December doesn’t always have to mean cold toes and dreary afternoons. While most folks hunker down at home, I’ve stumbled on some of the world’s best spots that really come alive this month.
The hottest December destinations? Think 75-85°F, golden beaches, clear skies, and—surprisingly—fewer crowds than during high season. The Maldives, Dubai, and Costa Rica are just a few where you can trade your winter coat for a swimsuit. Check out these warm beaches.
Honestly, finding the right warm spot in December isn’t as easy as picking the hottest place on a weather map. You have to factor in rain, tourist seasons, and what you actually want to do.
Some places are made for lazy days on the sand. Others? They’re all about adventure and culture, but you still get that comfortable heat.
One of my favorite things about traveling in December is dodging both the winter blues and the massive crowds (not to mention the sky-high prices of peak season). I’ll walk you through the spots that deliver reliable warmth and the experiences that make them totally worth the trip.
Key Takeaways
- December’s got warm weather waiting in the Caribbean, Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the Southern Hemisphere.
- The best hot spots mix comfy temps, low rainfall, and cool seasonal vibes.
- Planning ahead means fewer crowds and better deals on flights and hotels.
What Makes a Destination Hot in December?
I call a place “hot” in December if it’s serving up 75°F or more, with plenty of sunshine to chase away those winter blahs.
If you want to pick the right getaway, you’ve got to understand weather patterns and the perks of warm-weather travel.
Defining ‘Hot’ and ‘Warm’ Places to Visit in December
To me, a “hot” December destination means 75°F or higher and barely any rain. These places usually hug the equator or sit in the southern hemisphere, where summer’s just getting started.
“Warm” falls between 65°F and 75°F—think Lanzarote at 70°F or Marrakech at 68°F. You won’t melt, but you can ditch the heavy sweaters.
Temperature Categories for December Travel:
- Hot: 80°F+ (Merida, Costa Rica, St Lucia)
- Very Warm: 75-79°F (Bali, Dubai, Maldives)
- Warm: 65-74°F (Miami, Auckland, Lanzarote)
When I travel, I look for spots where I can wear shorts all day and hang outside comfortably. The best hot destinations keep things toasty from sunrise to sunset.
Weather Patterns and Climate Factors for December Travel
December weather really depends on where you land. The Caribbean and Mexico kick off their dry season—less humidity, barely any rain.
Southeast Asia, like Thailand and Bali, stays warm too, but you might get a quick shower here and there.
Down south, places like South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand are just starting summer. Cape Town hits 81°F with endless sun. Melbourne chills around 75°F—perfect for beach days.
I steer clear of hurricane season when I plan December trips. The Atlantic hurricane season wraps up in November, so December’s a safe bet for the Caribbean. Same goes for the Pacific—typhoons quiet down by now.
In the Middle East, Dubai almost guarantees sunshine and practically zero rain. Morocco’s got a mild warmth that feels just right.
Benefits of Choosing Warm Destinations for Winter Getaways
Leaving the cold behind? It’s a mood booster, no question. I love being able to do things outside that are impossible at home in December.
Plus, I don’t have to pack bulky winter gear or crank up the heat at home. Many hot spots are actually cheaper in December than during their own peak seasons. Think Thailand or Indonesia—affordable places to stay, cheap and delicious food.
You can swim, snorkel, hike, or just laze on the sand—no heavy jackets or ponchos needed.
Hot destinations in December often mean fewer tourists. I’ve scored better hotel rates and breezed through attractions in places like Bali and Costa Rica.
Top Warm Destinations to Visit in December
December’s warmth stretches across the southern hemisphere and a handful of tropical gems. Here are four spots where you’ll find 20°C to 28°C, plus some seriously cool culture and wild scenery.
Cape Town: Vibrant City and Natural Wonders
Cape Town really shines in December. The city hits its summer peak, with temps around 27°C.
You get long, sunny days—perfect for hiking Table Mountain or cruising the Cape Peninsula.
The Atlantic Seaboard beaches, like Camps Bay and Clifton, are buzzing with sunseekers. December also kicks off penguin season at Boulders Beach.
Key attractions in December:
- Table Mountain cable car rides with epic views
- Wine tours in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
- Chapman’s Peak Drive for jaw-dropping coastal roads
- V&A Waterfront for shopping and food
The exchange rate usually makes Cape Town a bargain for visitors. If you want to stay in the city, book early—December is South Africa’s peak season.
Cancun and Riviera Maya: Sun-Soaked Mexican Escapes
The Mexican Caribbean stays steamy at about 28°C all December. Cancun’s the main hub, but Playa del Carmen offers a slower pace just 40 miles down the road.
