HH or VB at Christmas?

[kbhehl]

Who has been to HH or VB at Christmas time? What is the weather like? Okay for water play? What else is there to do at either resort (besides water) at that time of year?
Thanks!

 

[Donnainnj]

I have been to HH in early November and it really isn't ocean swimming weather then. We were able to wade a little on both trips, but there were no lifeguards or anything, and not to many others in the water. There are a lot of activities at HH. Some free, such as Goofy Bingo, beach tours, nature tour, bedtime stories (with great cookies and milk) and the Campfire (with singing and smores) and others that cost, such as the tea party, and fish print tee shirts, dolphin tours, and nightouts for the kids, etc. We love it there. There is shopping within walking distance, you can rent or bring bikes. I compare it to the best campground experience you can have with the resort accomodations. You can fish or crab. The island has some good restaurants. The pool is heated so we were always in there no matter how cool it was out, not sure about Christmas. I'm sure they would have extra activities for the holiday. We are never board there, but can also find time to relax. Never stayed at VB, but would expect the weather to be warmer there, but also variable. More like Orlando in Dec. Good Luck!

 

[kbhehl]

thanks--just the type of info I was looking for. There's probably a website out there, but I don't know where!

 

[ncligs]

Originally posted by kbhehl
thanks--just the type of info I was looking for. There's probably a website out there, but I don't know where!

You would have a much better time at VB.We have been to both many times(DVC members 5 years) and the weather will be much better at VB at x-mas. Here are a few links for you about VB below.

http://www.mouseplanet.com/sue_holland/vbr_activities.htm

http://www.mouseplanet.com/sue_holland/vbr.htm

http://www.metatiki.com/index.cfm?m...ngs&BusinessType=Food/Dining&city=VeroBeachFL

 

[PugLover]

My family owns property at the Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort (close to the Marriott/DVC site). It is a lovely area, although I have never been to the Marriott/DVC site I do spend a bit of time in Hilton Head at our resort. I have been to the beach in late Nov and early Dec and it has been HOT, I have also been there during that time and it is COLD. Chances are it will be colder than warmer.

There is a lot to do on HH however during the winter months the island really slows down. Spring/summer is really the time to be there, a lot more going on. Savannah is a lovely side or day trip as it is less than one hour away.

 

[kbhehl]

wonderful--just the sort of info I was looking for!
THANK YOU!

 

[Connears]

We have spent four holidays at HHI 1 including x-mas day and the other 3 including new year's day. WE have enjoyed it tremendously. The resort is beautiful and they have many activities for kids and adults. The weather can vary from cold 3-40's to nice 60's. We have not gone swimming then , but DS has gome into the heated pool when it was 64 outside. The beach is worth visiting to bike or walk..it is beautiful. The stores and restaurants can't be beat. We were going back for NY this year, but decided to head to WDW instead. We will miss HHI. If you are looking for tropical heat and sunbathing..its not the place. But if you want great atmosphere, fun and quiet times..I highly recommend it!
Connears

 

[dannyb]

We stayed at VB over Christmas two years ago and had a great time. In fact, we made a significant purchase of VB points shortly after that trip.

The weather is iffy - - there was not a single beach day there, but several days were plenty warm enough to hang by the pool. It can vary that time of year, but you are generally taking a risk if going before late February re the weather. I remember that it was very cold (below 40) the morning that we left. I would think the weather at HH would be even more of a risk, though.

What really amazed me was the staff. I always feel a little guilty staying at a resort during holidays, knowing the staff would probably rather be with their family. But, there was not a single CM who gave that impression. They were great.

 

[dannyb]

I forgot to answer the part of your question re other activities.

VB has campfires several times a week in the evening. They are fun if you have young children, but not really something that older kids are going to like. My kids (aged 7 & 9 at the time) loved it.

There are organized activities going on all the time, too. Yard games, arts & crafts, pool games, etc., etc, etc., Older boys love the basketball court. The resort can set you up w/ kayaking, wave runners, etc

There are many ecological type activities in the area, too. The resort is manatee country, and there are many bird sanctuaries, and the resort is located in a sea turtle nesting area -- -- which isn't a factor in December. Baseball spring training is a big deal there, too, but that's also not a factor in December.

 

[madcoco]

Agree with ncligs. You may have a better chance of having better weather at VB.Just a bit biased. However it can be iffy that time of year as well. Just have to watch out for the cold fronts, which can change the weather on a dime. The beach can/will erode and the water can be quite rough. However the swimming pool is heated. NYE was a complete washout last year. But other days, the humidity is low and nice sunny skies temps in the high 70s. Water temp can run 74-76 degrees, which isn't bad. Lots of activities for the kids and they do have "rainy day" indoor activities. Enjoy your stay wherever you end up.
There is a link to some VB pics below:

 

[kbhehl]

Again, thanks to all for your input! (fun pics, too, madcoco)

 

[madcoco]

You're welcome.