Summer's warmth and sunshine are memories, and the cold season is waiting on the doorstep.  If the thought of months of short days and frosty nights is enough to make you long to get away from it all, then a winter vacation may be what the doctor ordered.  The good news is that it is not necessary to board a flight for tropical destinations: a memorable winter vacation can be yours close to home.

White Mountains, New Hampshire

The Granite State is home to the perennial winner of the spot with the most snow days in the lower 48: Mount Washington averages a whopping 281.2 days of white stuff falling annually.  However, it's not necessary to make the challenging drive to the summit to experience the best winter has to offer.

The White Mountains are a winter vacation wonderland (and, by the way, a perfect destination for watching the loveliness of spring unfold, enjoying summer's delights, and witnessing the breathtaking beauty of autumn leaf changes).  Outdoorsy types may thrill to the novelty of a wintry camping experience, and there is a plethora of indoor lodging choices available--from charming Mom and Pop motels to luxury accommodations.  Air travelers can fly into Manchester or Burlington, Vermont, and take a pleasant scenic drive to their destination.  Those who make the trip by car are treated to a lovely backdrop along the route.

There is no shortage of activities to fill the day.  Ski aficionados will find a wide choice of locations that cater to beginners and experts alike.  Those who enjoy shopping can take advantage of no income tax at a variety of stores from individually-owned shops to manufacturers' outlets.  Downtown Littleton, near the gateway to the White Mountains, is home to Chutter's, which boasts the world's longest candy counter.  112 feet of delectable delights and locally-made gift items make this shop a must-see.  Visitors to Littleton will love the charm of its shops, a covered bridge, and enchanting scenery.  In fact, winter is a perfect time to shop; the crowds that descend on New Hampshire in the summer and fall are largely absent now.

Lake Tahoe

Many things come to mind when people think of Lake Tahoe: winter sports, resorts, the magnificent lake.  All these draws are present in this locale that sits on the California-Nevada border.  No matter what vacationers are looking for, they can find it here.

Scenery abounds: from the dazzlingly blue water of North America's largest alpine lake (that is so deep it does not freeze) to stunning mountain views and scenic hiking trails, Lake Tahoe is a visual delight.  The abundant skiing opportunities, some of the best this side of the Atlantic, make this locale a winter lover's dream.  When visitors are not hitting the slopes or taking in the natural wonders, they can enjoy high-quality shopping and dining on the north shore and casino excitement on the Nevada side.

Getting here is easy.  Many airlines fly into Reno-Lake Tahoe International Airport, 50 miles away, and Sacramento International Airport, 112 miles from the south side of the lake.  Express buses provide convenient transportation between the former airport and Lake Tahoe, some taking visitors directly to resorts on the south shore.  Lodging choices are plentiful: privately-owned hotels, chain establishments, ski resorts, and more.

San Diego

San Diego might not be at the top of a vacation planner's list of winter favorites, but perhaps it should be.  Daily highs average in the low- to mid-60s, perfect weather--not too hot and not too cold--for outdoor activities.  And California's southernmost city has these in abundance.  While it may be a bit chilly for swimming, the area's beaches offer spectacular views, tide pools, impressive cliffs, and a gorgeous sunset.

From December through March, it's possible to spot some of the 25,000 California gray whales that pass through the area; a whale-watching cruise guarantees sightings of these magnificent creatures.  Speaking of animals, no trip to San Diego is complete without checking out the city's famous zoo.  On Sunday afternoons, Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park hosts delightful musical programs.

For sightseers, trolley tours are an ideal way to see historical and modern points of interest.  The Coaster train travels between downtown and Old Town and nearby coastal communities, and the Coronado ferry affords nice views of San Diego and Coronado Island.  Ice skating enthusiasts have an unusual venue: a beachside rink close to the Hotel del Coronado.  And, if visitors miss the slopes, Julian and Big Bear are not far away.

Making your way here is easy and pleasurable.  Nonstop flights arrive daily from many cities throughout the USA.  Whether arriving by car or airplane, visitors can see impressive views of the Grand Canyon and other spectacular scenery. 

Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island was a little-known place until Hurricane Matthew put it on the map.  Now that the season for such storms is winding down, it's a perfect time to plan a visit.  People who enjoy cool but not frigid temperatures and plentiful sunshine will find Tybee Island's average highs of 58-61 degrees ideal.  The locale is a history lover's delight; the Tybee Island Lighthouse Museum, Fort Screven, and the key Civil War site, Fort Pulaski, are located here.  And only 20 minutes away is the charming city of Savannah with its plentiful historical venues.  Tours and riverboat cruises are perfect ways to experience the beauty and landmarks of the city and surrounding area.

Visitors to Tybee Island on New Year's Day will not want to miss the Gang of Goofs contest.  Numerous groups decked out in zany costumes strut their stuff before celebrity judges.  And the Tybee Polar Plunge provides an opportunity for 1000 courageous individuals to take a dip in the frosty Atlantic. 

There are several ways to travel to Tybee Island.  The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport offers non-stop flights from sixteen cities.  North-south I-95 and east-west I-16 are convenient and scenic routes to Savannah and Tybee Island.  Amtrak and Greyhound buses also stop here, and there is a choice of national car rental companies.

Off-season travel and hotel rates make a winter vacation a bargain too good to pass up, and there are no crowds taking up space on the way to and in Tybee.  Accommodations are plentiful; Tybee Island offers over 500 rooms no more than a block from the beach.  Visitors will not find any big hotel chains here. Instead, charming individually-owned establishments add to the unique, relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you are a skiing aficionado or your idea of a cold-season getaway is a reprieve from chilly weather and snow, these four destinations are guaranteed to make any winter vacation memorable. Enjoy the journey.