10 winter sun destinations

As temperatures begin to dip and the warmth of summer fades into memory, thoughts inevitably turn towards the year’s end. While December may be synonymous with festive cheer, it’s also one of the most rewarding times to travel. Across the globe, certain destinations come into their own during the holidays, offering unique traditions, seasonal flavours and a fresh perspective on culture and community. And for those who prefer sun-dappled beaches to snow-dusted streets, the lure of winter warmth is irresistible.

Whether you dream of trading in tinsel for turquoise waters, celebrating Christmas in linen and sandals, or simply beginning the new year beneath a golden sun, we’ve rounded up the best destinations for winter sun this holiday season.

Lanzarote, Spain

Floating in the Atlantic off the coast of Africa, the Canary Islands have long lured winter sunseekers with their balmy climate and easy connections. Of the eight islands, Lanzarote is the most distinctive – a starkly beautiful canvas of volcanic peaks, black sand and windswept lava fields. The island’s treasures are as varied as its terrain: serene coves at Papagayo, the white sands of Playa Blanca and the surreal landscapes of Timanfaya National Park. Threaded through it all is the legacy of visionary artist César Manrique, whose sculptural interventions and gardens give the island a unique creative spirit.

Baja California, Mexico

The rugged Mexican peninsula of Baja California, where desert meets sea, feels made for adventure. From laid-back surf towns to glittering resorts, it’s a destination that delivers sun-drenched charm alongside dramatic scenery. December is especially magical: streets strung with Christmas colour, golden beaches lapped by warm waves and the arrival of migrating whales. Grey whales gather in the coastal lagoons to calf, humpbacks breach offshore and whale sharks glide through the Bay of La Paz – a natural spectacle to rival any seasonal fireworks.

Sri Lanka

Few countries pack such variety into such a compact footprint as Sri Lanka. In December, the island’s west and south coasts hit their stride as the dry season begins, offering golden beaches, surf-ready swells and coastal villages steeped in rhythm and ritual. Inland, emerald tea plantations and misty mountains invite exploration, while the jungles teem with elephants, leopards and birdlife. Start with Colombo’s energy and colour, then choose your path: ancient temples, coastal slow travel or the kind of mountain hikes that linger long in memory.

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Once overshadowed by Dubai, Abu Dhabi is now a cultural powerhouse in its own right. Over the past decade, its art scene has blossomed – from the jewel-like Louvre Abu Dhabi to the immersive world of TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, with the long-awaited Zayed National Museum set to open this December. Add in the city’s festive trimmings – elaborate mall displays, dazzling light shows along the Corniche and star-studded events on Yas Island – and winter here feels both glamorous and refreshingly unexpected.

Sydney, Australia

Christmas in Sydney is as sun-kissed as it gets. Think surfers in Santa hats carving waves at Bondi, families gathering for seafood feasts and picnics in the park under a blazing blue sky. With average highs around 26C and eight hours of sunshine a day, December is made for being outdoors. The city sparkles with holiday markets and lavish window displays, but the biggest spectacle is saved for New Year’s Eve – fireworks exploding over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge in a show watched the world over.

Essaouira, Morocco

Essaouira’s charm lies in its pace – unhurried, salt-sprayed and endlessly photogenic. Set against the Atlantic, this Moroccan coastal city pairs steady breezes (ideal for kite- and windsurfing) with broad, golden sands perfect for long strolls and camel rides. Expect to fall in love with its Unesco-listed medina, a mix of lively souks, artisanal boutiques and intimate cafés spill across winding streets framed by ancient ramparts.

Belize

Tiny in size but immense in personality, Belize is Central America’s best kept secret. Here, Mayan ruins rise from emerald jungle, jaguars stalk the forests of the Cockscomb Basin and the Caribbean sparkles in shades of turquoise. December brings perfect beach weather, whether on the powdery shores of Placencia or the barefoot-island idyll of Caye Caulker. Pair that with ancient history at Xunantunich and you’ve got a holiday rich in both relaxation and discovery.

Cape Town, South Africa

Few places rival Cape Town’s setting – mountains tumbling into the ocean, vineyards unfurling inland and a city alive with colour and creativity. December brings the height of summer in South Africa with sun-drenched days averaging 25–30C and a calendar of festive markets, outdoor concerts and waterfront celebrations. Beyond the city, the Cape Winelands, Whale Coast and rugged Cape Point beckon for unforgettable day trips, while in town you’ll find vibrant neighbourhoods like Bo-Kaap and Woodstock adding cultural depth to the natural drama.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok has always been a feast for the senses, but in recent years the Thai capital has undergone a sleek reinvention. A new wave of design hotels, rooftop bars and inventive restaurants sit alongside the timeless allure of gilded temples and fragrant street food. December and January are the best months to explore – drier, cooler and ideal for criss-crossing the city. By day, visit temples Wat Arun and Wat Pho; by night, lose yourself in Chinatown’s sizzling street stalls or take to the Chao Phraya River for a breezy city cruise.

Rio Janeiro, Brazil

While Carnival in February represents Rio at its most extrovert, things heat up in December as its beaches fill with sunseekers, the Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon glows with festive lights, and a floating Christmas tree bobs serenely in Botafogo Bay. In downtown’s open-air Saara Market, decorations and handmade gifts spill across the stalls, while vendors serve Christmas treats like brigadeiros (chocolate truffles) and spiced eggnog. But it’s New Year’s Eve that steals the show: the legendary Réveillon at Copacabana, where millions dressed in white gather for fireworks, live music and an all-night beach party.