We all know how it feels. The pallid cold of mid-winter, skin untouched by the white heat of sun; a craving for warmth, lapping waves, and distant shores growing by the minute. If you’re feeling the call of escape, we have just the thing.
Between November and February, many destinations offer brighter days, longer nights, and a healthy dose of Vitamin D. To help you find the right one, we’ve picked our favourites. Read on to discover your perfect winter sun escape…
1. Where to go for wildlife? Sri Lanka
When winter settles in, nothing sounds more enticing than sun, sea, and white-gold shores. Enter Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean. This island feels a whole world away from the rain-soaked streets and dreary, grey skies of ol’ Blighty. Swap your big coat for your swimsuit, and explore the glistening waters of the glorious southern coast beaches. Mirissa, Hiriketiya, and Hikkaduwa promise crystal-clear oceans and long, lazy arcs of buttery-soft sand.
If you like your heat with a side of history, Sri Lanka has plenty to discover. With a mixture of vibrant culture and lush landscapes from the hills to the coast, this is the perfect pick for a well-rounded winter escape.
Weather: Max. 31°C (approx.) | Min. 23°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Beach-hop the south coast: swim and sunbathe in Mirissa, Hiriketiya, and Hikkaduwa.
- Go on safari in the wild south: spot elephants (and maybe leopards) in Yala or Udawalawe.
- Add a hit of culture and highlands: climb Sigiriya, then ride the scenic train to Ella through tea country.
Where to stay in Sri Lanka: Jungle Beach Villa | Lilypad House | Sea Spray Villa
2. Where to go for laid-back island life? Grenada
Fragrant nutmeg, cinnamon, and mace perfume the air; lush emerald rainforest sweeps across the landscape; all framed by glistening cerulean waters. This is Grenada, a gem of the Caribbean sea, famed for its serene swimming, super-soft sand, and swaying coconut palms.
As expected, Grenada makes ample use of its famous spices (it isn’t called the Spice Isle for nothing), with a delicate warmth flavouring everything from just-caught seafood to slow-cooked stews, with an extra kick running through the island’s bolder dishes. Don’t miss oil down, crab back, and callaloo for a true taste of the island.
Beyond the plate, don’t go without exploring the wild landscape: hike the rainforest, swim in dramatic waterfalls, scuba around reef-lined bays. Wherever you wander, you’re sure to feel a wave that wakes all five senses.
Weather: Max. 30°C (approx.) | Min. 23°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Beach-hop the island’s silky coves, with Grand Anse and Morne Rouge top of the list.
- Snorkel or dive the reefs, and don’t miss the surreal Underwater Sculpture Park.
- Hike to Annandale or Seven Sisters Falls for a waterfall swim in the jungle.
- Sail the coast at sunset, or hop over to the Grenadines for a day on the water.
Where to stay in Grenada: Seagrape Beach Suites | Serene House | Villa Dockyard
3. Where to go for lunar landscapes? Lanzarote
The Canary Islands are a popular pick for winter sun, so why have we chosen Lanzarote? The lunar landscape makes it feel as though you’ve landed on another planet. Ink-black lava fields, rust-red craters, and glowing beaches set the scene. In comes the lap of the fierce Atlantic, and you’ve found a striking escape, under reliable blue skies.
It’s also one of the easiest (and most affordable) short-haul escapes for a mid-winter reset. Warm but not sticky, lively but never frantic, Lanzarote lets you dial your days up to adventure or down to pure relaxation.
As a winter sun destination, it ticks every box: plenty of sunshine, spring-soft temperatures, and space to explore without the summer crowds. It’s made for slow mornings, big landscapes, and that “how is this only four hours from home?” feeling.
Weather: Max. 24°C (approx.) | Min. 15°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Explore Timanfaya National Park for its fire-mountain “moon” scenery and geothermal drama.
- Wander the lava-tube wonders of Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes.
- Beach-hop to the Papagayo coves for golden sand and clear, calm water.
- Head to Famara for surf, wild dunes, and sunset walks with a backdrop of cliffs.
- Sip your way through La Geria wine country, where vines grow in volcanic ash
Where to stay in Lanzarote: Villa Markel | Villa Clotilde | Villa Amethyst
4. Where to go for a bit of everything? Thailand
Thailand has a thousand sides, and winter is when they shine brightest. With warm days, low humidity, and that easy, golden light, it’s a dream pick for winter sun, especially if you want culture, coastline, and adventure all in one trip. Spend a few days soaking up the buzz of Bangkok or the lantern-lit calm of Chiang Mai, then slip away to where life slows: fishing villages, rice fields, and temple towns that hum to a gentler rhythm.
Theravada Buddhism threads through daily life here, from glittering tiered rooftops to quiet offerings at dawn. And Thai culture is just as alive on the plate: bright, citrusy lemongrass, a kick of chilli heat, and the freshest seafood, pulled straight from the sea.
For active travellers, the north brings mountain treks, hill-tribe villages, and river adventures, while the islands offer some of Southeast Asia’s most accessible scuba diving. If you’re lucky, you might even spot whale sharks off Ko Tao.
