If you are a beach person like me, then you are likely craving the ocean! Beach trips don’t have to wait for summer. Layer up and check out these eleven winter weekend destinations, just a quick trip from DC. And if you prefer skiing, check out 10 options here.
Reasons why going to the beach in winter is a good idea:
- You will have the beach to yourself
- Less crowded restaurants and boardwalks
- Amazing hotel rates and deals during the off season
- Enjoy the peace and quiet
11 DMV Winter Weekend Getaways (for non-skiers)
Beach Destinations
1. Rehoboth, DE
Distance: 3 hours
Why we love it: Awesome food options, tax free shopping at the outlets, and tons of things to do for little kids on the boardwalk. Check out these 44 fun things to do with kids in Rehoboth.
Food options: Nicola’s Pizza, Henlopen City Oyster House
Where to stay: Avenue Inn is just a block away from the beach.
2. Cape May, NJ
Distance: 3.5 hours
Why we love it: Climb up the lighthouse, enjoy the hiking trails and collect shells along the shore, go roller skating at Convention Hall. Watch the sun set in the beach at Sunset Pavilion, visit the Cape May County Park & Zoo where there’s also a playground, train, and carousel for the little ones.
Food options: Breakfast at the Mad batter Blue Pig Tavern and lunch/dinner in a Victorian Era atmosphere at Blue Pig Tavern.
Where to stay: Congress Hall
3. Chincoteague or Assateague Island, VA
Distance: 3.5 hours
Why we love it: Wild ponies! See them on Wildlife Drive or ride one at Chincoteague Pony Centre or at Neversink Bay Meadows Farm. Take the Assateague Explorer cruise. This is a must! Get a panoramic view of the whole island from the Assateague lighthouse. Get around the island on the Pony Express trolley. Get hands on at the Delmarva Discovery Museum.
Food options: The Ropewalk is great for kids!
Where to stay: Holiday Cottages has a sand area and playground.
4. Ocean City, NJ
Distance: 3 hours
Why we love it: A town that is geared towards family fun! Discover 15 great activities the whole family will love, like exploring the boardwalk and arcades, playing miniature golf in one of these courses, and taking long walks on the beach!
Where to stay: Lots of great places here.
5. Bethany Beach, DE
Distance: 3 hours
Why we love it: Walk along the beach, explore the Delaware Seashore State Park and watch the winter surfers catching waves, get frozen custard at Kohrs Brothers on the Bethany beach boardwalk, and go to nearby beaches in Lewes and Rehoboth.
Food options: Bethany Boathouse and Ropewalk have playgrounds!
Where to stay: Sea Colony resort has a private beach and indoor pools.
6. Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, MD
Distance: 2 hours
Why we love it: Great choice for people who are looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway, while offering a mix of activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy the large heated indoor pool year-round, while parents relax in the hot tub. The resort also features mini-golf, nature trails, a game room, and s’mores by the firepit, and a private beach on the Choptank River.
Food options: Multiple on-site dining options make meals easy.
Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay
Water Park Destinations
Besides going to the beach, another great DC winter weekend getaway option is to go to indoor water park resorts. They are complete family vacation spots, offering a wide variety of activities like bowling, mini-golf, spa, and of course, water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
7. Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VA and Perryville, MD
Why we love it: Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg is a family favorite with strong reviews, plenty of nearby attractions, and a location that’s fun even beyond the water park itself. It’s a great choice if you want to turn your visit into a full weekend getaway. Meanwhile, Great Wolf Lodge Perryville is closer to the DC area, making it perfect for a quick day trip or overnight stay, and it also features a larger indoor water park for even more splash-filled fun.
Food Options: Food for thought
8. Hershey Lodge, PA
Distance: 2 hours
Why we love it: Hershey Lodge indoor water park gives you the indoor splash activities, kid-friendly events, and access to Hershey Park, all in one. Also, check out our guide to nearby Lancaster, PA, which includes Dutch Wonderland.
Food Options: The Mill in Hershey and Iron Hill Brewery
9. Massanutten, VA
Distance: 2.5 hours
Why we love it: Massanutten Resort offers the best of both worlds – indoor waterpark and outdoor skiing and snow tubing! There is also a small petting zoo where you can ride horses, lots of kids’ crafts and activities, and mini golf.
Food Options: Campfire Grill, Virginia BBQ & Pizza
10. Kalahari, Poconos, MD
Distance: 3.5 hours
Why we love it: Inspired by the beauty of Africa, Kalahari is another great waterpark for kids, with an amazing toddler area. You can also enjoy mini bowling, 7-D motion theater, and Adventurers Club activities.
Food Options: BLux Bar Grill and Kalahari Marketplace buffet
11. Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, MD
Distance: 25 minutes from DC
Why we love it: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center is a fantastic choice for a winter getaway, especially for families and those looking for a festive experience. The resort transforms in the winter with holiday-themed events, dazzling light displays, and immersive experiences like ICE!, an annual attraction featuring stunning ice sculptures. Families can enjoy indoor activities, an atrium with beautiful views of the Potomac River, and an indoor pool for year-round fun. Plus, the resort is located at National Harbor, which offers shopping, dining, and the Capital Wheel for scenic views.
Food Options: Fresh-dough artisan pizza and tasty tacos at Bar Harbor.
And if you are ready to escape the cold. Check out The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts.
