February 13, 2024
The holidays are over, and you’ve officially hit that winter slump — you’re in the middle of the Big Dark with months before you come out the other side. Before you lose yourself in an ice cream and Netflix binge, know that brighter skies, warm sandy beaches, palm trees, and Mai Tais can soon be your reality. And the best part? Paradise is just a flight away from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Don’t wait to plan your great escape. With 31 airlines serving 91 non-stop domestic and 28 international destinations, you’ve got so many nonstop options that will get you from grey to great in no time.
Bahamas
Book it to the Bahamas and lose yourself in 16 major islands and 100,000 square miles of the world’s clearest ocean. Lounge on secluded pink sand peaches, make a splash with the world-famous swimming pigs, explore deserted islands, and take a peek at diverse wildlife. Explore the colorful world below the surface of these stunning seas via scuba or snorkel. The Bahamas are home to the Andros Barrier Reef — the third largest in the world. Vibrant reefs, tropic fish, and thriving marine life are all waiting for you.
Tahiti
Book your getaway to Tahiti, the gateway to French Polynesia, located halfway between South America and Australia. French Polynesia is made up of more than 1,200 miles with six archipelagos and 118 islands, each with distinct histories, cultures, languages, and personalities.
While in Tahiti, check out the culture-packed capital city of Papeete and stroll through the Papeete Market with crafts, fresh flowers, produce, souvenirs, and more. Or trade in the city atmosphere for lush landscapes, breathtaking waterfalls, black sand beaches, and calm waters. From Tahiti, you can choose to fly or take a ferry to other islands.
- Book on Air Tahiti Nui
- Get travel tips from Nomadic Matt
- Find hidden cultural hits of French Polynesia
- Explore nature in French Polynesia
Belize
You better “Belize” it! This Central American and Caribbean country has the perfect mix of adventure and beach bummin' opportunities no matter your travel goals. Get your scuba (or snorkel) on at the second largest reef in the world with more than 100 types of coral and 500 species of tropical fish. Explore the lush jungle and discover cutter ants, tapirs, howler monkeys, jaguars, and 570 species of birds, including the toucan.
Mexico
Whether you want to dip your toes in the ocean, snorkel or surf, explore ancient ruins, or take in world-class food, art, and architecture these Mexico destinations offer something for everyone. And SEA offers nonstop flights to all of the following:
- Cancun on Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines
- Puerto Vallarta on Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines
- Mexico City on Aeromexico
- Los Cabos on Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines
- Guadalajara on Volaris
- Nomadic Matt's Mexico Travel Tips
- Lonely Planet Guide to Mexico
Hawaiʻi
Kick the winter doldrums to the curb with some Aloha in your life. SEA offers nonstop flights to Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Maui, and the island of Hawaiʻi! Each island is an amazing but distinct experience.
Here are a few top picks from each island:
Kauaʻi: Be blown away by the emerald valleys, sharp mountain peaks, and jagged cliffs of the “Garden Island” and bask in the laid-back vibes and rich culture of its small towns. Kayak the Wailua River, snorkel on Poʻipū Beach, hike the trails of Kōkeʻe State Park, or go ziplining above Kauaʻi's lush valleys.
- Book on Alaska Airlines or Delta Airlines
Oʻahu: Discover a land of contrasts between the ancient and modern and bustling cities and laidback surf towns. Visit the state capital of Honolulu, reflect at Pearl Harbor, take in the culture at Iolani Place (once home of King Kamehameha), and relax at the world-famous Waikiki Beach.
- Book on Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, or Hawaiian Airlines
Maui: After the devastating August 2023 wildfires in Lahaina, respectful travel to Maui is welcomed and encouraged, now more than ever with the exception of Lahaina. While you’re there, explore Haleakala volcano and enjoy epic sunrises and sunsets at its peak, discover scenic paradise on the lush Road to Hana, and swim and snorkel on its many beaches.
- Book on Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, or Hawaiian Airlines
Island of Hawai'i: Twice the size of all the other Hawaiian Islands combined, you can travel through all but four of the world’s different climate zones on Hawaii. Hike into a crater and see the sights on the Chain of Craters Road at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, relax and watch the sea turtles on the black sands of Punaluʻu Beach, and hike and snorkel at Captain Cook Monument.
Florida
Venture to Florida’s coast and discover its Caribbean feel, tropical climate, white sand beaches, and crystal clear waters. Fly to Miami and drive 160 miles to the Florida Keys, a 125-mile island chain that is home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. Along the way stop at Bahia Honda State Park and enjoy excellent snorkeling, breathtaking sunsets, and activities like camping, fishing, birding, and boating.
Along the way make sure to spend time on the following keys:
- Key Largo: Known as the dive capital of the world and home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Islamorada: Go backcountry sport fishing or saltwater fly fishing and visit the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest segmented bridges in the world
- Big Pine and Lower Keys: Visit Big Pine Key, a national refuge that protects the miniature endangered Key deer, which made an astonishing comeback from near extinction
- Key West: Visit the former homes of storied writers Tennesee Williams and Ernest Hemingway and enjoy the Cuban influences (Key West is located just 90 miles north of Cuba). Watch the legendary sunset from Mallory Square, lounge on the white sands beach, or snorkel and swim at Dry Tortugas National Park.
Photo credit: Big Stock Photo
