Regardless of where you live or your job situation, vacations are important. Getting away from it all and having a breather is good for your health: it creates a better sense of well-being and makes you more productive. And it’s not just the trip that improves mental and physical well-being. Even the planning stages give an extra boost to daily life and happiness.

But with kids, jobs, and other family members schedule’s to keep in mind, it can be tricky to find a time to get away and a place everyone will love. With enough notice, though, most people will be able to sneak away during the Christmas holidays, and Florida is the perfect place for a holiday getaway.

Activities for the whole family

Florida isn’t just resorts with anthropomorphic animals or Harry Potter roller coasters — there are things to see and do that are only offered in Florida. There are miles of white sand beaches that give way to other worlds beneath the sea, which include shipwrecks and coral reefs filled with wildlife to interact with.

Or, if you prefer to keep your head (and body) above water, look into deep-sea fishing or a cruise to see Jupiter Christmas lights. If Jupiter, Florida doesn’t sound familiar to you now, you should get acquainted. It’s the northernmost town in Palm Beach County, and offers all of these activities and more.

Florida also boasts some of the most gorgeous state parks in the country. You can make one of the days in your vacation a hiking day. Or you can enjoy time off during the Christmas season while taking in the beauty of nature. Instead of gifts, focus on moments with family and learning about the world around you. Be sure to book your campgrounds ahead of time and tick everything you’ll need off your list in order to ensure a stress-free experience.

Also look ahead to see what festivals and events are available during your stay, as Florida gets into the Christmas spirit as much as the North Pole does (it just has milder weather while they celebrate). Watch Santa make a parade appearance, or find the perfect souvenir ornament to commemorate your tropical escapade. You and your kids will love the merry feeling in the air.

Date nights

To truly get a break and spend some quality time with your partner, arrange for a date night during your getaway. Find an activity for the kids (if they’re old enough to be alone) at a local place and head to the restaurant next door for a quiet dinner for yourselves, or bring along the grandparents and let them stay with the kids for the night. If you’re lucky enough to have this help, this frees you up for more options.

Start by looking for a local brewery. Fall in love with your partner all over again while sampling beers made by people who love what they do. Take a tour (if available) to learn more about the establishment itself and your vacation spot. It’s an easy, cost effective way to get more out of your vacation, and to loosen up while doing so.

If beer isn’t your cup of tea, visit a museum and work out your brain in the midst of sun and holiday treats. You can see works of art that have inspired countless others, or check out the Hemingway Museum and learn about your favorite author. These excursions will be made extra-special with the Christmas decor they’ll be decked out in.

While Florida may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, it’s time to give it a chance. The sea air and sunshine and tan will leave you feeling the Christmas magic long after you’re back home, and the memories you create will be better than any gift you could find under a tree.