Top Destinations to Kick Off the New Year: Best Places to Travel in January

Fewer crowds in many destinations, inviting weather in tropical spots, and irresistible post-holiday deals—January quietly brings some of the best travel conditions of the year. It's a month that feels like a gentle reset, filled with the easy kind of refreshment you only find when you slow down a little. 

As this is the calendar’s soft first page, for travelers, January can be an open door to something beautiful. We know all too well just how perfect this month is for a bit of recalibration, and that’s exactly what inspired this list of the best places to travel in January. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to take a family trip, a romantic getaway just for two, or something in between, there’s a destination here that might just stir something deep inside—and help set the tone for a year that flows just right. 

Picture: In the Caribbean, life's as easy as floating down the lazy river at the all-inclusive Beaches Turks & Caicos. 

Expert tip: Got an island escape in mind? Consider Jamaica where you’ll find the family friendly Beaches Resorts plus all the rhythms, colors and smiles of the Caribbean. 

Sun-Soaked Escapes: Best Warm Destinations in January 

Jamaica: Perfect for beach lovers with sunny days, warm waters, and reggae vibes. 

When people in Jamaica say, “no problem”, best believe they mean it. Somehow, this is one of the things you’ll feel from the moment you arrive, particularly if you stay at an all-inclusive resort like the oceanfront Beaches Negril. 

Set along Seven Mile Beach, this resort is pure island joy. The beach is just steps away, the water sparkles, the sun feels soft, and the vibe is full of good energy.  Kids zip down the slides at the Pirates Island Waterpark while you float in the lazy river. In the evenings, you can enjoy beach bonfires, reggae themed parties, and starry skies. 

For families, Negril is the place to slow down. It’s a vacation that moves to the beat of laughter and easy days. 

Good to Know: Beaches Negril in Jamaica has 13 restaurants, 5 bars including swim-up bars, 3 pools, 3 whirlpools, and all the entertainment and activities a good beach vacation needs!

Barbados: January marks the dry season—ideal for sunbathing and watersports. 

Barbados is one of those gleaming Eastern Caribbean gems vacationers just can’t get enough of. January is just the right time to get out and explore this island’s hot spots, from the underground wonder of Harrison’s Cave to coastal trails and colorful markets that keep the rhythm going.

January vacations in Barbados hit the sweet spot for travelers craving surf that’s warm and welcoming, culture that’s deep and vibrant, and beaches that bring both calm and character. 

If you’re looking to blend sea days with a little island history, nature, and those signature Caribbean vibes, Barbados brings it all together. 

Insider Tip: Stay at the all-inclusive Sandals Resorts in Barbados to enjoy top-shelf spirits, poolside lounging, and access to both resorts—double the dining, double the fun. 

Curacao: Crystal-clear waters and scenic beachfront stays. 

Curaçao is one of those destinations that brings a fresh twist to a January vacation. Set apart from many other Caribbean islands thanks to its Dutch-accented charm, Curaçao serves up beauty, culture, and adventure in every direction. Start your trip in Willemstad, the capital, and take in the colorful buildings of the Handelskade as you go. Walk the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, pop into local shops, and linger when you spot bold splashes of street art around the city.

Let the all-inclusive Sandals Royal Curaçao be your home base while you explore it all. From morning dips to sunset views, this island stay is all about rhythm, color, and Caribbean cool.

Antigua: 365 beaches, whale-watching, and balmy weather. 

One beach for every day of the year? Only in Antigua. If your January plans call for sun, sand, and a whole lotta beach-hopping, this island’s got you covered. From the buzz of Dickenson Bay to the calm waters of Valley Church Beach, Antigua’s shores deliver good vibes in every shade of blue. Love a little thrill? Jabberwock Beach brings the breeze for kite surfers. Looking for laid-back? Runaway Bay’s got your name on it. And for picture-perfect views, Ffryes and Half Moon Bay don’t miss.

