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Are you done with spending December the same old way? Are bored of browsing Christmas markets, ice-skating and eating hearty stews? Then allow us to convince you to book a sunshine holiday in an exotic location to escape the bitter British winter. If you're anything like us, you want to get on the first flight out of the UK to celebrate Christmas on a sandy beach with a cocktail in hand so allow us to unveil the best sunshine holidays for Wintersun that will help you return to the UK in 2025 relaxed, refreshed and ready to kick-start your new year with a new lease of life.
Why you should book a Wintersun holiday in 2024
When it comes to Christmas destinations, it’s easy to think of the standard places like:
And as gloriously festive as they are, the snowy scenes, Christmas trees and turkeys have been done to death! Now, it's time to think outside the box this year when planning your Christmas holiday and turn to sunnier horizons with a Wintersun holiday.
The 18 Best Wintersun Destinations for 2024
1. Christmas in Bali
Average temperature in December: Around 30°C (86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+8 hours.
Our first Wintersun destination to help you escape the bitter UK winter cold is Bali where you can trade the standard British gloom for:
- Sandy beaches
- Rich Balinese traditions
- Tropical holiday spirit
- Stunning snorkelling spots
- Incredible temples
In Bali, you can swap your British dinner for a seafood barbeque soak up the sun, revel in spa treatments, and embark on thrilling adventures in the stunning landscapes. While you might miss the classic UK Christmas, Bali offers a unique and unforgettable Christmas experience in a tropical paradise, making it the perfect opportunity for UK folks to have a completely different, sun-soaked Christmas.
What to do in Bali on a winter sun holiday:
- Relax on beautiful sandy beaches and explore stunning snorkelling spots
- Visit Uluwatu Temple and watch traditional Kecak dance performances
- Discover the lush terraced rice fields of Ubud and the Monkey Forest
- Shop at the Ubud Art Market and indulge in Balinese spa treatments
- Engage in thrilling activities like surfing or trekking through jungles and hidden waterfalls
Where to stay in Bali on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan or Ayana Resort and Spa.
- Mid-range: Hotels and villas in Ubud or Seminyak.
- Budget: Guesthouses and budget hotels in Kuta or Legian.
2. Christmas in the Gold Coast, Australia
Average temperature in December: Around 25-27°C (77-81°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+10 hours.
Next up on our list of the best Wintersun destinations is none other than the stunning Gold Coast, Australia. Australia's glamourous Gold Coast is a high-end destination for your wintersun holidays 2024 where days are filled with sunshine, surfing, and barbeques on the beach.
What to do in the Gold Coast on a winter sun holiday:
When spending Christmas in the Gold Coast, you can spend your days:
- Surfing world-class breaks
- Exploring lush rainforests on the Tambourine Rainforest Skywall
- Spending the day in a theme park (the Gold Coast is known as the theme park capital of Australia)
- Having beachside barbecues
- Singing traditional Christmas carols under the stars
When spending your sunshine holidays on the Gold Coast, don't miss the chance to join in on the uniquely Aussie Christmas traditions like surfing Santas, doing Kris Kringle and watching beachfront fireworks.
Where to stay in the Gold Coast on a winter sun holiday:
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- Luxury: The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast or Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort.
- Mid-range: Hotels in Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach.
- Budget: Hostels or budget hotels in Southport or Coolangatta.
3. Christmas in Jordan
Average temperature in December: Around 10-15°C (50-59°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+2 hours.
When spending your sunshine holidays in Jordan, you can expect to spend Christmas with your family and friends. The capital city, Amman, is especially festive during this season. Christmas lights are strung up throughout the city, along with a series of festive events. During this time of year, both tourists and locals can be seen shopping at the bazaar. Displaying an impressive array of food, drinks and decorations, the bazaar is an unmissable experience during the season.
What to do in Jordan on a winter sun holiday:
- Explore the festive city of Amman with its Christmas lights and local bazaars
- Visit historical sites like Petra and the Roman ruins of Jerash
- Enjoy local cuisine and cultural experiences in the capital
Where to stay in Jordan on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: InterContinental Amman or The Four Seasons Hotel Amman.
- Mid-range: Hotels in central Amman or near the historical sites.
