If your perfect holiday revolves around guaranteed sunshine, warm sands, and cocktails by the sea, you don't have to limit your travels to the peak summer months. We've compiled the ultimate guide to destinations that offer glorious hot and sunny weather during every single month of the year, ensuring your vitamin D fix is never far away.
Winter Sun Escapes: From Desert Cities to Tropical Shores
When the British winter bites, head for reliably warm climes. January is ideal for a city break in Dubai, where average temperatures of 15-24°C are perfect for exploring architectural wonders like the Burj Khalifa. For pure beach bliss, the Caribbean islands of Barbados, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, along with Mexico, bask in highs of around 30°C.
Come February, Cape Verde offers up to eight hours of daily sunshine and temperatures of 21-27°C. It's also a prime month for Thailand, as you'll avoid the monsoon season, with 24-33°C heat whether in Phuket or Bangkok. Adventurers should consider Costa Rica before its rainy season begins in April.
In March, Morocco provides balmy weather around 21°C in cities like Marrakech and Agadir. For spectacular beach days, Egypt's Sharm-el-Sheikh enjoys 27°C and crystal-clear waters, while Hurghada offers access to historic sites like the Valley of the Kings.
Spring into Summer: European Warmth and Global Adventures
April brings excellent conditions to several US states including Nevada, Arizona, and Florida, with minimal rainfall. Alternatively, Cape Town in South Africa offers pleasant 24°C weather for sightseeing, from Table Mountain to the penguin colonies at Boulder's Beach.
By May, you needn't travel far for sunshine, as Portugal, Spain, and Greece start enjoying temperatures of 20-25°C. For a bucket-list trip, Peru's dry season begins, creating ideal conditions for hiking to Machu Picchu.
The peak summer months of June, July, and August see classic European hotspots come into their own. Destinations including Portugal, Spain, Greece, France, Turkey, the Canary Islands, the Greek Islands, Malta, Italy, and Cyprus all boast temperatures in the high 20s°C, often soaring into the high 30s°C during heatwaves.
Autumn and Early Winter: Lingering Heat Without the Crowds
September is perfect for the Amalfi Coast in Italy (20-28°C) without the peak crowds, or for Sardinia's stunning beaches, where the sea remains warm at an average of 27°C. Croatian cities like Dubrovnik and Split also shine with 25°C sunshine and historic charm.
In October, Cyprus remains warm for beach days, and the Canary Islands continue to enjoy temperatures up to 27°C, perfect for hiking, dining al fresco, or coastal relaxation.
For a long-haul adventure in November, head to southern Australia. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth offer sunny weather, but avoid the north where the rainy season may be starting.
Finally, December is a superb time to visit Thailand, as the monsoon season has ended, securing its status as a premier winter sun hotspot.