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Pack the Sunscreen: 5 Warm-Weather Escapes

Warm, sunny—and some sandy—these five stunning getaways await

By Seattle Mag March 12, 2015

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Sure, we’re happy that springtime has arrived. But Spring in Seattle can be deceptive—sunny enough to tempt us outside, but a little too chilly to let us enjoy it. But that’s why airplanes, resorts, and tropical drinks were invented!

If you’re longing to warm up for a few days or a week, here are some great destinations to consider.

Hit the Beach: Mexico, Caribbean and Costa Rica Trips from Delta Vacations

Who says you can’t have it all? Sheer happiness awaits when you reserve an all-inclusive hotel vacation to Mexico, Costa Rica or the Caribbean from Delta Vacations through AAA Travel. Your getaway includes scores of perks such as an array of unlimited meals, snacks and beverages (think everything from sushi to Italian to exotic drinks should you opt for a respite to the Azul Beach resort in Mexico), daily activities, themed nightly entertainment and beyond. And if you’re planning a reunion, wedding or honeymoon, Delta Vacations and AAA Travel can help you book an option that’s tailored to your needs (you don’t have to be a member to use AAA travel services). Expect nothing but sun, fun, adventure and relaxation–everything is taken care of for you. Go to aaawa.com for more information.

Go Rugged: Enjoy the Sounds of Spring in Phoenix

The smack of baseballs hitting leather mitts. The rumble of wild horses galloping through a river. The howl of a coyote across a desert valley. These are the sounds of spring in Phoenix. Phoenix comes alive in spring with blooming wildflowers and cactuses. Mountain parks call to hikers and cyclists, and the waters of the Salt River beckon wild horses to cool off, even as revelers in rafts float past them. The Sonoran Desert is also the backdrop for Cactus League Spring Training. Fifteen baseball teams—including the Seattle Mariners—make Phoenix their spring home, and they take the field throughout March. For more information, go to visitphoenix.com.

Get Ready to Relax: Ka’anapali Beach Resort Vacation

Hit the surf by day, then take in an incredible sunset by night along Ka’anapali’s pristine three-mile beach, which is considered one of Maui’s best and most beautiful. The Ka’anapali Beach Resort boasts 11 properties—you’ll find one that’s perfect no matter what kind of vacation you seek—two golf courses, two shopping centers and an endless array of activities and dining options. Book your Hawaiian getaway now at kaanapaliresort.com.

Have Fun with Friends: Rent a Vacation Home in Palm Springs
Palm Springs, CA vacation home

There are over 1,600 Palm Springs-area homes to rent on VRBO.com, from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars a night—like this beautiful home, which offers a gorgeous pool, hot tub, gourmet kitchen, large flat-screen TV, blackjack and roulette tables and room for 12 with a view overlooking a large golf course. This is the perfect solution for large or small groups of family or friends (with pets!) who like to golf, swim, cook, or just relax together. The local casinos, movie theaters, and ample shopping options provide additional indoor activities when you want to get out of the heat. Search for your ideal vacation home at VRBO.com.

Get Active: Learn to Surf in San Diego
San Diego surfing

Always wanted to learn to surf, but never made the time? A few days in San Diego could change all that! Whether you want to take lessons solo or in a group with friends, family, or only with other women, there are many surf camps and schools in San Diego to choose from. And when your muscles are aching, you can take a day off to see the animals at SeaWorld or the world-famous San Diego zoo, or just soak up the sun at one of San Diego’s many beautiful parks. Learn more at SanDiegoGo.com.

 

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