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Desperate for a little winter sun? With summer a distant memory, it’s only natural that our thoughts turn to places where it’s hot in December.
Thankfully, the choice of hot destinations is plentiful — whether you’re looking for luxury or a good deal. From popular picks like Miami to more off-the-beaten-track places in Asia and beyond, I’ve got the lowdown on all the hottest countries in December for a winter sun getaway.
Where is hot in December?
Filter below by price or temperature to find the best warm destination for you based on KAYAK data, or keep reading for more info on the best hot spots this month.
Where's hot in December for a beach break?
If you are looking for a hot beach break you're in luck. There are many paradise islands and coastal cities in the Southern Hemisphere where you can switch off and feel the sand between your toes. For something a little closer to home, check out the Canary Islands or Morocco.
1. Honolulu, Hawaii
- Average December temperature: 24°C
Turquoise seas, white sand beaches, delicious food, a warm and welcoming local culture. A trip to Hawaii is the stuff of dreams.
Honolulu on the island of Oahu is Hawaii's capital and it has everything you'll need for an easy winter sun holiday in December. It's a particularly brilliant time to visit if you want to ride some waves, especially on Oahu's North Shore beaches. Prefer to relax? Head for the island's calmer west coast beaches to lay on the sand next to swaying palms.
Honolulu is a wonderful destination for a hot Christmas, with many unique festive events to experience. This includes festive markets and twinkling light displays in the city centre. You could also catch a holiday-themed show at the Polynesian Cultural Centre. Most hotels will also decorate for Christmas and offer special menus to get you in the festive spirit.
2. Koh Samui, Thailand
- Average December temperature: 27°C
For an island retreat, you can't go wrong with a trip to Koh Samui. It's one of the warmest holiday destinations for December, with temperatures in the high 20s/low 30s. The month also marks the end of the rainy season, so you can expect fewer showers and less humidity.
And what better way to kick start a brand new year than with cocktails on a butter-soft sand beach in Thailand. Koh Samui has no shortage of dreamy spots to sunbathe, swim and snorkel. Lamai is a good spot to base yourself for a more laidback getaway. Or you could stay near Chaweng for a wide choice of restaurants, bars and beach clubs.
As well as enjoying Koh Samui's gorgeous coastlines, it's well worth venturing inland at some point. There are waterfalls to trek to and the Koh Samui Big Buddha temple in Bophut.
3. Durban, South Africa
- Average December temperature: 23°C
With summer in full swing by December, it's easy to see why South Africa makes my list for where's hot in December. Durban on the country's south coast has long been a magnet for surfers of all abilities - and the last month of the year couldn't be a better time to visit.
Warm ocean waters and plenty of swells means there's usually pletny of great waves. Plus, the outside air temperature is typically in the high 20s. Meaning? You can strip off your wet suit and leisurely dry off on the sand in the sunshine. If surfing's not your bag though, not to worry. There's plenty of other things to do in December. The city's botanic gardens are usually in full bloom at this time of year and a wonderful location for some peace and quiet.
You could also venture out of the city into the Valley of a Thousand Hills. The lush area is a paradise for outdoor fanatics - with hiking trails and mountain biking routes galore. You could also visit a local Zulu village to uncover more about the region's indigenous culture. You'll also find a selection of vineyards in the area if you fancy sampling some of South Africa's famous wines straight from the source.
4. Miami, USA
- Average December temperature: 21°C
For one of the best cities to visit in December with plenty of sunshine, say hello to Miami. The capital of the USA's Sunshine State is the perfect spot for a little vitamin D, plus you'll be able to nab return flights from the UK for under £750 through the month.
As well as its golden beaches (including world-famous South Beach) and proximity to the Everglades National Park, Miami has plenty of other allures. Take a ride down Ocean Drive to admire its art deco buildings, take a dip in the Venetian Pools or check out one of several amazing art museums.
Miami is also well-known for its multi-culturalism and a visit to Little Havana is a must-do. Calle Ocho is its beating heart and where you'll find vibrant salsa bars, inviting Cuban restaurants, colourful street arts and ventanitas serving up strong Cuban coffee.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
- Average December temperature: 20°C
December is the perfect time to visit Cape Town as it sits firmly in South Africa's summer. Make sure to venture to the city’s gorgeous beaches, such as Clifton and Camps Bay, where you can relax on butter-soft sand or swim in the crystal-clear sea.
