6 Sunny (and Nearby) Destinations to Escape the End-of-Winter Lull

It’s that time of year when winter has officially overstayed its welcome. Our skin is cracked and dry. Our winter wardrobe—comprising parkas, heavy boots, and worn-out cashmere sweaters—feels tired and sad. Our vitamin D rations are entirely depleted. Give us just one more frigid day with gusty winds and we might give up altogether.

If this feels all too familiar, you might be in dire need of an end-of-winter escape. But getting away at the last minute mid-March is easier said than done. You might not have requested vacations days or maybe you’re saving them for a summer trip to Tuscany. Maybe your budget is limited until you get that much-needed tax return. Beyond everything else: You definitely want to avoid spring breakers.

So where should you go to escape when budget and time are of the essence? We rounded up a handful of cool new off-the-radar beach hotels that are just a short flight away. Sun-kissed skin, beachy waves, and total relaxation await.

If You Want to Treat Yourself

Try Silversands in Grenada

One of the Caribbean’s hottest new luxury resorts, Silversands in Grenada offers coastal minimalism in a chic neutral palette all on a beautiful stretch of sandy beach. Creamy limestone terraces and light walnut floors provide a beautiful beachy palette set in a lush tropical setting. Tucked away in Grande Anse, a quiet enclave on the island, the new hotel is decidedly low-key, and yet no luxury is spared.

If You Want to Be the First

Try Hotel Amapa in Puerto Vallarta

Poised to be one of the next big hot spot, Hotel Amapa in Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s west coast markets itself as “minimal, modern, Mexican.” Clean lines, beautiful local craftsmanship, and sweeping vistas are just a few of the features that draw us to this stunning new property. The only downside: The official opening seems to be delayed—it was set to open in late 2018—so you may have to wait just a little longer to experience this slice of paradise.

If You Want the Loyalty Points

Try the Park Hyatt in St. Kitts

Park Hyatt’s first venture into the Caribbean opened in late 2017 in St. Kitts after much anticipation. Nestled in a quiet bay surrounded by sweeping mountainous views and turquoise waters, the sleek, contemporary property is dotted with passageways flanked by manicured lily ponds (also home to named resident crabs), infinity pools, and dramatic Roman arches. For those with a World of Hyatt loyalty membership, this resort is a winning option.

If You Want to Stay Stateside

Try Life House in South Beach

You don’t need to leave the US to flee brisk winter winds. In Miami, the palms are swaying and the beaches are filled with cheerful sun-seekers. For a quick escape rich in culture and culinary offerings, check into Life House in South Beach. The curated beach cottage is a landmarked 1930s Tudor that was completely remodeled with light and airy guest rooms, a lively lobby café, and a backyard kitchen. The hotel even offers bunk rooms for people traveling in groups.

If You Want to Live Barefoot

Try The Other Side in Harbour Island

On the pink beaches of Harbour Island in the Bahamas is the small and charming family-run Ocean View Club—an intimate enclave peppered with small British Colonial–meets–coastal Caribbean charm. But across the island, the owners have another unique property: The Other Side—a solar-powered glamping site on a secluded beach populated only by swaying palms. Four communal tents house libraries, bars, kitchens, and lounges, while a beautiful lap pool is built right on the beach.

If You’re a Minimalist

Try the Viceroy in Los Cabos

Formerly the Mar Adentro, Cabo’s newest property is a minimalist’s dream. Opened last May, the Viceroy Los Cabos boasts dramatic contemporary architecture by Mexican architect Miguel Angel Aragonés, a network of infinity pools, and minimalist guest rooms with sweeping ocean views. Every detail here is airy and warm, letting the sweeping ocean views steal the show.

Discover more great seasonal destinations: The Best Places to Travel in March if the Winter Blues Have Got You Down This Hip Swiss Chalet Has Us Dreaming of Apres-Ski in the Alps 10 Vacations to Book This Spring, According to Airbnb’s Hot List