Craving the feeling of some winter sun on your skin, in the face of falling temperatures in America?
A few obvious vacation destinations may come to mind. Mexico, Florida, Maldives, dubai … they’re all classics for some reason, delivering scorching temperatures during the frigid December and January weather. But that also means they’re very popular—and if you find yourself lusting after a hot holiday every fall, chances are you’ve been to a few of them anyway.
If you’re looking for something a little different, try these ideas for a sunny winter break instead.
La Gomera, Spain
Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Tenerife and Lanzarote are well known in the winter sun-seeking world, thanks to their prime locations off the northwest coast of Africa that promise warming temperatures (with average high is 78.8 degrees in October, dropping above 60 degrees Celsius from December to March).
All of these larger Canary Islands are generally safe, weather-appropriate bets. But there are eight islands in total, and La Gomera, the second smallest, is the one that needs careful consideration. Temperatures average around 70 degrees throughout the winter, and are generally mild and pleasant. Expect black-sand beaches to lie on (or play in), dramatic cliffs to hike, and plenty of magical viewpoints for the perfect stay — plus impressive, UNESCO-listed laurel forests Received from Garajonay National Park for a day adventure.
If possible, you should also paddle to the smaller El Hierro or the peaceful La Graciosa, which is said to be one of the only places in the world with paved roads. Really happy.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
60s high isn’t hot enough? In the Caribbean country St. Vincent and the Grenadines, average temperatures range from 77 degrees to 86 degrees throughout December, January and February in the tropics, with November marking the end of hurricane season.
Surrounded by St. Lucia, Barbados and Grenada, the sandy beaches here are crisp white, the ocean bright turquoise. There is the main island, St. Vincent, surrounded by lush, fresh green and home to La Soufriere, an active volcano. By ferry, you can reach Bequia, an island known for sailing and scuba diving, an endangered turtle sanctuary, and beautiful Princess Margaret Beach. If you have the money, you can organize a holiday on the exclusive private island of Mustique — historically a favorite of the British royal family — which can also be organized.
Related: 7 ‘secret’ destinations in the Caribbean you should know
Sign up for our daily newsletter
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Off the coast of Tanzania lies Zanzibar, an archipelago where visitors can double down on fascinating culture and sparkling, unspoiled beaches. January and February are particularly good times to go, with (usually) less rain than in December and temperatures warming up to the 80s, up to 95 degrees.
Highlights include the main island, Unguja, and the former business district of Stone Town – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its “cultural fusion” of African, Arab, and European influences and India, is seen in its architecture, as well as its historical role in the end of the slave trade. There is also Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park — home to the rare species of primate, the red primate. In addition to Unguja, snorkeling among the coral reefs of the private Chumbe Island, where visitors can spend the night in a forested eco-lodge, is quite an enjoyable experience.
Related: Plan the ultimate safari in Africa with these 12 bush-to-beach destinations
Valletta, Malta
that’s good Malta probably won’t be hot in winter. Expect 62.6 degrees to be your average high, and January is usually the coldest month. That said, it’s likely 30 degrees higher than US cities on the East Coast, which might be what you’re after. This is all thanks to the archipelago’s location in the Mediterranean, off the coasts of Italy, Tunisia and Libya.
You can enjoy winter sunshine almost anywhere in Malta, from the historic town of Mdina to the cool lagoon-rimmed islands of Gozo and Comino. However, the yellow capital Valletta is a great place to start – with a beautiful waterfront to run along, a 16th-century church, the site of Fort St. Angelo and Upper Barrakka Gardens are picturesque, not to mention nearby towns like Sliema to explore. TV and movie fans will also love this place as Valletta has starred as the filming location in “Game of Thrones”, “Troy” and “Gladiator” among others.
Related: 8 of the best destinations to visit in December
Dominica
As the hurricane season ends in November, the winter months are a great time to visit the Caribbean nation Dominica. Average temperatures at this time of year can reach 87 degrees, and the water is similarly warm at around 80 degrees, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
An island nation, it (obviously) has beaches. But if all you want is somewhere to lie on the sand, then maybe Dominica isn’t for you — as there’s so much to see and do, from spotting birds The island’s colors and whale-watching come to explore seemingly endless natural beauty, including lush forests, nine volcanoes, numerous waterfalls, hot springs, and Morne Trois Pitons National Park , where you can go hiking to the natural 196-degree Boiling Lake that spews steam. Hikers will thrive here, by embarking on the 115-mile Waitukubuli National Trail.
Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’Switzerland’s southernmost region, the Algarve, has something for every type of traveler. If you want to stay in a hotel and spend a week lounging by the pool without a care in the world, you have plenty of options along the coast. If you’re after world-class beaches, breathtaking views and nightlife, try Lagos or Albufeira. Want a city break that isn’t Lisbon or Porto? Try Faro with its historic Old Town instead. All of the above sound great? It’s fairly easy to explore the Algarve, its beaches, and charming coastal towns by car.
But how hot can Portugal get in December? Well, it’s a similar picture with Malta, with an average high of 63 degrees in December, with things getting considerably colder in the evenings at around 47 degrees. January and February too. However, it’s one of the warmer places in Europe at this time of year, so while you may not be wearing a t-shirt 24/7 or a complete bathing suit, you’ll have a chance to escape. away from the colder daytime temperatures of the United States . You’ll also avoid the summer crowds.
Related: 8 reasons Portugal is the perfect place to visit
curacao
Curacao is the letter “C” in the ABC islands of the Caribbean – with “A” for Aruba and “B” for Bonaire. All three are ideal winter destinations, enjoying mid-80s high temperatures throughout December, January, and February. Indeed, this is peak season for tourism, but it is very worthy.
You’ll find white sand beaches and crystal clear waters as well as resort-style hotels in Curacao, but you don’t want to miss the chance to go snorkeling or explore the island, part of the Netherlands. The influence is certainly visible in the Dutch-inspired architecture of the UNESCO capital Willemstad, painted in green, orange and blue, along with lively cafes . February is a great time to visit, as the annual Masquerade Festival takes place.
City of Agadir, Morocco
The resort city of Agadir on Morocco’s south coast is a good choice for the winter sun. Temperatures can soar to an average high of 71.6 degrees — though it’s also likely the 50s — with seawater warm enough for you to dip your toes in without squeaking.
Agadir is known for its long stretch of golden sand beach (Plage d’Agadir), but it also has local markets to explore, entertainment of an old town to admire, cultural museums to visit and a few golf courses (if that’s your thing). You’ll also be within walking distance (30 minutes) of the fishing village of Taghazout, known for its beautiful beaches and great surfing, as well as walking distance (about three hours) from the historic port city of Essaouira .
Related: 8 incredible private jet trips around the world
Iguacu Falls, Brazil
Expect high temperatures in the region of 78-91 degrees (and perhaps odd rainfall) in Brazil during November (late spring) and December through February (summer) – this is the perfect time to visit one of the greatest wonders of the South American nation: Iguacu (or Iguazu) Falls.
They can be seen from Brazil or Argentina, in their respective Parana and Misiones national parks. They are a cloudy, sinking spectacle that extends 8,858 feet and plunges 269 feet (the highest) into the river below, combining to form the world’s largest waterfall system. Okay, so you won’t be lounging on the beach to sunbathe, but you’ll get to see one of the world’s most impressive natural sights — and in the park, which spans more than 450,000 acres, there are many chance to explore the rainforest, and if you’re lucky, you might see local wildlife, including giant anteaters and giant otters. A once in a lifetime trip.
Funchal, Portugal
Funchal, the capital of the Madeira archipelago, is an easy place to get away for a few days. Enjoy a relaxing ride to the farmers market, stroll around the lively Madeira Botanical Gardens and pretty cobbled streets of Zona Vieja, or ride the Funchal cable car before dropping in for a long lunch and wine tasting . Football fans can even visit a whole museum dedicated to the city’s superstar son, Cristiano Ronaldo, which displays some of his many trophies.
If you have plenty of days to spare, there are plenty of other interesting things on this Portuguese island to explore, from the unique paths along the miles of levadas (aqueducts, built for irrigation) to the Porto Moniz’s natural swimming pool and Santana’s traditional cottages. Often touted as a year-round destination due to its location on Africa’s northwest coast, you can expect to experience pleasant temperatures from fall to early winter — that is, average highs is 71.6 degrees in October, 68 degrees in November and 66.2 degrees in December. However, expect colder evenings and occasional showers.
Related: Azores vs. Madeira: Choosing the perfect island resort in Portugal
