Trade Snow for Sand: Why South Florida Is the Perfect Winter Escape

Winter doesn't have to mean gray skies, heavy coats and counting the days until spring.

Sometimes the best way to survive winter is to leave it behind.

For travelers looking for sunshine, beaches, restaurants, nightlife and plenty to do without leaving the United States, Miami and Fort Lauderdale make an incredible winter getaway.

Start With the Beach

South Florida gives winter travelers something much of the country can't:

A legitimate beach vacation.

Spend the morning walking along the Atlantic, settle into the sand for the afternoon and finish the day watching the sky change colors over South Florida.

Miami delivers its famous high-energy beach atmosphere, while Fort Lauderdale gives travelers miles of coastline with a somewhat more relaxed personality.

You can choose the experience that fits you.

Miami Brings the Energy

Miami is much more than a beach destination.

Spend time exploring South Beach, experience the city's famous Art Deco architecture, discover incredible restaurants, explore different neighborhoods and stay out after sunset when Miami's nightlife comes alive.

For travelers who want their winter escape to combine relaxation with entertainment, Miami delivers both.

Fort Lauderdale Offers a Different Kind of Escape

A short distance away, Fort Lauderdale offers its own version of South Florida.

Spend the day on the beach and then head toward Las Olas Boulevard for boutiques, galleries, cafés, restaurants and waterfront atmosphere.

With canals, marinas and easy access to the water, boating is also part of the Fort Lauderdale experience.

That makes Miami and Fort Lauderdale particularly easy to combine into one South Florida vacation.

Your Vacation Can Go Beyond the Beach

Want some adventure?

South Florida opens the door to much more.

Take an Everglades excursion. Get out on the water. Explore museums and cultural attractions. Make a day trip toward Key Largo and the Florida Keys.

Or do absolutely nothing.

That's the beauty of a winter escape.

Your itinerary doesn't need to become another job.

Don't Wait Until Winter to Book Winter

This is where travelers sometimes make a mistake.

They wait until they're freezing before deciding they want somewhere warm.

By then, the beachfront resort, room category or flight schedule they wanted may no longer be their best option.