The winter can be a stressful time as the pressure of the holidays and plummeting temperatures often combine to create unwelcome headaches. Take a break from winter's wrath in these relaxing, and more importantly, warm beach towns.

Family-friendly Sanibel Island is one of the best places in the world for seashell seekers and the ideal winter escape for active travelers who will want to explore the destination via miles of bike trails.

Georgia's St. Simons Island has got everything you're looking for in a coastal winter reprieve, including splendid beaches, golfing and fishing. What's more, it's been recognized among America's most romantic towns.

If water sports are on your to-do list, consider Orange Beach. This Gulf Coast destination provides access to an abundance of adrenaline-pumping activities and the whole family will be entertained at the Adventure Island theme park. Only Gulf State Park separates you from the next entry on this list.

Located just minutes from Orange Beach, Gulf Shores offers plenty more beautiful beach for winter visitors to explore as well as family-friendly attractions such as the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Escape House Waterville.

The coastal resort city of Galveston isn't short on fun or warmth come winter as the average high temperature in December is a comfortable 63 degrees. There are also loads of holiday festivities to look forward to at Moody Gardens, including a festival of lights, ice skating, train rides and photo-ops with Santa.

California's Catalina Island is close enough to the mainland that it can be easily accessed but far enough that visitors will feel they're halfway around the world. This wild and wonderful winter destination is home to a handful of one-of-a-kind experiences you won't find anywhere else.

Like many popular beach towns along the Gulf Coast, Gulfport has come a long way since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. In addition to nature and wildlife, visitors can tour pristine beaches and historic sites, shop 'til they drop at popular retail outlets and sample flavorful beers at the dog-friendly Chandeleur Island Brewing Company.

This village in the Florida Keys is known for its laidback charm, coral reefs and sensational winter weather. The average high temperature in December is a balmy 78 degrees and travelers can currently take advantage of the iconic Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina's re-opening celebration offer with savings up to 30 percent off.

Even during the winter, Edisto Beach's average temperature hovers around 55. The family-oriented beach is also unique in that it's one of the few that remains uninterested in profit. The shoreline is the star of the show here but visitors can also embark on eco-tours and fishing charters.

You don't need to be a fan of the namesake MTV hit TV series or surfing to fully appreciate Laguna Beach. This Southern California gem offers plenty to see and do from mesmerizing beaches, coves and tide pools to impressive art and relaxing gardens.

A popular spring break destination, South Padre Island boasts December temperatures in the low 70s. The resort town also offers a variety of water sports and activities such as jet skiing and snorkeling as well as wildlife including sea turtles and hundreds of species of birds.

Located between Houston and New Orleans, Louisiana's Lake Charles has something for everyone, from chic casinos to museums geared toward both children and Mardi Gras aficionados.

Warm up in the Caribbean this winter with a visit to San Juan. Peak travel to the Puerto Rican capital typically begins in December ahead of a handful of popular festivals. In addition to beautiful beaches and stellar nightlife, San Juan is overflowing with history highlighted by centuries-old forts.

If you're looking to disconnect this winter, Hanalei is the place to be. This small town in Kauai is known for its scenic bay and historic pier offering some of the best views in the Aloha State. Want to lie out on a screensaver-worthy beach? This is your winter destination.

This seaside retreat just north of San Diego is home to everything you could want in a winter vacation destination, including scenic coastline, beautiful beaches and fantastic restaurants offering stupendous views. Plus, you're never far from San Diego and all of the city's major attractions.

If you prefer a winter destination in northeast Florida, consider Amelia Island, specifically Fernandina Beach. Not only is it a fantastic place to whale watch in the winter but it's a phenomenal destination for golf, wildlife, renowned spas, and immaculate beaches.

To the west of Gulfport, Bay St. Louis is another Gulf Coast hotspot winter travelers can access without a passport. In addition to boasting one of America's most breathtaking bridges, this southern favorite features luxury resorts and casinos as well as the free Alice Moseley Folk Art & Antique Museum.

Travelers looking for a laidback winter vacation far from home can't go wrong in Paia. Located on Maui's northern coast, this small town is a beach bum's paradise. The average high temperature is 84 in November and an even 80 in January so you can leave the winter coats at home.

Looking for easy access to Miami's nightlife without the crowds this winter? Consider Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Most accommodations here are within walking distance of Anglin's Fishing Pier-the longest in South Florida-as well as exceptional restaurants and bars offering live music and entertainment. There are also plenty of spots to snag the perfect souvenir.

Florida's Emerald Coast is an underrated winter escape and that includes Destin. The city's 34th Annual Christmas Parade is scheduled for December 8 so those hoping to partake in local festivities will want to get planning.