A beach lover is never worried about getting that natural tan look any time of the year. They can look for hot places in December where they can enjoy the sun-kissing beaches. There are many warm countries in December that entertain lots of tourists every year. The popularity of these holiday destinations in December is mainly because of the admiring warm weather and vibrant beaches.
Other than beaches, you can explore pleasing landscapes and lots of fun outdoor adventures in these hot places in December. From taking a swim in the warm seawater to exploring underwater adventures, you can enjoy everything in these warm places in December. Moving forward, in this blog, we have mentioned the 12 most popular places in December that are ideal for a holiday. These aren’t just any holiday destinations, these are the best places to visit in December that are warm and sunny at this time of year. Read further to discover the warm destinations for December.
1. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is one of the hot places in December that people like to visit for holidays. The destination expects summery weather with perfect sunny days and warm nights. It is one of the top holiday destinations in December in South Africa where Christmas celebrations are cherished.
Every year, thousands of tourists visit here to dwell in the serene beauty of landscapes and try something fun for the holidays. Furthermore, there are many tourist attractions that you can add to your holiday itinerary. Table Mountain is one of the most recommended places to visit.
South Africa is one of the warm countries in December that celebrates Christmas with complete enthusiasm. You can visit the Christmas markets to enjoy the festive lights. Also, try the rich delicacies of South Africa while enjoying live music in a cosy cafe.
5 Best Places to Visit in Cape Town
- Boulders Beach
- Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
- Table Mountain
- Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
- Cape of Good Hope
5 Things to Do in Cape Town
- Spend a calm and relaxed morning on the sunny Boulder beach.
- Explore the view from Table Mountain via aerial cableway.
- Experience a wild encounter on a safari tour.
- Go for a local wine-tasting tour.
- Visit Robben Island, one of the most-visited museums in South Africa.
Temperature in December
Cape Town’s temperature during December can range between 15°C and 30°C.
Flight Duration from UK
The approximate time to fly from the UK to Cape Town is 11 to 12 hours.
2. Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is one of the fabulous hot places in December. The destination offers a fun festive atmosphere in a summery set-up. The beautiful mountain views and volcano caves are stunning to admire the destination.
The white sand beaches are ideal for subtle morning experiences. However, if you want to energise your mornings, you can opt for a morning hike on Mount Eden. In addition, you can climb up on the Sky Tower to enjoy the beautiful city view from the top.
Furthermore, to enjoy Auckland during Christmas, you can visit the Christmas markets to enjoy the pleasing decorations and taste delicious food. You can also visit the local wineries for a tour and wine tasting. Moving on, the Maori cultural shows are a fun way to spend the holidays and learn the local traditions via cultural songs and dance performances.
5 Best Places to Visit in Auckland
- Viaduct Harbour
- Sky Tower
- Mount Eden
- Rangitoto Island
- Auckland Museum
5 Things to Do in Auckland
- Experience stunning views from Sky Tower.
- Hike to the top of Mount Eden and enjoy the view.
- Discover the lava caves and tunnels of the Rangitoto Island.
- Book a cruise to downtown Auckland and enjoy whale watching.
- Attend Maori cultural shows to learn the traditional and cultural Maori songs and dances.
Temperature in December
Auckland’s temperature in December is somewhere between 15°C to 22°C.
Flight Duration from UK
Flying from the UK to Auckland can take about 23 hours to 24 hours.
3. Phuket, Thailand
Thailand is one of the warm destinations for December and Phuket is one of the warm places in December that offers a dynamic holiday experience. The stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes blend perfectly with the warm weather. The entire atmosphere is simply amazing and perfect for cultural experiences.
You can relax under the mild sun on Patong Beach. Engage yourself in thrilling activities such as jet skiing, sea diving, canoeing, snorkelling, etcetera. Other than that, the Green Elephant Sanctuary is a unique experience for tourists. You can visit there and feed the playful elephants. On the other hand, the temples in Phuket have quite a relaxing atmosphere. Visit the Big Buddha Temple to catch the meditation vibes.
Furthermore, you cannot ignore the mouthwatering Thai cuisine and thriving nightlife of Phuket. Many resorts, clubs, and pubs organise festive nights where you can vibe on your jam and try the authentic Thai food prepared by the world’s top-rated chefs.
5 Best Places to Visit in Phuket
- Patong Beach
- Big Buddha Phuket
- Old Phuket Town
- Phi Phi Islands
- Green Elephant Sanctuary
5 Things to Do in Phuket
- Visit Phi Phi Islands to enjoy snorkelling.
- Wander the streets of Thailand to binge eat popular Thai food.
