New Year's Eve on the beach: 7 most popular tropical locations

The best tropical vacation spots are never as attractive as they are during the dark and gloomy months of December, January, February, and even March. Instead of spending the winter at home, imagining yourself in one of the best Caribbean resorts, choose one of the tropical places to visit.

Replace your snow boots with flip flops and head to one of the most popular tropical vacation spots with a lounge chair and a refreshing drink. The best places to relax in winter are described in the article by usatoday.com.

1. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Sunny Punta Cana not only provides spectacular winter weather, but is also a great destination for families and couples. There are so many family-friendly and romantic all-inclusive resorts. The large number of direct flights to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) from all over the US makes it a convenient destination for a tropical winter vacation.

Children will feel right at home at the family-friendly Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Punta Cana, where they can enjoy one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean. Teenagers can find their own space at Club Med Punta Cana, one of the best resorts in the world for teens. There are also several secluded and romantic resorts for couples to choose from in Punta Cana.

2. Jamaica

Winter tropical vacations in Jamaica evoke the island's rich cultural heritage, live music and laid-back lifestyle. Jamaican all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay and Negril create this atmosphere, while the capital Kingston is the country's cultural Mecca and is worth a visit when you go beyond the beach chair.

The beloved family-friendly Beaches resort brand has two all-inclusive options on the Caribbean island of Jamaica: Negril Beaches and Ocho Rios Beaches. Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa has a beach, golf courses, recreational activities, and many dining options. Speaking of food, gourmets will want to check out the Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall and its 16 restaurants.

3. Bahamas

Head to the Small Hope Bay Lodge on Andros Island for a more peaceful retreat, or stay in the center of the action in Nassau at the couples-only Sandals Royal Bahamian. Families, meanwhile, will want to consider Atlantis Paradise Resort for its huge water playground, top-rated restaurants and incredible recreational activities.

4. Riviera Maya, Mexico

Riviera Maya in Mexico is a long stretch of Caribbean coastline south of Cancun, home to some of the most popular tropical destinations in the entire country, including Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Puerto Morelos. Most of the beach resorts here are self-contained, and some of them are all-inclusive, making them more convenient and safer to visit than other parts of the country.

For families with young children, there is no better all-inclusive choice than Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen. Like its sister resort in Punta Cana, it also has an impressive water park and plenty to keep kids busy, but here every room has ocean and pool views. For an adults-only getaway, take a look at the Viceroy Riviera Maya, where you can book a private villa with its own plunge pool and outdoor shower.

5. US Virgin Islands

Not having a passport is not a problem for American travelers visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands, a U.S. territory that is home to not one, not two, but three of the best tropical vacation spots in the Caribbean: St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John. With year-round sunshine and average seasonal temperatures in the winter months, you really can't go wrong with your choice.

The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort on St. Croix is a top choice for families who will appreciate its waterfront views and family-friendly bed and breakfast suites. The Cruz Bay Boutique Hotel and Gallows Point Resort are centrally located, allowing you to be closer to the action on St. John. And on St. Thomas, the Ritz-Carlton offers romantic and luxurious accommodations, and the all-inclusive Marriott's Frenchman's Cove is especially suitable for families.

6. Oahu, Hawaii

A paradise for beach lovers that has everything.

Winter is a great time to visit Hawaii, not just to escape the cold weather back home. If you're looking for a thrill, then come in January to catch the big wave surfing competition. There's also no better time or place to enjoy a winter beach vacation, especially on the island of Oahu, known for its Waikiki, Kailua, and Waimea beaches and gorgeous tropical resorts.

For families, nothing beats Aulani, the Disney Resort and Spa, which is packed with a variety of services and experiences. It has a private beach, a top-rated pool, and many dining options. Another child-friendly choice is the Turtle Bay Resort, which offers unforgettable activities such as surfing with your puppy. And if you are traveling without children, Oahu has some of the most romantic resorts in Hawaii - Moana Surfrider and Halekulani.

7. Key West, Florida

Sometimes the best places for a tropical vacation are not distant tropical islands at all. Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of winter without getting on a boat or plane? Load everyone up in the family van and head south to the Florida Keys.

The Florida beach town is full of unique things to do, including a seashell train tour, Key West Aquarium and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. All rooms at Oceans Edge Resort and Marina Key West offer romantic ocean views. For families, the Pier House Resort and Spa offers one and two bedroom apartments right in the center of Key West.