18 Exciting New Year's Eve Destinations to Book Now
Whether you're looking for snow, surf, or something entirely different, we have a fabulous itinerary for you.
What better way to celebrate the end of 2023 than with a fabulous New Year's getaway? Start planning now to ensure you can make the most of these dreamy destinations, be they sunny and sandy, full of hustle and bustle, or snowcapped and cozy.
Ring in the New Year in New York City, or spend it by the fire with a favorite bottle of Champagne in the Rockies. Be one of the first in the world to welcome 2024 in Sydney, or dance the night away in a Mexican town square as the calendar pages turn. Or seek out a unique spot to kick off a new year. Think a luxury cruise or a train ride. Forget the popular—abscond to a remote island or a private beach. Leave the city lights behind, and head for a national park, where you might spot a shooting star (the Quadrantids meteor shower does peak this time of year). Read on to discover our editors' picks for the best places to get away for New Year's Eve.
Sea Island, Georgia
Take the plunge in 2024—the polar bear plunge, that is. It’s just one of many daily New Year’s activities from Mimosas and Masterpieces (a fun twist on paint and sip) to cooking demonstrations featuring the flavors of various local restaurants to rousing games of bingo, a cherished tradition for more than 50 years, on this private island off Georgia’s southeastern coast.
Five-star accommodations await at The Cloister and The Lodge, or rent a cottage for all the comforts of home, plus full resort and beach club access and concierge service. Don’t forget to pack your clubs so you can play a round (or two) on the three championship golf courses.
Sydney
Each year more than a million people flock to the magnificent harbor of Australia’s largest city to bring the New Year in with a bang. And you won’t find a more iconic or centrally located place to land than InterContinental Sydney, set inside the beautifully restored Treasury Building of 1851.
Opt for a harbor-view room in the Sky’s the Limit package for front-row seats to the world-famous fireworks extravaganza. After the next day’s recovery brunch at rooftop bar Aster, stroll through the nearby Royal Botanic Garden or along Manly Beach—after all it is summer down under.
Maui
Get a glimpse of what the future holds with a synastry reading for two as part of Grand Wailea’s Tropical New Year. The couple-centric package also includes a revitalizing massage, a private outdoor yoga or spin class, and premium luau seating. At this Hawaiian oasis, luxuriate in a newly renovated suite featuring a bathroom dripping with Afyon Sugar marble, walls adorned with curated contemporary art, and a secluded lanai furnished with solid teak.
Dive deep into the native landscape and culture with exclusive experiences like a personalized tour of conservation lands with a local guide and hula or kukui nut bracelet–making lessons.
Rio de Janeiro
You, along with about two million of your “closest” friends, are invited to Réveillon (aka New Year’s Eve) on Rio’s famed 2.5-mile curved beach. Dress is smart casual; white is suggested (for good luck in the year ahead). The soiree in front of Copacabana Palace officially begins with drinks at 8 p.m.
You definitely need to arrive by 10 p.m. so as not to miss the big-name musical acts, the fireworks, and the rush into the ocean after midnight to jump seven small waves and make a wish or give thanks with each one. Then move to the hotel pool, where DJs keep the party going ‘til dawn.
Highlands, North Carolina
This quaint town nestled in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains is a delightful winter destination. For beautiful natural surroundings, delicious food, well-appointed rooms, luxe spa services, and true Southern hospitality, stay at Old Edwards Inn and Spa.
On New Year's Eve, make a reservation for dinner at one of the on-property restaurants and toast the new year with Champagne and live music as the clock strikes midnight in the Hummingbird Lounge. The next day, enjoy complimentary Bloody Marys and mimosas while you watch the College Football Playoff semifinal games.
Eleuthera
Escape to warmer weather, white sand beaches, and crystal clear water this New Year's Eve. Book a suite or villa at The Cove, a secluded jewel box on this Bahamian island. The intimate resort features a hilltop infinity pool, open-air dining, and a world-class spa. Whether you want an action-packed trip (think swimming with pigs, paddleboarding, kayaking, biking, or snorkeling) or something a bit more relaxed, you can certainly find it here.
London
We're dreaming of an English holiday this year spent with The Lanesborough as our home base. The legendary mansion turned hotel with the help of Alberto Pinto is seated right off Hyde Park and near some of the city's best shopping and dining and seasonal festivities.
The hotel also offers a New Year's Eve in Residence package with a seven-course dinner at the Michelin-starred flagship restaurant December 31, complimentary breakfast served to your room after a long night, and extra-late checkout to ensure you celebrate big.