- Visit the Old Phuket town for a city tour.
- Try jet skiing, sea diving, canoeing, and many more adventurous sports.
- Feed the playful elephants in the Green Elephant Sanctuary
Temperature in December
A minimum of 24°C to a maximum of 32°C is the expected temperature of Phuket in December.
Flight Duration from UK
The expected flight duration from the UK to Phuket is approximately 15 hours.
4. Miami, USA
Miami is one of the hot places in December that hosts Christmas events in the tropical setting. The sun is mild and pleasing allowing you to chill on the beach and entertain yourself via sports. You can play on the beach, swim, surf, and even dive under the sea to encounter marine life.
Christmas is the most exciting time in Miami as there are some places that are picture-perfect to celebrate the holiday season. You can enjoy a fun time in Santa’s Enchanted Forest and the magical night garden at Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden.
Moving on, Miami has a diverse culinary set-up during the holiday season where you can witness some top holiday dishes on the menu. You can try these delicacies while enjoying the cosy Christmas theme setting. Overall, Miami is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the festive celebrations in the best possible way.
5 Best Places to Visit in Miami
- Santa’s Enchanted Forest
- Little Havana
- Pinto’s Farm
- Miami Zoo
- Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden
5 Things to Do in Miami
- Rent a private boat for sightseeing.
- Discover the vibrant neighbourhoods of urban art in Wynwood Walls.
- Visit Little Havana for a delicious food tour.
- Experience the planetarium and aquarium of Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.
- Experience the nightlife of Miami on the beach.
Temperature in December
Miami’s temperature can range between 17°C to 24°C in December.
Flight Duration from UK
The approximate time duration of flights from the UK to Miami is 9 to 10 hours.
5. Dubai
Dubai is one of the hot places in December that experiences perfect weather during the holiday season. The mild temperatures are ideal for exploring popular tourist attractions and outdoor adventures. From breathtaking skyscrapers to aquapark adventure, Dubai has everything that a perfect holiday destination should have.
Dubai’s sparkling beaches are the top warm places in December where you can relax under the sun. There are many water sports to try here such as hydro watersports, parasailing, jet skiing, kite surfing, and more. Dubai Miracle Garden, Burj Khalifa, desert safari, Dubai Mall, and more are the most recommended places to visit during your holidays.
Furthermore, for Christmas festivities, Dubai has seasonal markets where you can visit to try festive food and drinks. Both locals and tourists love to see winter wonderland and winter gardens to enjoy the holiday spirit. In addition, skiing and snowman building are popular holiday activities for Christmas.
5 Best Places to Visit in Dubai
- Museum of The Future
- Dubai Miracle Garden
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Safari Park
5 Things to Do in Dubai
- Go for an incredible marine tour at Dubai Aquarium.
- Discover the panoramic views from the top of Burj Khalifa.
- Take a desert safari tour to enjoy a warm and happening day.
- Enjoy the evening fountain show under Burj Khalifa.
- Visit the world’s largest man-made flower garden, The Miracle Garden.
Temperature in December
16°C to 27°C is the expected temperature of Dubai in December.
Flight Duration from UK
Flying from the UK to Dubai can take around 7 hours and 30 minutes.
6. Bali, Indonesia
Bali in December is simply a paradise for thousands of travellers throughout the year. It is one of the warm destinations of December that surprises people with its tropical charm and vibrant landscapes. Most people prefer visiting Bali during December to enjoy its heavenly atmosphere with a hint of festive spirit.
Bali is popular for its temples which you should visit for cultural experiences. The rice terrace is a perfect place to start your morning with an energetic routine. You can also go for a morning trek to discover the beautiful Mount Batur. The occasional rain uplifts the entire atmosphere of the Sekumpul Waterfall to a magnificent extent.
The local markets in Bali are great for shopping. You can visit there to buy souvenirs from the friendly shopkeepers and ask them to lower their prices. They really appreciate shoppers with good bargaining skills. While you are exploring the markets, do not forget to try authentic Balinese food. It is simply heaven on a platter.
5 Best Places to Visit in Bali
- Nusa Dua Beach
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Mount Batur
- Ceking Rice Terrace
5 Things to Do in Bali
- Explore the Hindu and Buddhist temples for a cultural visit.
- Spend a day on the street markets and try popular Balinese cuisine.
- Try activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing, and more.
- Discover the beauty of Sekumpul Waterfall.
- Go for sunrise trekking to Mount Batur.
Temperature in December
Bali’s temperature in December can be 23°C minimum to 29°C maximum.
Flight Duration from UK
The average expected flight duration from the UK to Bali is 18 hours.
7. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Lanzarote is a popular holiday destination throughout the year. Travellers like to visit to experience the natural warmth and enjoy the winter sun in this popular destination of the Canary Islands. December is an ideal time to plan a holiday here as the weather is appropriate for exploring the outdoors without worrying about the rains.
December is like any other holiday season here as all the beach activities and tourist attraction spots are available open for visitors. You can enjoy a nice walk down the beach while enjoying the pleasant weather. On the other hand, the captivating beach activities like scuba diving, windsurfing, jet skiing and more.
Moreover, the Christmas season brings something interesting for travellers to discover. You can visit the Christmas markets and shop for souvenirs. You can also get a chance to meet and greet Santa while you are shopping.
5 Best Places to Visit in Lanzarote
- Papagayo Beach
- Puerto del Carmen
- La Graciosa
- Playa Blanca
- Arrecife
5 Things to Do in Lanzarote
- Encounter the rugged landscapes in the Timanfaya National Park.
- Go for the local wine tour to some of the best wineries.
- Engage in the night adventures of Playa Blanca.
- Enjoy the pleasing views while off-roading.
- Visit the stunning Christmas Markets of Lanzarote to enjoy their food, music, and more.
Temperature in December
14°C to 21°C is the expected temperature of Canary Island’s Lanzarote in December.
Flight Duration from UK
It would take about 4 hours and 30 minutes to fly from the UK to Lanzarote.
8. Cancun, Mexico
The rich culture, heritage, history, and natural beauty are the things that promote tourism in Mexico. Cancun is one of Mexico’s hot places in December that is quite popular among tourists. People love to visit here to enjoy their holiday on the pristine beaches and get a nice tan.
You can find so many amazing places to visit in Cancun. The underwater museum is a must-visit place where you can see around 500 sculptures. Furthermore, Cancun is one of the warm honeymoon destinations in December where you can enjoy a romantic dinner cruise with your partner.
Other than that, parasailing, snorkelling, and swimming along with giant whale sharks are some thrilling adventures Cancun holds. For the holiday season, the city organises live performances in their nightclubs. You can see many artists performing and jamming up the party mood. If you are looking for a subtle Christmas mood, visit Malecon Tajamar and enjoy the Christmas show in the Light Park.
5 Best Places to Visit in Cancun
- Tulum
- Chichén Itzá
- Mayan Museum of Cancun
- Quintana Roo
- Playa Delfines
5 Things to Do in Cancun
- Discover the historical sites and ancient ruins of Tulum.
- Try the daring shark encounter where you can swim along with the giant whale sharks.
- Explore the underwater museum of Cancun.
- Visit the La Isla Shopping Village for a shopping spree to buy souvenirs.
- Attend the live music and events of the holiday season at beach parties, clubs, and resorts.
Temperature in December
The maximum temperature of Cancun is around 28°C whereas the minimum can go around 20°C in December.
Flight Duration from UK
The time duration of your flight from the UK to Cancun could take around 10 to 11 hours.
9. Maldives
Maldives is among the popular holiday destinations that people prefer visiting for holidays from all over the world. It is undoubtedly one of the hot places in December that offers a dry climate and clear blue sky. There are plenty of outdoor activities to try here. In addition, the weather is amazing yet unbeatable.
You can enjoy a warm day on the vibrant beaches and enjoy the crystal clear water. Simultaneously, there are plenty of activities to perform outdoors. Snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and many other activities are highly recommended. Moving on, there are many historical landmarks that are popular tourist attractions.
Also, the spa treatments are sure to try when you are in Maldives. It is a luxurious experience that will release your stress and uplift your holiday mood. Talking about holidays, you must not let the spirit fade away with outdoor activities only. Christmas is the time when Maldives welcomes quite a holiday crowd. The markets are decorated with lights and there are many options available for your holiday feast.
5 Best Places to Visit in Maldives
- Male
- Banana Reef
- Maafushi Island
- Velassaru Maldives
- Baros Island
5 Things to Do in Maldives
- Go on boat tours for dolphin watching.
- Enjoy a thrilling snorkelling and scuba diving experience at the Banana Reefs.
- Spend a relaxing day on the vibrant sun-kissing beaches.
- Encounter the famous tourist attractions and historical landmarks.
- Opt for luxurious spa treatments to rejuvenate your senses.
Temperature in December
Maldives’ temperature in December can range from 25°C to 30°C.
Flight Duration from UK
The flights can take approximately 10 to 11 hours while travelling from the UK to Maldives.
