"Glee" star Lea Michele knows how to ring in the New Year the right way -- by being happy and in love and frolicking in the sand amidst a beautiful Mexican backdrop.

The 28-year-old actress took a break from belting out tunes and performing for her "Glee" fans on the FOX hit TV show and embarked on a romantic getaway with her 29-year-old boyfriend Matthew Paetz to celebrate Christmas and New Year's.

Michele sported a teeny white bikini as the happy couple showed their playful side. This wasn't the couple's first romantic vacation, however; they have also visited Italy and Cabo this year, according to PEOPLE.

In September, Paez, a model and aspiring actor, reportedly moved in to Michele's Hollywood Hills home. The couple met on the set of Michele's "On My Way" music video in April.

It's been nearly a year since Michele's previous boyfriend and "Glee" co-star, Cory Monteith, died from a drug and alcohol overdose, but Michele has managed to move on and find happiness again.

According to reports, an insider told Us Weekly, "She's glowing and healthy ever since being with Matt. He takes care of her, and people are glad to see her happy again. Everybody likes him. He's just want she needed! ... He's devoted to her."

An avid social media user, Michele took to Instagram to share stunning Mexican vistas, including one of her topless in a bikini, facing away from the camera by an infinity pool.

Michele reflected on the past year and wrote, "Looking back on 2014 and I couldn't be more grateful. So many amazing experiences and adventures. I feel truly blessed and thankful to be surround each day by the most incredible friends and family who have been with me through thick and thin... Here's to an amazing 2015!"

Monteith's father, Joe Monteith, recently gave Michele's new romance his blessing, the Daily Mail reported.

"She's a beautiful young woman, she's just getting to the top of her career and I don't expect her to go out and do it alone," he said. "She should enjoy life. She had a good time when she was with Cory, from what I understand, but life's gotta go on."

"Glee" Season 6 returns on Jan. 9 with a two-hour premiere starting at 8/7c on FOX.

In addition to Michele, "Glee" will also star Darren Criss, Chord Overstreet, Chris Colfer, Jane Lynch, Dianna Agron, Heather Morris, Naya Rivera and Matthew Morrison.