By Jennifer Zajac

6 Resorts For Winter Sun Seekers

For many, winter means bundling up in puffy coats to battle freezing temps and sudden snow squalls. Throw in the lack of sunshine due to daylight savings and it’s enough to have anyone feeling a bit down. Thankfully, there’s a simple cure. Ditch the boots and break out your bikinis and board shorts, because you’re due for a dose of vitamin sea. These six resorts are the perfect travel destinations for some well-deserved winter sun.

1. Palm Springs, California

While temperatures do dip after dark, Palm Springs enjoys average highs in the mid-70s during the winter months. For this reason, winter might just be the best time to visit. Sun seekers in search of a relaxing, downtown resort should head to WorldMark Palm Springs . Both a peaceful oasis and a central home base, the resort is minutes away from the hub of stylish boutiques and buzzy restaurants along Palm Canyon Drive. For a more adventurous outing, it’s easy to explore the nearby Coachella Valley by hiking or horseback.

2. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Picture yourself on a private beach, palm trees gently swaying, with an ice-cold cocktail in hand. Say, “so long” to your winter woes and head to the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham - St. Thomas awaits. This retreat is tucked within a sheltered cove ideal for snorkeling. In case you decide to venture away from the resort’s secluded beach, St. Thomas offers all sorts of activities from water sports to diving shipwrecks.

3. Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

There’s a reason your favorite ’90s sitcom always had a “Hawaii episode.” The state’s islands enjoy year-round warmth and sunshine, making it an easy choice for winter sun. The Big Island beckons outdoor enthusiasts with waterfalls, volcanoes and black-sand beaches to explore. Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort offers an inviting escape close to the shops, restaurants and nightlife in the Kona district. For those seeking something more adventurous, drive over to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

4. Panama City Beach, Florida

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly beach destination, look no further than Panama City Beach, Florida. Club Wyndham Panama City Beach overlooks the inviting Gulf Coast, which means the striking emerald surf meets you at your doorstep. Long lazy days building sandcastles and splashing in gentle waves are great ways to relax, but there’s plenty to do if you don’t feel like hitting snooze. Meet curious sea creatures at Gulf World Marine Park, then stroll Pier Park to eat at restaurants and explore the shopping complex.

5. Río Grande, Puerto Rico

Located in Puerto Rico, Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham - Rio Mar is the ultimate winter sun destination. Home of the piña colada, you’ll find there’s plenty of ways to sink into island life here. Beach hop from party beaches to secluded coves, then hit the links. Zip line through the canopy of the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system, El Yunque. Then paddle through the glowing waters of one of three of the world’s five bioluminescent bays. Top it all off with epicurean delights and swaying nightlife, and your vacation is set.

6. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Every winter, snowbirds flock to Florida to get their sunshine fix. On the Gulf Coast, Club Wyndham Clearwater Beach is located squarely at the center of everything. Go from your bedroom to the beach in minutes, greeted by the powder-soft sand beneath your toes. Enjoy a warm welcome at any of the friendly neighborhood eateries — the most popular spots are nearby, right next to Clearwater’s iconic Pier 60.

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