Are you looking to escape the cold and trying to find some sunshine? Don’t bother with the tourist traps; light and adventure abound at some of the best places for winter sun. For beach worshippers, you can imagine its tropical coastlines dotted with palms and swaying in winds; it need not be; there are also rich cultural experiences to enjoy or exotic landscapes to conquer.
Maldives
The Maldives is the best winter sun holiday destination if you’re after one. Surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and luxury overwater bungalows, let’s just say it’s pretty paradise. You can expect incredible views, straightforward marine life, and peaceful tranquility in this tropical paradise. Although it’s one of the most far-flung of our suggested alternatives for a winter holiday, the Maldives is one of the best places in the world for the ultimate picture postcard break and to unwind.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 80-85°F (27-29°C)
- Humidity: Moderate to high
- Rainfall: Low during winter months
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: Soneva Fushi – A luxurious eco-resort offering stunning villas and world-class amenities.
- Best Hostel: Napcorner – Nap for cheap – A budget-friendly, cozy hostel in Male with great reviews.
- Top Activities:
- Snorkeling and diving in vibrant coral reefs
- Sunset cruises on traditional Dhoni boats
- Relaxing at luxurious beach resorts
Cancun, Mexico
With tropical vibes, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, Cancún is the best winter sun destination—in short, if you want the sun, you’ll love this trip. Because of its breathtaking beaches, dozy resorts, and all that comes with swinging honeymoon triangles (spring holidays and winter sun holidays), Cancún is one of the best places for a relaxing holiday or adventurous holiday. Besides, there’s never too much sun — whether you’re lounging by the beach or exploring Mayan ruins.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
- Humidity: High
- Rainfall: Low in winter months
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: NIZUC Resort & Spa – A luxurious beachfront retreat with world-class amenities.
- Best Hostel: Selina Cancun Downtown – A trendy hostel offering great social vibes and affordable rates.
- Top Activities:
- Snorkeling in the Great Mesoamerican Reef
- Exploring the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza
- Relaxing on Playa Delfines beach
Phuket, Thailand
With the December sun holidays, Phuket is a tropical paradise. Tourists visit this island because of its crystal-clear waters, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. On the stylish side, Phuket is one of the best places for winter sun and is famed for being cheap and having an active culture. It can offer everything from relaxation to adventure.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 80-90°F (27-32°C)
- Humidity: High
- Rainfall: Minimal during winter months
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: The Shore at Katathani – A romantic beachfront resort with stunning ocean views.
- Best Hostel: Bodega Phuket Party Hostel – A lively spot perfect for budget travelers.
- Top Activities:
- Island-hopping tours to Phi Phi Islands
- Exploring the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong temple
- Enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach
Barbados
Barbados is a firm favorite for a Caribbean getaway, not only because it’s stunningly beautiful with its warm weather and beautiful beaches, but it’s also one of the best winter sun spots. This is the ultimate winter sun holiday if you want sun, sea, sand, and surfer culture. It has beautiful, pristine white sand, crystal-clear water, and a rich cultural scene if you’re after adventure and serenity in equal doses.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 78-85°F (26-29°C)
- Humidity: Moderate
- Rainfall: Low during winter months
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: Sandy Lane – A luxury beachfront resort known for its exceptional service and stunning views.
- Best Hostel: The Eco Lodge – A charming and budget-friendly option for eco-conscious travelers.
- Top Activities:
- Swimming with sea turtles in Carlisle Bay
- Visiting historic Bridgetown and its colonial architecture
- Tasting delicious local rum at Mount Gay Distillery
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is an excellent choice for a winter sun holiday that offers adventure and relaxation. It enjoys sunshine, stunning mountain views, and much culture. It’s never too far from excitement but also calm—as such, it is the perfect destination for a winter sun holiday.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
- Humidity: Low
- Rainfall: Very little in the summer months
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: The Table Bay Hotel – A luxurious waterfront hotel with iconic views of Table Mountain.
- Best Hostel: The Backpack Cape Town – A social and sustainable hostel with a great atmosphere.
