Best winter sun holiday destinations

Powder-white shores, crystal lagoons, eternal sunshine – there’s nothing like a beach holiday. And with December, January and February bringing gloomy weather and shorter days at home, it’s no surprise Brits are chasing the sun in far-flung winter holiday destinations. 

Some 71% of UK travellers are considering, or have been on, a winter destination holiday, according to research by Jet2, inspired by the chance to recharge in good weather. Want to swerve the wintertime blues too? We’ve rounded up some of the best winter holiday destinations to skip the cold climates and soak up some sun.

The Maldives is one of the best places for winter sun, recognised for its vibrant coral reefs, lush landscapes, and overwater bungalows. Located in the north-central Indian Ocean, this island paradise enjoys tropical weather all-year-round. 

Each island is unique and offers the best of both worlds. Relax in glass-bottom villas overlooking lustrous waters or grab your wetsuit for a range of aquatic adventures – from scuba diving and surfing to jet skiing. Whether you’re seeking thrills or leisure, don’t leave the Maldives off your winter holiday destinations list.

Three things to do in the Maldives next winter 

This multi-island paradise is a haven of exotic beauty and wonder, offering dreamy beach escapes, high-octane water sports, and a rich seafaring history. Some things you can tick off in this winter sun destination include:

1. Baa Atoll. At this UNESCO-recognised Biosphere Reserve you can immerse yourself in Baa Atoll’s rich biodiversity. Don’t miss Hanifaru Bay, home to approximately 1,200 marine species – including turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks.
2. Kanuhura Beach. This site on the Lhaviyani Atoll is recognised as one of the largest beaches in the Maldives. Its mile-long strip of sun-bleached sand straddles a blue lagoon, home to hundreds of reef fish and sensational channel dives.
3. Male, the island city. This bustling city squeezed onto a postage-stamp-sized island is the capital of the Maldives and well worth a visit. Wander among the bustling crowds and visit the iconic museums and mosques of Male, the island city. 

How hot is the Maldives in winter?  

There’s no bad time to visit the Maldives. Its location near the equator makes it a tropical nirvana year-round, with hot, humid climates and distinct wet and dry seasons. If you’re chasing winter sun in December, January or February – you’re in luck. Average temperatures in the Maldives reach the low 30s during this period, with the odd shower in between. But there’s still plenty of sunshine to fulfil your island fantasies. 

How far is it from the UK? 

The Maldives is over 5,500 miles from the UK, with an average flight time of 10.5 hours. When visiting the Maldives as your winter travel destination remember that it’s four hours ahead of the UK in the summer, and five hours ahead during winter.

Travel to Cape Verde to experience cultural fusions, dramatic landscapes, and endless rays. This winter sun location sits just west of Senegal, with 10 volcanic islands gracefully jutting up from the Atlantic. And each island is vastly different from the next – blending blissful beaches, enchanting volcanoes, and sleepy seaside villages.

You’ll never tire of things to do here. Indulge in water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing, explore the islands’ natural wonders of Pedra de Lume, or hike through sprawling forests and sand dunes. Whatever your itinerary, Cape Verde has you covered as one of the best winter getaways.

Three things to do in Cape Verde next winter 

Cape Verde offers much more than sparkling shores and craggy peaks – but they’re certainly a bonus. Here are some reasons to visit this mystical winter destination when you catch the travel bug:

1. Santa Maria Beach. A crescent-shaped beach known for its golden sand and calm, azure waters. Situated on the southern tip of Sal Island, here visitors can participate in water sports, explore the pier, or dine at seaside restaurants.
2. Pedra de Lume salt flats. Located on Sal Island, Pedra de Lume is a formation of salt pans borne from seawater infiltrating a volcanic crater. This lunar attraction in a desert landscape brings shimmering salt beds of red and pink hues.
3. Pico do Fogo. The only active volcano on Cape Verde and its highest peak, Pico do Fogo is a go-to route for both gentle walks and intense hikes. The volcano erupted in 2015 for the first time since 1995. 

How hot is Cape Verde in winter?  

Cape Verde is the perfect winter destination for its consistent weather year-round. The archipelago sees mild-to-hot climates and minimal rainfall across seasons, promising pleasant island life no matter when you visit. During winter, average temperatures in Cape Verde reach the mid-20s, with a gentle breeze and slightly shorter days. Still, it’s a destination to be enjoyed at any time of year.

How far is it from the UK? 

Cape Verde is around 2,700 miles from the UK. If you were to fly direct to Cape Verde from a London airport it would take around six to seven hours, making it a mid-haul destination. It’s two hours behind the UK in the summer, and only one hour behind in the winter.

