Where to Go for a Beach Holiday in December: 10 Best Destinations

In December, for a beach vacation, consider traveling to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, or Cape Verde, where temperatures often reach 25–30°C. For travelers who prefer milder temperatures, the Canary Islands and Madeira are ideal. Meanwhile, summer is just beginning in Australia and South Africa at this time of year. Here’s where you can go swimming in December, which resorts to choose, and what weather conditions to expect.

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Cancun, Mexico – the warm Caribbean Sea and beaches

Air temperature: +27–29°C during the day

Water temperature: +27–28°C

Weather: mostly sunny, with possible brief showers

December is considered one of the best months to vacation in Cancun. The tropical storm season is coming to an end, humidity is gradually decreasing, and the Caribbean Sea remains warm enough for extended swimming. In the evenings, temperatures can drop to +20–22°C.

Cancun’s main tourist area is the Zona Hotelera, a 22-kilometer stretch of coastline lined with hotels, restaurants, and beaches.

Places to consider for your vacation:

- Playa Delfines – a wide sandy beach with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Due to strong waves, swimming here isn’t always safe.

- Playa Norte—a beach on the neighboring island of Isla Mujeres, known for its shallow waters, white sand, and calmer waters.

- Playa Tortugas—a popular spot with beach restaurants, water activities, and a ferry service to Isla Mujeres.

Cancun is also a convenient base for day trips. From here, you can head to the Chichen Itza archaeological complex, visit the natural cenotes of the Yucatan, or go snorkeling near the coral reefs.

Things to Keep in Mind: The second half of December is a period of high tourist demand due to Christmas and New Year’s. It’s best to book hotels and flights for the holidays well in advance. The average sea temperature in December is around +27–28°C, but actual weather conditions may differ from the average.

In our previous article, we discussed the best countries for a honeymoon and wedding trip in 2027.

Dominican Republic – tropical beaches and a Caribbean getaway

Air temperature: +27–29°C during the day

Water temperature: +27–28°C

Weather: warm, mostly sunny, with occasional brief showers

December marks the start of one of the most popular times for a beach vacation in the Dominican Republic. The Atlantic hurricane season ends in late November, and daytime temperatures remain comfortable for swimming and sightseeing.

At the resorts in Punta Cana, the average sea temperature is around +27.5°C. Meanwhile, on the country’s northern coast, rain is more frequent in December.

For a winter vacation, consider the following resorts:

- Punta Cana and Bavaro – the country’s most famous resort area, featuring large all-inclusive hotel complexes, white sandy beaches, and a wide selection of water activities.

- Cap Cana—a prestigious resort featuring Juanillo Beach, a yacht marina, and high-end hotels. Ideal for a relaxing getaway.

- Bayahibe—a small resort town on the Caribbean coast. Boat tours depart from here to Saona Island, known for its turquoise waters and sandy beaches.

- Puerto Plata – a resort on the northern coast with beaches, colonial architecture, and opportunities for water sports. In December, it is more humid here than in the southeastern part of the island.

In addition to beach vacations, tourists can enjoy diving, snorkeling, boat tours, and excursions to the capital, Santo Domingo. Its colonial district, the Zona Colonial, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to keep in mind: For guaranteed warm ocean waters, it’s best to choose Punta Cana, Cap Cana, or Bayahibe. In the second half of December, demand for hotels rises due to the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. At popular resorts, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance.

Learn more about the world’s best cruises of 2026, as selected by the World Cruise Awards by following the link.

Barbados– warm seas and the start of the dry season

Air temperature: +28–30°C during the day

Water temperature: +27–28°C

Weather: mostly sunny, with possible brief tropical showers

In December, the rainy season in Barbados is gradually coming to an end. Precipitation decreases noticeably compared to November; daytime temperatures hover around +29°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to about +23°C. The sea remains warm, making the island ideal for a full-fledged beach vacation even at the end of the year.

The main feature of Barbados is the variety of conditions along its coasts. The western part of the island is washed by the calmer waters of the Caribbean Sea, while the eastern Atlantic coast is characterized by strong waves.

For a vacation in December, consider the following locations:

- Carlisle Bay—a picturesque bay near the capital, Bridgetown, with white sand, crystal-clear water, and shipwrecks where snorkeling tours are organized.

- Paynes Bay—a popular beach on the west coast with calm waters, hotels, and opportunities for boat tours.

- Mullins Beach – a beach with restaurants, lounge chair rentals, and water activities. Ideal for tourists looking for well-developed amenities.

- Bathsheba Beach – a beach on the east coast featuring large rock formations and powerful waves. It attracts surfers but is dangerous for casual swimming due to strong currents.

