Four Nearby Exotic Beaches to Cure the Winter Bluesdots

Winter isn't even fully upon us yet, but if you are anything like me, I'm sure you are ready for a tropical escape. Here are four relatively close tropical destinations to consider for a quick way to escape the winter blues. Oh and be sure to book your hotel with 1800hotels.com for a great vacation experience.


Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas - There’s a scientific reason behind the three miles of soft, blushing sand at this Bahamian beach involving the shells of microscopic sea animals, but science is not welcome here on this fantasy island. Other things not welcome are alarm clocks, day planners or Blackberries. Instead, this is the place to go for natural beauty, enchanting resorts, laid-back locals and calm waters. The only time you’ll rush will be to claim a dinner table overlooking the turquoise bay to watch the sunset. There is little to do here besides relax, or, if the urge strikes, strap on some air tanks and explore shipwrecks along the Devil's Backbone, where you just might spot the rare underwater remains of a train wreck.


1800hotels bed

Book a Bahamas vacation with 1800hotels today! dots


Flamenco Beach, Culebra Island, Puerto Rico - Flamenco Beach doesn’t just make many top ten lists of best beaches in the world…it is often at the top of the list. And once you see this breathtaking swathe of white sand covering a perfect half-moon, you’ll agree, as did Christopher Columbus in 1493 during his second voyage. Since Chris’ stopover, pirates have claimed the island as a hideout, but thankfully they left without plundering Culebra’s natural beauty. Pirate tales are still told by locals, and sun-worshippers often dig their fingers deep into the soft sand in search for gold. But there is no gold on Flamenco Beach, along with no luxury resorts, no fancy restaurants, no flashy casinos, no crime, no traffic or no crowds. If those “no’s” appeal to you, then say “yes” to a truly pristine beach surrounded by a wildlife refuge filled with gulls, pelicans and endangered turtles.


1800hotels modern hotel

1800Hotels in Culebra, Puerto Rico dots


Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda - Bermuda is in itself a tantalizing destination, teeming with quaint towns, pastel houses, historic sites and British charm. The eye-pleasing beaches of Horseshoe Bay are icing on the cake. Wide stretches of pastel pink sand, brilliantly offset by clear blue waves gently lapping at the shore, create an enchanting ambiance for beachgoers of all ages. And if Horseshoe Bay Beach is too crowded on a particular day, secluded stretches are easily discovered at nearby Somerset Long Bay or remote Astwood Cove. Even though the warm waters of the Gulf Stream help keep the air and sea temperatures reasonable all year round, some days may not be ideal for lying half-naked in the sun. Fret not, for those are perfect days to explore the island by bicycle, ascend Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse for spectacular views, window shop at the eclectic boutiques in Hamilton, or squeeze in a round or two of golf at Bermuda’s many championship courses.


Book a hotel with 1800Hotels.com Horseshoe Bay Beach Bermuda dots


1800 hotels modern kitchen

Maroma Beach, Mexico - The Yucatan Peninsula’s white, limestone sands, crystal blue waters, spicy cuisine and historic ruins create an attractive recipe for travelers, but then it’s reputation as a Spring Break party spot drives them away. Say hello to Maroma Beach—the answer to your Mayan Riviera prayers. This resort hideaway 30 miles south of Cancun focuses on two things: the ecology of its 500-plus acres of beach and rain forest, and rejuvenating the bodies and souls of all visitors. Guests are immersed in a Mexican Eden, a quiet retreat of warm azure waters, powdery white sands and rich tropical foliage. Eco-friendly travelers will delight in Maroma’s machine-free construction practices, for every building was made by hand, without any machinery, and only one-tenth of the property will be developed in order to preserve its ecological balance. Maroma’s ideal location makes it easy to visit the ruins of Chichen Itza or snorkel along the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Though many guests prefer to stay at the resort, enjoying Flaming Mexican Coffee prepared right at your table or a four-hand massage right on the beach.


1800Hotels.com Riviera Maya Mexico Hotels dots