<p>St. George Island in Florida’s panhandle region is a great off the beaten path suggestion if seeking a quiet spot on beach. Some of my relatives have a place there. February is a crapshoot though because it can be warm or cold then. SW Florida areas like Sanibel and Sarasota are too congested and touristy for me. The Florida panhandle is quiet in the winter and is a sleeper, inexpensive vacation destination wintertime. Nearby Cape San Blas/St. Joe is one of my favorite beaches to visit in Florida.</p>
<p>We went to Turks and Caicos Islands a few years back. There wasn’t much else to do but sit on the beach – limited night life, no historic sites. Our one big activity was renting bikes and riding out to deserted beaches. And snorkeling one day. Beaches and water were stunningly gorgeous. What you describe as wanting for your vacation pretty much sums up our trip.</p>
<p>I have always wanted to go to Sanibel, so the information here is just cementing that desire.</p>
<p>If you might consider a beach location that isn’t warm, but is peaceful, rugged, and very quiet, consider Sea Ranch in California. You can sit by the fire on a windowseat, drinking a glass of wine, reading a book, and enjoying the large ocean waves in the winter. It might be stormy, but it will be beautiful!</p>
<p>Another beach that is not warm in February, or ever really, is Tofino on the east coast of Vancouver Island, people like to watch the crashing storm waves.</p>
<p>Carmel and Big Sur are also lovely–watching the ocean while snuggly, but not so nice for trying to get in or near the water.</p>
<p>Thanks for all the great tips! It sounds like Hawaii is the safest bet – warm ocean breezes are a key part of this trip. The “vacation rentals by owner site” is fantastic, so I’ll go that route to find a place to stay. I’d feel pretty guilty about leaving the rest of the family to spend a few days at a resort. (dmd – feel free to pm me with your secret place!)</p>
<p>The airfare took a jump from yesterday’s low, but I imagine it will drop again next Tuesday.</p>
<p>Indiana, clearing the cookies and all Internet history sometimes helps with airfare issues. :)</p>
<p>If you go to Maui in early February, make sure to stick your head under water and listen - you will hear the whales talking. Simply amazing! If you stay in North Kaanapali (as long as it is not Westin Villas, I guarantee that it will be peaceful), from your beach chair you will see whales breaching in the Pailolo Channel! Even more amazing.</p>
<p>Unless you want to come across to the Caribbean Islands, then you have lots of choices!</p>