Top Winter Sun Destinations 2025

Let us be honest for a moment. By the time November rolls into December, the novelty of wearing big coats has worn off. The mornings are dark, the evenings are darker, and the scraping of ice off the windscreen becomes a daily chore. It is no wonder that our phones at Spear Travels start ringing off the hook right about now.

Everyone wants the same thing: sunshine.

With over 40 years of experience sending travellers around the globe, we know that finding hot countries in December can be tricky. The Mediterranean has cooled down, and you do not want to fly halfway around the world only to find it is raining. You need guaranteed warmth. We have pulled together our insider list of where we send our clients for winter sun. Whether you are looking for a pre-Christmas boost or a festive getaway, here are the top picks.

These are the destinations that never let us down. They are tried, tested, and adored by British holidaymakers for a reason.

The Canary Islands

When you want warmth without the long-haul flight, the Canaries are the undisputed champion. Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria sit geographically closer to Africa than Spain, which keeps them balmy year-round.

While the rest of Europe shivers, you could be lounging by a pool in Adeje or exploring the volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya. It is not sweltering, but it is certainly t-shirt weather.

• Average Temp: 20°C to 22°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 4.5 hours
• Insider Tip: For the warmest weather, stick to the south of the islands. The north can get a little breezy and cloudy in December.
• Cost: A week in a 4-star hotel, half board, generally starts from £650 per person.

Dubai, UAE

If you want heat, luxury, and zero chance of rain, Dubai is the answer. December is actually one of the best months to visit the Emirates. The scorching summer humidity has gone, leaving behind perfect beach weather.

Beyond the skyscrapers and shopping malls, the service levels here are exceptional. It is a fantastic option for families who want world-class waterparks, or couples seeking high-end dining.

• Average Temp: 26°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 7 hours
• Insider Tip: Book a desert safari for the evening. Watching the sunset over the dunes is an experience you will remember forever.
• Cost: 5 nights of luxury typically starts from £1,100 per person.

The Caribbean

For many, this is the ultimate winter dream. Barbados, Antigua, and St Lucia are picture-perfect in December. The hurricane season is over, the humidity is low, and the sea is warm enough for swimming all day.

It is the sort of trip where you truly switch off. No emails, no rush hours, just fresh coconuts and white sand.

• Cost: A 7-night all-inclusive break usually starts from £1,600 per person.
• Average Temp: 29°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 8.5 to 9 hours
• Insider Tip: If you are travelling over the Christmas week, book your restaurants in advance. The best spots get snapped up months ahead.

If you want to escape the crowds or try something a bit different, these destinations offer incredible value and culture.

Cape Verde

We often call this the “African Caribbean” because of the stunning beaches, but the flight time is significantly shorter. Situated in the Atlantic Ocean, islands like Sal and Boa Vista are becoming huge favourites with our clients.

The vibe here is summed up by their national motto: “No Stress”. It is rugged, beautiful, and perfect for beach lovers who want to disconnect.

• Average Temp: 26°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 6 hours
• Insider Tip: It can be quite windy, which keeps the heat manageable. This also makes it a world-class spot for watching kite surfers.
• Cost: An all-inclusive week starts from £850 per person.

Oman

Think of Oman as the quieter, more traditional cousin of Dubai. It offers the same guaranteed sunshine and luxury hotels but with a more authentic Arabian feel.

You can explore ancient forts, shop in bustling souks that smell of frankincense, or watch dolphins play in the Gulf of Oman. The landscape is dramatic, featuring mountains dropping straight into the sea.

• Average Temp: 25°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 7.5 hours
• Insider Tip: Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat. The architecture is simply breathtaking.
• Cost: A 5-star week with breakfast starts from £1,250 per person.

Sri Lanka

December marks the start of the dry season for the south and west coasts of Sri Lanka. This is a destination for travellers who want more than just a sun lounger.

You can start your day climbing a rock fortress, spot wild elephants on a safari in the afternoon, and be on a golden beach by sunset. The food is incredible, the people are welcoming, and your money goes a long way once you are there.

• Average Temp: 30°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 10.5 to 11 hours
• Insider Tip: Combine your beach stay with a few nights in the cultural triangle to see the real heart of the country.
• Cost: A 10-night tour and beach stay starts from £1,450 per person.

You do not need to spend a fortune to find the sun. These destinations offer warmth and great value for money.

Egypt

The Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are fantastic for winter sun on a budget. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and the snorkeling is world-class.

Hotels here are large and well-equipped, often with massive pool complexes that keep the kids entertained for hours. It is reliable, sunny, and very reasonably priced.

• Average Temp: 23°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 5.5 hours
• Insider Tip: Pack a light jacket for the evenings. The desert temperature drops once the sun goes down.
• Cost: An all-inclusive week starts from £550 per person.

Morocco

Agadir offers wide, sweeping beaches and 300 days of sunshine a year. If you prefer culture over tanning, Marrakech is vibrant and exciting in December.

It is close enough for a long weekend but feels exotic enough to be a proper adventure. You can get lost in the medina, haggle for spices, and drink endless cups of mint tea.

• Cost: A 4-night city break usually starts from £350 per person.
• Average Temp: 20°C
• Flight Time: Approx. 3.5 hours
• Insider Tip: Stay in a Riad (a traditional courtyard house) for a truly authentic Moroccan experience.

Choosing the right winter escape is not just about the temperature. It is about finding the right fit for you.

Do you want a short flight because you are travelling with toddlers? Are you looking for a romantic retreat to celebrate an anniversary? Or perhaps you are thinking about the ultimate Christmas present.

We have seen a huge rise in people choosing to “Gift a Holiday” this year. Instead of more clutter at home, they are buying experiences. We can even arrange gift vouchers if you want to surprise a loved one with the promise of sunshine under the tree.

At Spear Travels, we do the legwork for you. We check the flight times, we know which hotels have the best heated pools, and we look for the deals that offer real value.

Pop into your local branch or give us a call. Let us swap those grey skies for blue ones.

Pricing is based on average market rates for the 2025/26 season and is subject to availability and change.