I’m a fan of the Riviera Maya for its variety. Tulum gives you beaches and Mayan ruins, while cenotes let you swim in natural limestone pools.
December sits right in the dry season—less rain, calm seas. The water’s warm enough for snorkeling and diving along the Mesoamerican Reef.
Playa del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue is packed with restaurants and shops, all steps from the beach. Cancun’s Hotel Zone is great if you want all-inclusive resorts. Both make it easy to day trip to Chichen Itza or Cozumel.
Canary Islands: Europe’s Winter Sun Paradise
If you’re in Europe and crave warmth, the Canary Islands are your best bet. December temps hover between 20°C and 22°C.
Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote all have their own vibes, even though they’re close together.
Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape and Timanfaya National Park are unreal. I love that the island limits building heights, so it keeps its raw beauty.
Tenerife’s got Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, and a crazy mix of climates. The south is drier and warmer. Gran Canaria’s got the Maspalomas dunes and cute mountain villages.
Flights from the UK take about four hours. The islands use the Euro, and the Spanish influence makes travel easy for Europeans who want sun without a long flight.
Madeira: Island Charm and Mild Winter
Madeira keeps things mild in December—about 20°C, with just a bit of rain. This Portuguese island sits out in the Atlantic, about 600 miles from mainland Portugal.
It’s a dream for travelers who love scenery more than sand. Madeira’s levada walks wind through forests and up mountains, following old irrigation channels.
Funchal, the capital, throws a huge New Year’s Eve fireworks show (it’s even in the Guinness World Records). December brings festive lights and markets all over town. If you’re into wine, the Madeira Wine Company offers some fascinating tours.
Porto Moniz has black sand beaches and wild natural swimming pools. The island’s botanical gardens are packed with exotic plants that thrive year-round.
Must-See Attractions and Experiences
Warm December destinations aren’t just about the weather—they’re packed with unique sights and adventures. Here are a few that really stand out, from volcanic landscapes to Mayan ruins.
Adventure up Table Mountain
Table Mountain towers over Cape Town, rising 1,084 meters. I always suggest hopping on the rotating cable car—it’s a quick five-minute ride with killer 360° views.
Once you’re up there, you’ll find trails for every skill level. The summit gives stunning views of Cape Town, Robben Island, and the Atlantic. December’s long, warm days are perfect for exploring.
Over 2,200 plant species thrive on the mountain, and a lot of them don’t grow anywhere else.
If you want the best experience, go early to dodge the crowds and catch the clearest skies. The cable car only runs if the weather’s good, so check before you head out. Plan for about 2-3 hours to really soak it in.
Explore Chichen Itza and Tulum
Chichen Itza truly lives up to its reputation as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The main pyramid, El Castillo, stands 30 meters tall and lines up with the sun in ways that’ll blow your mind.
The site sprawls over nearly five square kilometers—I felt tiny wandering around.
Tulum gives you something different. The ruins perch atop 12-meter cliffs, looking out over turquoise Caribbean waves. It used to be a major Mayan port between the 13th and 15th centuries.
After exploring, you can swim at the beach right below the ruins.
For Chichen Itza, go early to beat the heat and the tour buses. Tulum is great in the afternoon, especially if you want to mix ruins with beach time. Don’t forget comfy shoes and plenty of sunscreen.
Discover the Beauty of Timanfaya National Park
Timanfaya National Park on Lanzarote is like stepping onto another planet. Eruptions in the 1700s left behind 51 square kilometers of lava fields in wild reds, oranges, and blacks.
I watched guides pour water into holes—steam shoots up instantly, proof the earth’s still hot just below the surface.
You can only see the park on a guided bus tour, which helps protect the fragile landscape. The route winds past craters, lava tubes, and valleys.
El Diablo restaurant even grills food using volcanic heat from the ground.
December’s temps in the park stay comfy (20°C to 25°C). The stark beauty is unreal—photographers will have a field day.
Relax at Playa Delfines and Playa del Carmen
Playa Delfines is one of Cancun’s last undeveloped beaches—just white sand and turquoise water. No hotels or bars, just pure coastline. The colorful “Cancún” sign is perfect for photos, and the viewpoint gives you a sweeping look at the sea.
Playa del Carmen’s a different vibe. Its Fifth Avenue is always buzzing with shops, restaurants, and music. The beach is steps away, and the town’s a launchpad for trips to Cozumel or other nearby spots.
Both beaches have calm waters in December, around 26°C. If you want peace, head to Playa Delfines. For energy and nightlife, Playa del Carmen’s your place.
