Christmas and New Year’s Eve are over, it’s cold outside and winter blues have officially kicked in. Have you ever thought about where’s hot in January?
We’ve got the perfect destinations for you to get your tan on early in the year and soak up the much-needed sun. Sandy beaches, fresh fruit cocktails, and sea adventures are waiting for you to escape the gloomy weather at home and kickstart 2025 with a bang. New year, new globetrotting you!
1. Sri Lanka, Asia
What to do: Sri Lanka may be small, but the pint-sized isle packs a punch when it comes to activities. Lace up your hiking boots and climb to the top of Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) in central Sri Lanka and Lion’s Rock in Sigiriya. Both reward their leg-stretching treks with breathtaking panoramic views and spectacular sunrises. For wildlife enthusiasts, Yala National Park is a must-visit, where you can spot leopards, elephants, and crocodiles (to name a few).
If you’re after sun and sea, the southern coast offers surfing, snorkelling, and relaxing on stunning shores. Experience more local culture by visiting bustling markets, trying the flavour-packed Sri Lankan cuisine, and wandering through the lush tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya.
Where to stay: Our idyllic villas in Sri Lanka are perfectly placed for enjoying the beaches of the southern coast.
Further reading: 10 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka
2. St. Lucia, Caribbean
Weather: Max 28 °C (approx.) | Min temp 22 °C (approx.)
What to do: Visit the Rabot Estate and book a Tree-to-Bar tour to see how the plantation creates the treats we know and love. Thrill-seekers can get their adrenaline pumping by booking a zip-lining experience through the jungle, or if you’d prefer a calmer option, explore the canopy walks and see incredible indigenous flora and fauna.
Where to stay: our magnificent villas in St. Lucia provide you with sensational views, pretty pools and direct beach access for the perfect Caribbean adventure.
Further reading: Top 10 things to do in St Lucia
2. Barbados, Caribbean
Weather: Max. 29°C (approx.) | Min. 23°C (approx.)
What to do: Although Barbados has cooler nights at this time of the year, temperatures will barely go below 23 degrees Celsius, which makes it the perfect winter destination. Known for its large, tropical beaches and emerald green sea, the Caribbean island is great for snorkelling and catamaran trips along the beautiful coastline.
Where to stay: Our beachfront villas in Barbados are the best place to forget all about the winter cold at home.
Further reading: The best reasons to visit Barbados
3. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Weather: Max. 23°C (approx.) | Min. 13°C (approx.)
What to do: This Canary Island is renowned for its beautiful beaches and volcanic landscape, which means there are plenty of things to do. The national parks and volcanos are perfect for a day of hiking and exploring the stunning countryside of Lanzarote, while the sea is a great spot for snorkelling and the beaches the place to be for sunbathing.
For the kids, head to the aquapark in Costa Teguise, and for the thrill-seekers, try your hand at paragliding! Abulila Paragliding has 30 years of experience providing the best service of once-in-a-lifetime experiences where excitement is guaranteed. They have all sorts of awesome air, water and land activities too that allow you to enjoy the island’s unique geography and out-of-this-world views.
Where to stay: Our holiday homes in Lanzarote are located directly by the seaside. Have a look and treat yourself.
Further reading: Lanzarote travel guide
4. Tenerife, Canary Islands
Weather: Max. 20°C (approx.) | Min. 15°C (approx.)
What to do: Tenerife, the biggest of the Canary Islands, is a multi-faceted island. You’ve got the volcano Teide and its national park in the countryside, gorgeous beaches on the coastline, buzzing nightlife, loads of water sports activities on offer and luxurious restaurants dotted across the island. If you want a more authentic experience, head to the island’s north side where you can eat regional food in a traditional atmosphere.
Where to stay: Our luxurious villas in Tenerife will enhance your stay on this beautiful Canary Island.
Further reading: Quiz – Which Canary Island is right for you?
5. Mexico
Weather: max 27°C (approx.) | min. 20°C (approx.)
What to do: Whether you’re looking for bustling cities, local villages, paradise beaches or jungle ruins, Mexico has a magical assortment of activities and adventures. A holiday in Mexico would easily let you forget about those post-Christmas blues as its Caribbean Coast stays nice and hot in January.
Where to stay: Take a look at our villas around Cancun and Tulum, which provide somewhere to rest your head on the fabled Riviera Maya.
Further reading: Riviera Maya Travel Guide
6. Jamaica, Caribbean
Weather: max 29°C (approx.) | min. 23°C (approx.)
What to do: Try out river rafting down the Martha Brae River hike up to the achingly beautiful Blue Mountain Peak. Elsewhere, explore exciting Kingston and take a look inside the Bob Marley Museum which is found at the singer’s former home.
Where to stay: Take a look at our stunning Villas in Jamaica that have awesome pools, direct beach access and sumptuous views.
Further reading: Jamaica Travel Guide
So there you have it, that’s where it’s hot in January! Ready to leave the cold weather behind and start the new year with an incredible holiday? Check out our full portfolio of luxury villas on Oliver’s Travels. If you’re unsure about which destination you want to choose, feel free to contact our free concierge service and an agent will be happy to advise.
