I make a point of traveling off-season, as it helps to keep my hotel bills under $50/day. For example, I have gone to the beach in January and February. The weather was cooler - but, I didn't mind. You can put a sweatshirt one for hikes up and down the beach. And, although fewer shops and restaurants are open - there are usually enough shops and restaurants to satisfy all.

Traveling off-season also means a lack of crowds. A beach during prime time is filled with people - you hardly have space to spread your towel, and must constantly veer between all when walking the beach. Plus, the good restaurants, shops and sights are all very crowded - you have constant lines and waits.

There is one major downside to off-season/winter traveling, though: lack of day-light hours. I took a trip to England during Christmas many years ago. It was beautiful, but England gets dark by 4:30 pm in the winter, which leaves very few hours to really see the sights.

Read the full article here to get some tips about off-season travel.
The Pros and Cons of Off-Season Travel