Where is Hot in December? 7 Warm Winter Destinations for December 2025
Let’s face it, by December, many of us are done with the grey. The long, dark afternoons, the drizzle that never seems to end, and the cold that gets into your bones. The good news? There's a whole world out there where the sun still shines and winter feels more like a state of mind than a season. So I guess you're looking for the best warm places to visit in December 2025?
Whether you’re after a short-haul winter sun holiday or an exotic beach escape, this guide covers the best warm destinations for December, from the Canary Islands to Costa Rica.
This year, December travel is all about curated warmth, elegant coastal escapes, desert hideaways, and far-flung tropical shores that feel like they were designed specifically to soothe a sun-starved soul. Whether you're craving barefoot beach days, design-led resorts or slow, sunshine-soaked living, these warm-weather destinations are calling. Here’s where to go in December 2025 if you’re seeking sun, luxury, and a little escapism.
Warm places to visit in December
Dubai, UAE: A Luxury Winter Sun Destination
Avg Temp: 26°C / 79°F
Flight Time: 7 hrs from London, 14 hrs from NYC (both direct)
There’s nowhere quite like Dubai for a winter escape that guarantees warmth.
This glistening city is home t sun-drenched rooftop pools, gilded spas, and desert drives that end in candlelit dune dinners.
December delivers flawless weather, ideal for exploring the city’s futuristic skyline or taking a dip in the Arabian Gulf. It's warm, but not too hot, perfect for exploring and perfect for families.
There are a range of hotels covering all styles and budgets, an abundance of activities, and don't forget the waterparks which are perfect for cooling off!
Checkout The Lana, part of the Dorchester Collection, for sophisticated luxury overlooking Downtown Dubai, or Nikki Beach Resort for a 5* beach stay.
Tulum, Mexico: A laid-back winter holiday
Avg Temp: 28°C / 82°F
Flight Time: 10 hrs from London, 4 hrs from Miami (both direct)
Once a sleepy coastal town, Tulum is now a global blue print for barefoot luxury. This is where eco-chic design meets powder-white beaches and mezcal at golden hour is practically a ritual.
December marks the sweet spot, the rains have passed, and the cenotes are cool and clear.
Stay in a beachfront palapa, rise early for yoga, and end the day with fresh ceviche under swaying palms.
It's rare to find a 10/10 rated stay but Tulum is home to NABOA Hotel Tulum, rated just that.
Hidden behind a fringe of palms just moments from Tulum’s white-sand beaches, NABOA is the kind of low-key luxury stay that feels designed for dreamers. Its 14 suites are warm and textural, think polished concrete, earthy tones, and woven hammocks that sway in the Caribbean breeze.
The Maldives: The most romantic country in the world
Avg Temp: 30°C / 86°F
Flight Time: 10 hrs from London (direct), 18+ hrs from NYC
If heaven had a postcode, it might be somewhere in the Maldives. In December, this Indian Ocean archipelago enters its most glorious season, clear skies, calm waters, and resorts that float like dreams across turquoise lagoons.
Whether you’re here for romance, wellness or utter silence, this is slow living at its best.
Some people go here to do nothing, but a surprising amount of people go here for the activities. No, it's not boring, there is jet skiing, diving, swimming with whale sharks, parasailing, movies under the stars, and of course lots of snorkelling opportunities.
Not many realise how much of a range of accommodations are on offer in the Maldives. Try out OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi for a design-forward escape without the eye-watering price tag, just a 15-minute speedboat from Malé.
If snorkelling is most important to you, Diamonds Thudufushi is where barefoot luxury meets some of the best snorkelling in the archipelago.
Cape Town, South Africa: A beach destination with lots to do
Avg Temp: 27°C / 81°F
Flight Time: 11 hrs from London (direct), 18+ hrs from US
Cape Town in December is alive. There’s the scent of summer in the vineyards of Stellenbosch, surf rolling in from the Atlantic, and a golden light that clings to Table Mountain. You’ll find boutique hotels with rooftop bars, weekend markets in leafy neighbourhoods, and coastal drives that beg to be taken slowly. It’s soulful, chic, and surprisingly affordable.
The weather in December is gloriously warm and dry, making it one of the most reliable winter sun destinations for UK and US travellers looking to swap grey skies for golden ones.
The festive season brings a celebratory mood to the city: think outdoor concerts, gallery strolls in Woodstock, rooftop sundowners, and long balmy evenings under jacaranda-lined streets. You’ll find luxury hotels with plunge pools and panoramic views, sustainable lodges perched on the city’s edge, and cool, design-driven guesthouses with a local soul.
As warm places to visit in December go, Cape Town offers far more than just a beach break, it’s a full sensory reset wrapped in world-class scenery and sunshine.
Tenerife, Canary Islands: A short haul winter holiday from the UK
Average Temperature in December: 22°C / 72°F
Flight Time: 4.5 hrs from London, approx. 9 hrs from New York
Tenerife might just be one of Europe’s most underrated escapes, and for those seeking winter sun in December, it ticks all the right boxes.
As part of the Canary Islands archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, this volcanic isle enjoys a near-eternal spring climate, making it one of the most reliable short-haul warm destinations from the UK in December.
The island’s south coast delivers the warmest weather, with golden beaches, palm-shaded promenades, and a string of resorts that range from family-friendly to quietly luxurious.
Stay in a design-led boutique hotel in Costa Adeje or head a little off radar to smaller towns like Garachico or Los Gigantes, where lava rock pools and dramatic cliffs take centre stage.
December is perfect for hiking in Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak and a UNESCO-protected landscape that feels closer to the moon than mainland Europe.
