Best places for winter sun

CAPE VERDE

Head to Cape Verde and explore this group of islands floating off the west coast of Africa. Two of the most popular spots are Sal and Boa Vista, which both flaunt miles of sandy beach. Make the most of the laidback seaside lifestyle with surfing and whale watching. Plus, there are cobbled towns lined with traditional restaurants.

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GRAN CANARIA

This Canary Island is one of the UK’s favourite destinations for a winter sun holiday, and for good reason. Temperatures in Gran Canaria sit above 20C all year round, making it one of the warmest places to visit in the Canary Islands. Plus, your winter break is only a four-hour flight away, so you’ll be relaxing on the beaches of Maspalomas and making a splash in the island’s family-friendly waterparks before you know it.

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MALDIVES

The Maldives is known as the Indian Ocean’s honeymoon hotspot. But, regardless of whether you’ve just tied the knot, the UK’s winter months are the ideal time to visit this group of islands, as you can really enjoy the toasty temperatures. Plus, there’s a world-class scuba diving and snorkelling scene, which shows off the region’s brightly coloured coral reefs. Stay in water villas with infinity views of the sea, and flop on palm tree-lined sand.

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THAILAND

Thailand’s tropical climate makes it perfect for a winter break. And, there’s loads to do here, too. In the north of the country, you’ll find national parks home to wild elephants, while the islands in the south offer everything from jungle 4x4 rides to Buddhist temples. If you’re a beach lover, head to Koh Samui – the island’s biggest draw is its powder-soft beaches. 

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COSTA RICA

Holidays to Costa Rica have it all – exotic wildlife, simmering volcanoes, and rainforest adventures. Plus, there’s plenty of sunshine. The country’s winter temperatures are only a couple of degrees below their summer ones, so if you’re after heat, there’s never a bad time to visit. And, while Costa Rica might be famous for its jungle interior, it’s got long sweeps of beach up for grabs, too. 

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ST LUCIA

Temperatures hover around 30C in St Lucia in the winter, so it’s the perfect place to get yourself some winter sun. It’s home to all the tropical trademarks, too. We’re talking secluded sandy coves, wildlife-filled rainforest and impressive volcanic peaks. You can spend your days sailing along the coast and learning to dance ‘Lucian’ style in the north. Or, exploring candy-hued villages and the Piton Mountains in the south.

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Ready for things to heat up?

Take a look at all our holidays.

Plus, get clued up on our best winter holiday deals. Or, for more inspiration, read about the top things to do in Sal, Cape Verde and what to do in the Maldives.

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Author: Lizzie Butler and Jessica Houtby