When winter hits, there’s nothing better than swapping icy mornings for warm beaches and rooftop cocktails. If you’re dreaming of sunshine, turquoise water, and luxury touches that elevate your escape, these winter sun destinations are calling. Whether it’s an overwater villa in the Maldives or a chic resort in Mexico, these spots will heat up your travel plans.
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands have long been a favourite for UK holidaymakers thanks to their year-round sunshine, but visiting in winter gives you the chance to enjoy them at a gentler pace, without the crowds. Tenerife, the largest island in the archipelago, offers everything from azure seas and sandy beaches to charming towns, with winter temperatures that hover around a pleasant 20–25 degrees.
Anse Le Raie, Mauritius
If a chic Indian Ocean escape is what you’re after, Mauritius is an inspired choice, and Anse La Raie on the island’s northern coast is one of its most dazzling hidden gems. Even in winter, temperatures remain warm and inviting at around 26–27 degrees, making it ideal for sun-drenched days on white-sand beaches and windsurfing across calm turquoise waters. The scenery here is among the island’s most striking, with ocean views that stretch out towards the northern islets.
Maldives
The Maldives remain one of the world’s most sought-after winter sun escapes – and with good reason. With temperatures averaging 27 to 30 degrees, days are best spent snorkelling among technicolour coral reefs, sailing out on sunset cruises to watch dolphins, or unwinding with overwater spa treatments. For those seeking stillness, there’s nothing quite like reclining on soft white sands or dining by candlelight on a private stretch of beach.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
For those looking to travel a little further for winter sun, Mexico is a rewarding choice. Along the Riviera Maya, winter temperatures stay between 24 and 28 degrees, perfect for long days on 30 kilometres of white sand and swimming in the calm Caribbean waters. Just offshore lies the world’s second-largest coral reef, where snorkelling and diving reveal an underwater world of vivid marine life.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai combines futuristic architecture with golden beaches and luxury shopping. Winter temperatures hover around 75°F, perfect for poolside lounging or desert safaris. High-end resorts like Atlantis and the Burj Al Arab take indulgence to the next level.
Barbados
Barbados brings a mix of Caribbean charm and upscale living. Stay in a beachfront villa on the west coast and explore world-class golf courses, gourmet restaurants, and rum distilleries. It’s warm, sunny, and buzzing with energy from December through April.
Seychelles
Located off the east coast of Africa, Seychelles is made up of 115 dreamy islands with lush jungles and powdery white sand. It’s an ideal winter sun escape for nature lovers who still want five-star comfort. Many resorts are eco-luxury focused and offer private beach access and spa experiences.
Costa Rica (Guanacaste)
Guanacaste on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast offers sunshine and upscale resorts in a lush, tropical setting. You can surf in the morning, lounge poolside in the afternoon, and enjoy gourmet meals with ocean views by night. The dry season begins in December, making it a great time to visit.
St. Barts
This French-Caribbean island is a hotspot for winter sun seekers with a taste for the high life. You’ll find boutique hotels, designer shopping, and pristine beaches tucked into secluded coves. The vibe is chic but laid-back, perfect for a sunny escape without the crowds.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Cabo offers a unique blend of desert and beach, with luxury resorts perched on dramatic cliffs above the ocean. Winter is peak season with perfect weather and plenty of upscale beach clubs to explore. Think sunset margaritas, infinity pools, and fresh seafood on the sand.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.