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Let’s be honest — when it comes to the South, Florida is the first place that comes to mind when you’re craving a relaxing waterfront paradise.

While Texas has its fair share of coastal charmers that don’t rhyme with Shalveston, the Lone Star State is more commonly known for its sprawling lakes, where boats and good times galore.

You don’t have to visit Nashville or Branson to get your honky-tonk fix — all you gotta do is make your way to one of many Texas lakes where country music is always blaring and cold beer is always at the ready.

As they say, “everything is bigger in Texas” and now they’re proving that old adage translates to the state’s dreams and ambitions with the lofty goal to develop a new vacation destination — and 2 premiere name-brand hotels have already signed on to anchor this lakeside oasis.

While Texas is taking the reins, this is actually a multi-state affair. Oklahoma shares Lake Texoma (hence the name)…

Expect Margaritaville on one side of the state line, and Hard Rock on the other. Either way you slice it, Texas tourism will look a lot different for years to come.

It’s not just Fort Worth’s shocking island transformation that’s changing the landscape of North Texas.

Next up, is Preston Harbor…

So Long, Summers! Lake Texoma Will Soon Be A Year-Round Getaway

As most people envision Texas as a sunny destination, the truth is that pockets of winter can be just as brutal as the Northeast.

Take it from me, who grew up a lifelong Texan and had multiple snow-blanketed birthdays in March.

That said, Lake Texoma is mostly known as a great fishing spot. As such, it loses its appeal even more during the colder months since there currently isn’t a lot to do except complain about how cold it is right now.

Summer, though? That’s a whole different vibe, and fits the bill with what we said earlier as a ‘boats galore’ playground.

But as fun as this lake is during blazing hot summers, the goal is to let the good times roll for the whole year!

What better way than to develop a waterfront paradise led by iconic resorts, entertainment districts, scenic bike paths, and attractions designed to keep visitors coming long after summer fades?

That’s the idea behind Preston Harbor, a $6 billion project (yes, with a “B”) that’s destined to reshape North Texas tourism.

This behemoth of an endeavor will take over 3000+ acres of land, including nearly 10 miles of calm shoreline and winding tributaries to explore.

Margaritaville & Hard Rock Are The First To Gamble On Preston Harbor

I don’t know why I grew up in the small house I did if Texas has such deep pockets…

Margaritaville is a $100 million development. According to Dallas Morning News, it’s set to nestle the peninsula adjacent to the existing Grandpappy Point Marina (yes, on the Texas side).

Yeehaw to that!

As for Oklahoma, a state where Texans commonly visit to legally gamble at numerous flashy casinos, such as Winstar, an even more recognizable name will soon join the party.

That’s right, Hard Rock is rumored to plant its flag on Lake Texoma’s Oklahoma shoreline.

Margaritaville has the green light, while Hard Rock hit some bureaucratic bumps in the road, according to the latest reports last summer.

‘Dirty Water’: Is This The Right Lake For Such A Massive Bet?

Trouble in paradise, already? Depends who you ask…

It seems to be a baseline consensus that there are far more majestic lakes in Texas. We at Travel Off Path have reported on the ‘Maldives of Texas‘ in the past…

According to one particular report taken place last year, it was deemed among “the most polluted lakes in the United States”.

In fairness, this report was issued in regard to officials admitting there needs to be substantial water upgrades for the community.

Though, a separate study claimed Lake Texoma was the third dirtiest lake in America in 2025.

Reviews on TripAdvisor seem to say the contrary, however.

Holding a fairly impressive 4.4 rating across the board, travelers aren’t saying it’s Cancun 2.0, but they’re not saying it’s a dump either.

Preston Harbor’s closest comparison may be Punta Gorda, Florida, when popular budget airline Allegiant surprisingly got into the resort game.

Despite hugging brackish waters, their highly-anticipated resort became a place great for sunset views and posh amenities, but not so much for swimming and the typical beach vibes you envision in Florida.

Not to say Lake Texoma won’t be a raging success, but it’s worth noting Punta Gorda’s resort never lived up to the hype as it struggled with occupancy and ultimately changed ownership within a few years of opening doors.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Well, folks, we have good news and bad news…

As we reported earlier here at Travel Off Path, Jamaica is set to reopen for business December 15th after Hurricane Melissa battered much of the northern coast.

As a result, the country has been a bit of a seesaw in terms of whether it’s okay to visit before the country officially embraces tourism again this week (assuming this date won’t be pushed back either).