One of the most interesting activities on the island is snorkeling with sea turtles. These tours are mainly conducted off the west and southwest coasts. You can also visit Harrison’s Cave, the botanical gardens, or the historic center of Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to Keep in Mind: December marks the start of the peak tourist season, especially in the days leading up to Christmas. For a peaceful swim, it’s best to choose the western or southwestern coast. On the eastern beaches, dangerous waves and currents are possible even in sunny weather.

Earlier, we wrote about 7 countries with a mild climate that you can visit year-round.

Cape Verde– sunny beaches and relaxation in the middle of the Atlantic

Air temperature: +24–27°C during the day

Water temperature: +24–25°C

Weather: dry, mostly sunny, with noticeable winds

December is one of the driest months on the islands of Cape Verde. At the popular resorts of Sal and Boa Vista, rain is rare, and temperatures remain comfortable for a beach vacation. Unlike the Caribbean, the Atlantic Ocean here is cooler, and the steady trade winds create ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Two islands are best suited for a December vacation:

- Sal – the archipelago’s main tourist hub. The resort town of Santa Maria is known for its 8-kilometer-long sandy beach, restaurants, surf schools, and hotels of various categories.

- Boa Vista—an island with wide, uncrowded beaches and sand dunes. The most famous spots are Praia de Chaves, Praia de Santa Mónica, and the resort town of Sal Rei.

On the island of Sal, tourists can visit the Pedra de Lume salt pools, located in the crater of an extinct volcano, and the natural Buracona Bay with its famous “Blue Eye.”

On Boa Vista, popular excursions include tours through the desert landscapes of Viana and trips to the Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck.

Things to keep in mind: Winds pick up in December in Cape Verde, so open beaches may experience high waves and strong currents. For swimming, it’s best to choose sheltered stretches of coastline. The water temperature of around +24°C isn’t for everyone, especially in windy weather. In the days leading up to Christmas and New Year’s, accommodation prices at popular resorts usually rise.

In our previous post about 8 alternatives to popular Italian destinations where you can relax without crowds of tourists.

Tenerife, Spain – sunny Atlantic resorts and beaches

Air temperature: +21–23°C during the day

Water temperature: +20–21°C

Weather: mild, mostly sunny in the south of the island, with possible rain

Tenerife is one of the warmest European destinations for a December vacation. According to data from the Spanish Meteorological Service (AEMET), the average daily high in the south of the island is +22.8°C, with about 30 mm of rainfall per month. The north coast is usually cooler and wetter, so it’s better to choose southern resorts for a beach vacation.

The most popular vacation spots in December:

- Costa Adeje—a resort with four- and five-star hotels, restaurants, and the well-equipped beaches of Playa del Duque and Playa de Fañabé. Ideal for a family vacation.

- Los Cristianos – a resort town with a relaxed atmosphere, a harbor, and Playa de las Vistas. Breakwaters protect the shore from strong waves, making it more comfortable for swimming.

- Playa de las Américas – a lively tourist area with beach clubs, bars, restaurants, and surfing opportunities.

- El Medano – a resort for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, known for its strong winds and wide sandy beaches.

Tenerife offers more than just beaches. In December, you can visit Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak at 3,715 meters, go on a whale- and dolphin-watching boat tour, or spend the day at Siam Park water park.

Things to keep in mind: The ocean temperature in December is around +20–21°C, so swimming for long periods may be uncomfortable. It’s often warm along the coast, but significantly colder in the mountains, and snow is possible at the summit of Teide. For a vacation with children, it’s best to choose beaches with breakwaters, such as Las Vistas or El Duque.

Learn more about the best Indonesian islands for travel by following the link.

Lanzarote, Spain – volcanic landscapes and Atlantic beaches

Air temperature: +21–23°C during the day

Water temperature: around +20°C

Weather: mostly sunny, with occasional rain and windy days

Lanzarote is one of the driest Canary Islands, known for its black volcanic fields, golden beaches, and unique coastal landscapes. According to the Spanish Meteorological Service (AEMET), the average high temperature in December is +21.8°C. Monthly precipitation is about 29 mm, and there are an average of 196 hours of sunshine.

For a winter vacation in Lanzarote, consider the following resorts and beaches:

- Playa Blanca—a resort in the south of the island with hotels, restaurants, and the well-equipped beaches of Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo. One of the most family-friendly options.

- Puerto del Carmen—a popular tourist area with a long promenade, Playa Grande beach, shopping centers, and well-developed infrastructure.

- Papagayo Beaches—a group of picturesque coves in the south of the island, surrounded by volcanic cliffs. They are known for their crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand.

