10 Best Warm Places to Travel to This Winter

When winter rolls in and the thermostat drops, the search for sunshine gets real. If you’re craving warm breezes, sandy toes, and vibrant destinations far from the chill, you’re in the right place.

Below are ten of the best warm-weather escapes for winter, complete with ideal temperatures, top things to do, food you can’t miss, and practical tips to help you make the most of your sunny getaway.

1. Dubai, UAE

Average winter temperature: 25–27°C during the day, mild evenings

Why it’s perfect in winter
Dubai’s summer heat can be intense, but winter brings ideal beach weather: warm, dry, and endlessly sunny. It’s the perfect time to enjoy both the city’s glittering modern side and its traditional cultural gems.

Best things to do

• Relax at JBR Beach or La Mer, where soft sand meets the city skyline.
• Ride to the top of the Burj Khalifa for iconic views.
• Go dune bashing and sandboarding during a desert safari.
• Wander around Al Fahidi Historical District and the Dubai Creek.

Food highlights

• Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat.
• Top-tier international cuisine in Dubai Marina and Downtown.
• Popular weekend brunches with endless buffets and beachfront settings.

Practical tips

• Dress modestly in malls and cultural areas; beachwear is fine on beaches.
• Winter is peak travel season — book activities ahead.
• The Metro, taxis, and ride-hailing apps make getting around easy.

2. Maldives

Average winter temperature: 26–30°C, warm tropical seas

Why it’s perfect in winter
The Maldives is the definition of tropical paradise, and winter is its dry season — calm seas, bright blue skies, and dazzling water ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Best things to do

• Snorkel directly from your overwater villa.
• Dive among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
• Take a sunset dolphin cruise.
• Enjoy world-class spa treatments over the lagoon.

Food highlights

• Seafood curries rich with coconut and spices.
• Mas huni for breakfast – a delicious tuna and coconut blend.
• Multinational resort dining with plenty of fresh seafood.

Practical tips

• Transfers between islands can be expensive – know whether your resort uses speedboats or seaplanes.
• All-inclusive packages often offer excellent value.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.

3. Goa, India

Average winter temperature: 20–32°C, minimal rain

Why it’s perfect in winter
Goa’s vibrant culture, laid-back beaches, and warm weather make it a favourite for winter escapes. The monsoon has passed, leaving clear skies and perfect beach conditions.

Best things to do

• Visit quieter beaches in South Goa (Palolem, Agonda) and lively ones in North Goa (Baga, Anjuna).
• Explore Old Goa’s historic churches and colourful Portuguese architecture.
• Join yoga classes or wellness retreats.
• Spend a day at a spice plantation or visit Dudhsagar Falls.

Food highlights

• Traditional Goan fish curry, balchão, and authentic vindaloo.
• Beachfront seafood grills serving fresh catch.
• Bebinca, a layered dessert, and locally produced feni.

Practical tips

• Christmas and New Year are extremely popular — book far in advance.
• Rent scooters responsibly and always wear a helmet.
• Keep some cash handy in smaller towns.

4. Phuket, Thailand

Average winter temperature: 27–30°C

Why it’s perfect in winter
Winter marks Phuket’s dry season, bringing calmer seas and glorious tropical sunshine. It’s the best time to explore beaches, islands, and the island’s eclectic food scene.

Best things to do

• Enjoy Kata, Karon, and Nai Harn beaches.
• Take a boat trip through the dramatic cliffs of Phang Nga Bay.
• Visit nearby islands like Phi Phi or Similan for snorkeling and diving.
• Explore Phuket Old Town’s cafés, street art, and night markets.

Food highlights

• Fragrant Thai curries, grilled seafood, and spicy salads.
• Street food favourites like satay, fried noodles, and mango sticky rice.
• Beach bars serve refreshing cocktails perfect for sunset.

Practical tips

• Confirm prices before taking tuk-tuks or taxis.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect coral.
• Stay hydrated — Phuket stays humid even in winter.

5. Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain)

Average winter temperature: Around 21°C on the coast

Why it’s perfect in winter
Tenerife is known for its “eternal spring” climate — warm, mild, and sunny year-round. Winter here feels like a gentle European spring day, perfect for hiking, road trips, and beaches.

Best things to do

• Explore Mount Teide National Park and its volcanic landscapes.
• Visit black-sand and golden-sand beaches along the coast.
• Wander colourful historic towns like La Laguna and La Orotava.
• Go whale- and dolphin-watching off the southern coast.

Food highlights

• Papas arrugadas with mojo sauces.
• Fresh local fish and goat’s cheese.
• Volcanic Canary Island wines, especially crisp whites.

Practical tips

• The south is sunnier; the north is cooler and greener.
• Rent a car to explore small towns and scenic spots.
• Even in mild temps, UV can be strong — pack SPF.

