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If you’re not a fan of cold weather, trade your snow boots for flip flops this year and find a place to celebrate New Year’s Eve with your toes in the sand. These six tropical locales not only allow you to kick off the New Year feeling relaxed and rejuvenated but you can do it while basking in the warm sunshine and floating in turquoise waters. 

With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve found the best beach getaways for celebrating New Year’s Eve, including the top hotels nearby. Whether you prefer a secluded getaway in Hawaii, a 5-star luxury resort in the Maldives or a lively Full Moon Party in Thailand, we’ve got you covered with six bucket list-worthy NYE beach destinations.

Why You Should Visit Kauai, Hawaii

Photo| Kauai| Shutterstock – TROPICDREAMS

Kauai as Hawaii’s most alluring tropical gem and beach getaways, is blessed with golden sands and a treasure trove of cultural and adrenalin-pumping experiences perfect for ringing in the new year. Poipu Beach Park is popular for its fireworks show, offering a free event with food trucks and outdoor movie screens that delight visitors of all ages.

Top Experiences in Kauai

  • Go snorkelling at Kee Beach, which offers bathtub-warm waters ideal for beginners and kids.
  • Take a road trip along Kauai’s North Shore to see some of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
  • Splurge on a helicopter ride to see the incredible landscape of Kauai from above.

Best Hotels in Kauai

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Photo| Sheraton Kauai Resort | Provided by LEONARDO

Nestled on the world-famous Poipu Beach, Sheraton Kauai Resort offers the perfect home base for New Year’s Eve. Many of the rooms feature ocean views, including the Deluxe Oceanfront View with a king-size bed, mini fridge and flat-screen TV. For a separate living room with a terrace, upgrade to a Deluxe Oceanfront Suite.

Spend your days soaking up the sunshine at the Ocean Pool or book a deep-tissue massage at the spa, then enjoy fresh Hawaiian fare and sunset views at Lava’s on Poipu Beach. Don’t miss the weekly oceanfront luau.

Nearby Attractions

● Poipu Beach Park (1.5 kilometres)
Plantation Gardens Restaurant & Bar (350 metres)
● Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail (3.4 kilometres)

Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 1,310 – USD 1,689
Guest Rating: 8
Address: 2440 Hoonani Road Poipu Beach, Koloa HI 96756 United States, Poipu, Hawaii, United States

Koa Kea Hotel & Resort

Photo| Koa Kea Hotel & Resort | Provided by KOA KEA HOTEL & RESORT

Koa Kea Hotel & Resort is set on Poipu Beach, offering luxurious garden and ocean-view rooms. You’ll find beautiful Pacific Ocean views in the Oceanfront rooms, as well as a flat-screen TV, mini fridge and Nespresso coffee maker. For a furnished patio and spacious living area, upgrade to an Ocean View Suite.

After a long day of celebrating, head to The Spa at Ko’a Kea for natural treatments using indigenous ingredients or kick back by the oceanfront pool with an outdoor bar and lava rock hot tub. Relax by the oceanside fire pits, then dine on Hawaiian cuisine at the award-winning Red Salt Restaurant.

Nearby Attractions

Aulii Luau (1.8 kilometres)
● Allerton Garden (5.8 kilometres)
Poipu Shopping Village (1.7 kilometres)

Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: USD 987 – USD 2,299
Guest Rating: 9.4
Address: 2251 Poipu Road, Poipu, Hawaii, United States

Hotel Location

Why You Should Visit Copacabana, Brazil

Photo| Copacabana| Shutterstock – YUSUKE KOIKE

Consistently ranked as one of the world’s best places to spend New Year’s Eve, Copacabana Beach is known for its over-the-top fireworks displays. Whether you spend the day on the shoreline or attend one of the incredible parties happening in the buzzing nightclubs, you’re sure to find locals dancing and partying until the wee hours of the morning.

Top Experiences in Copacabana

  • Kick back with a fresh caipirinha or join a beach volleyball game at Copacabana Beach.
  • Stroll the white sands of Ipanema Beach and browse its nearby boutiques and restaurants.
  • Take the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain for beautiful panoramas of Rio de Janeiro’s beaches.