- Budget: Guesthouses or budget hotels in Amman or Petra.
4. Christmas in Zimbabwe
Average temperature in December: Around 20-30°C (68-86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+2 hours.
For a truly unique Wintersun destination consider visiting a safari lodge in Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe, Christmas Day starts with a special church service and ends with the whole family gathering to share an elaborate meal. Instead of spending the holiday at home, a traditional custom is to go from door to door to visit family and friends before returning home.
What to do in Zimbabwe on a winter sun holiday:
- Experience a traditional Christmas with church services, festive meals, and local visits
- Enjoy thrilling game drives in Hwange National Park
- Explore Victoria Falls
- Immerse yourself in Zimbabwean culture with traditional music, dance, and local cuisine
Where to stay in Zimbabwe on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Ilala Lodge near Victoria Falls or lodges within Hwange National Park.
- Mid-range: Safari lodges or guesthouses near Victoria Falls.
- Budget: Budget accommodations and hostels in Victoria Falls or Harare
5. Christmas in Colombia
Average temperature in December: Around 24-28°C (75-82°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT-5 hours.
If you're seeking a hot Christmas holiday destination that offers a vibrant blend of culture, stunning landscapes, and a warm holiday spirit, look no further than Colombia. Colombia creates a magical atmosphere around Christmas. After ringing in the festive season with fireworks at the Alborada festival (on November 30th), the country is decorated with candles and lights up until the new year. Colombians have many Christmas traditions that come alive during this period, from novena gatherings to Christmas shopping.
What to do in Colombia on a winter sun holiday:
- Join a Novena - a Christmas tradition in Colombia, where families and friends gather for nine consecutive nights leading up to Christmas Eve to pray, sing carols, and share stories
- Induldge in traditional holiday dishes like "natilla" (a creamy dessert) and "buñuelos" (deep-fried cheese balls)
- Hike in the Andes Mountains
- Explore the Amazon Rainforest
6. Christmas in Seychelles
Average temperature in December: Around 28-30°C (82-86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+4 hours.
If you’re looking to skip a white Christmas for a sunshine holiday, Seychelles is known for its fun beach parties and beautiful wildlife. Perfect for adventurers, the holiday season in Seychelles offers water sports and activities while celebrating Christmas.
What to do in Seychelles on a winter sun holiday:
- Go sailing, diving or fly-fishing
- Attend special Christmas festivals and events
- Watch traditional dance performances
- Try Creole cuisine
- Go island hopping
Since Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands, each with its own charm, you can use your Christmas in Seychelles to explore the diverse landscapes, from the granite formations of La Digue to the coral atolls of Aldabra. Island-hopping allows you to discover hidden coves, vibrant marine life, and lush jungles - a far cry from the usual Christmas in the UK.
Where to stay in Seychelles on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Six Senses Zil Pasyon or Constance Ephelia.
- Mid-range: Hotels and resorts on Mahe or Praslin Island.
- Budget: Guesthouses or budget accommodations on various islands.
7. Christmas In Sri Lanka
Average temperature in December: Around 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+5.5 hours.
Our next Wintersun holiday recommendation is Sri Lanka which is beloved for its tropical beauty, cultural richness, and warm holiday spirit. While the majority of Sri Lankans are Hindu and Buddhist, only 7% of the population is Christian. Despite this, the festive season is celebrated with great enthusiasm, beginning a month before Christmas.
What to do in Sri Lanka on a winter sun holiday:
- Join one of the localslavish parties, with glittering Christmas displays and colourful trees.
- For a traditional Sri Lankan Christmas, make sure to devour some local Christmas cake and sample some local seafood or roast
- Stroll through charming streets in colonial cities like Galle and Colombo, steeped in Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences.
- Explore spiritual treasures in ancient temples such as the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and the rock temples of Dambulla.
- Encounter incredible wildlife on safaris in national parks like Yala or Wilpattu
Sri Lanka's Christmas festivities feature dazzling decorations, sparkling lights, and bustling markets, with historic churches hosting Midnight Mass for an incredibly unique Christmas experience.
8. Christmas In South Africa
Average temperature in December: Around 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+2 hours.
