This year, my wife and I are planning something special for the holidays — 10 full days of sun, relaxation, and adventure for Christmas and New Year’s. We’ve decided to skip the cold and head somewhere warm. It has to be the perfect mix of vibrant and chill—think lots of great restaurants, shopping spots, and just enough light outdoor activities to keep things interesting. Plus, we want a place where we can soak in some local sights without needing a vacation from our vacation. Sounds like a tall order, right?
So, like any responsible person about to spend serious hard-earned money, I dove headfirst into research. I wasn’t just looking for any city. I needed a destination that met all our criteria—warm temperatures, vibrant energy, relaxation, and plenty to see and do. Here’s what I discovered, broken down city by city, activity by activity, and a few pros and cons for each one. Let’s just say, the options are tempting!
Miami, Florida: Sun, Sand, and Salsa
Ah, Miami. Where the sun doesn’t seem to know it’s winter, and the vibe is as electric as it gets. Miami was one of the first places that popped up in my research, and it pretty much ticks all the boxes.
The Pros:
– Weather: Miami’s December and January temperatures hover around the mid-70s to 80s Fahrenheit, which is perfect for outdoor activities.
– Beaches: Miami Beach, South Beach—you can spend hours soaking up the sun or just walking along the shoreline.
– Cuban Culture: The Little Havana neighborhood is a must-see, with colorful murals, delicious Cuban food, and an infectious atmosphere. You can even watch an intense game of dominoes at Maximo Gomez Park.
– Nightlife: If you’re in the mood to turn up the energy, Miami’s nightlife is legendary, from rooftop bars to salsa clubs.
– Shopping: Head to the Design District or Lincoln Road for upscale shopping, or grab some great finds in Wynwood, which is known for its trendy boutiques.
The Cons:
– Traffic: Miami’s traffic can be a headache, especially during the holiday season. If you’re like me and hate sitting in bumper-to-bumper congestion, it’s something to keep in mind.
– Cost: Miami’s glam comes with a price, especially when it comes to high-end dining and hotels.
Must-Do Activity: Taking a stroll through the Wynwood Walls. It’s an open-air street art gallery, and even if you’re not into art, it’s impossible not to appreciate the colorful murals.
Scottsdale, Arizona: Desert Beauty Meets Luxury
For a different kind of warmth, Scottsdale caught my attention. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, especially for a holiday getaway. Think luxury spas, desert landscapes, and some good ol’ Western charm.
The Pros:
– Weather: Expect temps in the high 60s and 70s, with plenty of sunshine.
– Resorts and Spas: If relaxation is your top priority, Scottsdale is known for its world-class resorts and spas, like the Four Seasons Resort or Sanctuary Camelback Mountain.
– Outdoor Activities: For those light outdoor activities, you can hike Camelback Mountain or take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert.
– Golf: If golf’s your thing, Scottsdale’s got some of the best courses in the country.
– Old Town Scottsdale: It’s a charming area with unique boutiques, art galleries, and plenty of spots to grab some Southwestern cuisine.
The Cons:
– Not as “Vibrant” as Miami: Scottsdale is more laid-back than Miami, so if you’re looking for bustling nightlife, it might not fully deliver.
– Dry Air: It’s the desert, so expect super dry air. This might not be an issue for some, but if you’re like me and need humidity to breathe, pack that lotion and chapstick.
Must-Do Activity: Booking a spa day. After some research, I found that Scottsdale’s spas are not to be missed. Places like The Phoenician Spa offer luxurious treatments that are perfect for de-stressing after holiday madness.
Austin, Texas: Music, Food, and Quirky Vibes
Austin came up as a surprise during my search, but it quickly made its way to the top of the list. Warm, vibrant, and with an incredible music scene—it’s got the right mix of energy and chill.
The Pros:
– Weather: Like Miami, Austin enjoys pleasant winter temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s.
– Music Scene: Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” you can find live bands performing pretty much every night. You could wander into places like The Continental Club and catch a killer show.
– Food: Austin’s food scene is off the charts. From BBQ at Franklin’s to tacos at Torchy’s, there’s no shortage of good eats.
– Outdoor Activities: You can take a stroll or rent bikes around Lady Bird Lake, and if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s the Barton Creek Greenbelt for hiking.
– Shopping: South Congress Avenue is lined with eclectic shops and vintage stores. It’s fun to browse and find something unique.
The Cons:
– Crowds: Austin has exploded in popularity, so expect crowds, especially downtown.
– Construction: With all the growth, there’s a lot of construction going on in certain parts of the city, which might be a bit of an eyesore.
Must-Do Activity: Take a day to visit Zilker Park and the Barton Springs Pool. It’s a natural spring-fed pool, so if you’re up for a refreshing (and brisk) swim, this is the spot.
San Diego, California: Beach Town Vibes with Big City Perks
I couldn’t skip over San Diego in my search. It’s often called “America’s Finest City,” and for good reason.
The Pros:
– Weather: San Diego’s winter weather is ideal for anyone escaping the cold. Temps in the high 60s to low 70s, with sunny skies.
– Beaches: With places like La Jolla and Coronado Beach, San Diego is a beach lover’s dream.
– Outdoor Activities: There’s kayaking in La Jolla Cove, hiking at Torrey Pines, or just relaxing at Balboa Park.
– Family-Friendly Attractions: If you’re into museums or have family along, Balboa Park has plenty, plus the San Diego Zoo is world-renowned.
– Food and Shopping: From seafood at Point Loma Seafoods to the shopping district in Old Town, there’s something for everyone. You can even stroll through Seaport Village for a more laid-back experience.
The Cons:
– Tourists: San Diego is a year-round tourist hotspot, so even during the winter, there might be a lot of people.
– Pricey: Like Miami, San Diego can get expensive, especially if you’re staying close to the beach or in trendy neighborhoods like La Jolla.
Must-Do Activity: Sunset at Sunset Cliffs. It’s one of the best spots to catch a stunning view, and if you’re lucky, you might even see dolphins swimming by.
The Verdict: Lots of Great Choices, No Wrong Answer
After researching these cities, I realized that all of them have their unique charm. Miami offers that vibrant beach town energy; Scottsdale has luxury and relaxation down to a science; Austin is perfect for food, music, and quirkiness; and San Diego combines beachy relaxation with big city attractions.
While we haven’t decided just yet, I’m leaning toward San Diego for its mix of outdoor activities, beach relaxation, and great food. But wherever we end up, I know we’re in for a warm, sunny, and rejuvenating holiday.