- Costa Teguise—a resort featuring Playa de las Cucharas and Playa del Jablillo. The former is popular among windsurfers, while the latter has a swimming area that is more sheltered from the waves.

One of Lanzarote’s main attractions is Timanfaya National Park, where you can see volcanic landscapes formed by massive eruptions in the 18th century. Other points of interest include the Jameos del Agua cave complex, the Cueva de los Verdes lava tunnel, and the La Geria wine-growing region, where grapes are cultivated in depressions among volcanic ash.

Things to keep in mind: December in Lanzarote is better suited for combining a beach vacation with excursions than for extended swimming. The ocean temperature is around +20°C, and the wind can make it feel even cooler. For a winter vacation focused on the beach, it’s best to choose the southern part of the island, particularly Playa Blanca and the sheltered coves of Papagayo.

We previously wrote about the 14 best travel destinations that are warm year-round.

Madeira, Portugal – green mountains and natural pools

Air temperature: +19–21°C during the day

Water temperature: +20–21°C

Weather: mild, changeable, with occasional rain

Madeira is a Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean where spring-like weather persists even in December.

In the capital, Funchal, the average high is around +21°C, and monthly precipitation reaches 95 mm. The southern coast is usually warmer and sunnier than the northern coast. At the same time, temperatures in the mountainous regions can be 10–12°C lower than near the ocean.

For a December getaway, consider the following destinations:

- Funchal – the island’s capital, featuring a historic center, a waterfront promenade, botanical gardens, and hotels with swimming pools. It’s the most convenient base for excursions and trips around the island.

- Calheta—a resort on the southwestern coast with a well-maintained sandy beach protected by breakwaters. Ideal for a peaceful beach vacation.

- Porto Moniz—a town in the northwest of the island, known for its natural pools nestled among volcanic cliffs. The complex has a swimming area of about 3,800 m².

- Seixal – a small settlement with a beach featuring black volcanic sand, green cliffs, and natural pools. One of Madeira’s most picturesque coastal locations.

Madeira is particularly appealing for active vacations. The island features dozens of hiking trails along the levadas—historic irrigation channels. Among the most famous natural landmarks are the Fanal laurel forest, the Risco Waterfall, and the 1,862-meter-high Pico Ruivo mountain peak.

An important note for tourists: starting in 2026, visiting Madeira’s official hiking trails will require advance booking through the SIMplifica platform. The standard fee for most visitors is 4.50 euros. Before setting out, be sure to check the trail’s availability, as some trails may be closed due to weather conditions.

Things to keep in mind: December in Madeira is better suited for walks, excursions, and relaxing at hotels with heated pools than for a classic beach vacation. The ocean remains cool, and access to natural pools is sometimes restricted due to high waves. For a stay with a higher chance of sunny weather, it’s best to choose Funchal or the southwestern coast.

In our previous article, we discussed the most affordable destinations for a winter vacation without breaking the bank.

Cape Town, South Africa – summer sun and beaches at the foot of the mountains

Air temperature: +24–26°C during the day

Water temperature: +16–19°C on the Atlantic coast

Weather: mostly sunny and dry, with occasional strong winds

Summer begins in Cape Town in December. Rainfall decreases, daylight lasts about 14 hours, and the temperature allows you to spend plenty of time outdoors. At the same time, the ocean off the west coast remains cold due to the Benguela Current. For a more comfortable swim, it’s best to choose the beaches of False Bay, where the water is usually warmer.

The most interesting beaches and coastal areas of Cape Town:

- Camps Bay – a wide beach with white sand, palm trees, and views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Restaurants, cafes, and hotels are located nearby. The water is cool even in summer.

- Clifton – four sandy coves, partially sheltered from the southeast wind. The fourth beach is especially popular among vacationers.

- Muizenberg – a beach in False Bay with colorful wooden cottages. It is known for its surf schools and warmer water compared to the Atlantic coast.

- Fish Hoek – a sandy beach with relatively calm waters, popular with families. One of the best options for swimming when conditions are favorable.

- Boulders Beach – small coves among granite boulders, home to a colony of African penguins. Part of the area belongs to Table Mountain National Park.

In December, it’s also worth taking the cable car up Table Mountain (1,086 meters high), strolling along the V&A Waterfront, or heading to Cape Point. Nature lovers will enjoy the trails to Lions Head and a drive along the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive.

Things to Keep in Mind: December marks the start of the peak tourist season in Cape Town, and by the end of the month, the beaches and popular attractions are particularly crowded. Strong winds often blow along the open coast. Before swimming, check the wave conditions, lifeguard warnings, and water quality. If your main goal for the vacation is a warm ocean, Cape Town can’t compete with the tropical resorts of the Caribbean.