Unique Natural Wonders You Can’t Miss
December’s warmth opens up a world of wild landscapes you just won’t find anywhere else. Here are three that blew me away.
Swim in Yucatan Cenotes
The Yucatan Peninsula is basically Swiss cheese—thousands of cenotes (natural sinkholes) dot the landscape. These pools form when limestone collapses, revealing crystal-clear groundwater below.
December’s the sweet spot for cenote swims. The weather’s pleasant, and the water stays a consistent 75-77°F all year.
You’ll find three main types: open cenotes with sky overhead, semi-open with a partial roof, and cave cenotes that feel like secret underground worlds.
Popular cenotes near Cancun and Playa del Carmen:
- Gran Cenote – Super clear water and cool rock formations, perfect for snorkeling.
- Dos Ojos – Two connected caves with epic diving.
- Ik Kil – An open cenote with vines dangling down and an 85-foot drop to the water.
Most cenotes ask you to use biodegradable sunscreen—protecting these fragile ecosystems is a must. Many spots rent snorkel or dive gear, so you can really explore those underwater nooks and crannies.
Hike Volcanic Landscapes in Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain really surprised me—it’s honestly one of the most unusual places I’ve ever set foot on.
Back in the 1730s, eruptions covered about a quarter of the island in thick, black lava.
In December, you’ll find temperatures floating between 64 and 72°F. That’s pretty much perfect for hiking, if you ask me.
Timanfaya National Park is the heart of the volcanic zone. You can actually walk right across solid lava fields streaked with black, red, and orange—almost like Mars, but closer and warmer.
Some areas stay off-limits to protect the landscape, but guided tours will take you to see wild geothermal spots. Park rangers even pour water into holes so you can watch it shoot back out as a steaming geyser—kind of a science experiment, but with better scenery.
El Golfo grabs your attention with its neon-green lagoon, tucked inside a half-drowned volcanic crater. That color? It’s algae, thriving in the mineral-rich water.
Then there’s Los Hervideros, where Atlantic waves smash through volcanic rock caves. The sound alone is unforgettable.
Experience the Subtropical Microclimates of Tenerife
Tenerife keeps you guessing with its wild range of microclimates, all thanks to Mount Teide. Teide towers at 12,198 feet, making it Spain’s highest peak.
Down on the coast, December feels mild—think 68-73°F. Up top, though, it’s much cooler and sometimes even frosty.
The north side of Tenerife stays lush and green. Anaga Rural Park is full of misty cloud forests, where ancient laurel trees twist over narrow hiking trails.
The south flips the script with dry, sunny weather and black sand beaches—reminders of the island’s volcanic roots.
Teide National Park dominates the center, looking like something out of a sci-fi movie. Volcanic rock and ash stretch in every direction.
You can ride a cable car nearly to the top of Teide. If you want to stand on the actual summit, though, you’ll need to score a special permit.
The altitude, plus those famously clear skies, make this one of the best stargazing spots in Europe. I’ve never seen the Milky Way look brighter.
Planning Your Perfect December Getaway
Traveling somewhere warm in December? It takes a bit of planning, but it’s so worth it. I’ve picked up a few tricks for packing light, dodging crowds, and finding local celebrations that turn a regular trip into something memorable.
Packing Essentials for Hot December Destinations
When I’m heading somewhere hot in December, I always reach for lightweight, breathable clothes. Cotton and linen are my go-tos, especially when it’s humid.
Three swimsuits? Absolutely. That way, there’s always a dry one ready for the next dip.
Sun protection is non-negotiable. I pack reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50), a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses that actually block UV rays. A light long-sleeve rashguard has saved my skin more than once.
Here’s my must-have list:
- Insect repellent with DEET for those buggy evenings
- Quick-dry towel for beach and boat days
- Waterproof phone case because I’m clumsy near water
- Light rain jacket (tropical showers love to surprise you)
- Sandals that can handle getting wet
A small daypack comes in handy for day trips, and I always bring a reusable water bottle. Nights rarely dip below 70°F, so I leave heavy layers at home.
Travel Tips for Avoiding Holiday Crowds
I usually book flights for mid-week and try to arrive before December 20th or after December 27th. Those dates mean fewer people and, honestly, better deals.
The best beaches? They’re almost empty between 7 and 9 AM. I get my sun and sand fix early, then duck into museums or cafes when crowds peak from late morning to mid-afternoon.
If you want to eat at popular spots, make reservations at least two weeks ahead. December fills up fast. I also book tours and activities online before I go—less stress, more fun.