Weather: Max. 31°C (approx.) | Min. 23°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Start in Bangkok for rooftop sunsets, floating markets, and late-night street-food feasts.
- Head north to Chiang Mai for temples, night bazaars, and jungle hikes in cooler mountain air.
- Island-hop the Andaman coast: Krabi, Phuket, or Koh Lanta for beaches and boat days.
- Dive or snorkel around Ko Tao (and keep an eye out for whale sharks).
Where to stay in Thailand: Sarojin Garden | Baan Amphoe | Villa Kasika
5. Where to go for short-haul sun? Cyprus
With romantic old-world harbours, long stretches of sandy beaches, and a compelling history, Cyprus is a great choice for your winter sun escape. Although the island appeals to most travellers, it’s especially great if you’re after that sweet spot of not-too-hot, not-too-cold weather.
You may already know a thing or two about the divide between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, but crossing the line between the south and north (which we couldn’t recommend enough) puts the island’s complex story into perspective, and lets you experience two communities that are equally fascinating.
And it wouldn’t be a holiday to Cyprus without tucking into meze: a delicious, slow, and social way to get to know the local cuisine. The dishes may be small, but they’re deeply satisfying: creamy hummus, perfectly spiced sausages, kebabs bursting with flavour, and bouncy grilled halloumi. Try anything and everything; your taste buds will thank you.
Weather: Max. 19°C (approx.) | Min. 9°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Wander harbour towns like Paphos or Kyrenia for sea views, café stops, and sunset strolls.
- Dip into the island’s past at ancient ruins and UNESCO-listed sites, from mosaics to hilltop temples.
- Take a day trip across the Green Line to see both the north and south.
- Hike in the Troodos Mountains for crisp air, viewpoints, and cosy village tavernas.
- Settle in for a long meze lunch.
Where to stay in Cyprus: Villa Aqua | Aphrodite Hills Resort | Villa Evripidou
6. Where to go for a total change of scenery? Morocco
Morocco is a dizzyingly beautiful destination where contrasts come thick and fast. One minute you’re weaving through the whirlwind souks of Marrakech, the next you’re gazing out at Sahara sand dunes or snow-capped Atlas peaks, it’s a country that feels made for adventure in every direction.
A winter sun escape here starts with the simple pleasures: sinking into a café chair with a mint tea, watching daily life unfold in the heat-hazed streets. But Morocco rewards curiosity. Learn to roll couscous, ride camels across golden dunes, and get your fill of tender, delicately spiced, slow-cooked tagine. And don’t forget to indulge in a steamy hammam, the ultimate post-souk reset.
City energy, wide-open desert, and mountain air, Morocco delivers a winter break that’s equal parts warming and unforgettable.
Weather: Max. 20°C (approx.) | Min. 8°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Get blissfully lost in Marrakech’s souks and spice-scented alleyways.
- Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains for villages, valleys, and big views.
- Chase golden light on a Sahara desert adventure: camel trek, dunes, and starry skies.
- Settle into a traditional hammam for a proper Moroccan unwind.
- Eat your way through the classics: tagines, couscous, pastilla, and all the mint tea.
Where to stay in Morocco: Villa Zaria | Villa Atlas | Riad Gypsum
7. Where to go for beach-only bliss? Caribbean
The Caribbean is a standout suggestion for where to go on holiday for winter sun. December to February is prime time to visit, with warm days, cooler nights, and plenty of blue-sky bliss.
A winter holiday here delivers the classics in spades: white-sand beaches, cerulean seas, and lush green interiors alive with tropical birds and bright blooms. Snorkelling and scuba diving are a dream in these waters, where colourful fish, coral gardens, and shipwrecks sit just offshore.
One of the best ways to explore the islands is from the water. Hop on a powerboat, paddle a kayak along the coast, or just drift from bay to bay. And between wave-chasing and sand-between-your-toes afternoons, there’s a rich mix of communities and cultures to dip into. This is island time, after all: slow mornings, long lunches, and no rush anywhere.
As you might know, the Caribbean is made up of over 5,000 islands, reefs, and cays, each with its own flavour. If you’re not sure which fits you best, our quiz will point you to your perfect match.
Weather: Max. 29°C (approx.) | Min. 23°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Slip beneath the surface in Bonaire or the Cayman Islands, where easy shore-snorkelling reveals coral gardens and sea life right off the beach.
- Let the sea lead the way: take a catamaran day in Antigua or island-hop the Grenadines, dropping anchor in bays you can’t reach by road.
- When you’re curious about what’s inland, head for a waterfall swim. Trafalgar Falls in Dominica is a jungle-framed classic.
- Taste the place as you go: book a Mount Gay rum tour in Barbados, then follow your nose to the nearest beach barbecue or street-food stall.
- Pick your postcard day: hike the Pitons in St Lucia, whale-watch off the Dominican Republic coast, or simply commit to a beach-bar crawl in Aruba.
