When December arrives, much of the world slips into winter’s chill – gray skies, shorter days, and the constant search for a warm coat. But if you crave sunshine instead of snow, there’s great news: the world is full of warm, sunny destinations ready to explore.

Warm Countries to Visit in December

Let’s explore each continent for the best December sunshine:

Africa: South Africa | Morocco | Kenya | Egypt
Americas: Mexico | Costa Rica | Brazil | Dominican Republic
Asia: Thailand | Indonesia | Vietnam | UAE (Dubai) | Maldives | Sri Lanka
Europe: Spain (Canary Islands) | Portugal | Cyprus
Oceania: Australia

Africa

South Africa

December marks the start of summer, bringing long sunny days and vibrant outdoor life. From the buzzing beaches of Cape Town to the vineyards of Stellenbosch and the lush Garden Route, South Africa combines adventure and comfort seamlessly. Safari lovers can explore Kruger National Park, while beachgoers can stick to Cape Town.

  • Average December temperature: 26–30 °C (Cape Town); 30–33 °C (Kruger)

  • Top destinations: Cape Town (beaches, city life); Stellenbosch (vineyards, mountains); Kruger National Park (wildlife, warm mornings)

Morocco

Morocco in winter feels like spring in Europe. Marrakesh and coastal towns like Essaouira or Agadir are pleasantly warm. Souks glow under gentle sunlight, and rooftop terraces are perfect for sipping mint tea while exploring.

  • Average December temperature: 20–23 °C (Marrakesh); 22–24 °C (Agadir)

  • Top destinations: Marrakesh (culture, mild warmth); Essaouira (calm beaches); Agadir (surfing, sand)

Kenya

December is just after the short rains – landscapes turn lush and skies are clear. Coastal areas like Mombasa or Diani Beach hover around 30 °C with warm ocean waters. Safari in Amboseli or Tsavo offers excellent wildlife sightings.

  • Average December temperature: 27–31 °C (coastal Kenya)

  • Top destinations: Diani Beach (relaxing ocean vibes); Nairobi National Park (easy safari); Amboseli (elephants and Kilimanjaro views)

Egypt

December is Egypt’s prime season – warm days, clear skies, and fewer crowds. Explore the Pyramids in Cairo comfortably, then relax on Red Sea beaches in Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheikh.

  • Average December temperature: 22–25 °C (Cairo); 26–28 °C (Hurghada)

  • Top destinations: Hurghada (beaches, diving); Luxor (ancient history); Sharm el-Sheikh (resorts, coral reefs)

Americas

Mexico

December is ideal for Mexico’s coastal resorts. Cancún and Tulum offer turquoise waters, sunny days, and lively nightlife, while inland cities like Mérida and Oaxaca celebrate cultural festivals under clear skies.

  • Average December temperature: 28–31 °C (Cancún); 26–29 °C (Puerto Vallarta)

  • Top destinations: Cancún (beaches); Tulum (eco resorts); Mérida (colonial charm, cuisine)

Costa Rica

The Pacific coast shines in December, marking the dry season with blue skies and lively surf towns. Adventure and relaxation go hand in hand – zipline through rainforests in the morning and enjoy a sunset cocktail in the evening.

  • Average December temperature: 28–32 °C (Guanacaste); 26–29 °C (San José)

  • Top destinations: Guanacaste (beaches, wildlife); Arenal (volcano treks); Monteverde (cloud forests)

Brazil

December is summer in Brazil – festivals, samba, beaches, and rainforests create an unforgettable experience. Rio de Janeiro, Pantanal, Salvador, and Iguazu Falls each offer unique adventures.

  • Average December temperature: 27–33 °C (Rio); 25–31 °C (Salvador)

  • Top destinations: Rio (beaches, nightlife); Salvador (culture); Florianópolis (island charm); Iguazu Falls (nature)

Dominican Republic

With endless sun and easygoing resorts, the Dominican Republic is a classic December beach destination. Caribbean waters stay warm, and the festive atmosphere peaks around the holidays.

  • Average December temperature: 29–31 °C (Punta Cana)

  • Top destinations: Punta Cana (beaches, resorts); Santo Domingo (culture); Samaná (whale watching)

Asia

Thailand

Thailand in December is dry, sunny, and lively. From Phuket and Krabi’s islands to Chiang Mai and Bangkok’s markets, the warmth and energy are irresistible.

