As NYC and friends huddle up against biting winds, mounds of snow, and unforgiving temperatures, we can’t help but dream about far away lands that offer grassy-soft sand, rolling waves, and lots of warm, welcoming sun.

You’ll notice that all of our choices are somewhat subdued beaches, undiscovered beauty, if you will. If you’re reading this from your tiny apartment in New York City, refusing to leave and face the bitter winds outside, we know you don’t need more noise and distractions, just a place to thaw and think.

Top of the list is of course, Bali. Seminyak Beach in particular offers the most luxurious resorts, a host of fine restaurants and boutiques, and shopping for days. Seminyak Beach and Petitenget Beach is a continuous expanse of grey sand stretching in both directions as far as the eye can see. To the south it becomes Legian Beach and then Kuta Beach, but is noticeably quieter than both. The sunsets here are famous, and opportunities abound to mix with the glitterati who frequent the high end beach front establishments such as Ku De Ta.

Number Two is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Barbados: Bathsheba. Its healing pools bring travelers from far and wide. Like its namesake, the waters by the beach are said to offer minerals that help invigorate the skin. The romantic village of Bathsheba is inhabited by fishing folk and their families, and Bajans looking for an escape, writes Barbados.org. Having been inhabited for hundreds of years, the quaint town also offers a good deal of historical locations to visit.

Cala Agulla takes the proud spot as #3. At Cala Agulla, the sand is fine and the sea is clear and shallow. A large beach surrounded by stunning landscapes and minimal development keeps it relatively low-key, yet there are plenty of water sports and facilities to reassure or satisfy those who like civilisation nearby. Umbrellas and lounge chairs are available for hire and there is plenty of sand to place your towel, though July and August can see this beach quite full, so it is advised to arrive early. Best of all? You’re only a stone’s throw away from Capdepera, one of Mallorca’s most historic walled towns and find true luxury in east Mallorca.

For the awkward Number Four beach, we chose Koh Samui in Thailand. According to Trip Advisor, Koh Samui was once a Thai fishing community, and that charming sensibility is still present today. Spending time in Bophut is a wonderful way to soak up local culture; the beachy village restaurants and pubs are perfect spots to experience the sunset. There aren’t many other places where you can bask in the camp of a cabaret show and the solemnity of a Buddhist temple. As far as the latter goes, Wat Plai Laem is a magnificent vision of gilded red rooftops and a massive spindly-armed statue of Guanyin.

Last but certainly not least, we offer you Enderts Beach right here in our home USA. Located in Redwood National Park in California, Enderts is the ultimate secluded beach for a thawing getaway. While it may not be the most photogenic beach; lost driftwood and tidal marshes create a decidedly rustic atmosphere. But dramatic coastlines and peaceful surroundings give the area an appeal all its own.

Let us know in the comments where we can expect to find you during the next snowstorm!