If it’s the Caribbean calling, look no further than the Dominican Republic. Fringed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this island nation takes Latin Caribbean life to the max. Tropical rainforests shelter hidden villages, while rugged mountains dominate the idyllic skyline. And with over 200 beaches to explore, it’s the one of the best places for winter sun. 

These diverse landscapes make this destination ripe for adventure. Hike along cloud-forest treks, discover iridescent lagoons, encounter exotic wildlife, or laze under lofty palm trees. And if you need to cool off, bodyboarding, paragliding, canyoning, and diving are just some of the options available. 

Three things to do in the Dominican Republic next winter 

Packed with history, flavour, and fun, the Dominican Republic offers something for every holidaymaker. Experience natural wonders, cultural events, and heart-pounding activities in this winter location – but don’t forget to tick these off your list first: 

1. Playa Rincón. A gorgeous beach with sugar-coloured sand stretching an impressive 3km, with a thick palm forest backdrop. Visitors can take a dip in the freshwater stream to the west, while restaurants serve seafood dishes on-site.
2. Pico Duarte. The highest mountain in the Caribbean at 10,000ft, and a popular hiking destination. Pico Duarte offers several entry points for steep, lengthy hikes, with jaw-dropping views of the Central Mountain Range once you reach its peak.
3. Santo Domingo. The capital of the Dominican Republic and home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. Explore this charming time warp consisting of colonial architecture, museums, and plazas.

How hot is the Dominican Republic in winter?  

As a Caribbean nation, the Dominican Republic enjoys warm temperatures all year. It isn’t without its rainfall, with a wet season between November and January, and hurricane season in the summer. Still, you’ll find some of the best winter sun here, with average temperatures reaching the high 20s. Whenever you plan to travel, always check the weather forecast for active storms – especially during the summer months.

How far is it from the UK? 

The Dominican Republic is roughly 4,300 miles from the UK, and approximately nine hours by plane. It’s five hours behind the UK in the summer, and four hours behind during the winter months.

Touch down in Mexico and head to Cancun – the land of immersive Mayan culture and majestic Caribbean beaches. Sitting on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and facing the Caribbean Sea, it’s one of the hottest winter destinations. The Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone) alone brims with markets, local cantinas, restaurants, nightclubs, and beaches.

Holidaying in Cancun is whatever you want it to be. Explore jungle-coated pyramids, spot reefs filled with marine wildlife or soak up some culture at Mayan archaeological sites. You’d be forgiven for lounging at the beach, but there’s also fun-filled water sports on hand – from snorkelling to scuba diving.

Three things to do in Cancun next winter 

Cancun offers something for every traveller. Aside from stunning beaches, there are also modern shopping malls, restaurants, natural beauty, and plenty of Mayan ruins to explore. Prepare for the best winter destination with these thrilling experiences: 

1. Chichen-Itza. This iconic Mayan archaeological site is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The site – once the ceremonial centre of the Yucatan – is famed for its vast pyramid and temples.
2. Playa Delfines. Translates to ‘Dolphin Beach’, named after the pods of dolphins that once frequented its shores. This long stretch of powdery sand and turquoise waters sits beyond the Hotel Zone, offering panoramic views of Cancun. 
3. Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Part of an ongoing project promoting lively coral reef and local art. MUSA houses undersea sculptures lying up to 20 feet deep – a welcome sight for snorkelers and divers.

How hot is Cancun in winter?  

Cancun is considered one of the best places to visit in winter. While its tropical climate brings both wet and dry seasons, you can expect average temperatures of 30°C  all year round. Visiting between December and February means cooler days and less rainfall, but the sea is warm enough to dip your toes into. Look forward to around five hours of sunshine during the day when you explore this winter destination.

How far is it from the UK? 

Cancun is just under 5,000 miles from the UK, and around a 10.5-hour direct flight from a London airport. It’s six hours behind the UK during the summer, and five hours behind in the wintertime.

From carefree Cancun to the melodic Maldives, it’s worth sorting your travel money if you’re heading overseas. Travel money is a major part of holiday planning, so whether you’re converting pounds to US dollars or Mexican pesos, explore your travel money options today.

Not keen on cash? The Sainsbury's Bank Travel Money Card makes spending money abroad safe and easy. It works just like a regular debit card. Simply load up your currency and spend online and instore or withdraw cash from ATMs. Best of all, you can keep track of spending and avoid credit or debit card fees – wherever wanderlust takes you.