It’s been a winter for the books. Which means sunny escapes are on the mind — think warm weather, sea-to-table cuisine and easy-to-book destinations, often a few hours flight from New York.
After what’s been a long, gray few months, it’s time to treat yourself (or at least save this list for next year). From the Caribbean to California, the following 13 resorts deliver sun-soaked experiences ideal for spring breakers.
Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, Dominican Republic
Looking to go someplace that’s a budding new hotspot? Open since last June, Zemi Miches, approximately 90 minutes from the Punta Cana airport, is the Dominican Republic’s newest destination. Located on Playa Esmeralda Bay, with sweeping views of Redonda Mountain and 800 meters of secluded beach, it’s so postcard perfect, with so much cultural storytelling behind it, that it feels like you’ve discovered the Caribbean’s best kept secret. Adding to that ambiance: a hidden speakeasy complete with a 1920’s vibe, not to mention six restaurants and 11 bars and lounges.
The all-inclusive, with 500 rooms, suites, and bungalows, including some with private pools, is all about choices. That means an array of food options including authentic Dominican cuisine, an extensive spa with Taino-inspired treatments, rotating workshops focused on Dominican and Taíno-inspired cultural programming, and family activities with dedicated kids/teen clubs. There’s also a wide variety of indoor and outdoor recreation including bowling, laser tag, an escape room, pickleball, and non-motorized water sports.
If that’s not enough, there’s an outdoor amphitheater in addition to several fire pits strategically placed poolside, adding to the magical allure. For those craving something a bit more lush, the resort’s Club Azure premium tier features a rooftop infinity pool and concierge service. Spring forward: 829-241-4400; hilton.com.
The Sanctuary Beach Resort, Monterey, California
Come April, Monterey falls into its coveted “secret summer,” a stretch of pleasant sunshine, vivid green hills, and crystal-clear coastal views before the summer fog rolls in. It’s the perfect time to check into the Sanctuary Beach Resort, where private beachfront cottages and dune-top fire pits create a serene, toes-in-the-sand escape. And while you’re there, make sure you head to some of Monterey’s standout events, including the Pebble Beach Food & Wine Festival, the gray whale celebrations at Whalefest Monterey, and the high-energy Sea Otter Classic. Spring forward: 831-883-9478; thesanctuarybeachresort.com.
Isla Bella Beach Resort, Marathon, Florida
While the Caribbean often gets the spotlight, the Florida Keys stand out as one of the most compelling warm-weather spring break destinations thanks to its turquoise waters, laid-back island culture, and the rare luxury of feeling worlds away without leaving the U.S. Stretching over 100 miles off the southern tip of Florida, the Keys deliver everything travelers crave this time of year — warm ocean temperatures, endless sunshine, and resorts that blur the line between relaxed island living and elevated coastal luxury.
Nestled on 24 oceanfront acres along Knights Key in Marathon, Isla Bella Beach Resort is one of those spots ideal for escaping life’s woes. With five heated and chilled oceanfront pools, a private beach, and nearly a mile of waterfront to explore, the resort was practically made for soaking up the season’s sunshine. Adventure seekers can dive into world-class snorkeling, fishing, and watersports right from the full-service marina, while those craving a slower pace can unwind at The Spa at Isla Bella, a 4,000-square-foot sanctuary offering everything from hot stone massages to oceanside relaxation. As the day winds down, the vibe shifts seamlessly to festive: think al fresco sushi, tropical cocktails at the palm-shaded Beach Bar, and stunning sunset views from every angle. With 199 ocean-view rooms and suites and an energy that feels celebratory year-round, Isla Bella is where spring break goes luxe. Spring forward: 800-405-1948; islabellabeachresort.com.
The Beach Tulum Hotel and Cabañas Tulum Beach Hotel & Spa, Tulum, Mexico
These boutique sister resorts, located on an expansive stretch of Tulum Beach, share an onsite spa and healing center, yoga palapa with daily wellness activities, fitness center and two restaurants serving elevated Mexican cuisine and health-conscious fare. At The Beach Tulum Hotel, guests can enjoy an adults-only experience, complete with ocean-view rooms, assigned double beach loungers and private plunge pools and hot tubs while families with older children can book the Cabañas Tulum Beach Hotel & Spa, which offers sanctuary for guests age 13 and above. Spring forward: thebeach-tulum.com; hotelcabanastulum.com.
Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge, Dawsonville, Georgia
Looking to trade crowded beaches for fresh air and immersive outdoor experiences? Consider this mountain lodge set within a 829-acre state park which lays claim to Georgia’s tallest waterfall. This is the kind of place you can wake up to panoramic Appalachian views, hike to the 729-foot Amicalola Falls, and spend your day zip lining, exploring scenic trails, or taking part in guided outdoor programs.
What makes it especially compelling for spring break is the all in one nature resort experience featuring lodge accommodations, cabins, and nearby glamping options. Here, it’s all about space, scenery, and shared experiences. Spring forward: 706-344-1500; amicalolafallslodge.com.
