On those cold, dark, and damp winter days, we know there’s nowhere you’d rather be than on a beach in a far-flung tropical destination. If you’re getting a major case of wanderlust, us travel experts here at Plum Guide have just the medicine for you - we've got all the advice on how to quench your craving to get away. Whether your idea of a warm holiday is trekking through tropical rainforests, exploring colourful coastal cities, or venturing into the desert, swap the cold temperatures for something a little more agreeable at one of these 20 destinations. Take a look at our expert guide to the most exciting warm places around the world, and get ready to pack those bags.
Santa Barbara, USA
A bench next to a coastal path on a hot day in Santa Barbara, USA
Looking for places with a winter? Santa Barbara is a charming coastal city known for its pleasant winters, broad sandy beaches, natural beauty, and a rich Spanish colonial heritage. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the seaside at Stearns Wharf, taste local wine at the city’s Urban Wine Trail, or embrace nature at the Channel Islands National Park. With warm to hot weather year round (and not much rain), it’s the perfect destination for sun worshippers.
A Handwork's Tale, Plum Guide home in Santa Barbara, USA
Dakar, Senegal
Straw parasols on a sandy beach in summer in Dakar, Senegal
Situated just above the equator, Senegal is one of the hottest countries in the world. Its capital Dakar is a thriving modern city with a fantastic range of attractions, markets, art galleries, and eateries to keep you busy. If it gets too hot, we recommend heading down to Dakar’s many sandy beaches for a dip, or even a surf. The city is something of a surfer’s paradise, with a range of surf hostels, camps, and rental shops dotted around the northern end of Dakar.
Barbados
Man sunbathing on beach in front of blue sea at Carlisle Bay, Barbados
Dreaming of warm, sunny winter holidays? Barbados is a dreamy destination which promises sun, sea, and sand (as well as plenty of smooth Caribbean rum, of course). There’s something for every kind of traveller, whether you’re a history nerd, a foodie, or an adventurer. Crawl through underground caverns, shake your hips at a calypso night, or learn how to scuba dive. If that all sounds like too much, there’s nothing wrong with simply relaxing on the beach with a cocktail.
Pineapple Sugar, Plum Guide home in Barbados
Cartagena, Colombia
Colourful buildings along a narrow street on a warm day in Cartagena, Colombia
The port city of Cartagena is one of Colombia’s finest destinations. Lying within centuries-old stone walls, Cartagena’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its colourful colonial buildings, cobbled streets, and leafy plazas. Thanks to its tropical climate, the city is also a popular beach destination. Isla de Barú and the Islas del Rosario are both reachable by boat, and are known for their white sand beaches and coral reefs.
Baja California Sur, Mexico
An aerial view of clear blue water and white sand at Balandra Beach, Baja California Sur, Mexico
With its desert climate, this state in northwest Mexico is a fantastic year-round vacation spot. It’s one of the warmest regions in Mexico, so you’ll find yourself wanting to spend every minute of the day cooling off in the turquoise waters. When you’ve swam, snorkelled, kayaked, and parasailed to your heart’s content, switch things up by hiking in the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, or indulge in some authentic Mexican cuisine in the charming resort towns.
A Little Love Song, Plum Guide home in Baja California Sur, Mexico
Flores, Indonesia
An aerial view of Kelor Island and the blue sea on a sunny day in Flores, Indonesia
Looking for a place where the heat stays all year round? Indonesia is your answer. Made up of over 17,000 islands, you’re guaranteed a warm, tropical vacation wherever you go. Flores is one of the top destinations, home to quiet beaches, crystal clear waters, and Kelimutu National Park - discover its volcano and three coloured lake. The port town of Labuan Bajo is the gateway to Komodo National Park, where you can meet the carnivorous komodo dragons (from a safe distance).
Zakynthos, Greece
An aerial view of Navagio Beach with its famous shipwreck on the sand next to clear blue water, Zakynthos, Greece
When it comes to warm places, the many Greek islands are a popular choice for a holiday. Zakynthos is one of our favourites, offering a mix of mountains, beaches, and picturesque villages - the toughest decision you’ll have to make is choosing which to see first. Embark on an olive oil factory tour or visit a Byzantine museum, and you have the perfect Mediterranean holiday.
Inhale the Present, Plum Guide home in Zakynthos, Greece
Costa Rica
A pristine sandy beach by the blue sea and green trees in Costa Rica
With its humid, tropical climate, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to escape the cold. It’s a playground for outdoor activities, whether you want to relax on the beach, try out water sports in the azure waters, cruise down a river, trek through tropical rainforests, or swim under waterfalls. If you need a break from adventure activities, the capital San José has a selection of museums, art galleries, and architecture.
Sicily, Italy
A deck chair at a table with Italian food overlooking the sea on a warm day in Sicily, Italy
Just off the ‘toe’ of Italy’s ‘boot’, Sicily is much more than its dubious reputation as the home of the Italian mafia. If you’re interested in history, science, beaches, wine, and food (who isn’t?), then this is the place for you. Whether you want to burn off all that pasta with a hike up Mount Etna, check out ancient Greek ruins, or wander around the Baroque towns, you’ll never be bored in Sicily.