Next on our list of the best sunshine holidays for winter sun is South Africa. Blending older traditions with modern takes, Christmas in South Africa is busy and exciting. With shops on sale and plenty of events, it’s an ideal time to visit the country.
What to do in South Africa on a winter sun holiday:
- Go Christmas shopping in the local malls where you can pick up unique Christmas gifts
- Listen to carol singers
- Eat delicious mince pies
- Go sunbathing on the beach to make the most of the weather.
- Explore South Africa's historical sites like Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned
- Visit the Apartheid Museum
Whether you're on a wildlife safari, lounging on the beach, or exploring historical sites, South Africa ensures your Christmas is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Where to stay in South Africa on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: One&Only Cape Town or The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa.
- Mid-range: Hotels in Cape Town or Durban.
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in Cape Town or Johannesburg.
9. Christmas in Jakarta
Average temperature in December: Around 27-30°C (81-86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+7 hours.
Not too far from Bali, lies Indonesia's bustling capital Jakarta, where despite its Muslim-majority population, the festive spirit of Christmas shines bright.
What to do in Jakarta on a winter sun holiday:
- Visit Grand Indonesia Christmas Wonderland at the Pakuwon City Mall to watch ice skating, dazzling performances, and festive displays
- Trying traditional Indonesian food
- Having a beach day at Ancol Beach
- Exploring Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
- Golfing at the Royale Jakarta Golf Club
- Having a picnic at Taman Suropati
- Cycling through the Jakarta Old Town
Where to stay in Jakarta on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place or Fairmont Jakarta
- Mid-range: Hotel Borobudur Jakarta or Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Thamrin
- Budget: Wonderloft Hostel or Teduh Hostel Kota Tua
10. Christmas In Peru
Average temperature in December: Around 18-24°C (64-75°F)
Time difference from the UK: GMT-5 hours
Our next Wintersun destination for a sunshine holiday is Arequipa, Peru where nativity scenes are made from potatoes and straw. In the run-up to Christmas, there are special events called ‘chocolatadas’ where people meet to drink hot chocolate and eat some ‘panetón’ (similar to Italian Christmas cake).
What to do in Peru on a winter sun holiday:
- Explore Cusco where you can watch colourful processions and street celebrations leading up to Christmas Eve
- Visit Machu Picchu where you can explore the Inca ruins amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Join in the celebrations at Cusco's central square, the Plaza de Armas
- Tour Pisac
- See the mysterious Nazca Lines
Where to stay in Peru on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Belmond Hotel Monasterio (Cusco) or Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel.
- Mid-range: Casa Andina Standard Cusco Plaza or Tierra Viva Cusco Centro.
- Budget: Wild Rover Hostel Cusco and Pariwana Hostel Cusco
11. Christmas in Tunisia
Average temperature in December: Around 15-20°C (59-68°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT+1 hour.
For a Wintersun holiday with a dash of North African charm, look no further than Tunisia. Just a short hop from the UK, Tunisia offers sunny days, sandy beaches, and an intriguing blend of ancient history and vibrant modern culture.
What to do in Tunisia on a winter sun holiday:
- Haggle in local markets for everything from handcrafted pottery to colourful carpets
- Explore the impressive ruins of Carthage
- Lose yourself in the labyrinthine medinas
- Relax on the coastal resorts of Hammamet or Djerba
- Recharge in a traditional hammam
- Go on a desert safari to the Sahara, where you can ride camels over rolling dunes and sleep under a sky full of stars
Tunisia's blend of beachside relaxation, rich culture, and ancient history makes it a great winter sun destination for Brits seeking to escape the winter chill.
12. Christmas in Barbados
Average temperature in December: Around 26-30°C (79-86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT-4 hours.
What to do in Barbados on a winter sun holiday:
- Relax and sunbathe on sandy beaches like Dover Beach and Bathsheba Beach
- Join lively parades, street parties, and Christmas concerts, especially in Queen’s Park with steel bands and choirs
- Try a traditional Bajan Christmas feast with dishes like roast ham glazed with pineapple and rum-soaked great cake
- Attend a Christmas day service in one of the island’s churches to experience the local festive spirit
- Visit the lush Andromeda Botanical Gardens or go hiking in the stunning Harrison’s Cave
Where to stay in Barbados on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Sandy Lane or The Crane Resort.
