Who else is dreaming of a warm paradise as the temperature drops? We are, especially as we celebrate the successful conservation of one of the Caribbean’s best beaches—now permanently protected forever, for all to enjoy. Take a mental vacation to the white sandy beaches of Maho Bay in St. John.

“The beach and hillside at Maho may well be paradise, and can now be enjoyed by everyone who comes to this wonderful park,” said Trust for Public Land president Will Rogers.

With the help of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), the last of a series of sales beginning in 2009 is now complete, bringing the total acres of protected land to 225. 

Maho Bay is situated on the north side of the island of St. John, where most of Virgin Islands National Park is located. The 225-acre beach and the hillside above are the largest single addition to the park since it was created in 1956.

According to Gerald Singer, an expert on Caribbean beaches and author of St. John Beach Guide, Maho is "one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. " Said Singer,"I’m happy to learn the delicate environmental balance of the lush valley and access to the beautiful beach and the calm, shallow bay with its abundant marine life will remain undisturbed by private development."

What tropical paradise are you fantasizing about this winter? Tell us by leaving a comment below.