Buoy Haus Beach Resort, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
With new direct flights on Southwest and no passport required, St. Thomas offers a convenient warm weather escape. One place to check out? The Buoy Haus Beach Resort with its new Salt Shack dining experience centered around wood-fired cooking and seafood-forward dishes (think whole locally-caught fish, Caribbean lobster, and Angus ribeye). There’s also a rotating roster of signature guest programming, and daily curated entertainment from karaoke to fire dancers. As an added bonus, guests at Buoy Haus can access The Westin Beach Resort & Spa’s many amenities. Spring forward: 340-249-0123; marriott.com.
L’Auberge de Sedona, Sedona, Arizona
Nestled along the banks of Oak Creek and framed by Sedona’s iconic Red Rocks, L’Auberge de Sedona invites travelers to slow down and enjoy a serene warm-weather escape. Following a transformative $30 million renovation and expansion, the property’s new Cliffs rooms offer sweeping desert views that ground guests in Sedona’s natural beauty, while the reimagined L’Apothecary Spa deepens the connection between wellness, tranquility and place.
At this high desert retreat, restorative travel takes shape through mindful rituals, including floating sound healing, grounding mud treatments inspired by Sedona’s red earth, and metaphysical ceremonies guided by local practitioners. Guests can embrace the region’s abundant sunshine with sunrise yoga by the pool, exploring creative workshops with Sedona artists, or simply reflecting in the tranquil relaxation garden. Every element — earth, air, fire, and water— comes together to nurture restoration, mindfulness, and an authentic connection to Sedona’s warm and vibrant spirit, giving you that spring refresh you desperately need. Spring forward: 888-791-6742; lauberge.com.
Red Cliffs Lodge, Moab, Utah
Moab’s backyard is home to the renowned outdoor destinations of Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, attracting adventure travelers, road trippers and explorers to an outdoor paradise surrounded by majestic cliffs and breathtaking canyons. Situated along the Colorado River and tucked within Moab’s stunning red rock formations, Red Cliffs Lodge Moab recently unveiled a property-wide renovation, just in time for peak travel season.
From private guided dark sky tours at Arches National Park to air tours of Canyonlands National Park and horseback trail rides through historic western movie sets, you’ll be immersed into the destination by way of customized experiences. The property is also home to the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage and Red Cliffs Ranch where a herd of gentle, well-trained horses roam. Spring forward: 435-259-2002; marriott.com.
Park Hyatt, St. Kitts
Nestled between the lush hills of Christophe Harbour and the turquoise waters of Banana Bay, Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers a stunning blend of lush living and serenity within a walkable property, making for an idyll spring break retreat. The resort’s Sugar Mill Spa & Sanctuary offers rejuvenation and tranquility with treatments such as bamboo massages, coconut sugar exfoliation, hot stone therapy, and dry brushing. Of course, this being the Caribbean, there’s also a plentiful collection of ocean activities including snorkeling, paddle boarding and kayaking, as well as basketball, pickleball and a Topgolf Swing Suite. There’s even bedtime yoga. Spring forward: hyatt.com
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, Oranjestad, Aruba
Aruba is one of the easiest international destinations due to U.S. Customs and Global Entry pre-clearance which allows travelers to clear customs before leaving. Upon arrival back home, you’re treated as domestic passengers, making the stressful airport process easier. If that’s not good news, consider the hotel’s many amenities which include access to Aruba’s only private Renaissance Island, with secluded beaches and flamingos and their newer Spa Cove experiences at Okeanos Spa featuring open-air treatments. The central Oranjestad location is another bonus, making the resort close to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Spring forward: marriott.com.
Rosewood, Bermuda
Just a two-hour flight from New York, Rosewood Bermuda, with its pink-sand coastline, offers a relaxed escape. Their spa alone will have you at hello with holistic treatments designed to restore both body and mind. Prefer something more active? Check out the newly redesigned racquet facilities with tennis, pickleball, and padel courts or book time at Tucker’s Point Golf Club where the expansive driving range overlooks more than 200 acres of coastline. Spring forward: rosewoodhotels.com.
The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark, Monticello, New York
Consider this a twist on the typical spring break as this Catskills escape offers warm weather energy without peak-season crowds. The best part? It’s always 84 degrees inside what’s billed as New York’s largest indoor waterpark. Families can spend the day bouncing between water slides, the wave pool, surf simulator, and private cabanas, then head to Playopolis Arcade for modern and classic games and VR experiences. For an easy, all-in weekend, book The Ultimate Adventure package (cabana rental plus arcade credits) and keep the fun going long after the swimsuits dry. Spring forward: 844-527-8748 or thekartrite.com.
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Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest dining adventures on Instagram @jeannemuchnick or via the lohudfood newsletter.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Looking to escape New York for spring break? 13 resort ideas
Reporting by Jeanne Muchnick, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
