If you’re anything like us, you probably wish you could live under the glorious golden sun and feel its warm rays on your skin 24/7 365 days a year. However, whether you’re a winter lover or hater, the season must come, and with it generally comes the cold and some drizzle and rain.
While we can’t change the weather (no superpowers on this end, soz), we can recommend some of our favourite winter sun destinations for those of you that are desperate to get warm. Keep those summer vibes going all year round with these fabulous trips.
1. Thailand
Looking for the ultimate tropical paradise? Thailand takes the crown. White sand beaches, crystal clear waters, perfect weather, what better place to unwind and forget about the cold and snow from back home? Funnily enough, winter is actually considered the best time to visit Thailand, so this feels like a match made in heaven.
Average winter temperature: 30-35°C
Things to do:
- Island hop, duh!
- Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary
- Swim in the Erawan waterfalls
- Take a bike ride across Ayutthaya
- See the Wat Rong Khun temple
- Take a Thai cooking class
Discover it on our Total Thailand and Thai Island Hopper West trips.
Image source:Image by Sara Dubler on Unsplash
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is not only one of the best winter sun destinations in the world, but also one of the coolest spots for scuba diving and exploring national parks and volcanoes! Costa Rica is home to coral reefs which aren’t just pretty to look at – they also serve as a protective barrier! – and many jungles and forests filled with gorgeous wildlife. Sounds lush, right?
Average winter temperature: 26-30°C
Things to do:
- Go white water rafting
- Take a waterfall hike in La Fortuna
- Lounge and sunbathe at Manuel Antonio National Park
- Go surfing
- Learn about Costa Rican coffee on a Don Juan Coffee tour
- Go ziplining in Monteverde’s Selvatura Park
Discover it on our Viva Costa Rica and Costa Rica National Parks trips.
3. Canary Islands
An impromptu trip to the Canary Islands is perfect during the winter months. Aside from the great temperatures and the amazing turquoise waters, these islands are also a literal paradise for sports lovers, with plenty of options to choose from, such as cycling, paragliding, scuba diving and more.
Average winter temperature: 20°C
Things to do:
- Explore Teide National Park, Tenerife
- Relax on the beaches of Gran Canaria
- Go dolphin and whale watching in Tenerife
- Visit Santa Cruz de la Palma
Image source:Jose Antonio Jiménez Macías / unsplash
4. Sicily, Italy
Sicily in winter is the dream. There’s fewer crowds and discounted rates, first of all, so all those incredible views are 100% yours. Second of all, it may not be as warm as Thailand, but you’ll get hours upon hours of sunshine which should be enough to make you enjoy life again. Temperatures are mild enough for t-shirts and you can spend your day lazing at the beach or living out your White Lotus dreams (if that’s your thing??).
Average winter temperature: 10-15°C
Things to do:
- Enjoy the outdoor food markets
- Check out Mt. Etna
- Explore the Greek and Roman ruins in the seaside town of Taormina
- Visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO listed site
Discover it on our Real Sicily trip.
5. Morocco
Syrupy sunsets, colourful and energetic souks, glorious Atlas mountains, and friendly locals: Morocco has all the makings of the perfect winter sun destination. While everyone’s back home under the snow and rain, bask in the desert sun and gorge yourself on local food and mint tea – yum!
Average winter temperature: 21°C
Things to do:
- Tour bustling Marrakesh
- Practice yoga and learn how to surf!
- Find some treasures and haggle at the souks
- Visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
Discover it on our Moroccan Adventure and Best of Morocco trip.
Image source:Contiki
6. The Maldives
The Maldives are one of those surreal places where winter is pretty much non-existent and temperatures are great all year round. Honeymooning or not, treat yourself to an adults only holiday this winter and laze under the palm trees 24/7. The Maldives are also a great destination for water sports lovers – so make sure to get some action while you’re there.
Average winter temperature: 27-31°C
Things to do:
- Snorkel with nurse sharks
- Go on a walking tour of capital Malé
- Diving is pretty much a must, with the beautiful diversity of the marine life here
- Take a glorious sunset cruise
- Get a glimpse of the bioluminescent beaches – it’s magical!
