If you’re dreading the chill of the December-January period when half of Europe witnesses snowfall and winds, there are smart vacation options worth considering. You can go on what is known as a winter sun holiday. The basic concept is planning a visit to a tropical and warm destination with blue skies, pleasant weather conditions, abundant sunshine, breezy waters and loads of outdoor activities and sightseeing options. On that note, here’s looking at some of the best places for your winter sojourn. 

Top 10 Dreamy Winter Sun Holiday Destinations to Escape the Christmas Chill 

There is no shortage of sunny and warm places to visit in the winter season. Here are some of the top choices for most global travellers. 

1. Canary Islands, Spain 

Canary Islands in Spain

Average December Temperature: 22°C

Why Visit: 

The Canary Islands are one of the finest winter sun holiday destinations, offering amazing weather along with fascinating destinations to explore, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura. You can also explore the Playa Amadores and Las Palmas beaches along with the nightclubs at Playa del Ingles. Lanzarote, with its sandy beaches, charming fishing villages and volcanoes, is also a traveller’s delight. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the Timanfaya National Park, while wine connoisseurs should not miss La Geria with its vineyards. 

Travel Tips: 

• Pack breathable clothing including t-shirts, shorts, etc. 
• Use sunscreen with a high SPF count
• Get a pair of sunglasses with UV filters
• Pack comfortable hiking/walking shoes for your island trip

2. Dubai, UAE

Dubai Coastline with Burj Al Arab

Average December Temperature: 26°C

Why Visit: 

An amazing place to spend your Christmas holidays in the sun, Dubai offers glorious sunshine, gorgeous beaches and premier hotels and shopping malls. You will love exploring The Palm and Downtown Dubai with its souks and the refreshing Dubai Creek. There are several attractions worth visiting, including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Frame and Palm Jumeirah. The Emirate also offers thrilling nightlife, adventure parks, fine dining and more. 

Travel Tips: 

• Don’t forget the sunscreen and that too with a high SPF formula 
• Pack sunglasses and hats and stay hydrated 
• Dress modestly and respect the traditional and cultural values of Dubai 
• Use the metro and public transportation to save money on taxi fares 
• Book accommodation earlier to arrival. You can explore Dubai serviced apartments.

Also Explore: Top Free Things to Do in Dubai

3. Barbados, Caribbean

Colourful beach huts in Barbados, Caribbean

Average December Temperature: 24-29°C

Why Visit: 

Barbados is undoubtedly one of the hot holiday destinations in December for travellers. It is the best time to hit the beaches with their white sands and explore limestone caves, rainforests and other natural wonders. You can go scuba diving and snorkelling here along with exploring the famous rum distilleries and enjoying the nightlife. 

Travel Tips: 

• Look for eco tours that you can book in advance 
• Plan your visit to coincide with the annual Food and Rum Festival 
• Don’t miss a trip to the St Nicholas Abbey and Foursquare Distilleries 

4. Cape Town, South Africa 

Panoramic view of Cape Town, South Africa

Average December Temperature: 19- 29°C

Why Visit: 

When it comes to warm holiday destinations in December, Cape Town makes a strong case for itself with 15 hours of daylight and plenty of sunshine to keep you warm! Have a blast at the Blue Flag beaches across the city, while kite surfing connoisseurs also flock to the city at this time for the conducive winds. Whale watching is another activity worth checking out, along with a Table Mountain excursion. Winter is also the low season, meaning that you’ll get fabulous discounts on hotels, tours and dining. 

Travel Tips: 

• Visit Robben Island if you want to know more about South African history (it was a former prison for political prisoners such as Nelson Mandela) 
• Buses are not available anymore from the Cape Town International Airport. You can take an Uber or rent a car from the desks of various companies at the airport. 
• Be prepared for continuously changing weather conditions with suitable clothing and accessories. In fact, those living here often say how they witness four seasons in just a day. Winters can be wet at times and you’ll need breathable clothing, jackets, sunscreen and umbrellas. 

5. Maldives

Floating huts in Maldives

Average December Temperature: 26.7-28.4°C

Why Visit: 

The Maldives is one of the most popular warm holiday destinations at Christmas and with good reason! December is the peak tourist season here, with plenty of opportunities to go snorkelling, wakeboarding, kayaking and scuba diving. Enjoy everything from watching movies under the stars to beach walks and lagoon tours. If it’s a luxurious vacation that you’re after, nothing beats the Maldives, particularly for its premier resorts and villas. And that’s not all; go clubbing at night or take in a crab racing extravaganza (yes you read it right) or night fishing expedition. Sunset cruises, picnics at Rasrani Bageecha, helicopter tours, dining at an undersea restaurant- the Maldives is as exotic as it gets! 

Travel Tips: 

• If you’re into jet skiing, then the Male Atoll is the best place. 
• You can go swimming at Artificial Beach if you want a more tranquil place to relax
• Don’t miss delicious local recipes like Mas Huni (smoked tuna), Garudhiya (fish soup) and Aluva Boakibaa (cake with sweet cassava and coconut). 
• Book all-inclusive accommodation with support for water activities and trips to and from the airport/city. 

6. Phuket, Thailand

Scenic view Of Phuket, Thailand

Average December Temperature: 22-31°C

Why Visit: 

Arguably one of the most-preferred warm holiday destinations for European, US and British travelers, Phuket transforms into a paradise in the winter months. You’ll never tire of things to do, exploring beaches like Kata Beach and Patong Beach and also participating in snorkelling, ziplining, scuba diving and kayaking. If you’re fond of history, there’s the iconic Big Buddha and Wat Chalong temple to explore here. In the mood to relax? Try the beachfront treatments and massages offered by the Ayurah Spas in Phuket. Foodies will also love the diverse culinary choices at hand, especially at top restaurants like The Natai and The Edge. 

