Where is hot in February?

DUBAI

This indulgent slice of the Middle East puts scene-stealing skyscrapers, cavernous shopping malls, and luxurious hotels centre stage. Thanks to its tropical desert climate, blue skies are a given in Dubai, and rain’s pretty scarce. In contrast to the summer’s sweltering highs of 45C, February usually welcomes temperatures in the mid-twenties, which is much more bearable for sightseeing and sunbathing. Jumeirah Beach Residence, which translates to ‘beautiful beach’, is dubbed by those in-the-know as one of the most exclusive places to stay. Or take the five-star Sofitel the Palm – this suave property boasts six restaurants, a lagoon-like pool, and spa with 28 treatment rooms, as well as a Turkish Hammam.

Don’t be fooled into thinking this destination is all style and no substance, though. If you want to experience some local culture, time your trip to coincide with the Dubai Food Festival in February. For an entire month, street food stalls, pop up cafés and exhibitions spring up all over the city. And keep your eyes peeled for offers. Last year’s festival put on three-course meals in 15 of the city’s top restaurants for around Dhs199 per person – that’s the equivalent of £40.

Average February temperature: 25C

Average February rainfall: 35mm

Average February sunshine: 8 hours

CUBA

Cuba offers the best of both worlds – beach retreat and city break. Plus the island is a year-round hotspot because of its tropical climate. Winter months, including February, are the best time to visit. This is when tan fanatics can bask in up to eight hours of sunshine a day. And there’ll be no need for coats and scarves in the balmy 26C.

As the largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba’s got a lot to shout about, from Varadero’s 13-mile beach and ecological reserve, to Havana’s tales of the Revolution. Our Multi-Destination holidays let you pair up two or more of this Caribbean island’s highlights, so you can see things at your own pace. Read more about how to tailor-make your perfect holiday.

Average February temperature: 26C

Average February rainfall: 46mm

Average February sunshine: 8 hours

MEXICO

With average temperatures of 23C, and highs of 29C, Mexico’s a great setting for smug social media posts February. But first things first, you need to pick a side. The Caribbean Coast blends the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza with the lively nightlife of Cancun. Things start to pick up from late February through until March as the Spring Break parties that are popular with students begin. If you prefer things a bit quieter, make tracks to Riviera Maya, and stay at our five-star TUI SENSATORI Resort Azul Mexico. This beachfront hotel offers Gourmet All Inclusive™ as standard, and is highly rated on TripAdvisor.

To the west is Mexico’s Pacific Coast, home to the buttery beaches of Puerto Vallarta. This shoreline majors in water sports – jet skiing and boogie boarding are just the beginning. Or unleash your inner Tarzan and zip line through the Sierre Madre Mountains.

Average February temperature: 23C

Average February rainfall: 46mm

Average February sunshine: 9 hours

COSTA RICA

There’s a reason February’s a popular time to visit Costa Rica. From May to November the country sees its fair share of rain. It's nicknamed the 'green season' because of the rich vegetation that covers the land. That changes in February, when the hot, dry weather makes sunbathing a dream. It's also easier to spot animals if you go on a rainforest trek.

Playa Tamarindo, on the north-east coast, is a surfer’s paradise. Don’t be surprised to see the occasional monkey playing in the palms that surround these beaches. Meanwhile, Playa de Matapalo offers more of a secluded vibe. There are only two big-name hotels on the sands here, Riu Guanacaste and Riu Palace Costa Rica, so this stretch of coast is pretty much their private beach. If sitting still’s not for you, check out our four-day Cloud Forest Tour. You’ll get the chance to zip-line through the treetops of Monteverde Cloud Forest, and bask in the thermal hot springs of Arenal.

Average February temperature: 28C

Average February rainfall: 2mm

Average February sunshine: 7 hours

Feeling inspired?

Stay home. Keep dreaming. Keep discovering.

Just so you know, this was written before the COVID-19 outbreak.

Start planning next February’s holiday today, and lock in some winter sunshine. Just visit our winter deals page to start your journey. Also, why not have a read of where’s hot in April.

Author: Sarah Clayton