Learn more about the world’s best hotels in 2026 by following the link.

Melbourne, Australia – summer beaches and oceanfront relaxation

Air temperature: +24–26°C during the day

Water temperature: approximately +17–19°C

Weather: mostly warm, changeable, with possible rain and hot days

Summer begins in Melbourne in December, though the weather here is less stable than at tropical resorts. According to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, the average high temperature is +24.7°C, and monthly precipitation is about 51 mm. On some days, the air warms up to over +30°C, but cold fronts can cause temperatures to drop sharply.

Most of the popular city beaches are located along the coast of Port Phillip Bay. There are no large ocean waves typical of the open coast here, but the water remains quite cool even at the beginning of summer.

For a vacation, consider the following locations:

- St. Kilda Beach – the most famous city beach, featuring a wide boardwalk, restaurants, bike paths, and the historic Luna Park amusement park. It’s easily accessible by tram from downtown.

- Brighton Beach—a beach known for its dozens of colorful wooden changing huts. It’s popular for swimming, walking, and taking photos.

- Elwood Beach – a spacious sandy beach with relaxation areas, bike paths, and fewer tourists than St. Kilda.

- Williamstown Beach – a beach on the western side of the bay with relatively calm waters, cafes, and a picturesque promenade.

- Mornington Peninsula—a destination about a 1–2-hour drive from downtown Melbourne. It features sheltered bay beaches as well as open ocean spots for surfing.

Melbourne is also a great place to combine a beach vacation with city attractions. Visitors can explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, visit the Queen Victoria Market, or take a tour along the Great Ocean Road to the Twelve Apostles. In the St. Kilda Pier area, you can watch little penguins after sunset, provided you follow the rules for protecting the colony.

Things to Keep in Mind: Melbourne is better suited for an active summer vacation than for guaranteed warm ocean waters. Due to the changeable weather, even in December, it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket. Before swimming, check the water quality and choose beaches with lifeguards, swimming only between the red and yellow flags. In late December, demand for accommodations rises due to the Christmas holidays and New Year’s celebrations.

In our previous article, we wrote about 5 Caribbean islands for active adventures.

Brisbane, Australia – tropical summer and the beaches of Queensland

Air temperature: +28–30°C during the day

Water temperature: approximately +24–26°C along the ocean coast

Weather: hot, humid, with possible thunderstorms and heavy downpours

December marks the start of the hot Australian summer in Brisbane. According to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, the average high temperature is +29.7°C, and monthly precipitation reaches 138 mm. High humidity and afternoon thunderstorms are typical for this time of year. At the same time, the warm ocean makes the Queensland coast an attractive destination for beach vacations.

Brisbane itself is located on a river, so tourists usually head outside the city limits to find classic ocean beaches.

The most popular destinations:

- Streets Beach – an artificial sandy beach with a lagoon in the South Bank neighborhood. Here, you can swim for free, relax under the palm trees, and admire Brisbane’s skyscrapers. Lifeguards are on duty at the beach.

- Gold Coast – a resort region about 80 km from Brisbane. Its main tourist centers are Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads. The coastline is known for its long sandy beaches, surfing, and well-developed infrastructure.

- Sunshine Coast – a resort region north of Brisbane. Popular spots include Noosa Main Beach, Mooloolaba Beach, and Coolum Beach. It’s ideal for family vacations and active water sports.

- Moreton Island – a sandy island near Brisbane, known for its crystal-clear waters and the Tangalooma Wrecks. Popular activities here include snorkeling, kayaking, and excursions through the sand dunes.

In addition to beach vacations, Brisbane offers walks along the South Bank promenade, river cruises, and visits to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. For active travelers, there are hiking trails up Mount Coot-tha, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Things to Keep in Mind: December in Brisbane is a hot and rainy time of year. Severe thunderstorms can disrupt beach vacation plans. Dangerous rip currents are possible at the ocean beaches of the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, so you should only swim between the red and yellow flags. Toward the end of the month, demand for accommodations and vacations along the coast increases due to summer school breaks and the Christmas holidays.

No matter how well thought-out your itinerary is, there is always room for force majeure when traveling. Unexpected medical expenses, transportation delays, or luggage problems can ruin your plans and budget. Travel insurance helps you avoid unnecessary worries in such situations. You can apply for a travel insurance policy for a specific trip online at Visit World - quickly and without unnecessary bureaucracy!

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We remind you! Skyscanner has highlighted 10 travel destinations for 2027 that have seen a noticeable surge in interest: from Bishkek to Samos, Greece. Read more about the top picks, their main attractions, and the best time to visit.

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