Powder-white snow certainly adds an element of magic to a trip, but the long winter nights can make you feel a longing for what’s missing: sunshine. From the coasts of Spain to the deserts of the southwestern United States, the sun can still be seen in many places and the weather remains warm even in the depths of winter.
As a lifelong snowbird who spent Thanksgiving in Turkiye and a year-end vacation in the Caribbean, I agree that moving south is a great way to spend your last hard-earned paid vacation . So, with input from myself and other AFAR staffers, consider these 10 places to soak up some sunshine this winter holiday season.
1. New Zealand
New Zealand is home to countless natural attractions and is an ideal holiday destination for outdoor enthusiasts. New Zealander and AFAR writer Ellen Turner argues that some of the best tourist attractions can be found on road trips, and that the vast EV network will make sustainable travel even more possible.
Relax in the majestic Southern Alps, a two-hour drive from Christchurch, or head to the south-west corner of the South Island to tackle Fiordland National Park, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks . As Christmas approaches, it’s time to get the grill out and create a “Beach Barbie.” Average daytime temperatures from December to February range from 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit, making picnics and trips to the coast common.
Miami has the highest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the world.
Photo by Richard Goldberg/Shutterstock
2. Florida
Disney, beaches, Miami, oh well. It goes without saying that the Sunshine State is one of the best options for US travelers looking for a domestic vacation. With plenty of nonstop flights from major hubs in Orlando and Miami, and temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, all kinds of adventures are accessible. (Although north and central Florida is typically cool, it rarely snows.) Stroll through the night lights of St. Augustine or enjoy the annual Winterfest Boat Parade off the coast of Fort Lauderdale. please. Thin sweater.
Arizona has many desert trails to traverse in the winter.
Photo by: James Michael Images
3. Arizona
Winter is a great time to visit Southwest attractions like the Grand Canyon, and you can expect them to be about half as crowded as summer. However, be aware that due to its high elevation, the park can receive several inches of snow each winter. If you want to enjoy nature under the Arizona sun, consider going to the desert side, like Saguaro National Park. In winter, the cactus-filled trails become easier to explore. You can’t go wrong with many places in the state, where you’re guaranteed to spend most of the year in the sun. Spend your vacation playing golf in Scottsdale, which has more than 330 days of sunshine, or soaking up the rugged scenery of Verde’s 4-hour journey on the Canyon Railway.
Puerto Rico is a small dot in the Caribbean, and while it takes just a few hours to drive through the entire island, it can take months, even years, to fully discover its true identity.
Photo credit: Michael Runkel/age fotostock
4. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s temperatures consistently remain in the 70s even in December, drawing snowbirds to the coast in search of adventure without a U.S. passport. The holiday season brings with it vibrant decorations such as pasqua flowers and nativity scenes, as well as specialties such as pastels (root vegetable patties usually stuffed with meat). Remember: The majority of Puerto Ricans are Roman Catholic.
Puerto Rico gets more crowded during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, at this time of year, the streets of San Juan are filled with a festive spirit, with celebrations such as “Fiesta de la Calle San Sebastian” and “Fiesta de los Reyes Magos” taking place. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have the option of running away from it all. Beyond the capital, there are plenty of underrated beaches and quirky cities.
International travelers can enjoy iconic Australian locations such as Byron Bay.
Photo credit: Darren Tierney/Shutterstock
5. Australia
If you’re traveling to the Land Down Under at the end of the year, you’ll be visiting at a time when it’s far more important to have a working air conditioner than a parka. In the Southern Hemisphere it is summer from December to February. Temperatures across the continent are hotter, with December highs near 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s almost certain that there won’t be any snow, which is welcome news considering there’s so much to do in the country these days. AFAR editor and long-time Australia fan Laura Redman says that for her first-timers, staying in Sydney is a great way to explore Australia’s heritage, including the Harbor Bridge, Bondi Beach and the Opera House, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. We recommend that you visit some of the most famous places. If you’re feeling like Thanksgiving dinner has become too routine, fly to Tasmania. No longer satisfied with your ordinary turkey, we offer a gastronomic scene of fresh seafood.
Peniscola, on Spain’s eastern coast, is another Valencian town worth visiting.
6. Valencia, Spain
If Valencia’s golden sands aren’t enough to convince you to spend your last days on the PTO in this Spanish community, here’s a fun fact. One of its cities, Alicante, was named the sunniest city in Europe, with an average of nearly 350 hours of sunshine. Month. Average temperatures in this Mediterranean region range from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit during December and January, making it the perfect destination for those wandering through the old town or grabbing a bite of paella in the home of the saffron-flavored rice dish. All you need is a light jacket. If you’re celebrating the New Year here, don’t forget to bring a bag of grapes. At midnight, it is tradition to harvest one grape from him every time the clock strikes, for good luck. It’s much harder than it sounds.
The Philippines attracts adventure seekers who take advantage of its rich natural ocean and landscapes.
Provided by JWalker/Age Photo Stock
7. Philippines
The months from December to May coincide with the Philippines’ dry season, providing a sunny respite for those expecting holiday snowstorms in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. The country gets on the festive train early, as the holiday season begins in September and doesn’t end until early January. Look out for the colorful stars known as parols hanging in shops and homes. They are meant to symbolize. Star of Bethlehem.
Of course, with more than 7,000 islands in this archipelago, there’s plenty to do outside of the holidays. Set your course on Great Santa Cruz Island for the country’s pink sand beaches, Siargao for surfing, or Bohol Island for bug-eyed primates and hills that resemble chocolate truffles.
Downtown Charleston is home to historic architecture and a lot to offer.
Photo credit: Shutterstock/f11photo
8. Charleston, South Carolina
Who said warm weather meant beaches? There’s only one better way to soak up the sun than while strolling by the historic pastel homes of Charleston’s Rainbow Row. Soak up the sun on your way to happy hour at one of the great cocktail bars. A trip to Charleston is less about getting a tan and more about slowing down and enjoying Southern hospitality. Get lost in the back alleys of Harleston Village, stroll through the waterfront park, or browse downtown’s many charming boutiques. And if you spend most of your time dreaming about where you’ll enjoy your next meal, chasing sage or enjoying Lenore, you’re right.
Flamingos hang out in the waters of Isla Holbox.
Photo credit: Jana Hake/Shutterstock.com
9. Holbox Island, Mexico
Mexico’s best-kept secret is that if you head north or south of any of its famous beach cities, you’ll quickly find beaches that are both gorgeous and understated, hidden gems. In this case, north of Cancun he would have to travel 2-3 hours to Chiquila, from where he would take a ferry and set foot on Isla Holbox. The place still has the feel of a deserted island without electricity. Expect clean sandy beaches and deep blue water, a few thatched-roof hotels, and a constant desire to ride in a hammock.
View of San Pedro Volcano across Lake Atitlan
Photo credit: Lucy Brown-loca4motion/Shutterstock.com
10. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Guatemala is one of those places you can’t leave, especially once you see Lake Atitlan. Start in the small city of Antigua, which is becoming a popular base for adventure travel, and head several hours northeast. There are many small villages around the lake, each with its own unique personality. Don your homme in the hippie district of San Marcos La Laguna, learn local weaving techniques in San Juan La Laguna, explore the coastline and seek out hot springs in Santa Catarina Palopó.
This article was originally published online in October 2023. The latest information was updated on December 7, 2023 to include the latest information. Maggie Fuller contributed reporting.
