Winter is only a passing thought when it’s sunny all year long, but it’s definitely one of the best times of the year to travel.
With the holidays coming up, many of us are itching to break out of the doldrums (or, more honestly, avoid more time with our Uncle Joe). Lucky for Floridians, there are a myriad of spots within only a few hours’ drive from Central Florida. Here are four fun spots for a wintertime getaway around the Sunshine State, each catering to just what you might be in need of this holiday season.
Life of Luxury
The classic Chesterfield Palm Beach has put together a “Home for the Holidays” package for anyone wanting a luxurious home away from home experience this December. With a handful of other properties in London, Geneva, Ireland and South Africa, the Red Carnation brand is known as the definition of luxury and for a staff that provides exceptionally personalized service. It’s perfect for guests who are after exceptional fine dining, heavenly spa amenities and elegant decor. The package includes accommodations for two nights in a classic queen superior suite, traditional English breakfast each morning, valet service, your own personal mixology lesson (for two) with two drinks per person and a complimentary glass of champagne on arrival to help you celebrate the holidays the “right” way (through a bubbly-induced haze, of course). Rates start at $335 for two, good through Jan. 7.
A Little Romance
Key West is easily one of the most romantic places in Florida, but come December it’s also the sexiest. Island House hosts Bare It All Weekend, Dec. 1-4, with visitors letting it all hang out with anything-goes debauchery. There will be plenty of time to lounge poolside with a cocktail in hand or partake in pool games before it’s time for Naked Happy Hour, guided naked standup paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, a sunset sail or even a little naked shopping! There’s dancing to be done at parties on the water (and after-parties that go into the wee hours of the morning). Take a trolley tour of downtown Key West and watch the city’s annual Holiday Parade pass by—all while naked, of course. And don’t miss the main event, Mr. Naked Key West 2016. Weekend passes $65.
Just Relax
One of Florida’s gayest cities, Dunedin has a gay history that dates back to the ‘80s. This charming little Gulfside town is full of mom-and-pop shops lining Main Street, fabulous gay entertainment at the local queer hangouts and home to the Meranova Guest Inn. A cozy bed-and-breakfast made up of an eclectic selection of uniquely decorated suites ranging from art deco to classic coastal decor, each has its own private entrance, porch or balcony and kitchenette suited ideal for extended stays. Enjoy gourmet breakfast by the Inn’s classically trained chef in-suite or al fresco by the heated pool, take a stroll downtown or spend the afternoon splashing in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf off the coast of Honeymoon Island. Rates start at $185 a night; weekly and monthly rates available.
Adventure Time
An easy day trip for those of us in Central Florida, Devil’s Den Spring is located in Williston, a half hour southeast of Gainesville. In colder temperatures, steam rises from this underground spring hidden in a cave, giving you a clear clue as to where the spring gets its namesake. Known for being a literal hotspot for scuba diving and snorkeling, crystal clear waters and year-round warm water temperatures provide the optimal conditions to dive and examine up close ancient rock formations and fossil beds dating back to the Pleistocene Age. Lodging options here are cabins, a doublewide, RV park and campgrounds where you can pitch a tent (maybe more than one). But be sure to book early, holiday time fills up quickly.
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