Best Hotels in Copacabana

Belmond Copacabana Palace

Photo| Belmond Copacabana Palace | Provided by BELMOND COPACABANA PALACE

Belmond Copacabana Palace is an Art Deco masterpiece on Copacabana Beach, entertaining Brazil’s elite since 1923. While it’s the best spot for catching the New Year’s Eve fireworks, it also boasts a lavish spa, outdoor pool and multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, including Ristorante Hotel Cipriani with its Italian delicacies.

Every room features fine period furniture and original artwork, as well as a flat-screen TV, mini bar and traditional Brazilian slippers. Upgrade to a Suite for a sitting area or indulge in a Penthouse Suite, which has a private terrace, pool and butler services.

Nearby Attractions

● Boardwalk of Copacabana (250 metres)
Churrascaria Palace (98 metres)
● Christ the Redeemer statue (7.8 kilometres)

Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 728 – USD 1,711
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Avenida Atlantica 1702, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Arena Copacabana Hotel

Photo| Arena Copacabana Hotel | Provided by ARENA COPACABANA HOTEL

Boasting spectacular ocean views, Arena Copacabana Hotel is a luxury retreat directly on Copacabana Beach. In addition to a ritzy rooftop pool and bar with beach and Christ the Redeemer views, you’ll find a menu packed with fresh, seasonal fare at the on-site Fennel Restaurant.

The beachy chic rooms feature bright colour palettes and contemporary furnishings, as well as central air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi and mini bars. Ready to celebrate the New Year in style? The lavish suites overlook the beautiful coastline and add separate living rooms.

Nearby Attractions

● Ipanema Beach (3.3 kilometres)
● Museum of the History of the Army (2.3 kilometres)
● Copacabana Fort (2.6 kilometres)

Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 296 – USD 397
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: Avenida Atlantica 2064, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Hotel Location

Why You Should Visit Bondi Beach, Australia

Photo| Bondi Beach| Shutterstock – DARREN TIERNEY

Escape to Bondi Beach this New Year’s Eve, as Sydney’s most iconic stretch of sand boasts a sun-soaked shoreline, impressive waves and a pool overlooking the ocean. At midnight, a magnificent fireworks display at Sydney Harbour illuminates the sky in a kaleidoscope of colours.

Top Experiences in Bondi Beach

  • Grab a beach towel and work on your tan or sign up for surf lessons.
  • Base yourself near one of the best vantage points for the fireworks at the Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour. 
  • Enjoy drinks on the sunny balcony of Bondi Icebergs Club, then swim in the famous oceanfront pool.

Best Hotels in Bondi Beach

Hotel Bondi

Photo| Hotel Bondi | Provided by HOTEL BONDI

Opposite Bondi Beach, Hotel Bondi offers laid-back boutique accommodation. Rooms come in a variety of configurations, with single, double, twin, queen and king options available. In-room perks include private balconies and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Visit the on-site bistro for a seasonal menu of pub classics or hang out in the lively beer garden, while Curlewis Bar is a social space with DJs spinning on the weekends. The on-site bottle shop stocks a wide range of wines, beers and spirits.

Nearby Attractions

● Bondi Icebergs Club (800 metres)
The Bucket List (350 metres)
Milky Lane Bondi (98 metres)

Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 243 – USD 347
Guest Rating: 8
Address: 178A Campbell Parade; Bondi Beach, Bondi Beach, Eastern Suburbs, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia

Hotel Ravesis

Hotel Ravesis is set in the heart of Bondi Beach, offering two floors of boutique accommodation with uninterrupted ocean views. Save money by staying in a Side View King, which features a Juliet balcony and king-size bed, or upgrade to a Terrace King for an open-air terrace. The luxurious Loft has panoramic beach views and a spacious covered terrace.

Recharge with fresh seasonal dishes at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a cold beverage at the beachside public bar. Its upper floor features expansive wrap-around terraces, while the plush late-night club space is an ideal spot to let loose.

Nearby Attractions

● Bondi Beach (400 metres)
● Bronte Beach (1.9 kilometres)
Darling Harbour (7.9 kilometres)

Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 313 – USD 356
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: Corner of Campbell Parade & Hall Street, Bondi Beach, Eastern Suburbs, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia

Hotel Location

Why You Should Visit St Barths

Photo| St Barths| Shutterstock – NAPA

St Barths is the Caribbean’s most exclusive island beach getaway, offering uncrowded white-sand beaches and a yacht-filled harbour. Start the New Year at this sun-soaked getaway, where you can stroll the tranquil Baie des Flamands or people-watch at the party-laden Nikki Beach.