6. Cancún & Riviera Maya, Mexico

Average winter temperature: 23–24°C

Why it’s perfect in winter
Winter brings warm, dry weather perfect for beaches, cenotes, and exploring ancient Mayan sites. The Caribbean water stays warm and inviting.

Best things to do

• Relax on Cancún’s beaches or ferry over to Isla Mujeres.
• Visit Chichén Itzá, Tulum, or Coba to explore Mayan history.
• Swim in cenotes — natural sinkholes with crystal-clear water.
• Enjoy nightlife, beach clubs, or bohemian cafés in Tulum.

Food highlights

• Yucatán specialties like cochinita pibil and sopa de lima.
• Fresh ceviche and tacos al pastor.
• Sweet churros and Mexican hot chocolate.

Practical tips

• Winter is peak season — book accommodation and excursions early.
• Choose reef-safe sunscreen for cenote recreation.
• Stick with reputable transport and tour operators.

7. Cape Town, South Africa

Average “winter escape” temperature: 23–26°C (it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere)

Why it’s perfect in (Northern Hemisphere) winter
In December–February, Cape Town shines: long days, beach weather, vineyards in full bloom, and endless outdoor adventures.

Best things to do

• Hike or take the cable car up Table Mountain.
• Drive along Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most beautiful routes.
• Enjoy the beaches at Camps Bay and Clifton.
• Visit Stellenbosch and Franschhoek for wine tasting.

Food highlights

• South African braai, with grilled meats and boerewors.
• Cape Malay dishes with sweet-spicy flavours.
• Excellent coffee shops, bakeries, and wine estates.

Practical tips

• The sun here is strong — bring high-SPF sunscreen.
• Wind can pick up; pack a light jacket.
• Make reservations early during the holiday season.

8. Bali, Indonesia

Average winter temperature: 22–31°C, warm and humid

Why it’s great in winter
Winter is Bali’s wet season, but showers are usually brief and the island becomes lush and green. You’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and attractive prices.

Best things to do

• Explore Ubud’s temples, rice terraces, and wellness retreats.
• Surf in Canggu or along the east coast.
• Visit waterfalls that are at their most spectacular after rain.
• Join a cooking class or craft workshop on rainy afternoons.

Food highlights

• Classics like nasi goreng, mie goreng, and nasi campur.
• Specialties such as babi guling and bebek betutu.
• Trendy cafés offering smoothie bowls and specialty coffee.

Practical tips

• Bring a lightweight rain jacket and quick-dry clothes.
• Roads can be slick — allow extra travel time.
• Mosquito repellent is essential.

9. Muscat & Coastal Oman

Average winter temperature: 20–25°C

Why it’s perfect in winter
Oman’s summer is extremely hot, making winter the ideal time to explore its beautiful beaches, dramatic mountains, coastal forts, and desert landscapes.

Best things to do

• Stroll the Muttrah Corniche and browse the traditional souq.
• Visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
• Take a desert adventure into the Wahiba Sands.
• Hike and swim in wadis like Wadi Shab or Wadi Bani Khalid.

Food highlights

• Slow-cooked shuwa (spiced lamb).
• Grilled seafood and fragrant rice dishes.
• Omani halwa and Arabic coffee served with dates.

Practical tips

• Dress modestly, especially in rural or religious areas.
• Renting a car is useful for exploring, but choose guided tours for desert or wadi regions if inexperienced.
• Winter is popular — book resorts ahead.

10. Miami, USA

Average winter temperature: Around 25°C

Why it’s perfect in winter
Miami’s warm, sunny winter is a refreshing escape from cold northern temperatures. You’ll enjoy beaches, lively neighbourhoods, and a packed cultural calendar.

Best things to do

• Hang out on South Beach and explore the Art Deco district.
• Wander Wynwood’s immersive street art and galleries.
• Experience Cuban culture in Little Havana.
• Visit the Everglades for wildlife and airboat tours.

Food highlights

• Cuban sandwiches, pastelitos, and ropa vieja.
• Fresh stone crab (in season), ceviche, and seafood tacos.
• Latin American cuisine from all over the region.

Practical tips

• Winter is popular — expect higher prices.
• Public transport is limited in some areas, but rideshare apps are reliable.
• Winter weather is dry and mild, with low hurricane risk.

Quick Tips for Any Warm Winter Getaway

• Pack lightweight clothes but include a layer for cool evenings or air-conditioned spots.
• Always travel with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat.
• Stay hydrated — warm climates can sneakily drain you.
• Respect local customs, especially regarding dress codes and photography.
• Pre-book major attractions but keep your schedule flexible enough to enjoy unplanned moments.

Travel Connected with an eSIM

Wherever your winter escape takes you, from turquoise seas to desert dunes, staying connected makes everything easier. An eSIM lets you activate data plans instantly, skip queues for physical SIM cards, avoid roaming fees, and keep your home number active while using local data.

It’s one of the simplest ways to stay online, navigate, share photos, and keep in touch while you enjoy your sun-filled getaway. Safe travels and sunny skies ahead.