Ready for winter to be over already? We are too.
The best way to speed up the winter months is to get out of town — just for the weekend, or for longer, if you’re already retired.
Trips start with trip planning, so here are the best winter travel destinations for seniors!
Honolulu, Hawaii
Get as far away from winter as you can by indulging in the tropical climate of Honolulu.
If you’ve never been to Hawaii before, you’ll want to make the most of the white sandy beaches, go snorkeling, and attend a luau (or two).
You may also want to visit the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, explore one of Honolulu’s many hiking trails, take a helicopter tour of the island, or swim with dolphins.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
If unspoiled, natural beaches and the most expansive marshes on the Atlantic Coast sound like your ideal vacation, Jekyll Island is for you.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery and natural wildlife with fishing, kayaking and canoeing, biking, and nature walks. Golf and tennis are also options to stay active on your trip.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery and natural wildlife with fishing, kayaking and canoeing, biking, and nature walks. Golf and tennis are also options to stay active on your trip.
[Related: Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling]
Key West, Florida
Whether you plan on visiting the Florida Keys or sticking to the beaches within the city, Key West provides ample opportunity for sailing, snorkeling, any any other water sport you can imagine. Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park and observe the marine life in the crystal clear water.
Key West is a great destination for slower-paced relaxation as well, with gorgeous sunsets to enjoy and hundreds of food options along the main boardwalk. If you’ve never tried Cuban food, you’re in for a real treat!
Palm Springs, California
With an average high of 71 degrees Fahrenheit in February (its coldest month), this desert oasis is the perfect winter getaway.
Many people choose to relax by the pool or at one of Palm Springs’ many spas. The Indian Wells Golf Resort is a popular destination to play a round or two, or even to partake in a golf tournament.
For more outdoorsy adventures, hike through the Coachella Valley Preserve or Joshua Tree National Park, or take a ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world’s largest rotating tram car.
[Related: Important Travel Tips for Seniors]
Paso Robles, California
Calling all wine lovers.
Paso Robles has 11 different wine regions, which produce as many as 60 different varietals (wines made from just one grape variety). It’s the perfect destination for a weekend (or a week) of relaxed wine tasting, or even a wine tour.
Between tastings, tee up at one of the city’s four golf courses and take a moment to enjoy the area’s small-town charm and lovely rolling wooded hills.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe proves that you don’t have to leave the U.S. to feel like you’re in a different country.
The city’s unique architecture is an attraction in itself, with colorful structures made from adobe brick. Santa Fe is also home to one of the highest concentrations of art galleries and unique museums in the world.
Additional perks: unique shopping; an amazing climate; delicious New Mexican, Spanish, Native American, and Mediterranean cuisines; and beautiful hiking trails nearby.
[Related: How Travel Keeps Seniors Mentally and Physically Healthy]
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is one of The U.S.’s geological wonders.
A mild climate and breathtaking scenery make for many enjoyable outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding. You’ll want to stay out all day to watch the color of the multihued red rocks change as the light and weather fluctuate.
When you’ve experienced your fill of the outdoors, you’ll find a vibrant art scene and a host of New Age shops and services within the city, as well as high-class spas and resorts.
Image via @mindful_shotz
Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg is a dream destination for anyone who loves American history.
Travel back in time to John Smith’s Virginia colony with a visit to the Jamestown Settlement, and then head over to Historic Jamestowne to see the original fort and an archeological dig.
Yorktown is your next stop, and particularly the Yorktown Battlefield, where we gained our independence from Britain after their surrender. Then explore recreations of a 1780s farm, a Continental Army encampment, and other colonial artifacts at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
What are your favorite winter travel destinations?
Featured image via TONL
