Is this the year you trade frosty mornings for sandy beaches? While the charm of a cosy, cold Christmas is undeniable, why not switch things up by basking in the warmth of a sunny getaway? Whether you’re looking to jet off before the big day or spend Christmas soaking up the rays, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to where is hot in December.
From iconic Aussie beaches to tropical paradises and vibrant cityscapes, these destinations promise to make your winter unforgettable. Let’s dive in and discover where you could be catching some sunshine this December.
Australia
Any serious list of where’s hot in December locations has to include Australia. While the northern hemisphere is bundling up, Aussies are firing up the barbecue on golden beaches, often donning Santa hats. December marks the start of summer, and almost every corner of this vast country is warm. Just steer clear of the tropical north, where humidity and heavy rains take center stage.
Byron Bay
December is the start of summer in Byron Bay, with average maximum temperatures of 27°C. This beach town is a hive of activity and is a melting pot of old-school hippies, international backpackers, families and the rich and famous. Anyone who’s anyone holidays in Byron Bay, and it certainly shows during peak season in the long queues and crowded beaches. December is slightly calmer, as the high season is just warming up. Regardless of the crowds, Byron Bay is an iconic place to spend your December vacation. Sunrise yoga, surfing, hipster cafés, beach-bum life. That’s what Byron Bay is all about.
Sydney
The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race starts on the 26th December, and is an important event in Sydney’s social calendar. Watch the sleek yachts cut through the ocean from the best view point in town; Sydney Harbour. Wave them off as they start the 628 nautical mile course, often described as the most gruelling long ocean race in the world. Christmas in Sydney is a festive affair, and very similar to Christmas in the UK, with one exception: it’s hot. But the Christmas decorations, sitting on Santa’s lap, Christmas markets and Christmas dinner are all the same nostalgic things that we’re used to back home.
Europe
December is one of the coldest months in Europe, so our list of where’s hot in December in Europe is short but sweet. Whilst it might not be as hot as some of the other tropical destinations on this list, there are still pockets of Europe that experience sunny days and warm temperatures throughout the month of December.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
The weather in Lanzarote in December reaches average daily highs of 21°C. Still considered Europe, as it’s part of Spain, Lanzarote is one of the islands that make up the Canary Islands, located just off the north-west coast of Africa. The weather in December is hot enough to sunbathe and enjoy the beaches that this Spanish island has to offer. Lanzarote has excellent hiking, surfing and diving spots which make it the perfect destination for adventure lovers. The island also has its own wine region, and along with its long list of critically acclaimed restaurants, you’re sure to eat and drink your way through Lanzarote quite happily.
The Philippines
Being a largely Catholic country, the Philippines celebrates Christmas in a big way. It’s such an important holiday here that the Christmas season starts on the 1st of September! Filipinos will start to decorate their homes with festive cheer and Christmas trees in September, and leave them up ‘til January. Christmas celebrations in the Philippines are by far the longest, and most extravagant, in the world. There are a mixture of western and native Filipino traditions to get involved in, and by the time December rolls around, Christmas cheer is at an all time high.
A tropical country with high temperatures and humidity for much of the year, visiting the Philippines in the cooler months of December is advisable. You’ll still have plenty of sunny days and average temperatures of around 31°C. As with all tropical destinations, the weather can be unpredictable and there is still a chance of occasional typhoons and heavy rains in December. However, you can confidently add the Philippines to your list of where’s hot in December.
Palawan Island
Palawan Island is the fifth largest island in the Philippines, and is home to the popular tourist spots of El Nido and Coron. Whilst these are both well-travelled destinations (and can get quite busy), there is good reason for it. Stunning scenery, sand so white it looks like crystals and the bluest of blue tropical waters, El Nido is somewhat of a sensation in the travelling world. Island hop to hidden lagoons and secret beaches (yes, there are still a few without crowds on them!). El Nido can only be described as paradise, and should be on top of your list of where is hot in December.
Siargao Island
On the other side of the Philippines is Siargao Island – known as the Bali of the Philippines, back in the heydays of the 60’s. Mass tourism is yet to fully descend on Siargao Island, but is slowly creeping in each year. Life on the island revolves around the surf, the sea and the environment. Siargao is the most environmentally conscious island in Asia. Not only are plastic bottles and straws completely banned from the island, but every hotel, hostel and restaurant has to provide filtered water tanks free of charge to anyone who wants to fill up a reusable water bottle. Additionally, all the energy used on the island comes from renewable sources. The community of Siargao, including citizens, residents and long-stay tourists are passionate about keeping their island clean and protected. It’s a wonderful place to visit, but make sure you go soon as it’s becoming ever more popular by the year. December in Siargao is considered low-season, so if you want to beat the crowds, it’s a fantastic time to go.
Miami, Florida
The temperature of the ocean in Miami is around 22°C in December, and remains to be the country’s warmest ocean water throughout winter. Similarly, the average daily temperature in Miami in December is a very pleasant 26°C, making it one of the best destinations to visit in December. Brush up on your golf skills in one of the 46 golf courses in Miami and the surrounding areas. They really love golf here. Spend days on the beach, or checking out Miami’s buzzing art scene. Night time in Miami kicks off as the sun sets, and there’s something for everyone. Understated piano bars, salsa halls, and big, glittering night clubs where people go to be seen. Miami is the epitome of fun, and it’s in full swing in December. Direct flights from London to Miami take around 9 hours, and there are plenty of airlines to choose from to take you there!
