Oh, the winter blues are real, aren’t they? As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop here in the UK, I find myself dreaming of warm sunshine, sandy beaches and afternoons spent lounging by a beautiful pool.
If you’re wondering where to go for winter sun in December, you’re in the right place! December is a wonderful time to escape the cold and enjoy a change of scenery, whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday, a luxurious city break or a tropical island escape.
The trick is choosing a destination with lovely weather at the right time of year. From the dramatic coastline of Mexico to the glamorous beaches of Dubai and the turquoise waters of the Maldives, there are some incredible places to enjoy a little winter sunshine.
I’ve picked three dreamy destinations that deserve a place on your winter travel wish list, along with a luxury resort to consider in each location.
So, grab a cup of tea (or perhaps a tropical cocktail!) and let’s explore three warm places to visit in December.
1. Los Cabos, Mexico
Average December daytime high: around 26°C
If you love dramatic landscapes, beautiful beaches and contemporary luxury hotels, Los Cabos in Mexico is a gorgeous destination to consider for a December holiday.
Located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is known for its desert scenery, rugged coastline, stylish resorts and beautiful sunsets. December brings pleasantly warm days and generally drier weather, making it a lovely time to explore the area without the intense heat of summer.
You can spend your mornings relaxing by the pool, head out on a boat trip or explore the local restaurants before watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.
December is also the start of the winter whale-watching season, so you may have the opportunity to spot migrating whales during a boat excursion.
Where to stay: Viceroy Los Cabos
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel that feels a little different from the usual beach resort, Viceroy Los Cabos is worth adding to your list.
This striking property is famous for its contemporary architecture, reflecting pools and walkways that appear to float across the water. The design creates a wonderfully cinematic setting, with the resort’s buildings and pools blending into the surrounding landscape. It’s a great choice if you love beautiful hotel interiors, impressive architecture and plenty of photo-worthy corners.
The resort has a sophisticated atmosphere, with stylish accommodation, swimming pools, restaurants and spaces designed for relaxing by the water. It’s a great option for travellers who want a luxury escape with a strong design element.
Fun fact: Viceroy Los Cabos was featured in Season 7 of Netflix’s Selling Sunset, including the episode titled “Cabo San Loco”.
Where to book
You can check current offers and packages through Luxury Escapes. Compare the inclusions, room categories and travel dates before booking, as offers can change.
Here is 10% off discount code you can use on the Luxury Escapes website – colourmeinstyleautumn
Why visit Los Cabos in December?
- Enjoy warm, sunny days without the peak summer heat.
- Experience dramatic desert landscapes and beautiful coastal scenery.
- Look out for migrating whales during the winter season.
- Stay in a design-led luxury resort with beautiful swimming pools.
- Combine beach relaxation with restaurants, boat trips and local excursions.
- Best for: Couples, luxury travellers, stylish hotel stays and anyone looking for a sunny December escape with a little adventure.
Things to do in Los Cabos
2. Dubai
Average December daytime high: around 27°C
For a winter holiday that combines sunshine, shopping, incredible restaurants and beautiful beach clubs, Dubai is always worth considering. December is one of the most enjoyable months to visit Dubai. The weather is generally warm and sunny, with an average daytime high of around 27°C, making it much more comfortable to explore than during the hotter summer months.
You can spend the day by the pool or on the beach, wander around Dubai Marina, visit some of the city’s famous attractions or enjoy dinner outdoors in the evening.
There’s also plenty to do beyond the beach. From luxury shopping malls and rooftop restaurants to desert experiences and festive events, Dubai offers a lovely mix of relaxation and city excitement.
If you’re travelling over Christmas, you’ll also find seasonal decorations, festive dining experiences and plenty of celebrations throughout the city.
Where to stay: Raffles The Palm Dubai
For a luxurious beachfront stay, Raffles The Palm Dubai is a property to consider on Palm Jumeirah.
The hotel has an elegant European-inspired design, grand interiors and a beachfront setting that feels worlds away from the busier parts of the city. It’s a lovely option if you want to combine a relaxing resort holiday with easy access to Dubai’s restaurants, shopping and attractions.
Picture spacious accommodation, beautiful pool areas, beachside relaxation and leisurely meals after a day exploring the city.