Whenever I can, I use local buses or trams instead of tourist shuttles. It’s usually less crowded and way more interesting. I’ve found that staying a little outside the main resort areas gives a more local vibe (and sometimes better food).
Finding the Best Local Events and Festivals
Before I even book a flight, I check which festivals and events are happening in December. The Caribbean, for example, goes all out with music, food, and street parties.
Tourism boards and community calendars are goldmines for this stuff. Hotel concierges are helpful, but the real gems often happen in town squares or small venues most tourists don’t hear about.
I always look for weekly farmers markets. They’re perfect for tasting local treats and meeting people.
Here’s what I try not to miss:
- Holiday markets with handmade crafts
- Beach festivals serving up local music and food
- Cultural shows—think dance, art, and more
- Food tours led by locals who know the best bites
Destination-specific apps and local social accounts help me find pop-up parties or last-minute celebrations. The best festivals blend local traditions with holiday spirit, and honestly, those are the moments I remember most.
Frequently Asked Questions
People ask a lot about where to find the best weather, value, or experiences in December. I’ve pulled together answers to the questions I hear most often.
The Maldives tops my list—expect temps around 28°C and calm, clear water for all kinds of ocean adventures.
Dubai stays steady at 26°C and mixes futuristic attractions with endless shopping. Costa Rica? You get 30°C days where rainforests spill onto gorgeous beaches.
Bali keeps things warm at 27°C all month, plus it’s affordable and packed with culture. Cape Town warms up to 27°C for summer and has those epic coastlines you see in travel magazines.
St Lucia hits 29°C, with lush green mountains and perfect beaches. Cuba stays at 27°C, offering colorful cities and vintage charm. Koh Samui in Thailand brings 27°C and that classic island vibe.
Thailand’s a win for value—once you’re there, everything from food to hotels is budget-friendly. Koh Samui and the other islands give you warm weather at a good price, though flights can be a splurge.
Indonesia’s Bali is another great option. Local restaurants and places to stay are way cheaper than most Western spots.
Merida, Mexico gets up to 31°C and costs less than the big resort towns. Marrakech in Morocco averages 20°C and keeps hotel prices reasonable, especially if you’re coming from Europe.
For something closer, the Canary Islands—like Lanzarote at 21°C—offer short flights and moderate costs.
The Maldives tops my list for romance. Private overwater bungalows, turquoise water, and endless time to relax or snorkel—it’s just dreamy.
St Lucia serves up mountain views and couples-only resorts. If you can, book a villa with a private pool looking out over the Pitons. Hot springs and sunset cruises add to the magic.
Bali blends romance and culture. Private villas, temple visits, spa days, and candlelit dinners on the beach—it’s all there. You can go full adventure or just chill out together.
Dubai works well for families. There are theme parks, water parks, and beach resorts. Kids love the indoor ski slope and giant aquarium, and the city’s modern setup makes family travel pretty smooth.
Costa Rica is perfect for adventure-loving families. Zip-lining, wildlife watching, and plenty of beach time—plus, it feels safe and welcoming everywhere you go.
The Bahamas averages 26°C with calm, shallow water for little swimmers. Lots of resorts have kids’ clubs, and the short flight from the US is a lifesaver for parents.
Auckland, New Zealand warms up to 22°C in its summer. The city mixes Maori culture, urban life, and easy escapes to islands or beaches.
Melbourne hits 24°C and bursts with arts, food, and stunning coastal drives. The Great Ocean Road is a must, and wildlife sanctuaries let you meet kangaroos and koalas.
Merida, Mexico cranks up to 31°C and stands out with Mayan ruins and colonial buildings. It’s less crowded than Cancun, and nearby cenotes and archaeological sites are just waiting to be explored.
Which destinations offer a traditional Christmas experience in December?
European cities like Vienna, Prague, and Munich come alive with famous Christmas markets. Holiday decorations light up the streets, and traditional foods fill the air with tempting aromas.
The cold? Sure, it bites a little, but honestly, the festive energy more than makes up for it. If you’re planning a trip, those first three weeks of December feel magical—before the crowds really hit.
Quebec City in Canada? Absolutely stunning. Winter transforms the place into a French-Canadian holiday dream. The Old Town turns into a glowing Christmas village, with snow-dusted streets and historic buildings that look straight out of a storybook.
Lapland, Finland stands out for anyone chasing a classic Christmas. You can actually meet Santa Claus in his official hometown—how cool is that? Families hop on reindeer sleighs and, if luck’s on your side, catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead.
Locals in Lapland really lean into traditional Christmas customs and winter fun. It’s the kind of place where holiday spirit feels almost contagious.