Top Experiences in St Barths

  • Sunbathe and snorkel at the island’s top beaches, including Baie de St-Jean and Saline Beach. 
  • Shop in Gustavia, a small harbour town with chic boutiques, duty-free shops and art galleries.
  • Kick back on one of the plush sunbeds at the famous Nikki Beach Saint Barth.

Best Hotels in St Barths

Eden Rock – St Barths

Photo| Eden Rock St Barths | Provided by EDEN ROCK ST BARTHS

Surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches, Eden Rock – St Barths boasts luxury rooms, suites and villas with beautiful sea views and direct beach access. Celebrate with friends and family in one of the Ultraluxe Villas, which feature multiple bedrooms, large living rooms, full kitchens and swimming pools, as well as private chefs and 24-hour butler services.

Visit the hotel’s signature restaurant, The Sand Bar, for gourmet cuisine, then relax on the tiered sundeck with a delicious cocktail from Beach Bar. Adults can visit the on-site spa or enjoy an in-room massage, while kid-friendly painting lessons and pastry workshops are available.

Nearby Attractions

● Nikki Beach (180 metres)
● Saint-Jean Beach (550 metres)
● Gustaf III Airport (2 kilometres)

Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 2,325 – USD 4,984
Guest Rating: 10
Address: Baie De Saint Jean, Gustavia, Saint Barthelemy

Hotel Le Village St Jean

Hotel Le Village St Jean is less than a five-minute walk from St. Jean Beach, offering six different room types. On a tight budget? Standard rooms can accommodate up to three people and offer the best value for money. Couples can upgrade to a Jacuzzi room for a private hot tub, while Superior rooms add wrap-around terraces with private sun decks.

Start your day with freshly-baked croissants served on the breezy terrace with bay views, then relax at the outdoor pool or get pampered in the Massage Suite. Stay fit with a yoga session or enjoy the panoramic ocean views from the Exercise Suite.

Nearby Attractions

● Plage des Salines (2.8 kilometres)
● Fort Karl (3.3 kilometres)
● Nikki Beach (280 metres)

Star Rating: No Rating*
Price: USD 205 – USD 803
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: French West Indies, Gustavia, Saint Barthelemy

Hotel Location


Looking for more beach getaways destination? 10 Perfect Summer Getaways in the Philippines


Why You Should Visit Koh Phangan, Thailand

Photo| Koh Phangan| Shutterstock – ALEKSEI KAZACHOK

Koh Phangan is world-renowned for its beautiful beaches and Full Moon beach parties. On New Year’s Eve, the island ramps it up with over-the-top celebrations. Cover yourself in UV paint and head to Haad Rin at night to enjoy bucket cocktails, DJs, fireworks and a party that doesn’t end until sunrise.

Top Experiences in Koh Phangan

  • Spot manta rays, barracuda and whale sharks on a diving adventure at Sail Rock.
  • Sample local specialties at The Thong Sala Night Market.
  • Enjoy a post-NYE kayak around the emerald waters of Ang Thong Marine Park.

Best Hotels in Koh Phangan

Phangan Bayshore Resort Koh Phangan

Phangan Bayshore Resort Koh Phangan is an alluring beach resort on Haad Rin Nok beach. There are eight different types of accommodation, from Standard rooms with private balconies to Suites with Jacuzzis. Deluxe Beachfront rooms are the most luxurious with furnished balconies overlooking the ocean.

The beachfront pool is highly praised by HotelsCombined visitors, as well as the Pool Bar serving frozen cocktails. Sink your toes in the sand at Chillin’ Beach Club, then fuel up with innovative Thai dishes at Bayshore Restaurant. There’s also a fully-equipped gym, children’s playground and a shuttle service to Haad Rin Pier.

Nearby Attractions

● MIR Cocktail Bar – Music Is Religion (250 metres)
● The Rock Bar & Restaurant (600 metres)
● Phaeng Waterfall (12.9 kilometres)

Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 125 – USD 329
Guest Rating: 8
Address: 141 Moo 6, Ban Tai, Thailand

Tommy Resort

Photo| Tommy Resort | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Tommy Resort embodies island-style luxury with its lush tropical gardens and Haad Rin beach location. The family-owned resort features a large outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers and an on-site restaurant with outdoor dining and Thai and international cuisines. After a day of island hopping and water sports, watch the sun set from the laid-back Tommy’s Bar.

