Endless Summer - 6 of the Best Winter Sun Destinations Around the World
We think you’ll agree that the notion of an endless summer is more than a little compelling. With September 22 marking the official start of fall —and the days growing both shorter and colder —it’s hard to deny the appeal of a place where it feels like summer all year long. Thankfully, many such places really do exist. And lest you think you’ve run out of time to plan that next sunny escape this year, we’ve rounded up six of our very favorite warm winter vacation spots around the world. Here in these dreamy destinations, you can still chase those sun-soaked summer vibes in the long, cooler months to come.
Cape Verde, Africa
This lesser-known archipelago off the westernmost point of Africa is fairly remote. But, if you’re craving a little sunshine in the winter, Cape Verde may be the beach destination you’ve been waiting for. This volcanic island cluster sees year-round sunshine and warmth, with average temps ranging between 81 degrees Fahrenheit in August to a not-even-a-little-cold 73 degrees in January. Adding to its perennial sunshine and warmth, Cape Verde is home to an abundance of picturesque beaches that are best explored by boat. And for such a petite land mass, it’s also home to a thriving music and nightlife scene, making those shorter winter days back home feel like a distant memory.
Yucatán and Quintana Roo, Mexico
These Mexican states are better known for their beach meccas of Cancun, Cozumel, the Riviera Maya and Tulum—but when it comes to winter sun destinations that are guaranteed to please, you can’t go wrong wherever you may decide to rest your head. As a country, Mexico is known to remain somewhere between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit even in the fall and winter. These Caribbean-facing beach destinations are among the best places to soak up the sun. In addition to the incredible year-round temps, the Yucatán Peninsula and Quintana Roo also earn top marks for accessibility. You can rely on an array of daily direct flights in and out of the region’s centerpiece airport in Cancun. Laze away those fall and winter days on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world where you can snorkel in crystal clear waters and explore ancient cenotes. Don’t forget to cap it all off with some of the best tacos you won’t find anywhere else.
Dubai, UAE
For beach lovers, this modern Middle Eastern outpost may not immediately spring to mind—but it should. Widely known as a true city of the future, Dubai has made a genuine oasis out of a natural landscape that often sees soaring 100-degree Fahrenheit temps in the summer months. But therein lies the beauty of visiting this extraordinary destination in the cooler fall and winter months, when temps fall to a more temperate 70 degrees on average. Thanks to its desert climate you can say goodbye to humidity here, with winter weather that manages to feel warm, welcoming and breezy without a hint of unwanted moisture in the air. Spend your days on the beach, then experience the world-renowned architecture by night, such as the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Perhaps better known for its beautiful beaches like Ipanema and its boisterous celebrations like Carnival, Rio de Janeiro is an inspired choice for a visit during the colder months. In January, far from the doldrums of winter, this cosmopolitan city is home to an array of one-of-a-kind outdoor activities in temps that tend to hover right around 80 degrees Fahrenheit—all year. Even the city’s spectacular Christmas celebration is likely to take place in toasty weather, making it an excellent destination for a holiday getaway. From hiking and sunbathing to shopping, dining and even night-clubbing, Rio is an international city that never sleeps. When the rest of the world back home feels like it’s gone into cold-weather hibernation, this kind of vacation really hits the spot.
Hawaiian Islands, U.S.
It would be impossible to make a list of places where you can get a healthy dose of sunshine in winter without including Hawaii. If you’re looking for a taste of the world’s most exotic seascapes, combined with true ease of travel (U.S. citizens don’t need a passport for this seemingly far-away trip) you simply won’t find anywhere else like these tropical islands. In winter, the Hawaiian Islands see temps in the 80s with lows around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. And while the water may feel cool at times, the best way to experience it is to earn it—with a scenic hike that’s truly unmatched in terrain and sweeping views. Among the islands, Maui is one of the hottest in terms of both daily temps and popularity. But you can’t go wrong with an escape to any of the major Hawaiian Islands in the fall or winter.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Snowbirds have known the secret for years: in Florida, the temperature never swings too low, even in the winter. In the sunny Atlantic-facing city of Fort Lauderdale— which features balmy year-round temps (hovering in the 70s Fahrenheit in winter)—you’ll find world-class dining and attractions. Spend your days sunbathing, surfing, or simply wandering through the tangle of shops and restaurants that line the Strip on A1A. There are also top-notch museums and art galleries, along with shopping, theaters, and of course, boating. After all, Fort Lauderdale is the Yachting Capital of the World, and here, you’ll always find something to do on the open water year round.
Expedition Essentials
Even in the fall and winter months, it’s key to prepare for the sun. Wherever you may plan your next endless summer escape, be sure to keep your beach bag stocked with the essentials.
- Layers and UPF-rated apparel, like can keep you protected from the sun’s rays even when you may not feel them.
- A favorite pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes and keep you going all day.
- An array of sun protection in your favorite format, making sure to reapply throughout the day to keep your skin safe from the sun throughout the day.