- Mid-range: Ocean Two Resort & Residences or Sugar Bay Barbados.
- Budget: Rostrevor Hotel (St. Lawrence Gap) or Dover Beach Hotel (St. Lawrence Gap)
13. Christmas in Cape Verde
Average temperature in December: Around 23-28°C (73-82°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT-1 hour.
For a truly off-the-beaten-path Wintersun destination, Cape Verde is a hidden gem, offering sunny weather, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
What to do in Cape Verde on a winter sun holiday:
- Snorkelling on the Sal and Boa Vista islands
- Exploring Mindelo, Cape Verde’s cultural heart with its vibrant music scene, art galleries, and colonial architecture
- Listening to traditional morna music
- Watching the colorful Christmas parades that fill the streets during the holiday season
- Trying dishes like cachupa (a traditional stew) and freshly caught seafood
- Hiking the rugged landscapes of Santo Antão, known for its green valleys and hiking trails
Where to stay in Cape Verde on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort or Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa
- Mid-range: Hotel Odjo d’Agua (Santa Maria) or Hotel Pontao (Sal)
- Budget: Hotel Santa Maria (Sal Island) and Hotel Ponta Preta (Sal Island)
14. Christmas in St. Lucia
Average temperature in December: Around 26-29°C (79-84°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT-4 hours.
Swap snow for sand this Christmas by heading to St. Lucia, one of the Caribbean's most picturesque islands. With its lush rainforests, iconic Piton mountains, and inviting beaches, St. Lucia offers a dreamy backdrop for a December holiday in the sun.
What to do in St. Lucia on a winter sun holiday:
- Get close to the island's natural beauty, from the sparkling Diamond Waterfall to the soothing mud baths of Sulphur Springs.
- Attend a Midnight Mass at one of the island’s beautiful churches
- Tuck into a traditional Creole feast with dishes like roast pork, plantain, and spicy pepper pot.
- Join in the island’s Festival of Lights, where homes and streets are decorated with twinkling lights
- Join in on the lantern parades that bring the community together
Where to stay in St. Lucia on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Jade Mountain Resort or Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort.
- Mid-range: Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa or Coco Palm Resort.
- Budget: The Downtown Hotel (Soufriere) and Casa Del Vega (Castries)
15. Christmas in Costa Rica
Average temperature in December: Around 22-30°C (72-86°F).
Time difference from the UK: GMT-6 hours.
For an adventurous twist on your Wintersun holiday, Costa Rica offers a Christmas filled with sunshine, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. This tropical paradise boasts everything from pristine beaches to dense rainforests, making it perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
What to do in Costa Rica on a winter sun holiday:
- Shop at the local markets selling local crafts and Christmas treats.
- Visit beaches like Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa for surfing, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
- Go zip-lining for a thrilling view of the rainforest and its wildlife.
- Explore Tortuguero National Park
- Go on a boat tour to see sea turtles, monkeys, and exotic birds
- Bathe in the Arenal Volcano Hot Springs
Where to stay in Costa Rica on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Nayara Gardens (Arenal) or Four Seasons Resort (Papagayo Peninsula).
- Mid-range: Selina Manuel Antonio or Volcano Lodge & Springs (Arenal).
- Budget: Hostel Pura Vida (Manuel Antonio) and Cabinas El Icaco Tortuguero (Tortuguero)
16. Christmas in Essaouira, Morocco
Average temperature in December: Around 15-20°C (59-68°F).
Time difference from the UK: None!
If you're after a Wintersun destination that combines sunshine with a touch of culture, Essaouira on Morocco’s Atlantic coast is said to glow like a jewel in the winter sun. Unlike the bustling streets of nearby Marrakech, Essaouira is a charming Moroccan coastal town known for its laid-back vibe, historic medina, and artistic flair and you can still expect all the usual spots to be open in December.