10. Goa, India
Goa is one of the popular warm destinations for December and has so many things to offer to its visitors. The beaches are for sure one of the hot places in December to start your holiday mood. You can enjoy various adventure sports on the beach such as parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, kayaking, etcetera.
You must explore the popular historical landmarks as they are the major tourist attractions of Goa. The Reis Magos Fort, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort, and more are Goa’s perfect holiday destinations in December. You can visit there for sightseeing. Also, you must visit the local markets to buy handmade jewellery and home decor items as souvenirs.
Furthermore, Goa organises the 3-day long Sunburn festival during this time of the year. You should join the fest to enjoy live music and dance to the beats of international DJs. In addition, you can visit Old Goa to see the Christmas decorations.
5 Best Places to Visit in Maldives
- Baga Beach
- Fort Aguada
- Dudhsagar Falls
- Dona Paula
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
5 Things to Do in Goa
- The beaches should be your primary focus on the Goa tour.
- Must visit the Dudhsagar Falls as it is a popular tourist attraction of Goa.
- Learn the history of Goa's forts on a historic visit.
- Experience the Christmas traditions of the churches in Goa.
- Indulge in the tempting beauty of Goa’s nightlife and casinos.
Temperature in December
The temperature of Goa can reach up to 32°C during the day. On the other hand, it can drop up to 21°C in the evening.
Flight Duration from UK
Flying from the UK to Goa usually takes 9 to 10 hours.
11. St. Lucia
St. Lucia is an ideal holiday destination to visit if you are looking for hot places in December. It is one of the warm countries in December that experiences amazing weather. The best thing about St. Lucia in December is the weather. It is one of the best times to plan your holidays. You can enjoy the best weather along with the amazing views.
There are many things and warm places in December to experience in this country. You can take a tour of Sulphur Springs to encounter the active volcano of St. Lucia and try the therapeutic mud baths. The coral reefs, beaches, and historical landmarks are some of the prominent elements of this country that attracts visitor’s attention.
If you are an adventure lover, then it is a plus. You can enjoy many adventure activities here such as snorkelling, diving, hiking, zip lining, etcetera. Another fun thing to explore is a chocolate tour. The tourists like to go on a tempting tour to learn about the chocolate plantation and chocolate making. Other than that, the “festival of lights” is the special event of December which the locals celebrate. It is a Christmas tradition that symbolises hope in the face of light.
5 Best Places to Visit in St. Lucia
- Rodney Bay
- Soufrière Volcano
- Sandals Halcyon Beach
- Pigeon Island
- Sulphur Springs
5 Things to Do in St. Lucia
- Go ziplining and hiking to experience the fascinating views.
- Enjoy a mineral bath at the diamond waterfall of the Diamond Botanical Garden.
- Learn the chocolate history of St. Lucia on a chocolate tour.
- Visit the historical landmarks and ruins of the place.
- Indulge with the fantastic Christmas decorations and town events.
Temperature in December
The temperature of St. Lucia can range from 23°C to 29°C in December.
Flight Duration from UK
It would take about 9 hours to fly from the UK to St. Lucia.
12. Colombo, Sri Lanka
If you are looking for hot places in December where you can enjoy the weather and warmth of nature, Colombo is your go-to destination. As a matter of fact, Sri Lanka is one of the warm countries in December that welcomes a lot of tourists and entertains them with its charming beauty.
The weather is quite pleasing and ideal for outdoor escapades. You can enjoy a sunny day while exploring some of the popular tourist attractions of the city. Enjoy a cosy day on the beach and try entertaining water activities such as surfing, scuba diving, rafting, etcetera.
Moving on, you must visit the popular tourist attraction sites. Also, do not forget to go on the city tour to try the local food. Moreover, December is the festive season. So, you can engage yourself in the month-long Christmas festivities and enjoy Christmas decorations, music festivals, food, and fireworks.
5 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
- Mount Lavinia Beach
- Gangaramaya Temple
- Galle Face Green
- Pettah Market
- Viharamahadevi Park
5 Things to Do in Sri Lanka
- Enjoy relaxing mornings with clear blue skies on the famous Lavinia Beach.
- Go for a Colombo city tour to some of the popular tourist attractions.
- Visit the Dambulla cave temple which is a World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka.
- Join the Christmas festivities of the town and enjoy live music performances.
- Must try the popular festive food such as candied pumpkin, candied ginger, maraschino cherries, and more.
Temperature in December
The least expected temperature of Colombo in December is 24°C and the highest expected temperature is 31°C.
Flight Duration from UK
10 hours and 30 minutes is the approximate flight duration from the UK to Sri Lanka.