Some people are just not meant for winter, so when December comes around, all cold and frosty, a warm beach and a heated pool sound extremely tempting. You end up asking yourself (or Google) ‘OK I’m done with winter, where’s hot in December?’ and you find yourself booking the next available flight. Besides, who needs Christmas presents when you can have some winter sunshine instead? Anyway, here are the top six destinations we think are the best places to visit in December if you want to ditch the knitted jumpers for shorts, sandals, and a sun lounger instead.
1. Canary Islands
Weather: Max 21° | Min 16° (avg.)
What to do: The Canary Islands are one of the best places to visit in December if you want a bit of winter sunshine, without it being too intense. They’re beautifully volcanic, with striking coastlines, occasional black-sand beaches, lush tropical interiors, stunning national parks, and charming towns and villages. Plus, the waters are still warm enough to swim in.
Where to stay: Tenerife and Gran Canaria are slightly warmer in December, due to stronger winds in Lanzarote at this time of year.
Further reading: Which Canary Island is right for you?
2. Barbados
Weather: Max 29° | Min 23° (avg.)
What to do: Barbados is one of the best countries to visit in December if you want to experience a vibrant culture. Soak up local Caribbean life on a Friday at Oistin’s Fish Fry (a Bajan party at a fish market), go rum tasting at Mount Gay Distillery, wander charming colonial towns and plantation houses, swim with sea turtles, or just chill on a beach.
Where to stay: We’ve got a great collection of stylish, luxury villas in Barbados.
Further reading: The best reasons to visit Barbados
3. St. Lucia
Weather: Max 28° | Min 22° (avg.)
What to do: This is one of the best places to go in December for those looking for an outdoor adventure. St. Lucia may be famous for its white-sand beaches, but go beyond that and you’ll find stunning waterfalls nestled into lush jungle, incredible hot springs, zip line adventures through the mountains, or head out on to the water on a whale-watching expedition!
Where to stay: Our handpicked collection of villas in St Lucia will make you feel like an A-Lister.
Further reading: Top 10 Caribbean islands for a holiday
4. Southern Thailand
Weather: Max 31° | Min 23° (avg.)
What to do: The islands of Southern Thailand are one of the ideal places to visit in December for some well-deserved R&R – stroll along powder-soft beaches, try your hand at a watersport (or five), swim in crystal-clear water, meet friendly locals and sip cocktails while watching a beautiful sunset.
Where to stay: We’re continuing to expand our impressive Thailand portfolio, so you can find unique villas in lively Koh Samui, upmarket Hua Hin and stunning Phuket… with more in the pipeline!
Further reading: Best beaches in Thailand
5. Cyprus
Weather: Max 23° | Min 12° (avg.)
What to do: Beautiful golden beaches, ancient archaeological sites that are steeped in history and mythical legends, and incredible cuisine. You’re not short of interesting things to do and see in Cyprus. Check out the Tomb of Kings, Blue Flag Nissi Beach, and Aphrodite’s Rock, to name a few.
Where to stay: We’ve got an extensive selection of handpicked villas to choose from in Cyprus.
Further reading: The local’s guide to authentic Cyprus
6. Mexico
Weather: Max 28° | Min 20° (avg.)
What to do: Swim in magical cenotes, kick back on white-sand beaches, explore luscious jungle or discover ancient Mayan ruins. Mexico is a playground for adventurers, but is also the ideal place for kicking back and relaxing! December to April is the dry season, where you can expect good weather with little rainfall… it’s the best time to visit!
Where to stay: We’ve got villas in the jungle paradise of Cancun & The Riviera Maya and on the Pacific Coast!
We hope we’ve managed to answer your question about where’s hot in December… would you add any other countries to our list? Find more inspiration for villa holidays on Oliver’s Travels. Our friendly concierge team is on hand to help you book all manner of fabulous extra services to make your winter getaway super special.
Top 10 Places to Stay for Christmas and New Year