What to do in Essaouira on a winter sun holiday:
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Medina known for its distinctive blue and white buildings
- Go windsurfing and kitesurfing on the beach thanks to the strong Atlantic winds
- Visit the Skala de la Ville, a historic fortress that offers panoramic views of the ocean and the city
- Try fresh seafood at the port's open-air restaurants like La Coupole Essaouira Beach where fish is grilled right in front of you
- Explore Essaouira’s vibrant art scene with visits to local art galleries and exhibitions
Where to stay in Essaouira on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Heure Bleue Palais or Villa Maroc
- Mid-range: Riad Chbanate or Madada Mogador
- Budget: Dar Liouba or Riad Orange Cannelle
17. Christmas in Mexico
Average temperature in December: Around 20-30°C (68-86°F) depending on the region.
Time difference from the UK: GMT-6 hours (mainland Mexico).
For a vibrant and colourful Wintersun holiday, Mexico is a destination that truly comes alive during the festive season.
What to do in Mexico on a winter sun holiday:
- Explore Colonial Cities: Visit cities like San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato, known for their cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant art scenes.
- Las Posadas Celebrations: Experience the nine-day celebration re-enacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, complete with parades, piñatas, and traditional songs.
- Beach Time in Riviera Maya: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, where white sand meets the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
- Ancient Ruins: Explore the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum, where you can learn about Mexico’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Christmas Markets and Lights: Visit Mexico City’s Zócalo, where the main square is adorned with festive lights, a large Christmas tree, and ice skating rinks.
Where to stay in Mexico on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Rosewood Mayakoba (Riviera Maya) or Four Seasons Hotel (Mexico City)
- Mid-range: La Puertecita Boutique Hotel (San Miguel de Allende) or Fiesta Americana Condesa (Cancun)
- Budget: Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral (Mexico City) or Hotel Posada del Sol (Tulum)
18. Christmas in Fuerteventura
Average temperature in December: Around 19-24°C (66-75°F).
Time difference from the UK: None!
For a sun-soaked Christmas closer to home, Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands offers a great mix of golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns.
What to do in Fuerteventura on a winter sun holiday:
- Relax on the Beaches: Spend time at famous beaches like Corralejo Beach, El Cotillo, and Cofete Beach. The island’s long stretches of sand are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Explore Corralejo Natural Park: Discover the dramatic sand dunes and volcanic landscapes that make this park a must-visit.
- Water Sports: Take advantage of Fuerteventura’s reputation as a water sports paradise. Try surfing, windsurfing, or kitesurfing on some of the best waves in Europe.
- Visit Betancuria: Explore this historic town, the oldest on the island, known for its traditional Canarian architecture and scenic views.
- Christmas Markets and Events: Enjoy the festive atmosphere at local Christmas markets, where you can buy handmade crafts, taste local food, and listen to live music.
Where to stay in Fuerteventura on a winter sun holiday:
- Luxury: Gran Hotel Atlantis Bahía Real (Corralejo) or Sheraton Fuerteventura Beach, Golf & Spa Resort.
- Mid-range: H10 Ocean Suites (Corralejo) or Barceló Corralejo Sands.
- Budget: Surf Riders Fuerteventura (Corralejo) and Laif Hotel (El Cotillo)
Ready to Book a Sunshine Holiday this Winter?
Are you ready to embrace change and book a sunshine holiday to find the Wintersun? Whether you're planning to jet off to tropical Costa Rica or glamorous St. Lucia, our list is guaranteed to have inspired you to on where to go for your sunshine holidays.
Gift Wintersun With The Best Christmas Gift For Travellers
If you're still looking for the best Christmas gift, consider the gift of travel itself with our personalised gift vouchers for flights. We offer flexible flight vouchers that can be the perfect Christmas gift for travel lovers. These flight vouchers allow your recipient to redeem their Flightgift on any of these Wintersun destinations and hundreds of other global destinations. Whether you want to gift someone special a UK staycation to Manchester, Inverness or Glasgow, a European escape to Germany, Netherlands or Prague or an international break to New York, our gift vouchers for flights open up the world to them.
If you do want to buy a flight voucher, you can choose from 3 easy delivery options:
Via email as an eGift
Via email as a printable PDF
In the post with our free worldwide shipping
So, this Christmas, give the gift of adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime with flight vouchers. Your recipient will be eternally grateful that you went the extra mile this Christmas.