From Riviera to Sea, Plum Guide home in Sicily, Italy
Fez, Morocco
An aerial view of cars and palm trees on the road at Abu Bakr ibn al-Arabi street, Fez Morocco
Often referred to as Morocco’s culture capital, Fez is an ancient city rich in traditions, gastronomy, and architecture. If you’re into historical structures, you’ll be in your element here, with countless beautiful buildings to visit. Some of the most visited include the 9th-century library in the Al Quaraouiyine mosque, and the Medersa Bou Inania. Between sightseeing, make sure you visit Chouara Tannery, the oldest tannery in the world.
Mexico City, Mexico
A view of the Metropolitan Cathedral on a sunny day, Mexico City, Mexico
This magical and chaotic metropolis is one of Central America’s hottest destinations, and not just because of the weather. This exciting city is a blend of history, culture, art, and delicious food. Visit some of Latin America’s best museums and galleries in the daytime, before letting loose in the lively bars and clubs come nightfall. The shady Chapultepec Forest is one of the largest parks in the Western Hemisphere, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle for a few hours.
Brightly, Plum Guide home in Mexico City, Mexico
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
A view of skyscrapers by a sandy beach with palm trees, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
When looking to escape to one of the warmest places for a luxury break, Dubai is one of the greatest options for you. This sprawling desert city is known for its ultramodern architecture, luxury shopping, and nightlife scene, with an array of galleries, museums, and cultural institutions. There are even activities for those seeking an adrenaline rush- slide between the high floors of a glass skyscraper, or skydive over the iconic Palm Jumeirah island.
Malaga, Spain
Green plants lining colourful walls in a narrow street on a hot day in Malaga, Spain
This port city on the Costa del Sol is one of our favourite warm places to vacation, as it offers a mix of history, sandy beaches, outdoor activities, and (most importantly) amazing eateries. As well as relaxing on the beach, it’s also worth checking out some of Malaga’s other attractions, such as La Concepión Botanical Garden, Castillo de Gibralfaro, and the Roman Theatre Alcazaba. You can even spend the day exploring the lush mountains and flower fields of Montes de Málaga.
Coastal Links, Plum Guide home in Malaga, Spain
Petra, Jordan
The sun shining on the Treasury Temple in the side of a red cliff, Petra, Jordan
The world’s warmest destinations don’t always involve beaches. Sometimes, desert destinations such as Petra are just as exciting - this iconic archaeological site was formerly the capital city of the Nabataeans, from 300 BC to 100 AD. What remains today are the well-preserved remains of monuments, temples, and tombs, as well as Roman ruins. We highly recommend staying for sunset, when the multi-coloured sandstone ruins turn golden.
Austin, USA
A low-angle view of a large business building in Austin, Texas, USA
Looking for a city break? With its humid subtropical climate, Austin is one of the best places to escape the cold. There are so many things to keep you entertained in the city, from scenic trails and crystal-clear lakes, to renowned museums and artisan markets. Austin is nicknamed the Live Music Capital of the World, so be sure to catch a show at the many celebrated live music venues.
Strum & Flow, Plum Guide home in Austin, USA
Ko Samui, Thailand
A large rock pool at a beach in summer in Ko Samui, Thailand
Thailand conjures up images of tropical beaches, palm trees, and lush jungle, and Ko Samui is exactly that. Thailand’s second largest island offers something for everyone, whether you want to explore the various ornate temples, or admire the 19th-century wooden homes at Bophut village. Those looking to get adventurous can take a boat tour and enjoy scuba diving and snorkelling, or head into the jungle for zip-lining, hiking, and swimming under picturesque waterfalls.
Antalya, Turkey
An aerial view of a small white boat driving on the clue blue sea on a warm day in Antalya, Turkey
Located on the enticingly-named Turquoise Coast, the resort town of Antalya is the perfect spot if you’re after a beach getaway with a slice of history and culture. Whether you’ve had an exciting day visiting Roman ruins or a relaxing day on Konyaalti Beach, settle down with a drink in one of the many cafes in the old harbour, before enjoying views of the sun setting behind the bobbing boats.
Lycia's Dream, Plum Guide home in Antalya, Turkey
Cuba
Leaning palm trees on a pristine beach in the summer in Cuba
Cuba is one of those unique destinations where it seems like little has changed in the past 100 years. The cities are full of historical heritage, colonial architecture, and vintage cars, while the scenery consists of dazzling beaches, jade-green waterfalls, and lush countryside. With such a range of things to do, Cuba offers a diversity and culture that few Caribbean islands can rival.
Famagusta, Cyprus
A view of the Old Cathedral of Saint Nicholas on a sunny day in Famagusta, Cyprus
Founded in the 3rd century, the city of Famagusta is a historic gem. Strolling round the Old Town, you’ll find remnants of different eras - including the remains of the Venetian Royal Palace. One of the most unique things to do is visiting the ghost town of Varosha, one of Famagusta’s top attractions. Rent a bike or explore the town on foot, and catch a glimpse of previous lives in the abandoned hotels, apartments, and shops.
Whispering Sands, Plum Guide home in Famagusta, Cyprus
Jamaica
Palm trees by the clear blue sea on a beach in Jamaica
With high temperatures throughout the year, the tropical island nation of Jamaica is an amazing destination packed with things to do. Relax in the warm Caribbean waters, swim under breathtaking waterfalls, hike in the Blue Mountains, or explore Bob Marley’s legacy in the Bob Marley Museum. Come nightfall, go in hunt of the best jerk chicken at the food markets, and rock to world-famous reggae beats.
