Skip to main content

20 best places for winter sun

best places for winter sun

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: 

Discover it on our Total Thailand and Thai Island Hopper West trips. 

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:

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:

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:

Discover it on our Real Sicily trip.

12 best things to do in Sicily

12 best things to do in Sicily

Dominic Oliver
by Dominic Oliver Oct 13, 2020

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:

Discover it on our Moroccan Adventure and Best of Morocco trip.

boats in Morocco

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:

Beyond borders: 20 best places to visit in 2025 for a memorable year

Beyond borders: 20 best places to visit in 2025 for a memorable year

Sandeep Sandhu
by Sandeep Sandhu Nov 14, 2023

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:

Discover it on our Best of Spain trip!

Contiki travellers in Spain

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:

14 of the best summer destinations in Europe you need to visit this year

14 of the best summer destinations in Europe you need to visit this year

Laura Condrut
by Laura Condrut Feb 19, 2024

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:

Discover it on our Dallas to Miami trip.

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:

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:

Discover it on our Argentina and Brazil Highlights and South American Explorer trips.

Ipanema beach in Brazil

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:

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:

Discover it on our Egypt and The Nile trip.

pyramids in Egypt

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:

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:

Discover it on our Caribbean trips.

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:

19 best cool weather summer vacations to avoid the heat

19 best cool weather summer vacations to avoid the heat

Charlie Fabre
by Charlie Fabre Jul 08, 2024

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:

Discover it on our Philippines Island Hopping East and West trips.

beach in the philippines

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 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:

Discover it on our Ultimate Australia and Australia: Beaches and Reefs trips.

Contiki travellers in Uluru, Australia

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:

Discover it on our Kenyan Highlights and East Africa Safari trips.

Up next

Recommended by us

Stop dreaming and make sh*t happen!