The weather is getting cold here in Atlanta, and it’s almost that time of year when I start missing my former home – beachy San Diego. I wouldn’t call myself a snowbird quite yet, as it doesn’t snow that much in downtown Atlanta, but I’m definitely thinking about warm, sunny beaches. Sigh.

Coral Gables Biltmore

The upside of all this is that Florida beaches are only about a six hour drive away – Coral Gables is a little farther, about ten hours, but this town has some really pretty beaches as well. If you’re looking to swank it up on your next trip to Coral Gables, Florida, you might like the posh Coral Gables Biltmore Hotel. This classy hotel has everything you might look for in a 5-star resort, like an amazing spa, outstanding restaurants, a championship golf course and large, impeccably appointed rooms, suites and cabanas. All this and you’re only a few minutes away from South Beach and Miami!

For something more reasonably priced (which is tough to find in Coral Gables!), check out the Holiday Inn Coral Gables University of Miami. This hotel is located directly across from the University of Miami, and you can’t beat rates that start at around $150 per night. This hotel is perfect for both business and leisure travelers, and it’s very close to area attractions like The Shops at Sunset Place as well as Bayside Market Place. Families will love the location of the Holiday Inn Coral Gables, too – it’s a very short distance away from Parrot Jungle and the Metro Zoo!

South Beach Miami

Photo Credits: Allie Caulfield, Tabitum

The Westin Diplomat in Hollywood, FL

When most people think of Hollywood, they picture movie stars in California. However, on the other side of the country, Florida has a Hollywood of its own, and the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa is one of its celebrities.

For one thing, it’s a striking building, and recently had a green makeover. In the spring of 2007, this AAA Four Diamond resort began implementing eco-friendly practices, including water-conserving toilets, paperless check-in and check-out, recycling programs for the guests to use, as well as using recycled materials for construction. But, a pretty exterior and a green focus isn’t enough for most folks to spend from $200 to $600 on a room, right? No problem, because there are plenty more reasons to visit this hotel.

For one, Hollywood itself is located in South Florida, which means you have warm weather most days of the year. And it’s good thing — not only is the Diplomat right on the beach, but it also has several outdoor pools, including one with a see-through glass bottom (which you can check out now on their Dip Cam) with a waterfall leading to the lagoon-style pool below. With poolside cabanas, cold towel service, and a poolside bar and grill, you might not want to go back to your room.

The view from the 33rd floor

You might want to leave the beach chair, however, to play a little golf at the Diplomat Country Club Golf Course (South Florida’s only 5-star rated golf course), or relax with a service at the spa. Of course, you’ll need to grab a bite to eat, too, and depending on your mood, you can choose from any of nine different dining options.

So, you’ve got great weather, incredible luxury, and eco-friendliness, all in one hotel. Sounds like a pretty swell winter getaway to me.

Photo credits: seaview99 and cranrob