Table Mountain is essential viewing (whether you've visited before or not). Elsewhere, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are a must-see. They're beautiful throughout the year, but the end of November is when they kick off the Summer Sunset Concerts. The festival hosts live music acts from around the world, with something to suit all tastes.
Warm places to visit in December: City breaks
If you are looking for a more urban hot destination there are plenty of cities to choose from. Here are some of my favourite places to soak up a little culture and history while enjoying warmer temperatures.
6. Bangkok, Thailand
- Average December temperature: 26°C
Want to know where's hot and cheap in December? Bangkok is a good bet. And if you've never been to Thailand, it's a brilliant place to begin your adventure before heading to a beachy locale.
The Thai capital is renowned for its scorching hot weather which can make wandering around uncomfortable. Nevertheless, December sees temperatures drop into the blissful mid-20s. It's also just past the rainy season, making it a great month for some city sightseeing without the humidity.
There's so much to see in Bangkok, too. Breathtaking temples, royal palaces, vibrant street food markets, bustling shopping centres and some excellent hoetls.
7. Singapore
- Average December temperature: 26°C
Asia's most futuristic city is a great place to visit for a few days. It's also one of the hottest countries in December to visit, with average temperatures sitting pretty in the mid-20s.
While many visit Singapore en route to elsewhere in Asia (or even Australia), it's a destination worth visiting in its own right. There are heaps of things to do, from family-friendly attractions like the theme parks of Sentosa Island to the otherworldly botanics and stunning tree sculptures at the Gardens by the Bay.
Then there's Singapore's food scene. You can dine on any cuisine you fancy in the city, although the city's hawker markets are my favourite for local bites like creamy laksa soup and comforting Hainanese chicken rice.
Travelling on a budget? Stop off in Singapore for just a night or two for some culture and cosmopolitan city vibes before heading onwards to Koh Samui for some blissful beach time.
8. Hanoi, Vietnam
- Average December temperature: 18°C
Vietnam's capital city has a lot going for it - and it's a great December holiday destination. That's because temperatures are warm in Hanoi but not overbearing for exploring, while there's a relatively low chance of rain throughout the month.
You can easily spend a day exploring the Old Quarter where you'll find everything from great shopping - including fantastic local markets and seemingly endless places to eat. You could grab a pint with the locals at Ta Hien Beer Street or venture to a rooftop bar for a sophisticated cocktail. Majesty Sky Bar on the top floor of La Sinfonia Majesty Hotel is a lovely spot and has incredible views of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Elsewhere, history buffs will want to check out key landmarks like Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. Hanoi is also a brilliant starting point for various other destinations in northern Vietnam, including Halong Bay and scenic Ninh Binh.
Whether you stay in Hanoi for a week or just a couple of nights, you'll find some fabulous hotel options. And, with average nightly prices sitting at just £58, you'll easily be able to afford something pretty special.
9. Orlando, USA
- Average December temperature: 17°C
For a family-friendly December holiday in the sun, head to Orlando. This Floridian city is blessed with mild yet still warm temperatures in the winter, making it the perfect time to comfortably enjoy its incredible theme parks.
Most of the parks put on special Christmas events - from Grinchmas at Universal Studios to Mickey Mouse's Christmas Party at Disney World. As well as magical decorations, you'll also experience festive-themed shows, festive parades (including Epcot's candlelit nativity procession) and incredible firework displays - especially if you decide to stay in Orlando for New Year's Eve.
As December can be a popular month, it's worth planning ahead and securing your flights, hotels and theme park entrance well in advance. You should be able to secure accommodation for around £150 per night, especially if you're flexible with your location and stay a little further away from the parks.
Where's hot and cheap in December?
If you're looking for the cheapest countries to visit in December, you can't go too far wrong with a South East Asian escape. Hanoi, and the rest of Vietnam, are incredibly affordable, while you'll be able to afford a dreamy island escape on Koh Samui for less than £80 a night.
Looking ahead to 2025? There are so many incredible destinations to add to your travel bucket list. Discover the best places to visit in January or get planning your February sun holiday.
The post Where is hot in December? 9 destinations for winter sun appeared first on KAYAK Blog UK.