New Orleans
If you're looking for larger-than-life fun a little closer to home, then consider spending your New Year's weekend in the Big Easy. This historic Southern city is full of festive programming from a citywide party in Jackson Square to live music and dancing to unforgettable dining at institutions like Galatoire's Restaurant. Maison de la Luz is one of our favorite hotels for a chic getaway with design inspiration from Studio Shamshiri at every turn.
Anguilla
The Caribbean is always a hot spot for leisurely long weekends in the winter, and we're partial to Anguilla's enchanting beaches and ultrafabulous resorts. Book a stay at the Kelly Wearstler–designed Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla with its showstopping villas, impeccable views, and fabulous amenities that offer something for everyone in your party.
Deer Valley, Utah
This luxurious Park City, Utah, enclave is a favorite place to seek adventure, unwind, and reconnect with nature, making it a top spot for a New Year's break. While you can't go wrong with selecting from the incredible roster of resorts and hotels in the area, Stein Eriksen Lodge always earns high marks for its vast array of well-appointed accommodations, award-winning dining at Glitretind, and one of the best spas around.
New York City
What a treat to ring in 2024 in New York City! Reserve a room at the thoughtfully reimagined Park Lane hotel on Central Park South to be at the center of all the city's best activities, and spend NYE with a glass of new- or old-world wine in hand as you take in the fireworks from the 47th floor at Darling, the only rooftop lounge on Billionaire Row.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Jonesing for color, inspiration, and a more temperate clime? Mexico's San Miguel is an ideal choice for kicking off 2024. This vibrant destination is full of New Year's Eve traditions that pull from different countries around the world. Join the citywide celebration in the famous Jardín Allende, where fireworks and dancing take place. Then retreat to Mesón Hidalgo, a converted late 17th-century house by designer Laura Kirar. And leave plenty of room in your suitcase for shopping local makers within the charming hotel.
Athens, Greece
Athens, Greece, is a top year-end destination, as the city is full of live music and dance performances, fireworks, rooftop cocktail parties, and plenty of other festive activities. Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens hosts a famed dinner and wine pairing on New Year's Eve, along with a party at the hotel. Those looking for a refuge from the hustle and bustle will love the neoclassical accommodations at Monsieur Didot near Neapoli, which is home to some of the city's oldest bookstores.
The Swiss Alps
It doesn't get much better than a wintry Alpine getaway to celebrate the New Year. We're fantasizing about a stay at the glorious Gstaad Palace to spend our holiday skiing, enjoying legendary Swiss wellness experiences at the Palace Spa, and reveling in the luxury hotel's nightlife. The resort also features an annual "Last Dinner" event on New Year's Eve with a spectacular prix fixe menu.
Cape Town, South Africa
New Year's in South Africa's "mother city" means wine dinners at iconic local vineyards, celebrations at the V&A Waterfront, and watching fireworks at Table Mountain. Start the New Year in style at the glamorous Cape Cadogan, a Georgian-Victorian townhouse that has been transformed into a boutique hotel in the enchanting Kloof Street neighborhood. The hotel boasts amenities from jazz tours and safari excursions to food and wine experiences and ecotourism alongside the New Year's festivities.
Sedona, Arizona
Have you been missing some adventure in your life? Us, too. Get the full hiking, biking, and exploring experience in picturesque Boynton Canyon from Enchantment Resort's Trail House. The secluded vacation spot is also home to the world-renowned Mii amo spa. Plus winter is Sedona's slow season, so you won't be facing big crowds while taking a day trip to the Grand Canyon or discovering the desert town's incredible arts, culture, and restaurants.
The Florida Keys
Feel worlds away without a passport with a New Year's escape to the Florida Keys. This stretch of barrier islands is perfect for those looking for more laid-back options in South Florida. Find a true boater's paradise in Marlin Bay Resort & Marina, which features 13 luxury vacation homes on the property. Grab your favorite couple or a few of your dearest friends, and spend the long weekend cruising the Atlantic.
Palm Springs
This quirky Southern California city is a great getaway for a lively yet low-key New Year's Eve. Lounge by the pool all day, or embark on some fun design adventures. Take a tour of the area's famous midcentury modern architecture, visit the Moorten Botanical Garden, and explore the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park. Round out your stay at the retro-chic Parker Palm Springs, which will have you feeling as if you're in a glamorous vintage postcard.
Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor based in Birmingham, Alabama. Before going on her own, Lauren worked for brands such as VERANDA, EatingWell, and Cooking Light, and she covers all things lifestyle from interior design and luxury travel to wine and wellness.
Jaime Milan (she/her) is the deputy digital editor for VERANDA, where she writes about design, architecture, gardens, jewelry, fashion, travel, wine, news and trends. In her spare time, she can be found shopping at the antique store, cooking, gardening, or teaching her mini Australian Shepherd, Gumbo, new tricks. Follow her on Instagram at @jaimemmilan.
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