  • Average December temperature: 28–33 °C (Bangkok); 30–32 °C (Phuket)

  • Top destinations: Phuket (beaches, nightlife); Chiang Mai (culture); Krabi (island views, kayaking)

Indonesia

The dry season continues across many islands. Bali offers rice terraces, surfing beaches, and a festive yet relaxed atmosphere. Java, Lombok, and the Gili Islands add culture, tranquility, and natural beauty.

  • Average December temperature: 27–32 °C (Bali); 28–34 °C (Jakarta)

  • Top destinations: Bali (beaches, culture); Lombok (quiet); Yogyakarta (heritage, temples)

Vietnam

Southern Vietnam is warm and mostly dry. Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc offer beach life, clear waters, and vibrant markets, while Hanoi and Ha Long Bay offer scenic and cultural experiences.

  • Average December temperature: 30–32 °C (Ho Chi Minh City); 28–30 °C (Phu Quoc)

  • Top destinations: Phu Quoc (palm beaches); Hoi An (history, lanterns); Ha Long Bay (cruises)

UAE (Dubai)

Dubai enjoys warm days, cool nights, and endless sunshine. Beaches, desert safaris, rooftop dining, and luxury shopping create a unique December escape.

  • Average December temperature: 25–28 °C (Dubai); 26–29 °C (Abu Dhabi)

  • Top destinations: Dubai (beaches, shopping); Abu Dhabi (culture, Grand Mosque); Liwa Desert (stargazing, dunes)

Maldives

December is near-perfect tropical paradise – warm air and sea, calm waters, and peaceful surroundings. Snorkel with manta rays, relax in water villas, or explore tiny coral islands.

  • Average December temperature: 27–31 °C

  • Top destinations: Malé Atoll (accessibility); Baa Atoll (diving); Ari Atoll (romantic escape)

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s south and west coasts enjoy sunny, warm weather. From Galle’s beaches to Kandy’s temples and lush tea plantations, the island combines relaxation and adventure.

  • Average December temperature: 26–31 °C (Colombo); 22–27 °C (Kandy)

  • Top destinations: Galle (colonial charm); Mirissa (whale watching); Ella (mountain views); Bentota (beaches)

Europe

Spain (Canary Islands)

For Europeans seeking nearby sun, the Canary Islands offer spring-like warmth year-round. Blue skies, mild seas, and volcanic landscapes make winter escapes easy and enjoyable.

  • Average December temperature: 22–25 °C (Tenerife)

  • Top destinations: Tenerife (variety); Lanzarote (landscapes); Gran Canaria (beaches, culture); Fuerteventura (surfing)

Portugal

Algarve is mild and sunny, Lisbon is lively, and Douro Valley is cozy. December is ideal for outdoor exploration without heavy layering.

  • Average December temperature: 16–19 °C (Algarve); ~14 °C (Lisbon)

  • Top destinations: Algarve (gentle sun, sea); Lisbon (culture); Madeira (year-round spring)

Cyprus

Cyprus offers gentle sunshine, Mediterranean flavors, and calm winter pacing. Explore coastal walks, archaeology, and authentic hospitality.

  • Average December temperature: 18–22 °C (Paphos); 16–20 °C (Nicosia)

  • Top destinations: Paphos (heritage, sea); Limassol (wine, harbor); Larnaca (beaches)

Oceania

Australia

December is full summer. Beaches, road trips, surfing, and festivals abound from Sydney and Melbourne to the Great Barrier Reef and western coastlines.

  • Average December temperature: 25–30 °C (Sydney); 28–34 °C (Cairns)

  • Top destinations: Sydney (beaches, city life); Great Barrier Reef (diving); Melbourne (culture); Perth (sunsets, wine)

How to Choose Your Warm Winter Destination

  • Beaches & resorts: Mexico, Maldives, Caribbean

  • Adventure & nature: Costa Rica, South Africa

  • Short-haul winter sun (Europe): Canary Islands, Cyprus

  • Culture & food: Thailand, Vietnam, Brazil

  • Budget-friendly: Vietnam, Sri Lanka, southern Spain

Tip: Early December is quieter and cheaper; late December brings Christmas buzz and higher prices. Match your destination to your travel style for the perfect December sunshine escape.

This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site. Switch to a production site key to remove this banner.