6 Winter Sun Destinations to Escape the British Chill
As the days grow shorter and British summertime fades, there’s not better way to lift your spirits than by planning a winter sun escape.
From Montenegro’s sun-drenched “City of Sun” to Sydney, where summer will be in full swing, these destinations promise warmth, adventure and a much-needed dose of sunshine. Here are six winter sun destinations to inspire your next sun-soaked winter getaway.
Stay in the City of Sun, Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Also known as the “City of Sun,” this south-facing town is ideally positioned to capture winter sunshine and warmer than much of Montenegro’s coast. Explore the historic fortress of Forte Mare and the old town with its charming alleys, or stroll along the scenic seaside promenade with views of UNESCO protected Boka Bay. Stay at the all-inclusive Iberostar Waves Herceg Novi on the edge of Adriatic Sea with private access to the beach from £105 per night for a double sea view. montenegro.travel
Wild winter sun in the Marquesas Islands, Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia
Swap the UK’s grey winter for Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas, where December-February averages a balmy 27-28 degrees celsius and the lagoon-warm sea makes swimming effortless. This is winter sun with a sense of adventure: take a boat to Daniel’s Bay (Hakatea) and hike to the 350m Vaipo Waterfall; snorkel the calm, fish-rich waters of Anaho Bay; or join a guided 4×4 into the high ridges around Hatiheu for petroglyphs, cliff-top lookouts and sweeping valleys. Make a base at Le Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts to find hillside bungalows, tropical gardens and a serene pool with knockout views of Taiohae Bay, plus easy access to guided hikes and boat trips. tahititourisme.uk/
Make the most of the winter sunshine in Morristown, Arizona
Boasting over 320 days of sunshine a year, Arizona is a winter haven for sunseekers. Book a four-night stay at Castle Hot Springs and try the Soak and Slumber Package, where wellness rituals, desert hikes among towering saguanos and guided sleep sessions promise true rejuvenation. Unwind at the spa using the package’s spa credit to enjoy a body massage or wrap at the spa. visitarizona.com
Discover Florida’s Paradise Coast, Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades
January and February are perfect months for a visit to Florida’s Paradise Coast in southwest Florida, consisting of Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades. During the winter months, the region boasts gorgeous weather with average air temperatures at a high of 25 degrees during the day and lows of 12 degrees at night. Head on a swamp tour in the Everglades, tee off at any of the 90 golf courses in the area or explore the arts and culture scene in Naples – there’s something for everyone in paradise. paradisecoast.com
Explore the islands of Okinawa by bike, Japan
Bask in the winter sunshine in Okinawa Prefecture, the southernmost prefecture of Japan, made up of over 150 islands. The Okinawa Islands make for the perfect escape from the harsh northern winter and the hot southern summer. Explore the beautiful coastlines, or discover the beauty of the islands by bicycle. Visit Naha, where several hotels offer one-day passes for bicycles around the city, or Ishigaki and Kuroshima, where visitors can ride along the coast and take in the beautiful ocean views. Visitors heading to Okinawa in December will also be treated to beautiful night time illuminations, usually spotted at the Southeast Botanical Gardens on the main island. japan.travel/en/uk/
Summer down under in New South Wales, Australia
When the UK is shrouded in cold, dark days, Sydney comes alive with long, sun-soaked days from December to February. Think golden beaches, buzzing outdoor dining, and iconic events like New Year’s Eve on the Harbour. Whether you’re learning to surf at Bondi Beach, taking a sunrise kayak under the Harbour Bridge, or exploring scenic coastal walks and vibrant neighbourhoods, Sydney offers the ultimate escape from grey skies. With temperatures around 26°C and a laid-back summer vibe, it’s impossible not to relax. Stay at The EVE, Sydney’s hottest new boutique hotel, where stylish rooms, exceptional dining and a spectacular rooftop pool make the perfect base for your sunny adventure. sydney.com
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