Winter vacation in Miami Beach (Photo: Envato)
Many families take their winter vacations during "yeshiva week." Temperatures on the East Coast tend to be very cold in January and February, so many kosher travelers choose a warm location for winter vacation. There is no universal “Yeshiva Week” break; different cities and even different schools within the same cities have varying “Yeshiva Week” schedules. Jewish schools typically have off for Yeshiva Week break from the middle of January through the first week of February. Explore kosher winter vacations to plan your perfect getaway.
Growing up in New York, there weren’t many options for Yeshiva Week vacation. Most people went to Grossinger’s (until it closed in 1986) or to Florida. Nobody really thought about leaving the country. I’m from New York. We didn’t learn geography. There was New York and then there was everywhere else. Today, we live in a global society where everybody is connected, and the internet has expanded our knowledge of other cultures. Although, I would guess that New Yorkers still think that New York is the center of the world.
Now let’s talk about kosher food on these winter vacations in the 1980s. I remember trips to Disney World meant eating lots of tuna fish sandwiches. Kids today don’t realize how good they have it, with so many kosher restaurants in vacation destinations around the world. Today I’m going to talk about three popular warm-weather kosher vacation destinations for winter 2025: Florida, Panama, and Mexico. For those seeking privacy and luxury, I’ll also cover kosher-friendly private villas and resort rentals in the Caribbean.
Yeshiva Week 2025 in Florida
It seems like most of the action during Yeshiva Week happens in the Orlando and Miami areas, but many also head to Boca Raton, Hollywood, and Ft. Lauderdale. All these areas have kosher restaurants, although some have more options than others. If you haven’t made reservations yet, now is the time—don’t wait until it’s too late! Many of the most popular kosher restaurants, or even any available spots, book up well in advance for Yeshiva Week.
The average high temperature in Florida during this time ranges from 62 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit. While it might not be ideal beach weather, it’s perfect for visiting Orlando's theme parks or enjoying the many outdoor activities near Miami and Ft. Lauderdale.
- Frost Science Museum in Miami - with an Aquarium and Planetarium, it’s great for families
- The Miami Zoo has more than 3,000 animals
- Everglades National Park - there are easy to moderate trails, see the wildlife and natural beauty of the park
- Head to the Florida Keys for snorkeling, kayaking or glass-bottom boat tour
- Gumbo Limbo Nature Center on a barrier island in Boca Raton - butterfly gardens, marine aquariums and more
- Sugar Sand Park in Boca - Children's Science Explorium and the Willow Theatre; and the Field House, which features an indoor gymnasium
- Bonnet House Museum and Gardens in Ft. Lauderdale - house dating back to the 1920’s is a blend of art, history and nature
Winter vacation in Panama (Photo: Shutterstock)
Yeshiva Week 2025 in Panama
Panama has become a super popular kosher vacation destination over the past decade. It’s close proximity to the New York area, flight time of around five hours, and the myriad kosher restaurants might have something to do with that. There are almost 50 kosher restaurants in Panama City. Panama is hot all year round and January is the hot dry season so you are almost guaranteed perfect beach weather every day.
If you’re not a beach lover, don’t worry, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy:
- The Miraflores Visitor Center has exhibits and activities about the Panama Canal.
- Biomuseo - natural history museum of Panama
- Hike the rainforest
- Visit Monkey Island and see the monkeys native to Panama
- Jet ski rentals, fishing boat charters and speed boats
- Metropolitan Natural Park - the only tropical rainforest located within the city limits
Winter vacation in Playa del Carmen, Mexico (Photo: Envato)
Yeshiva Week 2025 in Mexico
Most of those heading to Mexico for yeshiva week are going to Cancun or the Riviera Maya (which includes Playa del Carmen), both sit on the Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula. Mexico is another convenient warm weather destination just south of the border. With just a 4 and a half hour flight, warm weather and kosher food, it’s perfect for a winter getaway. There are kosher restaurants and a few hotels with kosher food options to choose from. Enjoy the warm weather and beautiful beaches or head out for some sightseeing and adventure.
- Boating or snorkeling tour - jump in, the water is warm
- Swim in one of the many cenotes (natural sinkholes filled with water formed in limestone caves) that can be found in the Riviera Maya
- Tour the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum
- Visit the Mayan city of Chichen Itza - a UNESCO world heritage site famous for its ancient pyramids
- Whale shark tours - better chance of seeing the sharks, nesting turtles and sea turtles in the summer months
- The Hotel Zone (Kukulcan Boulevard) is the tourist area with resorts, catamarans and beaches
- Visit Downtown Cancun and check out the local culture
- Zip lining at one of the adventure theme parks
- Check out the amazing views of the Caribbean coast from the Cancun Scenic Tower
Beach in Turks and Caicos (Photo: Envato)
Yeshiva Week 2025: Caribbean Private Villas and Resort Rentals
Yeshiva Week 2025: Caribbean Private Villas and Resort Rentals
For families seeking an elevated and tranquil Yeshiva Week experience, private villas and resort rentals in the Caribbean provide the perfect mix of luxury and seclusion. These rentals cater to kosher travelers looking for privacy and flexibility while enjoying warm weather and breathtaking surroundings.
The Caribbean boasts stunning destinations like Turks and Caicos, Anguilla, and the Dominican Republic, where kosher travelers can unwind in private accommodations with top-notch amenities. Additionally, Costa Rica offers lush rainforests and pristine beaches, ideal for families who want a blend of relaxation and adventure.
Why Choose a Private Villa or Resort?
- Privacy: Ideal for families or groups who want a more personal vacation experience away from the crowds.
- Luxury: Many properties come with private pools, direct beach access, and high-end furnishings.
- Kosher Options: Choose properties with kosher kitchens or partner with local caterers or chefs to enjoy gourmet kosher meals.
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Customized Activities: Private villas and resorts often provide access to unique experiences like snorkeling, kayaking, and guided tours.
Top Destinations for Yeshiva Week 2025:
- Turks and Caicos: Known for its crystal-clear waters and luxury villas, it’s a favorite for relaxation and water sports.
- Anguilla: This charming island offers serene beaches, boutique-style villas, and an upscale, quiet atmosphere.
- Dominican Republic: Perfect for larger groups, with expansive villas and activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, and cultural tours.
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Costa Rica: Combine lush natural beauty with adventure, such as hiking through rainforests or relaxing by a private infinity pool.
Explore kosher-friendly villa and resort options and plan your dream Yeshiva Week vacation with Totally Jewish Travel's guide to kosher villa rentals. Enjoy the ultimate getaway this Yeshiva Week with all the comforts of home, plus the beauty and tranquility of the Caribbean or Central America!
Wherever you are headed for Yeshiva Week, enjoy quality time with the family and just be thankful that you don’t have to schlep along food and eat tuna fish sandwiches for lunch every day.