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Dubai is the choice of experiences available. You can spend one day doing very little at the resort, then head out the next day to explore the city or book a desert excursion.
If you enjoy luxury hotels but don’t want to spend your entire holiday on a remote island, Dubai offers a great balance.
How to book
Check Luxury Escapes for available Dubai hotel packages and compare what’s included, particularly breakfast, dining credits and any other benefits.
Here is 10% off discount code you can use on the Luxury Escapes website – colourmeinstyleautumn
Why visit Dubai in December?
- Enjoy warm weather that’s ideal for outdoor activities.
- Relax at beautiful beaches, swimming pools and beach clubs.
- Explore the city’s restaurants, shopping and iconic landmarks.
- Experience festive events and seasonal attractions.
- Combine a luxury hotel stay with sightseeing and desert adventures.
- Best for: Families, couples, food lovers, shopping enthusiasts and travellers who want sunshine with plenty to see and do.
Things to do in Dubai
3. The Maldives
Average December daytime high: around 30°C
If your idea of the perfect winter holiday involves turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches and waking up to the sound of the ocean, the Maldives is hard to beat.
This tropical island destination is a dream for anyone looking to escape the cold. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, generally reaching around 30°C during the day, with beautifully warm seas and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water.
December is a popular time to visit, particularly towards Christmas and New Year. The weather often becomes drier as the month progresses, although rain showers are still possible, especially earlier in December.
Imagine starting your morning with breakfast overlooking the ocean, spending the afternoon snorkelling in clear water and watching the sunset from your villa.
It’s the kind of holiday where you can slow down, enjoy the surroundings and spend your days doing as much or as little as you like.
Where to stay: LUX* South Ari Atoll
If you’re dreaming of a stylish island escape, LUX* South Ari Atoll is a resort worth exploring.
Located in the South Ari Atoll, this tropical resort combines white sandy beaches, turquoise water and contemporary island accommodation. It’s the sort of place that makes you want to put your phone away for a while and simply enjoy being somewhere beautiful.
Depending on the room category you choose, you can experience beachfront accommodation or the iconic overwater villa setting that the Maldives is famous for.
The resort also offers opportunities to enjoy the surrounding marine environment, with activities such as snorkelling, diving and excursions available to help you make the most of your island stay.
And, of course, there are plenty of beautiful spots to relax, whether you prefer lounging by the pool, walking along the beach or enjoying a meal with an ocean view.
A handy tip for booking a Maldives holiday
The Maldives can be an expensive destination, particularly when you factor in transfers, meals, drinks and activities.
Before booking, compare the cost of a bed-and-breakfast stay with half-board, full-board and all-inclusive packages. An all-inclusive option can offer better value if you plan to enjoy most of your meals and drinks at the resort.
Don’t forget to check the transfer arrangements, too. Depending on the island, you may need a speedboat or seaplane transfer, which can add a significant amount to the overall cost of your holiday.
Where to book
Look for current Luxury Escapes packages and check whether meals, transfers or resort credits are included in the offer.
Use this 10% discount – colourmeinstyleautumn
Why visit the Maldives in December?
- Enjoy tropical temperatures and warm ocean water.
- Stay in a beachfront villa or an iconic overwater villa.
- Spend your days snorkelling, diving or relaxing by the beach.
- Experience a peaceful island escape away from busy cities.
- Celebrate Christmas or New Year somewhere truly special.
- Best for: Tropical beach holidays, couples, families who love island resorts and anyone dreaming of a bucket-list luxury escape.
Other resorts to consider in the Maldives
Which destination is best for winter sun in December?
All three destinations offer something different, so the best choice depends on the kind of holiday you’re looking for.
Choose Los Cabos if you love striking architecture, desert scenery, luxury resorts and a little adventure alongside your beach time.
Choose Dubai if you want warm weather with shopping, restaurants, sightseeing and plenty of activities for the whole family.
Choose the Maldives if your dream holiday involves tropical beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and a slower pace of life.
If guaranteed sunshine is your biggest priority, remember that no destination can promise perfect weather every day. The Maldives can still experience rain in December, while evenings in Los Cabos can be cooler than you might expect. It’s always worth checking the seasonal conditions before booking.
Disclosure: Some links in this article may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you. Please check the latest hotel offers, package inclusions and booking conditions directly before making a reservation.
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