Oman: An epic alternative to Dubai
Average Temperature in December: 26°C / 79°F
Flight Time: 7 hrs from London (direct), approx. 14 hrs from major US cities (via Dubai or Doha)
Oman remains one of the Middle East’s most compelling hidden gems, understated and effortlessly warm when much of the world is wrapped in layers.
For travellers seeking some winter sun without the buzz of mega-cities, Oman delivers a rich blend of culture, calm, and gorgeous natural scenery. From the honey-toned beaches of the Musandam Peninsula to the sweeping sand dunes of the Wahiba Desert, Oman is made for travellers who want both solitude and story.
Base yourself in Muscat, the beautiful capital framed by mountains and the Arabian Sea, where elegant beachfront resorts offer a slower, more soulful alternative to Dubai.
December brings ideal conditions... dry, warm and breezy, making it one of the most ideal sunny places to visit in December for both outdoor exploration and peaceful luxury.
Stay in a private pool villa perched on the cliffs at Six Senses Zighy Bay, or choose an eco-chic desert camp where sundown camel rides and stargazing take the place of screen time.
Pacific Coast, Costa Rica: For the perfect adventure beach holiday
Average Temperature in December: 27°C / 81°F
Flight Time: 11 hrs from London (via San José), 5 hrs from Miami
If you’re craving beach with a pulse of adventure, look no further than the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, a golden stretch of wild beaches, jungle-lined surf towns, and eco-luxe retreats that make it one of the best places to travel in December for sun.
December marks the beginning of the dry season here, making it a sweet spot for sun-chasers. The rain has retreated and the landscape is lush from months of tropical storms.
Whether you’re zip-lining through rainforest canopies, sipping smoothies on a yoga deck, or watching scarlet macaws fly overhead, this is winter sun with soul.
Base yourself in Santa Teresa if you’re after surf and boutique beachfront bungalows. For something more off-grid, head to Nosara, where jungle paths lead to boho cafes and holistic retreats.
Opt for Tamarindo, a more developed beach town that blends a slow energy with family-friendly resorts, great restaurants, and sunset catamaran cruises.
Travel tips for booking December holidays:
Book early: December is peak season globally, especially around Christmas and New Year. For the best hotels and flight deals, plan well in advance.
Travel mid-month: The first two weeks of December are often cheaper and quieter, avoiding festive price hikes.
Consider the shoulder spots: Oman, Cape Town and Tenerife offer serious style and sunshine without long-haul fatigue.
Look for boutique stays: Skip the mega-resorts and opt for smaller properties that offer a more personal, luxe feel.
FAQs - where to visit in December
Where is hot in December but not too far from the UK?
If you’re based in the UK and want warm weather without a long-haul flight, Tenerife in the Canary Islands is one of the best options. It’s just 4.5 hours from London and offers pleasant December temperatures around 22°C, with volcanic beaches, pretty towns, and affordable stays.
Dubai and Oman are also great mid-haul choices, around 7 hours from the UK, both offering sunshine, warm seas, and luxury stays.
What are the best places to travel in December for sun from the US?
US travellers looking for reliable sun in December have some fantastic options close to home. Tulum (Mexico), Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, and the Caribbean islands like Barbados and St. Lucia all offer tropical weather, great beaches, and short travel times from the East Coast.
If you’re open to a longer flight, the Maldives or Cape Town are worth the journey, especially for honeymoons, wellness escapes, or once-in-a-lifetime trips.
What are the warmest destinations in Europe in December?
Europe isn’t typically known for tropical weather in December, but there are still a few places that offer pleasant sunshine. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are your best bet, with daytime highs of 21–23°C and direct flights from most UK cities.
Southern Portugal (Algarve) and Cyprus also stay relatively mild, but you will need a jacket in the evenings. These are ideal for travellers seeking short-haul warm destinations from the UK in December.
Are there any affordable warm destinations in December?
Absolutely. If you’re flexible with dates and book ahead, destinations like Tenerife, parts of southern Thailand, and Sri Lanka offer excellent value. Look out for all-inclusive resorts, travel in early December to avoid holiday surcharges, and compare platforms like Booking.com and Skyscanner for flight deals.
What are the best winter sun destinations for couples?
For romance and relaxation, the Maldives is hard to beat, think private villas, overwater bungalows, and candlelit dinners by the ocean.
Tulum, Cape Town, and Oman also offer a mix of nature, style and seclusion.
What are the best December beach holidays from the UK?
If you’re looking to swap your winter coat for swimwear, head to Barbados, the Maldives, or the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. These are among the most popular December beach holidays from the UK, offering reliable sunshine, swimmable seas, and plenty of opportunities to fully unwind. Tenerife is ideal if you want to stay closer to home but still enjoy warm days by the water.
When is the best time to book a holiday for December?
Ideally, aim to book by August or September, especially if you're travelling over the Christmas or New Year period. Early December (before the 18th) tends to be quieter and more affordable. Booking in advance not only secures better rates but also ensures availability at popular hotels and resorts in high-demand destinations.
Which destinations are best for a family winter sun holiday?
Tenerife is an excellent option for families, it's safe, easy to get around, and has plenty of child-friendly resorts with pools and soft beaches. Costa Rica is also fantastic for nature-loving families, with wildlife tours, beach days, and gentle adventure activities. For something more luxurious, Dubai offers waterparks, family-friendly hotels and a warm, welcoming climate.
Meanwhile, Thailand is great for kids, with beautiful beaches and friendly locals that always bring a smile.
Are there any tropical destinations with good wellness and yoga retreats in December?
Yes! Tulum (Mexico), Thailand, and Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula are some of the best winter wellness escapes, with yoga shalas, plant-based cafes, jungle spas, and daily classes.
Many boutique hotels on these coasts cater to wellness travellers and offer packages that include yoga, surf, meditation and nourishing meals.