7. Valencia, Spain
What better way to spend winter than enjoying fresh seafood and Spanish tapas in Valencia? You’ve got the beach, some stunning architecture, palm trees, and sunshine most days! Plus, winter is far from Spain’s high season, so you’ll be blessed with a whole lot less crowds.
Average winter temperature: 16-17°C
Things to do:
- Learn how to make an authentic paella and then brag about it once you’re home
- Visiting in December? Discover the magical Christmas markets and try some of their delicious holiday treats, such as Roscón de Reyes.
- If you’re planning a trip in January, you’re not gonna want to miss out on The Three Kings Parade
Discover it on our Best of Spain trip!
Image source:Contiki
8. Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a true jewel of the Middle East and you can find sunshine here in both summer and winter! If you’re looking to splash some cash, relax at the spa, and eat some delicious chocolates, then Dubai is probably the winter sun destination for you.
Average winter temperature: 24-26°C.
Things to do:
- Discover Dubai’s spice souk and awaken your senses through the intoxicating smells of saffron, rose hips, dried limes and more.
- Visit Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood
- Check out Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building
- Go shopping at the largest mall in the world (Dubai Mall). With over 1,200 shops, this place draws in more visitors than NYC and LA combined.
9. Miami, USA
Beaches and epic nightlife: that’s the promise Miami makes and honestly what more could you want? Located on the southern tip of the US, Miami sees golden rays all year long so the party really never stops.
Average winter temperature: 27-28°C
Things to do:
- Sunbathe on the white sands
- Enjoy lots of Cubano sandwiches
- Party and dance until your legs give out
- Get to know the diverse local neighbourhoods
Discover it on our Dallas to Miami trip.
Image source:Ashley Satanosky / unsplash
10. Los Angeles, USA
Endless sunshine, vibrant nightlife, famous people at every corner – seriously, what’s not to love about LA? Get a taste of this buzzing Hollywood city with a 3-day winter trip, and you’ll score the best prices on accommodation and flights.
Average winter temperature: 20-21°C
Things to do:
- Go on a sightseeing tour (Sunset Boulevard, Paramount Pictures Studio, Rodeo Drive)
- Catch some waves at Venice Beach
- Visit the Griffith Observatory
Discover it on our LA to the Bay and LA Explorer trips.
11. Brazil
Brazil is a southern hemisphere darling, meaning that winter practically doesn’t exist! From the beaches of Rio to the bustling nightlife in São Paulo, you’re in for a real treat. Plus, if you stick around until February, you can get a dazzling view of Carnival!
Average winter temperature: 20-30°C
Things to do:
- Visit the Iguazu Falls
- Snorkel with sea turtles
- Experience Rio de Janeiro’s famous carnival (scheduled for 2025, between February 25th – March 5th)
Discover it on our Argentina and Brazil Highlights and South American Explorer trips.
Image source:Contiki
12. Cape Town, South Africa
This cosmopolitan city is one of the best winter sun destinations you could add to your bucket list. It’s got an abundance of natural attractions and historical landmarks, it’s one of the best wine regions in the world and it’s great for all budgets! So, cheers to South Africa this winter
Average winter temperature: 25°C
Things to do:
- Try some local cuisine at the food market
- Get a city tour
- Take a cable ride up Table Mountain
- Go on a Marine Safari cruise
- Kayak with South African penguins!
Discover it on our Cape, Safari and Falls, and Garden Route and Addo trips.
13. Egypt
Like many destinations on this list, Egypt is wonderful to visit all year round, but it’s especially worth visiting during the winter, as you’ll experience more mild temperatures and enjoy some beach time at more affordable prices than usual.
Average winter temperature: 25°C
Things to do:
- Take a locally guided tour of the Egyptian Museum and the Pyramids of Giza
- Drift down the Nile on a traditional felucca sailing boat
- Visit the Avenue of the Sphinxes
- Go on a guided tour through the Valley of the Kings
Discover it on our Egypt and The Nile trip.
Image source:Contiki
14. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an underrated Asian gem, but when it comes to winter sun destinations you won’t want to miss out. From beautiful train rides through rice fields and jungles, to unique cities steeped in amazing culture, you’ll have endless sunshine and endless fun.
