When the temperature drops, the only thing better than a crackling fire is a scorching hot beach.
Whether you're escaping the Wyoming winter or chasing sunshine after a long year, these winter sun destinations promise balmy weather, pristine beaches, and unforgettable experiences.
From eco stays on Mexico’s Pacific Coast to private island escapes in the Indian Ocean, these are the best places for winter sun vacations.
Flight time: 10 hours from NYC
When to go: December–April
Average winter temperature: 82°F
Tiny islands, huge luxury. The Maldives is a go-to for winter sun vacations thanks to its year-round warmth, turquoise waters, and overwater villas.
Ideal for honeymoons or anyone needing a serious break from the cold.
Flight time: 4.5 hours from LA
When to go: November–May
Average winter temperature: 79°F
Expect sunny days, upscale beach resorts, and epic sunsets. Cabo San Lucas is great for outdoor activities like paddleboarding, whale watching, or just chilling by a private pool.
Flight time: 5 hours from Miami
When to go: December–April
Average winter temperature: 80°F
A Caribbean gem with rainforests, waterfalls, and incredible food. Soak in a plunge pool overlooking the Pitons or explore nature reserves on foot.
One of the best places for winter sun if you want adventure and romance.
Flight time: 6 hours from NYC
When to go: December–April
Average winter temperature: 85°F
Nature lovers, rejoice. Costa Rica is all national parks, green sea turtles, and eco stays.
Surf the Pacific, zipline through the jungle, or spot monkeys from your hammock. It’s winter sun with a wild side.
Flight time: Varies (1–6 hours domestic)
When to go: December–March
Average winter temperature: 76°F
Miami Beach, Florida, brings art deco, palm trees, and vibrant food scenes. Lounge at a resort with three outdoor swimming pools or hop between Miami street food stalls and fine dining spots. Winter sun vacations USA-style.
Flight time: 13 hours from NYC
When to go: November–March
Average winter temperature: 78°F
Scorching hot summers make winter the prime time for this Middle East escape. Think all-inclusive resorts, desert adventures, and impeccable service. Plus, you can still hit the beach, even in January.
Flight time: 6+ hours from West Coast
When to go: December–April
Average winter temperature: 79°F
Surf’s up. Hawaii has lush rainforests, volcanoes, and some of the best beaches in the world. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo sun seekers.
Wander's Hawaii homes offer luxury without the crowds.
Flight time: 10 hours from East Coast
When to go: Year-round
Average winter temperature: 72°F
Europe’s best-kept winter sun secret, the Canaries offer volcano hikes, charming towns, and beach holidays even in February.
Gran Canaria and Tenerife are popular, but La Palma is a quieter, eco-tourism-friendly pick.
Flight time: 4.5 hours from LA
When to go: November–April
Average winter temperature: 77°F
Quieter than Cabo but just as sun-drenched. This part of Mexico's Pacific Coast is all about beautiful beaches, migratory birds, and relaxation.
Baja California Sur is great for private getaways and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
Flight time: 15 hours from NYC
When to go: December–February
Average winter temperature: 80°F
Southern Hemisphere summer hits its peak here during U.S. winter. Hike Table Mountain, sip wine in Constantia, or laze by the beach. Cape Town is a culture-meets-coastline win for your next vacation.
Flight time: 5 hours from Dallas
When to go: December–April
Average winter temperature: 86°F
Belize hits all the right notes: rainforests, reef diving, and old-world charm. Visit national parks, chill on white sand beaches, and dive the Blue Hole.
It’s still one of the best winter sun destinations you’ve probably overlooked.
Flight time: 5 hours from Denver
When to go: November–April
Average winter temperature: 84°F
A classic sun destination on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta brings colorful streets, amazing local food, and beachfront resorts.
Book a Wander home in Jalisco with ocean views and catch the sunset from your private terrace.
Flight time: 20+ hours from NYC
When to go: October–March
Average winter temperature: 84°F
Looking for a private island escape? Seychelles delivers. Think lush jungles, white sand beaches, and snorkeling with green sea turtles. High-end, secluded, and worth the journey.
Flight time: 4.5 hours from LA
When to go: November–May
Average winter temperature: 79°F
A more laid-back alternative to Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo is all art galleries, good food, and beach holidays without the party crowd. Expect sunny days, stylish resorts, and easy access to Wander vacation homes.
Flight time: 4.5 hours from Houston
When to go: November–March
Average winter temperature: 82°F
Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and beyond, the Yucatán is packed with culture, cenotes, and coastal beauty. It’s peak season in winter, but it’s still easy to find your own slice of paradise.
Whether you're dreaming of a private island escape in the Indian Ocean or a weekend in sunny Mexico, these winter sun destinations offer more than warm weather; they offer freedom, joy, and unforgettable moments.
Browse Wander’s luxury winter sun vacation rentals in Cabo, Hawaii, San José del Cabo, Baja, and beyond, and make this winter your warmest yet.
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