Before Jamaica announced its own reopening date, popular hotel chain Hyatt lit up the newswire by deciding to close 8 resorts through the end of January.

Turns out that was wishful thinking…

The goal post has been moved back — far back — to the point even the NFL’s strongest leg couldn’t nail it between the uprights.

What was supposed to be the best-case scenario for many Hyatt loyalists still hoping to squeeze in a winter sun escape will now have to cancel their trip entirely or switch brands this time around.

According to local sources, Hyatt just announced a lengthy extension of closures well into 2026 for 7 of their top resorts.

Hyatt Suspends All Operations In Jamaica Until Late 2026

Chances are you’re fully focused on Christmas now and don’t want to even think about how engorged you became with your family’s famous (dry) turkey and store-bought pumpkin pie you have to pretend is good at Thanksgiving dinner.

Well, we hate to break it to you, but if you’re dead set on Hyatt being your go-to resort, you’re going to have to focus on the holidays again as 7 properties don’t plan on welcoming guests again until November 1, 2026.

In total, Hyatt operates 8 resorts across Jamaica with an especially heavy presence in Montego Bay.

The following resorts are expected to be closed for the next 11 months or so:

• Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa
• Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
• Dreams Rose Hall Resort & Spa
• Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
• Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall,
• Secrets St. James Montego Bay
• Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa

On the bright side, during this time, each resort is expected not only to fix significant damage to keep guests safe, but also to enhance the current offerings to make each unique paradise the best it’s ever been.

Does This Mean One Hyatt Resort Is Back In Business?

We’re no mathematicians here, but we feel pretty confident saying 7 doesn’t equal the initial 8 resorts suspending operations…

As such, we’ve found the missing link that slipped through the cracks.

Behold: Zoëtry Montego Bay Jamaica!

This 5-star resort will be the only Hyatt-branded resort open before November of next year.

According to Zoëtry’s website, it states “Zoëtry Montego Bay Jamaica has suspended normal hotel operations due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa and is expected to resume normal hotel operations on Sunday, February 1, 2026.”

Adding, “Cancellation fees are waived for stays booked directly with Hyatt from now through Saturday, January 31, 2026. Deposits and prepayments for canceled stays on these dates booked directly with Hyatt, including prepaid rates, will be refunded.”

That being said, we hope you’ve struck it rich or been saving points because this is one of Montego Bay’s most expensive resorts.

Be prepared to fork over at least $1000 per night from late winter through early spring. In fact, we couldn’t find any open availability for February.

March is your best bet.

Yes, Jamaica’s Airports Are Operating Normally

Jamaica was the unlucky one this year during the Caribbean’s annual nail-biting hurricane season, but the worst is over.

Airports may have taken hits with even some unsightly videos making rounds on social media, but all of Jamaica’s airports are back up and running as normally as can be, all things considered.

What Jamaica’s Reopening Really Means:

Jamaica needed some downtime without the hordes of winter sun-seekers in their way. That’s not to say there haven’t been people vacationing here during this time, but let’s just say those who chose to do so may not have had the full resort experience with cleanup crews, etc.

December 15th, at least from what we hear, is the marker for reopening tourism fully after many hotels, tours, and some flights were suspended.

While Hyatt is taking the safe route, competitors are already back open with more soon to come.

But if you’re unnerved that Jamaica may be ahead of themselves, we still highly recommend Ocho Rios — arguably Jamaica’s most underrated resort town with nonstop flights, posh resorts, and astounding nature.

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As you’ve surely heard by now, Jamaica took a beating over the past week from unfortunately fatal Hurricane Melissa, the latest Caribbean storm that tourists have to keep an eye on year after year.

Thanks to an advanced warning, many locals and vacationers were able to take shelter, but that doesn’t mean there wasn’t a horrendous mess left behind.

As a result, there have been frequent travel alerts and advisories dished out faster than Costco’s free samples before, during, and after the hurricane.

Unfortunately, the latest news will be quite disappointing for many travelers scoping out their next tropical vacay for winter sunshine.

Western Jamaica was hit the hardest. This is where some of the popular island nation’s most world-renowned beach destinations are found, such as Montego Bay and Negril.

While the country still grapples with Mother Nature’s aftermath, one of Americans’ favorite names in hospitality has already decided to suspend operations well into the new year, leaving travelers wondering if they should vacation elsewhere or switch their loyalty to a competing brand.