Stay in a budget-friendly Standard Room for air conditioning, free bottled water, a mini fridge and flat-screen TV or upgrade to a Beach Front Bungalow for ocean views from a private balcony. Want the privacy of your own private pool? Stay in the romantic Luxury Pool Villa.

Nearby Attractions

Monnalisa Italian Restaurant (600 metres)
● Moon Paradise Restaurant (700 metres)
● Rin Nai Beach (900 metres)

Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 88 – USD 232
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 90/13 M.6 Haad Rin Nok, Ban Tai, Thailand

Hotel Location

Why You Should Visit the Maldives

Photo| Maldives| Shutterstock – LIFESTYLE TRAVEL PORTRAIT

The Maldives offers idyllic beaches for when you want to get away from it all. Its striking blue waters and white-sand beaches will simply melt any stress you have from the last year away, while its renowned overwater bungalows offer romantic settings for couples.

Top Experiences in the Maldives

  • Ring in the new year lying on one of the sugar-white sand beaches with a tropical cocktail in hand.
  • Join a diving or snorkelling adventure to see the colourful ocean life.
  • Go island hopping to see the beautiful ring-shaped atolls surrounded by coral reefs.

Best Hotels in the Maldives

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

Photo| Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa | Provided by LEONARDO

Set on a private island facing the Indian Ocean, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa offers 5-star luxury. Along with a lavish spa and oceanfront pool, the resort features multiple restaurants, tennis courts and a Marine Discovery Centre. You can also sign up for baby turtle feeding, sunrise yoga and catamaran sailing.

The Deluxe Beach Pavilion with Pool features a private garden, free-form pool and day-bed gazebo, while the Sunset Water Villa allows you to dive from your bedroom into an infinity pool. Two adults and two children can stay in the Sunrise Family Water Villa, which has its own private lagoon.

Hotel Highlights

●  A luxury spa with massages, body treatments and island spa rituals.
●  Indian cuisine at Baraabaru, wood-fired pizzas at Reef Club and freshly-caught fish at Kandu Grill.
●  An infinity pool and deck area and Sunset Lounge bar.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 3,868 – USD 13,878
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: Kuda Hurra Island, Vabboahura, Maldives

Amilla Fushi

Photo| Amilla Fushi | Provided by AMILLA FUSHI

Start your New Year at Amilla Fushi, a luxury Maldives resort nestled on a lush island with pristine white-sand beaches. Stay in over-water accommodations with private pools, hammocks and crystal-clear lagoons or enjoy treetop-living in a Treetop Pool Villa with a glass-walled pool and private beach sala. Families might prefer the multi-bedroom private Residences.

The resort boasts an azure house reef for snorkelling and pampering spa with private treatment pods, steam and sauna. There are multiple restaurants to choose from, including Japanese izakaya dining at Feeling Koi and Northern Italian cuisine at Barolo Grill.

Hotel Highlights

●  Overwater accommodation with private pools and crystal-clear lagoons for snorkelling.
●  Cooking classes, culinary theme nights and floating breakfasts available.
●  Multiple excursions on offer, including sunset sailing, picnics and a penguin experience.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 2,630 – USD 5,750
Guest Rating: 9.5
Address: Baa Atoll Island, Baa Atoll, Maldives

Hotel Location

Toast to a New Year at These Beautiful Beachfront Accommodations

This year, make the most of your New Year’s Eve by trading crowded, cold-weather celebrations for one of these beach locales. These warm-weather getaways boast postcard-worthy scenery and beachfront hotels with on-site restaurants, outdoor pools and lavish spas, so you can welcome the new year with a newer (and more refreshed) you.

Where do you want to celebrate New Year’s Eve? Let us know in the comments below.

About the author

Charity De Souza Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I have been travelling with my battered backpack full-time for over a decade. My favourite travel memories include skydiving in Switzerland, wine tasting in Portugal, road tripping through Iceland, snorkelling in Indonesia and watching a sunset in the Sahara Desert.

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