Where to stay in the Caribbean: Villa Iree, Jamaica | Villa Kessi, St Lucia| Coconut Ridge 5, Barbados
8. Where to go for winter wellness? Bali
Bali isn’t called the Land of the Gods for nothing. Even in winter, the island feels drenched in colour and scent. Frangipani on the breeze, temple incense curling into warm air, that soft tropical light that makes every day slow to the perfect pace. If you’re craving winter sun with a touch of wonder, Bali delivers long beach days, jungle-green interiors, and rising volcanoes that almost feel like set pieces.
Come for the coastline and stay for everything else: beach clubs in the south, incredible vegetarian food, and those violet sunsets that are a sign of another day in paradise. The south hums with energy and easy indulgence, while the north and interior trade crowds for rice paddies, waterfalls, and villages wrapped in green. And just offshore, Nusa Penida adds a little extra magic, with dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves, and snorkelling that feels properly wild.
What to do:
- Watch the sun drop from the cliffs at Uluwatu Temple, then stay for a seafood dinner on the sand at Jimbaran Bay.
- Lose an afternoon in Ubud: rice terraces at Tegallalang, the Monkey Forest, and a café stop overlooking the jungle.
- Hike Mount Batur before dawn for a sunrise you’ll talk about all winter.
- Take a day trip to Nusa Penida for cliff-top views at Kelingking Beach and snorkelling at Crystal Bay.
- Grab a board in Canggu or Seminyak. Winter swells keep the surf scene lively.
Where to stay in Bali: Villa West | Tibubiu Villa | Villa Malati
9. Where to go for colour, coast, and culture? Mexico
There’s nowhere quite as lively as Mexico. From balmy beaches and taco-filled afternoons to Mayan temples and mariachi nights, it’s a cultural wonderland and wonderfully diverse from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean shores of the Yucatán Peninsula.
For sunseekers, the timing couldn’t be better. Once the rainy season bows out in October, Mexico settles into its brightest, driest stretch. December through February are ideal for winter sun; expect long, clear days, with low chance of rain, and plenty of warmth for beach time, even in what’s considered the “coolest” season.
If you’re here around early November, you might catch the afterglow of Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, a beautiful, joy-tinged celebration of life, with music, dancing, parades, and streets threaded with marigolds.
Weather: Max. 28°C (approx.) | Min. 20°C (approx.)
What to do:
- Swim your way through the Yucatán’s cenotes: Gran Cenote or Dos Ojos near Tulum are the classics for crystal-clear dips.
- Wander the clifftop Tulum ruins at sunrise, then drift straight down to the beach below.
- Make time for one big ancient wow: Chichén Itzá (or Uxmal if you want something a little quieter).
- Spend a day on the water: Isla Mujeres or Cozumel are made for snorkelling, boat days, and slow seaside lunches.
- Eat your way through it all: from beachside tacos to market stalls and mezcal sips.
Where to stay in Mexico: Soliman Bay Bungalow 3| Casa Belha| Villa Ventanas
What are the best months for winter sun?
The optimal winter sun season spans:
December-February: Peak dry season for most destinations
November & March: Shoulder season with better deals
January-February: Coolest but still warm temperatures
It might be tempting to travel around the Christmas and New Year period, but remember, this is going to be the busiest time of year in most destinations. To make the most of the winter sun, consider waiting for an off-season deal instead.
Here are more comprehensive guides to the best destinations, month by month.
Where to Go for Winter Sun in October
Where to Go for Winter Sun in November
Where to Go for Winter Sun in December
Where to Go for Winter Sun in January
Where to Go for Winter Sun in February
Where to Go for Winter Sun in March
Winter Sun FAQs
When is the best time to book winter sun holidays?
Book as early as possible, especially for travel between November and March. December through February offers the best weather but higher prices, while November and March provide shoulder season deals with still-excellent conditions.
What temperatures can I expect on winter sun holidays?
Temperatures vary by destination in the winter: Sri Lanka (25-30°C), Thailand (25-32°C), Mexico (up to 28°C), Lanzarote (19-24°C), and Caribbean islands (24-28°C). All destinations offer significantly warmer weather than European winters.
Which winter sun destination is most budget-friendly?
Lanzarote stands out as one of the cheapest destinations for short-haul winter sun, offering temperatures between 19-24°C with affordable accommodation and easy flights from the UK.
How far in advance should I plan winter sun holidays?
Start planning your winter sun holiday 3-6 months ahead for the best deals and availability. Popular destinations like the Caribbean and Thailand fill up quickly during the peak winter months between December and February.
Yearning for winter sun?
Winter sun holidays offer the perfect escape from the cold weather, with destinations spanning 19°C in Lanzarote to 30°C in Sri Lanka. Whether you prefer cultural adventures in Thailand and Morocco, beach relaxation in the Caribbean, or budget-friendly options in Lanzarote, there’s a winter sun destination to match every travel style and budget.
Check out our full portfolio of villa holidays on Oliver’s Travels, and if you just want to know more, get inspired by our Top 26 Villas for 2026. Once you’ve booked your escape, contact our concierge team for help with planning and recommendations.
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