Dickenson Bay is a favorite for many visitors to this island. It’s home to some of the island’s top all-inclusive, adults-only stays—right on the sand and just steps from the sea. Mix in a little adventure with a Shirley Heights exploration or a quick boat trip to the nearby island of Barbuda. With a stay at the all-inclusive Sandals Grande Antigua, you can have a vacation that includes a little bit of everything.

Saint Vincent: Tropical rainforests and golden beaches with warm temps. 

Saint Vincent is one of the smaller, quieter islands in the Caribbean, perfect for families looking to slow down and enjoy time together. The country includes the main island of Saint Vincent and a cluster of smaller islands and cays called The Grenadines. In total, there are about 32 islands and cays to discover. Bequia, Mustique, and the Tobago Cays are some of the best known, and while a few of the islands are uninhabited, they’re all full of natural charm and Caribbean warmth. 

Many families choose Saint Vincent for their getaway, a destination that’s becoming more popular every year, and spend their days exploring The Grenadines. There aren’t many large resorts on the island, but you’ll find a few special ones — including Sandals Saint Vincent. From here, you can relax on quiet beaches, join fun tours, or hop on a boat to see the nearby islands. As you sail through The Grenadines, you might even find a tiny island all to yourselves. It’s all part of the magic that makes the Caribbean feel like home. 

Winter Wonderland Adventures in January

There’s no time like January for a winter wonderland adventure. Options are plentiful, from skiing in the Alps in Switzerland plus cozy chalet vibes to heading to Yukon in Canada to chase the Northern Lights. SnowDays in Banff and the Quebec Winter Carnival are also top picks for some seasonal fun. In Iceland, you can also enjoy some incredible views of the Northern Lights and thaw out a bit too while soaking in hot springs. For travelers who don’t mind the cold weather, Iceland and a handful of other wintery destinations make it possible to experience a vacation centered around music, storytelling, and soul.

Romantic January Getaways 

Every now and then, an adults-only getaway is just what you need. If you can make it happen, why not say yes this time? A little time to reconnect and share some quiet moments together can bring you closer and help you return home feeling refreshed, rebalanced, and ready to pour even more love into family life. 

Here are some January getaway destinations that are always a win for romance: 

Caribbean islands like Saint Lucia and Grenada for couples’ resorts and sunset views 

Picture: This January, jet off to Saint Lucia for a beach escape at the all-inclusive Sandals Grande Saint Lucian. 

There’s a certain magic about Caribbean destinations like Grenada and Saint Lucia that’s impossible to replicate. Grenada with its spice scented allure and Saint Lucia with its lush, tropical splendor—on these islands you’ll find more than just gorgeous beaches, but also waterfalls, hot springs, and far-reaching adventure. If you’re looking for a destination you can fall in love with, and fall more in love in, these islands deliver effortlessly. 

Paris: Cozy cafes, fewer tourists, and romantic winter strolls 

Paris has long been considered the City of Love, and you can experience it for yourself as part of a romantic January getaway. The quiet streets, soft winter light, and scent of fresh pastries make every walk feel like a scene from your own story.

Santorini: Quiet charm and stunning views with fewer crowds 

The views in Santorini alone are part of the pull, and it’s one of those destinations made for love. Whether you go for the cliffside sunsets, the whitewashed paths lined with bougainvillea, or simply the prospect of a gorgeous flying dress photo, this is one of those vacations you’ll remember for a long time to come. 

January Travel for Families 

If you plan well, January travel with children is completely possible. Many families make this happen by coordinating with their children’s schools for absence allowances or choosing homeschooling alternatives while away. Others take advantage of January breaks that line up with their school calendars or explore flexible education options while on the move. 

If you’re dreaming of a January getaway with the family, plan with care and think about incorporating a bit of educational tourism that ties into your children’s learning. It’s a great way to keep their minds engaged while creating lasting memories together. 

