Elevated beach getaways for holiday travel
These top beach destinations set the stage for a memorable holiday escape, complete with festive dining, exclusive experiences, and plenty of cheer.
By Jessica Poitevien | October 1, 2025
With the holiday season on the horizon, thoughts of family gatherings, extravagant dinners, and gift exchanges are top of mind. But how about a change of scenery? A warm beach getaway can be just as festive while providing a sunny break from winter’s chill, and now’s the perfect time to start planning. For a memorable holiday vacation that offers elevated experiences for you and your loved ones to reconnect, these destinations and exclusive hotels and resorts are sure to deliver.
Anguilla, West Indies
Anguilla has long attracted discerning travelers looking for an exclusive getaway, but a holiday escape amplifies every memorable experience and seasonal festivity. Make Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels & Resorts your home base, where multi-bedroom suites ensure a comfortable stay for your whole family. The concierge can arrange exciting private excursions such as horseback riding on the beach, deep-sea fishing, or a round of golf at a renowned course. The resort’s on-site offerings will also keep you entertained just steps from your room, from the infinity pool to the award-winning Thai House Spa. Your little ones will find ample activities at the Kids’ Club, where they’ll enjoy coconut bowling, mermaid swimming lessons, and a fully stocked game room. From Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day, the resort spoils guests with special activities such as themed rum tastings, cookie decorating, and holiday parties with live music and fireworks. The on-site restaurants elevate the already delectable menus with elaborate dishes celebrating this special time of year.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
For families who enjoy exploring nature together, Costa Rica is a verifiable paradise. Book a stay at the recently opened Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique for a stunning retreat in the coastal splendor of the Guanacaste region. The resort’s dedicated concierge will help you plan all your adventures, such as hiking in nearby national parks, soaking in hot springs, or embarking on a private whale watching tour. At the resort, embrace a luxurious holiday retreat by relaxing in the multi-tiered pool or lounging on the private beach. In the spirit of gift-giving, treat yourself at Waldorf Astoria Spa and indulge in a decadent, locally inspired treatment designed to heal the mind and body. When it comes to festive dining, gather at La Finca, where you’ll enjoy a decadent feast for the senses, highlighting seasonal ingredients and local produce with creative techniques.
Rangali Island, Maldives
Trade powder white snow for soft white sand when you spend the holiday season in the Maldives, an archipelago known for its idyllic beaches. Settle into elevated comfort at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. While the overwater villas are alluring, allow yourself a luxurious holiday treat with a stay in The Muraka, a decadent two-level residence with a main bedroom located 16 feet (4.8 meters) below the sea level so you can fully appreciate the colorful marine life and crystalline waters. Continue that immersion with private excursions that take you around the resort’s private island and surrounding waters, such as scuba diving with manta rays and sunset fishing trips. This holiday season, the resort hosts a special series of events and activities, including a tree lighting, a poolside Christmas day brunch with a Latin-Maldivian fusion menu, a New Year’s Eve gala dinner with carnaval dancers, and more.
Platte Island, Seychelles
Retreat from your holiday schedule with a rejuvenating getaway to Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island. Located on a private island in the Indian Ocean, this lavish resort features 50 villas ranging from one to five bedrooms, so you can enjoy this exclusive paradise alone or with the whole family. A holiday trip to this island paradise offers something for everyone, with one-of-a-kind experiences, spa treatments, and cuisine inspired by the bounty and ecosystem of the lush surroundings. Each villa has its own pool, terrace, garden, and direct beach access for ultimate privacy. Raise a glass to the holidays during an in-villa barbecue, a private beach picnic, or an under-the-stars screening of your favorite holiday movie, complete with island-inspired snacks. With the concierge taking care of every detail, you can relax and enjoy the resort’s other offerings, such as guided wildlife walks, rare wine tastings, private catamaran excursions, or bespoke wellness screenings and therapies at the spa.
Jessica Poitevien
Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller with more than a decade of experience in writing and editing. Born in New York, she caught the travel bug throughout multiple moves that brought her to California, Spain, Colombia, and her current home base in South Florida. She has visited over 40 countries (and counting!), including several solo trips. When she's not traveling, Jessica enjoys making social media content, trying new food, and acting as a travel agent for friends and family.
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