Cold Weather is upon us, meaning you’re either curling up by the fire or searching the web for a place to escape the frosty air. Whether you’re looking to escape the winter blues or embracing the snowy weather, we’ve handpicked the best places to go for a winter getaway, plus tips on what to eat, and where to shop for souvenirs and gifts while you’re there.

1. Ocho Rios, Jamaica

There is no better way to escape Jack Frost than to head down to the Caribbean. With plenty of all-inclusive resorts to hop to, Ocho Rios has it all for those looking to build sand-castles instead of snow-forts. Surrounding Ocho Rios is a lush rainforest and Dunn’s River Falls. Dunn’s River Falls is a terraced mountain waterfall with lagoon pools. Most resorts offer day trip tours to this must-see natural attraction. If you’re lounging by the pool instead, the signature Ochi Drink is the Frozen Banana; 6 oz Rum, 2 Frozen Bananas, 1 fresh squeezed lime, and 6 oz cream of coconut. Don’t have too many before heading to the Island Village for light shopping. Bijoux, one of Dune’s Favorite Retailers is located in this cute little shopping mall and carries a beautiful selection of our Larimar. Their best-selling design is the Dolphin Necklace – Larimar and Sand. A tangible reminder of the beauty found in Jamaica.

2. Delray Beach, Florida

One of the Best-Kept Secrets of the East Coast of Florida, Delray Beach is a buzzing location for foodies, surfers, and beach lovers alike. Downtown Delray is bursting with restaurants including Cuban, Mediterranean, Italian, and even a fun British Beer Bar! Art galleries, shopping, and even more great restaurants can be found in the busting Pineapple Arts District. Being on the East Coast of Florida, the adventurous can take surfing lessons on the beach or even go parasailing. While Delray is best consumed à la carte – if you’re looking for a luxurious stay, the Opal Grande Resort has it all! From Villas with easy beach access to the Monkey Bar and award-winning Spa, the Opal Grande has an activity for every member of the family. They even have a great shopping section with a curated collection of Dune Jewelry. Their favorite design is the Delicate Starfish Necklace handcrafted with Shells from Delray Beach.

3. Laconia, New Hampshire

If you like to embrace the cold weather, the White Mountains of New Hampshire might be more your speed. Spend the day snowmobiling, skiing the nearby mountains, or even ice-fishing on the gorgeous Lake Winnepesaukee. More interested in indoor activities? Laconia Antique Center is a large mall filled with hidden treasures and one-of-a-kind finds. Check out the Belknap Mill, the last mill of its kind surviving the Industrial Age of New England. Before you completely escape the cold to curl up by the fire – stop by for some traditional German sweets. Founder Otto G. Keller was the first ice cream shop to offer his sweets all year round! They even have a selection of Dune Jewelry to remember your times by the Lake. Their favorite design is the Delicate Dune Wave Necklace.

4. Estes Park, Colorado

The ultimate get-away for snow bunnies is Estes Park in the basin of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. While the main draw is Skiing and Snowboarding, the fun doesn’t stop there. Longs Peak is the only 14er (14,000 ft peak) mountain in the state. Seen from Denver on a clear day, or the real expert can climb multiple different routes to the peak! For the literature and movie lovers, the Stanley Hotel is located in Estes Park. Unfortunately (or fortunately) Jack Nicholson and Steven King won’t be there! The downtown area is filled with cozy cabins, yummy restaurants, and shopping! Visit one of our favorite retailers, Mary Jane’s in the heart of your stroll. They have an exclusive element – Rocky Mountain Granite, that they use to customize their selection of Dune Jewelry. Their new favorite design is the Full Heart Necklace – Mother of Pearl Gradient. It’s like a perfect memory of a snow-capped mountain!

Wishing you a winter filled with making great memories and happy traveling. If you have a winter getaway sand story you would like to share, any questions, suggestions, or just want to say hi, please reach out anytime.

We would love to hear from you!

– Lauren & The Dune Team.