Last updated: October 2026
5 Amazing Destinations for Winter Sun
When the days get shorter and the UK weather turns colder, a winter sun holiday can be a very tempting escape.
Whether you want tropical beaches, warm city days, surfing, sightseeing or simply somewhere brighter than home, there are plenty of destinations to consider.
Here are five winter sun ideas ranging from relatively accessible Canary Island breaks to long-haul escapes in Florida, Mexico, Hawaiʻi and Thailand.
Winter Sun Destinations at a Glance
Beaches, city life, restaurants and warm-weather sightseeing.
Caribbean coastline, resorts and easy access to the Riviera Maya.
Warm weather, beaches, winter surf and seasonal whale watching.
Two very different options for travellers prioritising sunshine and beaches.
1. Miami, Florida
Miami offers a very different kind of winter break from a traditional resort holiday, combining beaches with shopping, restaurants, nightlife, art and city sightseeing.
South Beach is one of the best-known areas for its Art Deco architecture and oceanfront setting, while other parts of the city offer a quieter atmosphere away from the busiest beachfront areas.
Winter can bring pleasantly warm days, although temperatures and conditions vary, so check the forecast close to travel rather than assuming guaranteed beach weather.
2. Cancún, Mexico
Cancún and the surrounding Riviera Maya remain popular choices for travellers looking for Caribbean beaches and resort-style winter holidays.
You can spend your time relaxing by the coast or use Cancún as a base for exploring cenotes, nearby islands and archaeological sites across the Yucatán Peninsula.
Winter is a popular travel period, so prices and availability can vary considerably around Christmas, New Year and school holidays.
3. Honolulu & Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi
Honolulu sits on the island of Oʻahu and offers a mix of beaches, city attractions, food, shopping and easy access to other parts of the island.
Winter is particularly famous for large swells on Oʻahu’s North Shore, attracting experienced surfers and spectators from around the world.
It also falls within Hawaiʻi’s whale-watching season, although sightings are never guaranteed.
If you’re swimming or taking part in watersports, pay close attention to local ocean conditions and safety advice, as winter surf can be powerful in some areas.
4. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Gran Canaria is one of the more accessible winter sun options from the UK and offers considerably more than just resort beaches.
The south of the island is known for beaches and resort areas, while inland Gran Canaria offers mountain scenery, villages and walking routes.
Winter temperatures are generally mild, but conditions vary around the island and between coastal and higher-altitude areas.
5. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is one of Thailand’s best-known beach destinations and can be a popular winter choice for travellers looking for genuinely tropical conditions.
The island has a wide range of beaches and resort areas, from lively locations to quieter stretches of coastline, as well as restaurants, boat trips and opportunities to explore further afield.
Weather varies from year to year, so check current conditions and regional travel information before departure rather than relying on guarantees of uninterrupted sunshine.
Which Winter Sun Destination Is Right for You?
Gran Canaria is much closer to the UK than Florida, Hawaiʻi, Mexico or Thailand.
Decide whether mild sunshine is enough or whether genuinely tropical heat is your priority.
Think about whether you want beaches, city life, sightseeing, surfing or a resort-focused break.
Long-haul flights, local costs and peak-season accommodation can make a significant difference.
Before you book:
Check current passport, visa, health and destination requirements using UK Government Foreign Travel Advice. Weather and local conditions can also vary throughout the season.
Travel Insurance for Your Winter Sun Holiday
Whether you’re taking one winter getaway or travelling several times during the year, consider travel insurance that suits your destination, trip length and individual circumstances.
Depending on the policy selected and the circumstances involved, travel insurance may provide cover for certain unexpected events such as eligible emergency medical expenses, cancellation, baggage loss or travel disruption.
Covered2Go offers Silver, Gold and Platinum cover levels across its Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip policies. All three cover levels have achieved Which? Best Buy status for 2026.
Explore Single Trip Travel Insurance →
Explore Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance →
Ready to Find Some Winter Sunshine?
From Gran Canaria’s relatively easy access to Phuket’s tropical beaches and Miami’s combination of coastline and city life, each of these destinations offers a different kind of escape from the UK winter.
Think about how far you want to travel, the type of holiday you want and the climate you’re looking for, then check the latest destination information before booking.
Planning a Winter Sun Getaway?
Explore Covered2Go travel insurance and choose cover that suits your destination, trip and individual needs.
This article is for general information only. Temperatures, weather and seasonal conditions vary and are not guaranteed. Entry requirements and travel advice can change. Travel insurance cover is subject to eligibility, benefit limits, excesses, terms, conditions and exclusions. Always check the current Policy Wording and your Certificate of Insurance.
