist, and koi fish feeding.

Courtesy of Zuri Zanzibar.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar excites year-round visitors with its pristine beaches, exotic wildlife, and thrilling adventures. The archipelago's most celebrated shores—Nungwi, Paje, and Jambiani—each offer their own distinct appeal, from soft sands to the perfect kitesurfing waters. At the heart of paradise lies Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site where visitors can explore aromatic spice markets, stunning architecture, and bustling narrow streets. The contrast defines Zanzibar's unique charm: visitors can spend their morning exploring Stone Town's bazaars and then retreat to the serenity of Changuu Island in the afternoon, where giant tortoises wander freely, and the Indian Ocean stuns as a backdrop.

We suggest: Zuri Zanzibar

Embodying its Swahili name, "beautiful," Zuri Zanzibar has an atmosphere of pure tranquility. With 56 bungalows, suites, and villas, the accommodations feature contemporary design with complementary and local artisanal pieces. The hotel has dozens of daily activities ranging from birdwatching to spice tours, fire dance shows and art classes. The culinary offerings at the hotel celebrate the Indian Ocean's rich legacy, weaving African, European, Arabic, and Indian influences into a special dining experience.

Courtesy of Florblanca Resort.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Tucked away along Costa Rica's Pacific coast, the small surf town is full of local shops, luxury boutique hotels, world-class dining, and of course, impressive waves. Santa Teresa is off the grid, full of wildlife, and a great place for those experimenting with wellness. Visitors can also zip line, explore the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, spend a day at the waterfalls of neighboring town, Montezuma, and try out local cuisine at popular restaurants like Katana and Amici.

We suggest: Florblanca Resort

The lush retreat nestled in the Costa Rican jungle is made up of quiet villas decorated by the abundant vegetation, emphasizing its rustic luxury aesthetic. The resort caters to both adventure and leisure, providing guests with surfboards, boogie boards, and beach cruisers, while those seeking guided tours can gallop along beaches on horseback, soar through rainforest canopies, or venture out for fishing expeditions, ATV adventures, and seasonal whale watching.

Courtesy of Baoase Luxury Resort.

Curaçao

About 40 miles north of Venezuela, the Dutch Caribbean island captivates visitors with its massive cliffs, hidden bays, and countless beaches. Those who love the beach can visit Mambo Beach, or Abao Beach, but if you want to discover a hidden gem, Playa Guepi is the place to go. No visit is complete without exploring Shete Boka National Park's stunning vistas and the shores of uninhabited island, Klein Curaçao. For a blend of nature and history, explore the Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park or venture into the Hato Caves, where ancient petroglyphs dating back 1,500 years tell stories along the marine coral limestone walls.

We suggest: Baoase Luxury Resort

This exclusive retreat offers the best of both worlds: the peace of private villas alongside the amenities of a luxury resort. Guests have everything they need right on property, as the resort boasts private beaches and an array of on-site activities. Whether embarking on boat excursions, exploring the island's pristine white sand beaches, discovering Willemstad's artistic heritage, hiking scenic trails, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, every experience is crafted for curious travelers.

Courtesy of Amanpulo.

Palawan Island, Philippines

Full of lush rainforests, crystal blue lagoons, and countless dive sites, Palawan is the highlight of the Philippines. At its heart lies El Nido, the region's popular paradise, where limestone cliffs tower over the bay. Beyond El Nido, the island holds wonders such as the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, famous for its underground caverns. For beach enthusiasts, the pristine shores of Seven Commandos, Marimegmeg, and Banul offer tropical perfection.

Stay At: Amanpulo

Nestled on the pristine Pamalican Island north of Palawan, Amanpulo embodies the signature Aman philosophy of secluded luxury. The hotel villas are set on the beachfront within the forest canopy, making it the ideal destination for those to be one with nature. A unique floating bamboo bar invites guests for a day of lounging, while the dive center caters to underwater adventurers. For those fascinated by natural treasures, the resort arranges exclusive visits to Jewelmer's Pearl Farm, where guests can witness the meticulous cultivation of gold-lipped oysters into jewelry.

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