Arguably the most unloved of our 12 months, February brings little joy. The winter chill still has its grip; a miserable January hangover drags on in grey skies and colder than you remember mornings. The glow of Christmas is long gone, there’s nothing new on the horizon, and spring feels like a rumour. When the blues start creeping in, there’s really only one cure: get yourself somewhere warm.
That’s the beauty of February. While home is stuck in a slog, you can be stepping off a plane to bright days and long evenings. These six destinations deliver a straight shot of sunshine when you need it most.
1. Where to go for a little bit of everything? Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka in February is a dream for winter sun seekers. The south and west coasts are at their best, hot, dry, and ideal for long beach days, while the interior stays green and dramatic, perfect for wildlife and cultural exploring.
Days are warm without being stifling, and the country’s mix of surf towns, tea hills, and ancient sites makes it easy to build a trip that feels varied without feeling rushed.
Weather: Max: 33 degrees (approx.) | Min: 25 degrees (approx.)
What to do:
- Beach-hop the south coast: Mirissa, Hiriketiya, and Tangalle for golden bays and lazy swims.
- Go on safari: Spot elephants, crocodiles, and (if you’re lucky) leopards in Yala or Udawalawe.
- Climb Sigiriya: The iconic rock fortress is a must, especially in clear February light.
- Ride the train to Ella: Tea country views, waterfalls, and cool-air hikes in the hills.
Where to stay: Our luxury villas in Sri Lanka are a great base from which to discover the island. We’ve got rural locations and spots with scenic views over the coastline. Take your pick.
2. Where to go for coast, culture, and extraordinary food? Vietnam
Vietnam in February hits a sweet spot: warm, comfortably dry weather in many regions, and landscapes that feel unreal. Vibrant, jungle-framed bays and sparkling lantern-lit cities feel a vision far from dreary old England. It’s one of those destinations that works for almost every kind of traveller, culture lovers, beach people, and anyone who considers food a major holiday activity.
Because the country stretches long from north to south, it’s best to pick a couple of regions rather than trying to do everything at once.
Weather: Max. 31 degrees (approx.) | Min. 23 degrees (approx.)
What to do:
- Cruise Ha Long Bay: Limestone islands, emerald water, and sunrise deck views.
- Head south for beaches: Phu Quoc offers white sand and calm swims in February.
- Eat your way through it: Street-food tours, fresh seafood, and strong coffee culture.
- Mix cities and nature: Pair a vibrant hub (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City) with coast or countryside.
Where to stay: From beach huts and cabanas to ultramodern there’s something to suit every taste in our collection of Vietnam villas. You’ll love these luxury stays.
Further reading: Top things to do in Vietnam
3. Where to go for classic Caribbean winter sun? Barbados
Barbados in February brings the kind of weather you daydream about, bright blue skies, warm water, and nights that stay pleasantly balmy. It’s still dry-season prime time, so conditions are reliably beach-friendly, and the island’s atmosphere feels lively without tipping into hectic.
By late February, things start to ease crowd-wise, which makes it a particularly good moment for a laid-back trip.
Weather: Max. 29 degrees (approx.) | Min. 23 degrees (approx.)
What to do:
- Snorkel everywhere: Coral reefs and sea life sit close to shore in many bays.
- Take a catamaran day: Swim stops, sunset sails, and rum-punch moments included.
- Explore Bridgetown and the plantations: Easy cultural day trips in warm, dry weather.
- Find your favourite beach: From lively west-coast sands to quieter eastern stretches.
Where to stay: With options that are within walking distance from the beach as well as local restaurants and shops, our growing collection of luxury villas in Barbados is here for you to explore.
Further reading: Barbados Travel Guide; Things to do in Barbados
4. Where to go for beaches and bold culture? Jamaica
Jamaica is warm year-round, but February is especially inviting. Sunshine without summer heat, and dry-season clarity for both beach days and inland exploring. This island is a fit if you want more than just sunbathing, it has music, food, and landscape, with every corner feeling like a promise.
Weather: Max. 28°C (approx.) | Min. 21°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Dive or snorkel the reefs: February seas are clear and calm.
- Follow the waterfalls: Reach Falls and Dunn’s River deliver full tropical drama.
- Do a culture day: Bob Marley Museum, historic forts, local markets.
- Head to the Blue Mountains: Cooler air, panoramic hikes, and coffee plantations.
Where to stay in Jamaica:
Beachfront villas are the move here. Wake up to sea views, then wander straight onto the sand.
5. Where to go for family-friendly island sunshine? St. Lucia, Caribbean
St. Lucia is famous for honeymoons, but it’s also brilliant for families, especially in February, when the island is hot, dry, and buzzing with outdoor possibilities. You get the full Caribbean postcard package, rainforest interiors, soft sandy beaches, and the twin Pitons rising like something out of myth.
Weather: Max: 28 degrees (approx.) | Min: 22 degrees (approx.)
What to do:
- Explore the rainforest: Guided walks, zip-lines, and hidden waterfalls.
- Visit cocoa farms: A fun, hands-on way to taste the island’s sweet side.
- Boat along the coast: Snorkel bays and beach stops are easy wins with kids.
- Take on the Pitons (if you fancy it): Even a gentle trail gives big views.
Where to stay: Stylishly designed with the utmost attention to detail, our luxury villas in St. Lucia offer easy access to exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Further reading: Things to do in St. Lucia; St. Lucia Travel Guide
6. Where to go for a quieter Thai escape? Koh Yao Noi, Thailand
If you want Thailand’s beach beauty without the party crowds, Koh Yao Noi is where to go. February is peak dry season in the Andaman Sea with hot, bright days, low rain, and scenery that feels almost untouched.
It’s the kind of island where time slows down, welcoming long beach walks, kayak mornings, and sunset dinners with your feet in the sand.
Weather: Max: 33 degrees (approx.) | Min: 23 degrees (approx.)
What to do:
- Kayak limestone lagoons: Calm February seas are perfect for paddling.
- Snorkel or dive nearby reefs: Visibility is excellent this month.
- Cycle the island: Quiet roads, sea views, and local villages en route.
- Commit to beach-only days: This is what Koh Yao Noi does best.
Where to stay: We’ve got a growing selection of stylish villas and holiday homes in the Koh Tao islands. Whether you want direct beach access or a private pool with a view, we’ve got something for everyone.
Further reading: Best Beaches in Thailand
Most of the best hot holiday destinations in February sit in their dry-season prime: Caribbean islands, Southeast Asia’s southern coasts, and Indian Ocean favourites all bring reliable warmth and lots of blue-sky days. In other words, it’s one of the safest bets of the year for guaranteed winter sun.
So there are some recommendations for where’s hot in February. Still unsure about which destination you’d like to opt for? Check out all our favourite 2026 holiday destinations for more inspiration!
