Hi there,
My sister and I are planning our annual Xmas trip. We normally go to the Big Island of Hawaii. We are on a stricter budget this year, but want somewhere WARM and our main concern is that the Hotel/Inn has a great beach that we can hang out on. We also want to be fairly closer to restaurants, shopping, etc. We are thinking of Key West, but in the posts I've read, I didn't see anyone mention a fantastic beach. Any thoughts?? I've always gotten great advice here, so thanks in advance!

Key West is one of my favorite places, but it definitely doesn't have great beaches. Either painful coral, or small manmade beaches. If beaches are a big priority, I'd pass on Key West.

I don't know where you're at, but there can be great deal to Cancun for short stays. Very commercial, but amazingly beautiful beaches and wonderful blue water.

Ik, thanks!! Good to know about the beaches. Any other "Key" areas that have great beaches and would be worth checking out. We are coming from Nashville. Thanks!!!
Jamie

hello,

You might start thinking about the Caribbean. My husband and I were married in Jamaica last year. We were there from 11/28-12/11. For twenty people we got a package for $585 per person for 6 nights including air/taxes (from LAX). Our hotel was not on the beach, but was very nice and had a shuttle. They had hotels on the beach for a little more. Contact www.tropical-pleasures.com. Ask for Owen. I am sure He can help you out. Jamaica is much cheaper than Hawaii, especially for food/drinks..etc, and just as beautiful. If you have never travelled to the Caribbean, you should know that poverty abounds. If that bothers you, than you should spend $$$ for Hawaii. If it doesn't, than think about it like you are supporting/bringing $ to the area. Hope this helps. Jamaica is really a beautiful place. I have connections with a fantastic beach (secluded and beautiful, that you can basically rent for $10 a head for the day!). They will also make you the greatest appetizers, and they serve drinks. email me if you have any additional questions, and I will pass on the information that I know.

Key West should be taken off the list if it is beaches you are looking for as above posters all ready stated. If you are not interested in the Caribbean or Mexico, then there are other keys. You could also try Ft.Lauderdale, Naples, Sanibel Island. There are some great sales right now for Cancun, or even Punta Cana for the Caribbean.

I agree with the other posters about the beaches. Since the keys are coral all the beaches are man-made and most are tiny. Why not consider South Beach in Miami?

Suggest Islamorada at the Moorings. Beautiful location great beach, pool & grounds. Very private yet a little expensive. Great restaurants within walking distance. Its on the ocean side of Islamorada. Don't worry you can still see a beautiful Florida Bay sunset at Lorelei's, Morada Bay, Islamorada Fish Company or Marker 88 restaurants. The Worlwide Sportsman store is located next door to Islamorada Fish Co. and you will enjoy the shopping and may even go upstairs to the Zane Grey bar and have a couple. You won't be sorry.

I was in the Keys for the first time in Feb.

1st off it wasn't that warm! Not sure if there is a lot of difference in Dec. but bring your sweaters!

2nd since the Keys are coral there arn't any real good beaches. If you are use to Hawaii then you will be very disappointed!

I would check into Mexico- Ixtapa, PV, Cabo all can be had for the same price as the Keys. Or perhaps the Caribbean as others stated.

Which coast are you coming from?