Hyatt Suspends All Operations In Jamaica Until Late Winter

If you think it’s time to swap pumpkin spice lattes for beachside piña coladas, and grandma’s dry Thanksgiving turkey for kickin’ jerk chicken, chances are you’ve been counting down the days until an unforgetable Jamaican vacation.

Before Hurricane Melissa’s category 5 landfall, Hyatt was one of the best options for an all-inclusive beach getaway here.

In total, Hyatt operates 8 resorts across Jamaica with an exceptionally strong presence in Montego Bay.

Given the magnitude of damage and potential safety/comfort concerns for guests, Hyatt has made a tough call to close down all of their Jamaican properties.

Even though tourism is expected to be ‘fully operational’ by December 15, 2025, the following Hyatt-affiliated resorts will remain closed until January 31, 2026:

• Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa
• Zoëtry Montego Bay Jamaica
• Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
• Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
• Secrets St. James Montego Bay
• Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
• Dreams Rose Hall Resort & Spa
• Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa

Those who had reservations from now until January 31st will not face cancellations fees, and those who pre-paid should expect a refund within 10 business days.

According to the Caribbean Journal, bookings are available on Google Hotels from February 1st onward.

Airports Reopen To Commercial Flights, But Is It Wise To Vacation Here?

If you’ve found yourself in the midst of Instagram’s or TikTok’s weather disaster algorithm, you’ve likely seen jaw-dropping damage to Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ).

While torn-up ceilings and flooded floors won’t exactly affect flights taking off and landing, a lot more than patchwork needs to be done to have the airport fully up and running again (7 gates are currently closed).

The good news is commercial flights are now operating at each of Jamaica’s airports. Additionally, American Airlines is waiving bag fees.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Kingston, one of their recent alerts claims “Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport is open for commercial operations”.

As for Montego Bay, a more common gateway into the country, MBJ is offering limited commercial flights.

The rushed opening was largely for the purpose of relieving stuck vacationers during the storm back home, not for incoming tourists.

However, despite unsightly debris and significant repairs ahead, there are still many hotels open and regularly scheduled flights if you do choose to vacation here. Some tours are open again too.

Travel Off Path’s Top Pick For A Jamaican Vacation Right Now

Take it from me as someone who visited Kingston in hopes to immerse in Jamaica’s vibrant, welcoming culture that this city isn’t the best alternative to Montego Bay during their recovery period.

However, one underrated resort town often outshined by ‘MoBay’ is Ocho Rios, located on Jamaica’s northeastern coast and home to some truly stunning resorts that were less impacted by Melissa.

Many other Caribbean hotspots avoided damage entirely, but if you’re dead set on visiting Jamaica, we at Travel Off Path believe Ocho Rios is best positioned given the latest updates.

While the island rightfully shut down for tourism during the storm, meaning flight schedules were constantly disrupted, Ocho Rios’ airport (OCJ) is open for business as are some of travelers’ favorite all-inclusive resorts, such as Sandals and Riu.

Sandals Ochi is accepting reservations December 1st and beyond. According to the latter, “All seven RIU hotels continue to host guests, and the atmosphere in each remains calm and positive”.

Riu adds, “Riu Ocho Rios is accommodating guests from Riu Palace Aquarelle, as well as others who voluntarily wish to move there, since it is currently the hotel offering the most complete range of services”, and also states, “activities and amenities are gradually being restored”.

Ocho Rios has one direct flight from Miami (MIA) via American Airlines. Otherwise, use aforementioned Kingston (KIN) as your springboard and enjoy the scenic journey of an approximate 90-minute drive skirting the foothills of the lush Blue Mountains.

Though, keep in mind, there are numerous reports of fuel shortages and some road closures may not be up to date yet.

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Tired of the same-o, same-o vacations? Me too.

Right now, many Americans’ favorite beach getaway (Cancun) is blanketed with seaweed, with water reminiscent of the Tijuana River. Not exactly paradise, right?

Problems like these give travelers the chance to open their eyes to new possibilities; that’s when we discover the magic of travel rather than following the crowds to what’s deemed popular on the ‘gram.

You might be surprised to know of 4 U.S. cities with newly opened glamorous resorts that are likely completely off your radar, but that’s definitely to your advantage!

With less hype and far fewer crowds than the household names, you can treat yourself and loved ones to luxurious stays without battling for a poolside lounger this summer.

