If you really want warm waters in February and don’t want to take a 10-hour flight, your best bet is to look a little further south and east. Islands such as Barbados, Antigua, and parts of the Dominican Republic typically offer comfortable swimming, plenty of resorts, and flight times that won’t take up an entire long weekend.
These tips are for travelers who have limited vacation time, choose an island or resort, and want to enjoy some real time on the water.
Why some parts of Caribbean travel can feel cold in winter
The Caribbean is a vast area, and location proves to be more important than marketing labels.
Northern destinations such as the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands are located near Florida. In winter, the air is pleasant, but the sea often feels cold.
The eastern and southern islands, including most of Barbados, Antigua, and the Dominican Republic, are closer to the equator and sea temperatures are typically warmer and more stable by February.
If you’re just as excited about getting in the ocean as you are about sitting poolside, February is when these three destinations start to shine.
Barbados: warm waters and laid-back coastal towns
Crane Beach, a pink-sand beach on the south coast of Barbados
(Fillet, via Getty Images)
Barbados is located quite far south, so the water in February is usually pleasant for not just a quick dip, but a proper swim. The island is compact, with good roads, and the main resort areas on the south and west coasts are easily accessible from the airport.
The south coast (St. Lawrence Gap, Hastings, Boardwalk) has a slightly more lively atmosphere with plenty of bars and local food.
The west coast (Holetown, Sandy Lane area) has a more upscale feel and is known for its calm, clear water.
Good options if you want an almost seamless experience:
O2 Beach Club & Spa by Ocean Hotels – South Coast All Inclusive. It features multiple pools, rooftop space, and direct access to the boardwalk. Perfect if you want to stay connected to the island while staying on-site most of the time.
Sugar Bay Barbados – Small beachfront all-inclusive near Garrison. It features a protected bay suitable for swimming and a compact, easy-to-navigate layout.
If you want a lighter setup that isn’t fully comprehensive:
Waves Resort & Spa, Barbados – West Coast accommodation with a wellness angle and an all-inclusive plan that includes spa treatments and non-motorized watersports.
Bougainvillea Barbados – Suite style hotel on the south coast beach with a swim-up bar and on-site restaurant. Good if you want a little self-catering option.
Antigua: Top-Rated Resorts and Traditional Beaches
Shirley Heights, Antigua overlooking English Harbor
(Sean Pavone via Getty Images)
If you’re looking for a resort with warm water and kids, Antigua is the place to go in February. The island has a concentration of the Caribbean’s top adult-only all-inclusives, with reasonable travel times from the airport and easy days at the beach. Simply choose a lounger, order a drink and repeat.
Here are some recommended plans for couples and adults-only trips.
Galley Bay Resort & Spa – An all-inclusive resort for adults only. Situated on the long curve of the sandy beach, the low-rise layout focuses on quiet, leisurely days spent.
Hammock Cove Antigua – Modern villa-style suite with plunge pool, high-end all-inclusive concept and views of Long Bay.
Cocobay Resort – Cliffside cottages above a small cove. It features multiple pools and a relaxing bar and restaurant.
Keyonna Beach – Relaxing cottage style accommodation on a wide sandy beach. It is set up for couples who want a simple day out and want direct access to the beach.
If you’re looking to arrive, unpack, and focus on spending time on the beach and relaxing for a long weekend or a five-night vacation in February, Antigua is the place for you.
Dominican Republic: Warm water and simple planning
The white powdery sand of Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana
(tifonimages via Getty Images)
If you’re looking for warm water and a simple, value-for-money all-inclusive resort, look no further than the Dominican Republic in February, especially Punta Cana and La Romana/Bayahibe.
There are many direct flights from US cities, and choosing the right area will shorten your travel time, allowing you to decide how quiet or sociable you want your trip to feel.
For most short breaks:
Punta Cana is a popular base with a long beach zone and a variety of resorts.
La Romana/Bayahibe has a slightly sleepy feel and easy access to shallow turquoise water spots such as Saona Island.
Here are some solid options in Punta Cana:
Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa – An exclusive, tranquil, adults-only resort in gated Cap Cana. It features a stunning beach, two main pools, and great reviews for service and food.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana – A modern adults-only resort in Cap Cana with access to a shared water park, multiple restaurants, and a private beach area.
Here are some recommended resorts in La Romana/Bayahibe:
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas – A large luxury resort community with its own golf course, marina, and private beach. Although not all-inclusive, it is suitable for travelers who want more than a pool and buffet. Golf, tennis, horseback riding and a variety of restaurants are all located within the same gated complex.
Bahia Principe Grand La Romana – A large, all-inclusive, classic resort on a wide beachfront between La Romana and Santo Domingo. It features a large pool, golf, evening entertainment, and several restaurants.
Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus – Beachfront all-inclusive resort in Bayahibe. It has a beautiful pier and lighthouse facility, multiple pools, and rave reviews for its service and food. Perfect for couples and families looking for a balance of value, nice beaches and manageable size.
How to choose between Barbados, Antigua and DR in February
If you’re staring at your calendar and wondering where to spend your next long weekend, start by checking which destinations have direct flights from your home airport. Beyond that:
If you want warm water, swimmable beaches, and the option of walking to local restaurants and bars, choose Barbados.
If your preference is to stay at an all-inclusive resort with traditional beaches and a slow pace where you can hardly move, choose Antigua.
Choose Punta Cana or La Romana if you want maximum ease and value with a large all-inclusive system, short journey times and a wide range of flight options.
Whichever you choose, pair it with President’s Day or a five- to seven-night stay in February to make the warm-water trip you actually had in mind this winter.
