Best Winter Sun Destinations

This time of year can be a dreary time for most. The summer months are fading into a distant memory and the weather often takes a turn for the worst, with grey, rain and wind for days on end. 

What can make these months difficult (especially in the UK), is the lack of sun exposure due to the shorter days. According to the NHS, the sun doesn’t contain enough UVB radiation during the winter months, which means we have to rely on food sources and supplements to get enough vitamin D, which are often tricky water to navigate. 

So naturally, we think the perfect solution is not waiting for the sun to find you, but simply going to find it yourself. 

Booking a winter sun holiday is the perfect way to improve your mood and your vitamin D levels during a time where it’s most needed. Plus, it will help you feel refreshed, rested and ready to tackle those long winter months. 

Here are some of our top suggestions for winter sun holidays

– South Africa

With average temperatures reaching 24-29 degrees during the winter months, South Africa can be a great choice for an extended winter sun holiday. Cape Town is one of the most popular destinations in South Africa, as it is a haven for wine lovers around the world. However, it can still offer a variety of activities for all ages, including interesting museums, beautiful beaches and an exciting aerial cableway.

– Morocco 

For most, Morrocco is either an all-time favourite destination or a place they’ve always wanted to visit. This is not only thanks to the year-round warm weather, which reaches 19-22 degrees during the winter months but also the rich culture, history and delicious food that never seems to disappoint. It is a great option for those looking to book a shorter winter break, as it is accessible from most major international airports in Europe.

Ready to book your stay? 

We recommend The Source, a 5-star guest house nestled in an oasis of lush greenery just outside of Marrakech. 

– Mexico

Incredible food and drink, rich colours, and endless beaches are most often the first things that comes to mind when you think of Mexico. Average temperatures can reach between 23 and 26 degrees during the winter months, which means it’s a safe choice if you are searching for that winter sun. It is also the perfect destination for those interested in a high-end wellness retreat. 

Ready to book your stay? 

We recommend the Papaya Playa Project in Tulum. This stunning resort is easily accessible from Cancún International Airport and can provide guests with an exclusive and restoring experience away from the crowds.

– United States

From coast to coast, the USA offers an incredible variety of things to do and places to see. If you are looking for a warm winter holiday, we recommend heading to California or Florida to guarantee those higher temperatures. 

One destination that won’t disappoint is star-studded Beverly Hills on the outskirts of Los Angelas. Average temperatures reach around 20-23 degrees during the winter months and the location offers close proximity to the beach. Plus, who knows who you might run into while you’re there!

Ready to book your stay? 

There is no better place to stay in Beverly Hills than the luxurious Avalon Hotel. This design boutique hotel has welcomed stars like Marilyn Monroe and many more as an LA getaway.

– Thailand

From ultra-modern cities to ancient ruins and royal palaces, Thailand is a place to fall in love with. Regardless of the season, you are guaranteed to have pleasant weather with an average of 20-23 degrees during the winter months. Even though it’s recently been overrun by tourists – around 31 million tourists visited Thailand in 2017 alone according to Asia Highlights – you can still find unspoiled corners to explore. 

Ready to book your stay? 

We suggest you pay a visit to The Library, a beautifully designed hotel situated on the beachfront of Chaweng Beach. 

– Maldives

With average temperatures reaching 28-29 degrees during the winter months, the Maldives is one of the warmest destinations on our list. It’s crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches make this one of the most desirable island destinations on the planet. While you are there, you can participate in an array of activities, including snorkelling tours, scuba diving, tennis, trips to the spa and more. 

Ready to book your stay? 

The Vakkaru Maldives, a secluded tropical island resort in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is the perfect choice for a luxurious experience in the Maldives. 

– Singapore

If you are drawn to the wonderfully busy world of a sprawling metropolitan city, Singapore should definitely be on your list of places to visit. Known as the technological hub of Asia, Singapore has something for everyone at any age. Plus, with temperatures averaging around 23-26 degrees during the winter months, you will get your fair share of sun during your stay. Singapore is also the perfect choice for all the foodies out there, as the city offers anything from hidden gems to high-end restaurants to feed your appetite. 

Ready to book your stay? 

The Naumi Hotel is a boutique hotel in the centre of Singapore, perfectly situated close to all the cultural hotspots and hidden gourmet finds.

– Brazil

As the world’s 5th largest country, Brazil often draws people in with its rural rainforests and festive city centres. It also rivals the Maldives as the warmest places to visit during the winter months with an average temperature reaching 28-30 degrees. 

If you have never been, Rio De Janeiro is a great place to start with its proximity to its golden beaches and mountains. If you fancy experiencing the party of a lifetime, be sure to plan your stay around Carnival, which is due to kick-off on the 21st of February, 2020. 

Ready to book your stay?

We recommend staying at the Belmond Copacabana Palace, an impressive art-deco building that is perfectly placed looking out over Copacabana Beach.

Need more inspiration? 

These are only some of the incredible winter sun destinations you can visit during the chilly winter months.  Best Loved Hotels has a wide collection of luxury and hand-selected hotels that will be the perfect companion on your next vacation. 

To get started, visit our Winter Sun Collection.