These are 4 surprising U.S. cities with new luxurious resorts this summer:

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

No matter if you’re a honky-tonker or not, there’s no doubt Dolly Parton is a living legend — so much so she has her own theme park right here in Pigeon Forge.

Dollywood is a draw for many Southerners looking for a fun, family-friendly escape when the kiddos are off for summer, but now there’s a new place to stay a stone’s throw away.

Even a seasoned traveler like me didn’t realize Embassy Suites has resorts, but newly opened Embassy Suites by Hilton Pigeon Forge Resort is the latest addition to Tennessee’s beautiful mountain getaway tucked away in the Smokies.

The Embassy Suites brand is already known for spacious rooms (hence the name), but this is one is amplified with extra resort amenities such as:

• expansive pools (indoor and outdoor)
• swim-up bar
• complimentary made-to-order breakfast
• rooftop bistro
• fire pits
• free self-parking

One of the first guests posted on TripAdvisor: “From beginning to end, STUNNING!”.

Davis, West Virginia

Anyone have $20 million laying around? Well, somebody did because that’s what’s being reported as the cost for West Virginia’s newest resort.

‘Mountain Mama’ is destined to become a vacation hotspot where you least expect it. One of America’s last frontiers for tourism is ready to boom with a mountain resort that just cut the blue ribbon in May and the hype is trickling down the holler like a Randy Travis song.

Rave reviews are already pouring in for Valley View Cabin Resort, which isn’t your average “resort” per se.

Obviously, West Virginia isn’t a coastal state but like John Denver’s Country Roads ode, the Blue Ridge mountains are so inviting it would seem like a crime not to book a luxe cabin here, therefore Valley View Cabin Resort was born.

Guests can choose between one or two-bedroom cabins in the high mountains of Canaan Valley and you’ll never want to leave with these homey amenities:

• full-size washer and dryer in every cabin
• private cabana with jacuzzi (fits up to 5 people)
• oversized front porch with sweeping views spanning 4 miles
• lightning-fast fiber internet
• smokeless fire pits (firewood included)
• king beds

Pass Christian, Mississippi

Mississippi is on a tear, especially the coast as more hidden gems are being uncovered, such as Ocean Springs, Pascagoula, and yes, Pass Christian.

Perhaps the latter more so than any other since a new resort with posh bungalows recently opened, making the perfect base for what’s become one of America’s trendiest states.

The chic rooms are ready to welcome you, but a report from the Sun Herald claims an Italian restaurant and cheese shop will follow suit.

Pass Bungalows is undeniably the talk of the town right now, described by Visit Mississippi as a ‘unique, micro-community vibe inspired by the charm of historical Pass Christian’.

Guests can book a variety of floorplans, from One-Bedroom Suites to two-bedroom Penthouses, and there are also specific ADA-compliant accommodations.

Sit by the courtyard’s glistening pool decked out with a tiki bar or plan a beach day at nearby Minority Beach with gleaming white sand.

Chula Vista, CA

If you’re booking a vacation in sunny San Diego, you have a new town to check out as Chula Vista is now a bona fide resort town for the first time.

Usually, a pass-through suburb on the way to the Mexico pharmacy runs, you can’t help but notice the towering Gaylord Pacific Resort & Conference Center towering over the blissful marina.

Despite being in a different city, it’s actually one of San Diego County’s most convenient resorts as it’s less than a 10 minute drive from the bustling Gaslamp Quarter and 15 minutes to Balboa Park, home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

Those looking to escape the hordes of Arizona tourists this time of year should explore more of San Diego’s South Bay with a charming dupe the Gaslamp in Chula Vista’s Third Avenue and calmer waterfronts than the jam-packed beaches in San Diego proper.

In typical California fashion, don’t expect to score any great deals on rates, but this flashy resort comes with:

• a lazy river
• 4-acre waterpark
• 12 restaurants, including a sports bar a 75-foot tv
• 1,600 rooms (including 89 suites)
• Sweetwater Park with gorgeous bayside sunsets

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How many times can we bar-hop between Hard Rock Café, Señor Frog’s, and Cabo Wabo Cantina before we realize we’re falling for a tourist trap instead of enjoying the magic of the unknown with culturally rich destinations?

As far as the Caribbean goes, Cancun, Punta Cana, and Montego Bay are fabulous, but there’s a missing link between flashy resorts and authenticity, where we’re magnetized like moths to a lightbulb by the comforts of endless buffets, swim-up bar cocktails, and crystalline infinity pools rather than the raw beauty of footprint-free sand in a place with a true sense of local character.