- Top Activities:
- Hiking up Table Mountain for panoramic views
- Exploring the Cape Winelands for world-class wine tasting
- Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Camps Bay
Salalah, Oman
Salalah is a hidden gem in the Arabian Peninsula if you want a truly unique winter sun holiday. Unlike most Middle Eastern sun destinations, Salalah is still greener and has tropical landscapes. Thus, it is one of the more intriguing winter sun holiday destinations for those seeking something different.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
- Humidity: Moderate
- Rainfall: Minimal in winter months
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara – A luxurious beachfront retreat with an Arabian-inspired design.
- Best Hostel: Salalah Youth Hostel – Affordable lodging with friendly vibes.
- Top Activities:
- Exploring the ancient ruins of Al-Baleed
- Relaxing on Al Mughsail Beach with its dramatic blowholes
- Visiting the Frankincense Land Museum
La Gomera, Canary Islands (Spain)
While Tenerife and Lanzarote, for one, are popular choices for winter sun holidays, La Gomera, as it goes, is a quieter, lesser-known gem for those wanting to get away from the crowds. Rugged cliffs, lush rainforests, and charming villages: This island features all of these, so it is one of the best places for winter sun if you are after nature and quiet. La Gomera is an excellent choice for a winter sun holiday, whether hiking through ancient forests or exploring the island’s fascinating history.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 68-75°F (20-24°C)
- Humidity: Moderate
- Rainfall: Low in winter
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: Parador de La Gomera – A historic hotel offering breathtaking views and traditional Canary Island charm.
- Best Hostel: Casa Amaya – A cozy, budget-friendly guesthouse for backpackers and solo travelers.
- Top Activities:
- Hiking through Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with lush, misty forests
- Exploring the charming town of San Sebastián, rich in history and culture
- Whale watching in the Atlantic Ocean, where you can spot dolphins and pilot whales year-round
Essaouira, Morocco
With its off-the-beaten-path charm and cool breeze, Essaouira is a fantastic place to travel for sun, sea, and Moroccan culture in winter. While it buzzes like Marrakech, Essaouira is a bit calmer, with white-washed buildings overlooking the Atlantic and its mixture of history and tradition. If you fancy kicking back and topping up your vitamin D levels, Essaouira has it covered.
- Weather:
- Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Humidity: Low
- Rainfall: Low
- Where to Stay:
- Best Hotel: Heure Bleue Palais is a luxurious riad with stunning decor that blends Moroccan and colonial styles.
- Best Hostel: Atlantic Hostel – A budget-friendly hostel with a vibrant social atmosphere, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
- Top Activities:
- Wandering through the historic medina, filled with artisan shops and colorful souks
- Enjoying fresh seafood at the bustling port, where local fishermen bring in the daily catch
- Kitesurfing along the windy beaches, making Essaouira a top spot for water sports enthusiasts.
FAQs
What winter sun holiday destinations are on a budget?
Phuket, Thailand, or Essaouira, Morocco, offer cheap accommodation and entertaining activities that can easily carry you through a winter sun holiday on a budget.
Where are the best places to go to on your winter sun holidays?
By booking early, traveling at an off-peak time, and seeking package deals, you can get great prices on the best places for the winter sun holidays.
Where are the best places to go to on your winter sun holidays?
By booking early travel at an off-peak time and seeking package deals, you can get great prices on the best places for the winter and summer holidays.
What do I need to take with me on a winter sun holiday?
If you’re going to the beach or a city and staying for a while, pack light clothing, swimwear, comfortable footwear, and sunscreen.
When should you book a winter sun holiday?
To guarantee the best bargain on sun holidays in December, book 3 to 6 months before the travel date. Prices often increase as the travel date approaches.
Final Words
Even in winter, you don’t have to follow the crowds to all the same old destinations for the perfect sun holiday. Essaouira in Morocco and La Gomera in Spain, along with these best destinations for winter sun, are warm-weather destinations offering stunning scenery, unforgettable experiences, and warm weather. There’s a sunny spot in the Maldives, a luxury retreat at an affordable price in Thailand, or a culturally rich adventure in Oman. So pack your suitcase away the winter blues for sun-soaked beaches and exciting new adventures.