Must Explore: Most Popular Beaches in Phuket for Families

Travel Tips: 

• Avoid tap water and only consume bottled water 
• Get around with tuk-tuks and Grab taxis. You can also rent a motorbike for easier access (international driving licenses are a must)
• Dress suitably by covering your legs and shoulders while entering your temples. Remove your hat and shoes before entry as well 
• Be prepared for sizable traffic congestion around Phuket Town and also Patong 

7. Maui, Hawaii, USA

 Tropical beach in Maui In Hawaii, USA

Average December Temperature: 14-22°C

Why Visit: 

Maui is another fabulous spot for your winter sun holiday with its diverse activities like whale watching, surfing, snorkelling and more. You’ll get to view massive waves in December that are the stuff of surfers’ dreams. The annual lighting of the Banyan Tree in Lahaina is another spectacle that you shouldn’t miss. Golf enthusiasts will naturally want access to the PGA Tour Sentry Tournament of Champions that happens at this time. 

Travel Tips: 

• Book your accommodation and activities early, since Christmas in Maui is synonymous with huge crowds and tourist demand
• You should not miss the Christmas Day Beach Luau where Kanakaloka or Santa Claus arrives in a charming red canoe. 
• Some of the top shopping places include Wailea, Kaanapali with its Whalers Village and the shops across Makawao. 
• Touching or feeding wildlife is strictly forbidden 

8. Sydney, Australia 

Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge

Average December Temperature: 18-25°C

Why Visit: 

Apart from the warm weather and oodles of sunshine, Sydney promises fabulous outdoor attractions in this period. Some of them include bushwalking and whale watching, both of which are thrilling experiences for adventure lovers. Then there are multiple festivals like the Sydney Winter Festival, Sydney Film Festival and the Sun Herald City2Surf Run that you can check out. The crowds are lower in this period and you can get great deals on accommodation and dining. Some other attractions worth exploring here include the Harbour Bridge and Opera House along with several other galleries and museums.  

Travel Tips: 

• While casual clothing works in December, keep a jacket or pullover handy for any sudden dip in temperatures 
• An umbrella is useful for any time of the year as well
• Book your accommodation in advance since Sydney is one of the world’s most-visited cities in this period 
• An Opal or contactless bank card helps with payments at train stations and buses

9. California

California Coastline

Average December Temperature: 8-19°C

Why Visit: 

California offers comforting sunshine and outdoorsy activities that you can enjoy during your time here. Visit the famous beaches dotting Southern California while participating in watersports activities and even skiing in higher climes. Winters are more affordable for travellers in California while there are lesser crowds. Some of the must-visit attractions include Point Reyes National Seashore (you can go whale watching here) and Piedras Blancas for its charming elephant seals. No trip to California is also complete without a glimpse of Hollywood, with the movie studios and other attractions. 

Travel Tips: 

• Pack a few layers since California can turn colder at higher elevations. Light sweaters and jackets are recommended even if you’re on the coast. 
• Use Caltrans QuickMap to check road conditions and closures. 
• Try to hire a rental car to explore the region and focus on specific areas, since California is a huge state with plenty of attractions. 
• California also has the highest sales tax rates, so be prepared to pay slightly more for accommodation, food, parking and entertainment than other US states. 

10. Bali, Indonesia

Traditional Balinese gate in Indonesia

Average December Temperature: 23-28°C

Why Visit: 

Bali is the best place to enjoy the quintessential beach lifestyle, with its sunshine, warmer weather conditions, luxury beach clubs and surfing adventures. You will fall in love with the charming fishing villages and gorgeous beaches like Seminyak, Kuta, Sanur and Nusa Dua. That’s not all; there are plenty of galleries and museums to visit, along with the popular Bali Culture Centre and the surrounding islands like Nusa Penida. Have a blast as you saunter through tropical forests and rice paddies, enjoying delicious local cuisine on the way. 

Travel Tips: 

• Book your accommodation in advance, since Bali witnesses a huge rush of tourists for Christmas and New Year
• Pack swimwear and light, breathable clothing along with a rain jacket
• Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat, while sticking to only bottled water during your vacation 
• Carry an umbrella and bug spray to keep mosquitoes away

How to Choose the Best Winter Sun Destination 

When it comes to selecting the best winter sun holiday destination, you may face a problem of plenty. There are so many gorgeous vacation spots out there, that choosing between them may seem harder than ever. Here are some pointers worth noting to help you make an informed and quicker choice: 

• Average temperatures during December, whether there is rainfall or any chances of colder weather 
• The activities that are available for travellers, both indoors and outdoors
• Cultural and historical sites, adventure sports, great dining choices, etc. (depending on what you’re interested in)
• Lesser crowds, reasonable flight and accommodation costs (if you’re looking for an off-season holiday)

Packing Tips for Winter Sun Holidays

Packing smartly for your sunny winter holiday is also important. Here are a few things that are must-haves on your trip. 

• Light and breathable clothing- t-shirts, shorts/bottoms, dresses, Kaftan dresses, cotton shirts
• Swimwear and cover-ups 
• Sunscreen, lip balm and moisturiser
• Hat and sunglasses
• Light rain jackets, scarves and layers if needed 
• Travel insurance, visa and passport
• Toiletries 
• Travel adapter, power bank and chargers

Conclusion 

Now that you’ve got a comprehensive list of warm holiday destinations to pick from, it’s time to narrow down your choice based on the parameters listed above. Book your flights in advance and reach out to TheSqua.re to find the best properties in some of the world’s best holiday spots. Here’s to enjoying a memorable time with your loved ones, away from the chill and gloom of winter!