Resort getaways in California, Florida and the Caribbean for fall, winter months
As kids return to school and autumn enters the picture, it’s never too early to start planning your family’s next getaway to a sunny destination.
With leisure travel on the rebound, it’s a good idea to monitor airfare deals and lock in great rates on flights and hotels when you see them. That’s where a resort getaway can help you save big: with onsite amenities and activities to keep the family busy, a rental car may not be needed during your relaxing retreat.
Whether an all-inclusive getaway is your idea of vacation bliss or you like to plan things as you go, keep in mind many destinations continue to have mask mandates and guidelines for social distancing.
Ready to plan your next family vacation? Read on to discover four fantastic resort getaways in California, Florida and the Caribbean.
Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach in Southern California
courtesy of Torrance Marriott Redondo BeachSouthern California: Redondo Beach
A classic SoCal beach getaway can cure just about any cool weather blues. Enjoy a spacious getaway by exploring LA’s growing South Bay neighborhood where Torrance and Redondo Beach take center stage.
The recently renovated Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach is a great basecamp for a SoCal getaway, thanks to its prime location and quick access to the waterfront. The property has a chic-coastal vibe with craft beers, a family pool, and a range of guestrooms and suites with balcony options, too.
Onsite at the hotel, guests can start the day with chicken and waffles from 21 Square Bar + Kitchen before heading out for an adventurous day. The South Bay neighborhood puts visitors near the Redondo Beach Pier, while The Brews Hall at Del Amo is also nearby, as is must-visit King’s Hawaiian Bakery and Restaurant for sweet breads and island breakfasts.
For a casual seaside stroll or cycle, follow the Redondo Beach Strand. This path is usually active with locals and tourists alike and adventurous cyclers could even bike their way to Malibu – though it is a lengthy 30-mile route, so you’d want to take plenty of sunblock and water.
Redondo Beach is also an ideal spot to take in a surfing lesson, while paddleboarding is popular near Seaside Lagoon. During sunset, be sure to visit Redondo Beach Crab House at Fisherman’s Wharf to satisfy the need for fresh seafood with a view.
Playa Largo Resort & Spa in Key Largo, Florida
SCcott Baker Photography/Playa Largo Resort & SpaFlorida Keys: Playa Largo
Head to The Keys to enjoy a Caribbean-inspired vacation without ever leaving the U.S. this fall. Key Largo, just 60 miles from Miami International Airport, is home to beachfront Playa Largo Resort & Spa. Here guests can unwind at the spa, take a kayak tour, snorkel the coral reef, or simply relax along warm and shallow waters.
In addition to spacious rooms and suites, the resort also offers private beach bungalows ideal for family stays. Guests in the bungalows have additional amenities, including a private pool and beach and dedicated lawn space for gatherings.
Resort dining ranges from coastal cuisine to quick bites and frozen cocktails at the Sand Bar. Couples seeking an indulgent getaway may find the “bubbles and bliss” package appealing for its inclusion of champagne and a daily 50-minute spa treatment.
For outdoor recreation, take a kayak adventure through the Key Largo Mangrove Trails or kick up the adrenaline with a parasailing or wave runner excursion. Want to try something new? Take a catamaran sailing lesson right off the beach at Playa Largo Resort.
Caribe Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Caribe Hilton/Don RiddlePuerto Rico: Old San Juan
You may not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico, but you’ll feel swept away to another world with a tropical resort getaway in Old San Juan.
Indulge at Caribe Hilton, just a few minutes from the heart of the historic old town, where the secluded beach and oceanfront swimming pools offer ample opportunities for fun in the sun. Onsite activities here include tennis, snorkeling, a playground for the kids, and wellness offerings like outdoor yoga and water aerobics.
Explore the birthplace of the piña colada alongside tapas at Caribar & Caribar Terrace or enjoy casual bites at the swim-up bar. Then settle in with the family at the end of the day to savor Puerto Rican flavors at onsite Lola’s.
Couples and small families can enjoy classic guestrooms, while larger families may appreciate the one- and two-level suites with plenty of room for everyone to spread out. Suites come with separate living and dining areas, kitchenettes and even dedicated workspace for those multi-tasking their vacation hours.
Caribe Hilton currently has a Travel & Save offer to receive up to 25% off daily rates, with the bonus of early check-in and late check-out, valid on travel now through December 31.
Caerula Mar Club on South Andros Island, The Bahamas
courtesy of Caerula Mar ClubThe Bahamas: South Andros
Escape to 10 secluded oceanfront acres during a stay at Caerula Mar Club, located on the sleepy island of South Andros. This boutique retreat immerses guests in nature with ocean adventures and luxe lounging aplenty.
If you’ve ever tuned in for HGTV’s Renovation Island, you’re already familiar with the resort’s transformation into a chic destination property with signature suites, clubhouse suites and private villas. The resort focused on sustainable, natural materials when designing their indoor and outdoor spaces, resulting in an immersive island experience for guests.
Wellness seekers can take in ocean breezes during a luxury spa treatment, while adventurists can take a guided kayak or paddle board tour of mangroves. Snorkeling is also popular here with the world’s third largest barrier reef offering a world of colorful marine life.
Resort guests have complimentary use of cruiser cycles, kayaks, paddle boards and more. After a full day of fun, families can gather for farm-to-table and sea-to-table dining at three onsite eateries led by executive chef Sebastian Perez.