If you just want to relax, that’s okay too. Here are some top family vacation spots to explore in January: 

Warm-weather picks: Beaches Turks & Caicos for endless family fun 

Picture: Enjoy every second of beach time with the ones you love at the all-inclusive Beaches Turks & Caicos. 

If there were such a thing as paradise, the Turks & Caicos would be it. Relaxing beach days and waterpark thrills are just the start of your island adventures with a January vacation to this destination. Spend your days exploring attractions like Grace Bay Beach with its soft white sand and clear turquoise water or splash around at the Pirates Island Waterpark. Every moment comes with ease, surrounded by sunshine and wholesome family memories. 

Good to know: Families visiting Beaches Resorts in January or any other month can contribute to Sandals Foundation community projects—like school support programs or beach cleanups—offering a meaningful way to give back while on vacation. 

Snowy spots: Lapland in Finland for reindeer rides and snowy adventures 

Photo credit: H Sauchuk/Shutterstock.com 

There’s a time and a place for everything, and some January days are best spent keeping things a little cooler. Lapland in Finland is a wonderful choice for this, where you and your family can enjoy cozy cabins, sleigh rides, and the magic of the Northern Lights – a wintry experience unlike any other. 
 

Cultural destinations: Orlando for theme parks with lighter January crowds 

Within the US, you can find January favorites with a bit of culture sprinkled in, like some of the theme parks in Orlando. With January temperatures being among the lowest on average, crowds are usually much lighter than what you’d find in the higher peak months. This is ideal if you and your travel crew want to make the most of it all (go on more rides!) in less time. 

Unique January Festivals in the Caribbean 

Coming off the heels of eventful December, January tends to be a much quieter month. There are still a few destinations with event calendars that ignite this month, and these can be worth considering for your next vacation. Here are some of the most popular January events in the Caribbean. 

Rebel Salute – Jamaica (January) 

Why you might love it: Great for families who want a music culture experience without the wild party vibe. 

Founded by musician Tony Rebel, this event is a staple on the Jamaica events calendar in January, and it focuses on roots reggae and culturally themed music. This event includes an arts and crafts component, and it’s also alcohol-free and meat-free, in line with its conscious roots. This can be worth attending with your family as it is quite a mellow event. 

Tip: Make sure kids get some rest beforehand, as festival hours can be long. You can also plan to attend for just an hour—that way everyone can experience the event without getting too tired. 

Junkanoo – The Bahamas (January 1st) 

Photo credit: Montez Kerr/Shutterstock.com 

Why you might love it: Big cultural splash, spectacle, fun for all ages if you plan accordingly.

Junkanoo is one of the most popular cultural happenings in The Bahamas. The central focus of this event is the vibrant street parade that brings it to a close, but even before this, there’s quite a lot to look forward to, including learning about the culture and cuisine of The Bahamas. Junkanoo is held around New Year/New Year’s Day. Expect colorful costumes, drumming, dancing and a big street party feel. 

Good to know: For the most part, it is safe to take kids to see the Junkanoo parade in The Bahamas. Even with that said, because it’s a large street event with crowds, you’ll want to keep kids close and be mindful of busy/late hours. 

Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián – Puerto Rico (third weekend of January) 

Why you might love it: A lively cultural immersion for families, especially if you go early and keep to daytime fun. 

Held in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, around the third weekend of January, this is a cultural celebration featuring live music, crafts, and dancing in the streets. There are some kid friendly elements (artisans, street culture, daytime events), but keep in mind that this is a large street festival and it can get very crowded, especially late at night. If you decide to go, keep kids close and have an early exit strategy. 

There are lots of other January events that you can check out while in the Caribbean. Some others not mentioned that are worth considering include the Junkanoo Jump Up in Turks & Caicos, and low-key events like art exhibitions, cooking competitions, and other community style happenings. Keep in mind that for many islands in the Caribbean, there are limited big festivals held in January. Most of these events are held later on in the year. Even with that said, this is still a great month for beach fun, nature, snorkeling, island hopping, and more. 