If you’re yearning for something beyond the usual vacation hotspot, we’ve gathered the most under-hyped destinations ranging from Mexican gems to unheard-of map-dot towns oozing charm, pristine shores, and unexpected delights across the Caribbean for a summer escape you’ll never forget!

Port Antonio, Jamaica

Most travelers think Kingston is a dump, serving more as a gateway instead of a beach town except for the hidden gem I found.

Most vacationers scope out Montego Bay and Negril for a paradisal retreat, but with posh amenities and curated experiences, culture goes by the wayside.

That’s where Port Antonio comes in. Lined with stunning coastlines with far fewer crowds and resorts spaced out enough not to feel overly touristy, the northern side of Jamaica is teeming with unspoiled landscapes rather than the cushy comforts of Montego Bay that you could get back home.

Boasting majestic waterfalls, postcard shores, a “Blue Lagoon” Iceland would blush at, verdant coffee farms, and hole-in-the-wall jerk chicken stands that would put Colonel Sanders out of business, Port Antonio is not only one of Jamaica’s best-kept secrets, but all of the Caribbean.

Barahona, Dominican Republic

Going back to what I said about Señor Frogs and itinerary bloat, Barahona is the complete opposite if you were to compare it directly to Punta Cana.

While there’s no denying that Punta Cana is still a raging success, more travelers are venturing off to the Dominican Republic’s up-and-coming resort destinations like Samana, Miches, and Puerto Plata. Rarely do you hear of Barahona, an untouched turquoise-water paradise known as “La Perla del Sur,” translating to “The Pearl of the South” for those behind in their Rosetta Stone lessons.

With resorts popping up everywhere in the aforementioned destinations, Barahona is one of the few in the nation that feels truly untouched.

Getting here is even easier than Samana, for example. Fly into the capital city, Santo Domingo, and hop aboard a 2.5-hour bus ride to a paradise even Jimmy Buffett could only dream of — except you might want to skip cheeseburgers in place of fresh seafood here.

Rather than a flashy resort, book a boutique stay at Hotel Yamir, boasting an impressive 4.8 Google rating and even more impressive rates at only $29 per night!

Chetumal, Mexico

Tulum might be losing its luster, but Chetumal only has upside with similar attractions like ancient ruins. Though, this cultural hideaway hugging the Mexico-Belize border is a far cry from Cancun, but that’s the appeal.

Rather than towering resorts lining the coast, Chetumal is wrapped by vibrant waters along the scenic Malecòn and quaint walkable downtown streets and alleyways that don’t feel touristy.

I’ve been to 16 destinations in Mexico and Chetumal was one of the biggest surprises with its affordable luxury, phenomenal cuisine, welcoming locals, and access to some of Mexico’s best off-path beaches like Mahahual and what’s quite possible the prettiest destination in Mexico — Bacalar.

Tela, Honduras

If Honduras is on your radar, it’s likely the stunning islands of Roatàn or Utila that have caught your eye.

That’s where tourists go, but locals favor Tela, just an hour and a half from San Pedro Sula, the most popular gateway into Honduras.

The slice of paradise on what’s essentially an undiscovered beach haven by the masses that opt for more notable names.

There’s not much pizazz here as far as beachfront stays go, rather sensational seafood shacks, sandy bars, and boutique stays like top-rated Hotel y Cabañas Villas del Mar.

Tela is very popular by local standards. For more seclusion venture to Punta Sal National Park nearby for crowd-free coves, crystal clear waters, and lush jungles.

Livingston, Guatemala

If you thought Guatemala was solely comprised of colonial towns, volcanic hikes, and astounding lakes, think again!

Most travelers don’t realize Guatemala has a Caribbean coastline, and Livingston is the one town you should scope out if you’re up for the adventure.

Accessible only by boat, Livingston is a delightful, remote hideaway worth the trek for the furthest thing from a typical Caribbean getaway with pristine beaches, no ritzy all-inclusives, and captivating Garifuna culture (a blend of African and indigenous traditions also displayed in Tela, Honduras).

There are numerous seaside eateries serving fresh local cuisine with sweeping views of the Caribbean and those who’ve make the trip have loved their stay at Hotel Villa Caribe.

Whatever you do, don’t skip the Siete Altares, a series of beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes nearby.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.