The World's Best Winter Beach Getaways—With 11 Hours of Sunshine

Why This Island Outshines Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands for the Ultimate Winter Escape

When winter settles across the U.S., and daylight shrinks to a sliver, travelers start dreaming of warm breezes, turquoise waters, and long, sun‑soaked days. Although the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are often the first destinations that come to mind—with their balmy 77‑degree averages and postcard‑perfect beaches—there's another U.S. Island that quietly delivers something extraordinary:11 hours of sunshine in the winter.

Welcome to Hawaii's Big Island, the hidden gem that outshines every other U.S. Island for winter beach escapes. With average temperatures hovering around 76 degrees, it may not be the warmest on paper—but what it lacks in degrees, it makes up for in pure, golden daylight. And in winter, sunlight is an absolute luxury.

Below is a deep dive into why the Big Island stands above Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands as the best winter getaway, plus how to plan your trip using Expedia TAAP for exclusive deals, upgrades, and seamless booking.

☀️ 11 Hours of Sunshine: The Big Island's Secret Winter Advantage

Most travelers focus on temperature when choosing a winter escape—but seasoned island lovers know that sunlight hours determine the real experience.

The Big Island receives up to 11 hours of sunshine daily in winter, far more than most tropical destinations. That means:

• Longer beach days
• More time for snorkeling, hiking, and exploring
• Warmer afternoons despite slightly cooler averages
• Stunning sunsets that feel like they last forever

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands may boast slightly higher temperatures, but they also experience more winter cloud cover and shorter daylight hours. On the Big Island, the sun is your constant companion.

🌴 The Hidden Gem: The Kohala Coast

Every island has its "secret spot," but the Big Island's Kohala Coast is in a league of its own. This stretch of shoreline is protected by the island's volcanic geography, creating a microclimate that is:

• Drier than any other region in Hawaii
• Warmer than the island's eastern side
• Consistently sunny, even when other islands see passing showers

The Kohala Coast is where you'll find some of the most luxurious yet peaceful beaches in the U.S., including:

Hapuna Beach — pure white beach and quiet winter waves

Mauna Kea Beach is a lovely crescent with unobstructed views.

Locals love Waialea Bay (Beach 69), which has colorful reefs and shady nooks.

Unlike the more congested beaches of Puerto Rico or St. Thomas, the Kohala Coast feels calm, expansive, and pristine.

🌺 Why the Big Island Beats Puerto Rico & the U.S. Virgin Islands in Winter

1. More Sunlight = More Adventure

With 11 hours of sunshine, you can fit in a beach morning, a waterfall hike, and a sunset dinner—all in one day. Winter on the Big Island feels like an endless summer.

2. Diverse Landscapes You Won't Find Elsewhere

It's the only U.S. Island where you can snorkel with manta rays at night and stargaze atop a dormant volcano in the same trip.

3. Fewer Crowds, More Space

Winter is peak season in the Caribbean, and beaches in Puerto Rico and USVI can feel packed. The Big Island's vast size means you can always find a quiet corner of paradise.

4. A More Relaxed, Slow‑Travel Vibe

If you crave a peaceful winter reset, the Big Island's energy is unmatched. It's soulful, grounding, and deeply connected to nature.

5. Better Winter Water Conditions

While Caribbean islands sometimes experience rougher winter surfing, the Kohala Coast remains calm, making it ideal for:

• Snorkeling
• Paddleboarding
• Swimming
• Family‑friendly beach days

🌊 Using Expedia TAAP to Plan Your Winter Vacation

To make your winter holiday smooth, book your flights, accommodation, and activities through Expedia TAAP, where you'll find:

Exclusive agent‑only rates

Flexible cancellation options

Combined discounts on travel and lodging

Access to the Kohala Coast's premier resorts

Verified traveler reviews

Easy comparison tools for budget vs. luxury stays

Whether you're considering the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, or a boutique hotel near Kona, Expedia TAAP helps you find the best bargain while keeping your planning stress‑free.

Explore top‑rated Big Island resorts and winter discounts through Expedia TAAP.

🌞 Final Thoughts: The Best Winter Getaway. It's the Warmest—It's the Sunniest

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are unquestionably lovely, but when winter strikes, the Big Island offers something they can't match long, golden days packed with sunshine. Add in its hidden‑gem beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and unequaled natural diversity, and you have the perfect winter vacation for those seeking warmth, beauty, and serenity.

If you're ready to trade gray skies for glowing sunsets, start planning your Big Island getaway today.

Your winter paradise is waiting—book your sunshine‑filled escape through Expedia TAAP and discover the island that outshines them all.