Oh, baby, it's getting cold outside. The year's frostiest season is knocking at the door, promising months of icy temps and snow-covered landscapes. While the Winter season does bring with it the holidays and prime snow-shredding conditions [1], the shorter days and frigid nights can also bring on a case of the Winter blues [2]. So, if you need to recharge and defrost this season, read on for 10 warm-weather destinations that are sure to provide sunshine-filled relief from the year's coldest months.
Big Sur, California
This jaw-dropping slice of rugged coastline in California is famous for its coastal cliffs, 80-foot waterfalls, zigzagging roads, and panoramic views of the hazy Pacific. Winter is touted as the best time to visit this West Coast gem, as crowds and prices tend to drop once Summer ends. Make it a budget-friendly trip and camp in one of the numerous beautiful state parks nearby (but be sure to pack warm gear as it gets rather chilly at night), or go a touch more luxe at the Redwood Canyon Glampsites [4] at Ventana Big Sur, set in the middle of the magnificent California redwoods.
Sri Lanka
This lush island nation off the coast of India was recently tagged as one of the top countries to visit [5] in 2019 by Lonely Planet, and for good reason. It's bubbling with historic sights and stunning landscapes, and because of its tropical year-round temperatures, the Winter months are an ideal time to escape to this island oasis.
Hawaii
The Winter season in America's 50th state [6] brings continued warm temperatures, huge ocean waves (it's a total dream for seasoned surfers — and for spectators!), and prime humpback-whale watching. The climate might be a tad wetter from December through March, but rain typically arrives in short spurts, and that's a meager price to pay to unwind on a small slice of untamed paradise. Plus, if you've never seen a rainbow illuminating the Hawaiian sky, you're in for a treat!
Cambodia
If heat and culture are what you crave, and you don't mind spending 12-plus hours in-flight to get there, Cambodia will leave you speechless. Winter is dry season for the Southeast Asian country, and you'll find temperatures consistently in the lower 80s. The country is brimming with ancient temples (the most famous of which is Angkor Wat [7]), a cheap and delicious food scene, and miles of scenic and laidback coastline.
Rio de Janerio
While we're busy dusting off our snow boots and fleece-lined leggings, Rio de Janerio is on the brink of its rocking Summer season! Trade frosty temperatures for sunshine-filled days lounging on the golden sands and sleepless nights overflowing with caipirinhas and your best samba moves.
St. Lucia
This Eastern Caribbean island might be meager in diameter, but its staggering terrain is diverse enough to span countries 10 times its size. Think volcanic beaches set against sparkling seas, a densely packed rainforest harboring waterfalls and jagged cliffs, and a sprinkling of charming fishing villages along the coast. The weather is glorious in the Winter, and although the island is revered for its ultra-luxurious resort scene, you can also score ocean-adjacent accommodations [8] on Airbnb for well under $100 per night.
Dubai
Dubai sparkles on the Persian Gulf, blending glamour, gravity-defying architecture, and buzzy nightlife into one vibrant metropolis of colours and culture. While its desert location usually yields sweltering temperatures, Winters in this Emirate city drop to a pleasant 80 degrees, and the city embraces its green spaces and gardens. Be sure to check out the world-famous and highly Instagrammed Jumeirah Beach Park, and, if you start to get homesick for icier climates (although you probably won't), you can get your snow fix at the indoor Ski Dubai.
Grenada
In addition to the delicious aroma of nutmeg in the air, the "Spice Island" boasts a sprawling list of wanderlust-worthy qualities. Some of the highlights include charming candy-coloured villages, emerald waters, bountiful coral reefs, and famously friendly locals, just to name a few. Expect a milder and drier climate to emerge in the Winter months, particularly beginning in January, on this Caribbean island.
New Orleans
There's something endearing about this eclectic alchemy of cultures; the Big Easy has long attracted hordes of visitors with its award-winning culinary scene, around-the-clock nightlife, baroque architecture, and world-famous festivals. While more than a million people will dash down South for Mardi Gras each year, travellers can experience the splendor of the city — sans crowds – in the early Winter months. The weather (and the seafood gumbo) is still warm all year long.
Costa Rica
Drenched in astounding natural beauty at every turn, Costa Rica is a wondrous place to find respite from the bitter Winter cold. Relax on the unbridled sands at Montezuma Beach and explore the nearby rainforest or head to the adventure-lover's paradise of Sarapiqui, where you can hike, whitewater raft, and catch a glimpse of the exotic local wildlife. The temperature hovers around 80 degrees all year long, even in the Winter months.