Average winter temperature: 25-28°C
Things to do:
- Take a locally guided tour of the Temple of the Tooth
- Go on a tuk-tuk street food tour
- Spot wildlife on a morning safari in Udawalawe National Park
- Go on a city tour of Colombo
Discover it on our Pure Sri Lanka trip.
15. The Caribbean Islands
With plenty of sunshine all year round, the Caribbean islands are a perfect option fortravellers looking to escape the gloomy winter months and come back with spectacular memories. Sipping cocktails on the beach, ziplining through jungles, snorkeling and exploring ancient ruins – sky’s the limit when it comes to the Caribbeans.
Average winter temperature: 25-29°C
Things to do:
- Relax on the white sand beach
- Hike the Pacaya Volcano in Antigua
- Go on a locally guided tour of Tikal National Park
- Go swimming with whale sharks in Cancun
- Go jungle ziplining in Tikal National Park
Discover it on our Caribbean trips.
Image source:Meg von Haartman / unsplash
16. Cyprus
Right in the middle of the Mediterranean and steeped in sunlight, Cyprus is the most charming island ever! You’ll get heavy Greece and Italy vibes, but for a fraction of the price. Ocean towns with cobblestones and a background of mountains and dormant volcanoes – the views are world class! The ocean gets a little chilly this time of year, but you’re not afraid of a little cold plunge are you?
Average winter temperature: 17°C
Things to do:
- Take a tour of the archaeological sites and ruins
- Climb Petra tou Romiou for some incredible views of the island
- Visit the Pafos zoo to see flamingos
- Enjoy all the fresh delicious seafood
17. The Philippines
White sand. Turquoise waters. Palm trees. The island vibes and the ability to get gorgeous sunkissed skin all year long – I mean, why wouldn’t you visit the Philippines? Discover local culture and breathtaking views in one of the most perfect winter sun destinations.
Average winter temperature: 24-32°C
Things to do:
- Explore underground rivers by boat
- Island hop, duh!
- Take a ride on a classic Jeepney
- Party on El Nido!
Discover it on our Philippines Island Hopping East and West trips.
Image source:Contiki
18. Mexico
Feeling down about the sun setting so early and the cold weather? Sounds like you’re in need of a beach and guacamole cure! Mexico is the ideal winter sun destination because you’ll be blessed with beautiful views, warm temperatures, plenty of historic ruins to visit and culture to immerse yourself in, and who doesn’t like Mexican food? Bliss.
Average winter temperature: 20-25°C
Things to do:
- Discover and swim in secret cenotes
- Walk where the Mayans once stood at Chichen Itza
- Visit a tequila distillery and sample a few shots…
- Swim with whale sharks
Discover it on our Mexico Grande and Mexico in a Week trips
19. Australia
A classic answer to cold and depressing weather is a trip to Australia – I mean, did we really have to tell you this? Bondi beach shines all year long and November to February spells summer Down Under anyway so don’t bother packing away your sandals and bathing suits, you’re going to need them! Party under the sunset, adventure into the Outback if you dare, pick up surfing, etc. There’s so much to do, you can easily wait out the colder months here.
Average winter temperature: 27-35°C
Things to do:
- Admire the impressive Great Barrier Reef and visit the world’s oldest rainforest in Daintree
- Learn how to surf
- Take a day trip out to the stunning Whitsundays
- Watch the sunrise in Uluru
- Canoe around the Noosa Everglades
Discover it on our Ultimate Australia and Australia: Beaches and Reefs trips.
Image source:Contiki
20. Kenya
Last but not least on our list of winter sun destinations is Kenya which is the perfect location for lovers of sun and wildlife to congregate and wait out the cold. Safari day after day after day – we promise you won’t get tired of it – and then safari in the night! It’s the best, and you can return home to tell your friends tales of the lions and elephants while they finally regain feeling in the frozen fingers.
Average winter temperature: 35-40°C
Things to do:
- Take sunrise and sunset game drives
- Take a hot air balloon ride over Maasai Mara
- Visit rescued elephants and rhinos at Nairobi National Park
- Tour Amboseli and get to know the local people and culture
Discover it on our Kenyan Highlights and East Africa Safari trips.