Travel Tips for January Vacations 

The best vacations are the most informed ones. The more you know, the smoother your trip will go. Here are a few Jamaica travel tips to keep front of mind: 

●    Pack smart 

The last thing you want is baggage stress. Make a checklist—everything you need, nothing you don’t. Consider your destination and pack accordingly. For the Caribbean, think swimwear, sun hat, a cover up, maybe a light jacket for evenings. Easy does it. Take a look at our travel guides to help you get started. 
[add link to travel guide]. 

●    Book your trip early 

Vacations flow smoothly when you plan early. That means booking flights, resort, and a few fun extras ahead of time. Aim for at least six months out if you can. It gives you the best shot at good deals (post-holiday travel deals are common in January) and lets you relax into your countdown to vacation bliss. 

●    Consider travel insurance 

Do some research into the weather in your destination of choice ahead of your trip. Look into travel insurance and prioritize resorts that offer worry-free guarantees to help set your mind at ease. Once you’ve booked your vacation, keep an eye on the weather in the days leading up to your trip. 

●    Arrival made easy 

Get ahead of travel hiccups before your foot hits the sand. Track your flights, double check docs, and keep everything at hand. Arriving calm means your vacation starts the moment you step off the plane.

●    Be flexible 

If the weather slows things down, don’t sweat it. Keep snacks, a change of clothes, and your essentials in your carry-on so you can stay comfy on the go. Take a deep breath — every delay just brings you one moment closer to paradise. 

Start the Year on Island Time in the Best Places to Travel in January 

No matter where the wind carries you, whether toward snow topped peaks or sun saturated shores, January feels like an invitation. And it is. A much needed one at that, and all the incentive you need to slow down, explore, and begin again. The world is quieter, the experiences feel more personal, and the pace more your own.

Maybe it’s the feel good essence of Jamaica, the friendly smiles of Barbados, the calm of Turks & Caicos—but the Caribbean in January offers you something you won’t want to miss: warm skies filled with peace, a slower pace, and the kind of memory making that sticks. 

When you’re heading somewhere that already promises ease, there’s no better way to enjoy than an all inclusive stay at Beaches Resorts. With accommodation, dining, entertainment, land and water sports and more included, it’s travel without the guesswork. And all you really need to do is arrive. 

FAQ: Best Places to Travel in January

1. What is the best beach destination to visit in January?
One of the top beach destinations in January is Jamaica, with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and vibrant Caribbean culture. Resorts like Beaches Negril offer the perfect blend of family fun and tropical relaxation.

2. Where is warm and family-friendly in January?
Turks & Caicos is ideal for families in January, thanks to its calm waters and sunny weather. Beaches Turks & Caicos features a waterpark, kids’ camp, and beach activities—all included in your stay.

3. Is January a good time to visit the Caribbean?
Yes! January falls in the Caribbean’s dry season, offering warm weather, fewer crowds, and excellent deals. It’s a great month to enjoy islands like Barbados, Curaçao, and Antigua.

4. What are the best romantic destinations in January?
Couples love Saint Lucia, Grenada, and Saint Vincent for January getaways. These destinations offer breathtaking views, luxurious resorts, and unforgettable sunset moments.

5. Are there any Caribbean festivals in January? 
Yes! Highlights include Rebel Salute in Jamaica, Junkanoo in The Bahamas, and Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián in Puerto Rico—these events all put the spotlight on culture and music.

6. What are the best activities to do on a January vacation?
In January, you can enjoy snorkeling and beach days in the Caribbean, whale-watching in Antigua, skiing in the Alps, or chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland or Finland. Whether you prefer snow or sun, adventure awaits.

7. What should I pack for a Caribbean trip in January?
Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a sunhat, and a light jacket for breezy evenings. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen and sandals for exploring the beach.

Picture: Ready to make a splash? Dive right into your best January vacation yet at the all-inclusive Beaches Negril!