The Best Destinations for Sun and Swimming, Month by Month
When rain, fog and low temperatures arrive in Europe, the swimming and beach season is just getting started in other parts of the world. From Egypt and Cyprus to Bali, the Seychelles, Kenya and Thailand, there are plenty of warm-weather destinations where you can find sunshine, warm seas and pleasant temperatures almost every month of the year. Here is our guide to the best destinations from October through April – for everyone looking to trade Europe’s cold weather for sunshine, warm water and a relaxing beach holiday.
OCTOBER – The Last Taste of Summer and the Start of the Tropical Season
Cyprus
Cyprus is one of the best choices in October for travelers who want to extend summer without a long journey. Air and sea temperatures are still warm enough for comfortable swimming, while the days are generally sunny and pleasant. Paphos, Limassol, Ayia Napa and Protaras offer excellent beaches as well as plenty of opportunities to explore the island. Another advantage of October is that the beaches and resorts are far less crowded than during the peak summer season. Cyprus is therefore an excellent choice for one last taste of Mediterranean summer before autumn fully arrives. It is also close to Europe and well connected by air.
Egypt
The Red Sea offers almost perfect beach conditions in October. Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna and Marsa Alam enjoy hot, sunny days, warm water and a wide choice of hotels and resorts. Beyond swimming and relaxing on the beach, Egypt is famous for its spectacular coral reefs and outstanding snorkeling and diving opportunities. Fall is much more comfortable than the peak summer months, when temperatures inland can become extremely high. If you are looking for reliable sunshine and warm water without a long journey from Europe, Egypt is one of the best choices. Add a Nile cruise and a visit to the pyramids of Giza near Cairo, and you have a perfect combination of culture, history and relaxation.
Bali
Bali is particularly appealing in October, as the dry season is coming to an end while weather conditions remain highly favorable for travel. The sea is warm, temperatures are tropical, and there are almost endless opportunities to explore the island. In addition to its beaches, visitors should experience Ubud, the rice terraces, Hindu temples and volcanic landscapes. A trip to Bali can easily be extended with excursions to Nusa Penida and the nearby Gili Islands. Bali is therefore an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine a beach vacation with exotic culture, spectacular nature and outstanding food.
Greece
Greek islands such as Crete and Rhodes can still offer a genuine summer experience in October. The sea remains warm enough for swimming after the long summer, while air temperatures are much more comfortable for sightseeing than during July and August. Beaches are quieter, accommodation prices are often lower, and the islands take on a more relaxed atmosphere. Crete is particularly attractive because, beyond its beaches, it offers mountains, historic sites and excellent cuisine. For a short Mediterranean getaway without a long journey, the Greek islands remain a highly attractive choice in October.
NOVEMBER – Time for the Red Sea, Cape Verde and the Tropics
Oman
Oman is an interesting choice for travelers looking to combine warm seas, spectacular landscapes and Arabian culture. Temperatures are still high in November, particularly during the day, so it is best to plan swimming and outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon. Muscat is an excellent base for combining beaches, luxury hotels, traditional souks and excursions into the mountains and desert. Nature lovers can explore dramatic canyons sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, spectacular wadis and the coastline of the Gulf of Oman. Oman is a great choice for travelers looking for something more adventurous and culturally distinctive than a traditional beach resort.
Cape Verde
Cape Verde enters its main season for European winter-sun travelers in November. Sal and Boa Vista offer miles of sandy beaches, warm water and very little rainfall. The landscape is completely different from the Mediterranean, with volcanic rocks, desert-like scenery and endless beaches. Strong winds are common, making the islands particularly attractive to kitesurfers and other water-sports enthusiasts. Cape Verde is an excellent compromise between a relatively short journey from Europe and the feeling of a genuinely exotic destination.
Dubai
November is one of the best months to visit Dubai, as the extreme summer heat finally begins to ease. Temperatures are ideal for the beach, while the sea remains warm enough for swimming. Dubai also offers what many traditional beach destinations do not – world-class hotels, restaurants, shopping and spectacular attractions. A beach vacation can easily be combined with a desert excursion, visits to the neighboring Emirates and some of the world’s most impressive modern landmarks. For travelers looking for a combination of luxury, warm water and a major city, Dubai is an excellent fall getaway.
Goa, India
Southern India enters its drier season in November, making Goa one of the country’s most attractive coastal destinations. Temperatures are high, the sea is warm, and beaches stretch along the Arabian Sea. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Goa offers a fascinating combination of Indian culture, Portuguese heritage, excellent cuisine and a laid-back lifestyle. Beaches such as Baga, Candolim and Palolem attract different types of travelers, from those looking for nightlife to those seeking peace and relaxation. Goa is an excellent choice for travelers who want a tropical beach vacation combined with a strong cultural experience. Nearby Kerala offers a similar combination, and is particularly well known for its hotels and resorts offering traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
DECEMBER – The Real Tropical Season Begins
Thailand
December is one of the best months to visit Thailand, particularly its western coast. Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta and numerous other islands offer temperatures around 86°F and warm tropical waters. The rainy season has ended in many of the country’s most popular destinations, creating ideal conditions for beaches and outdoor activities. Thailand is especially appealing because it combines spectacular beaches with outstanding food, temples, tropical landscapes and vibrant cities. If a longer flight is not an issue, Thailand is one of the world’s best choices for escaping the European winter.
Tanzania and Zanzibar
December is an excellent time to travel to Tanzania because a safari can be combined with a relaxing beach vacation on Zanzibar. Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire offer extraordinary wildlife experiences, while Zanzibar provides white-sand beaches and sea temperatures of around 81–84°F. Short rain showers can occur at the beginning of December, but they generally do not prevent travelers from enjoying their trip. On Zanzibar, temperatures remain high and the warm Indian Ocean is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving. If you want to combine an African safari with a genuine tropical beach vacation, Tanzania is one of the most exciting winter-sun destinations.
Seychelles
The Seychelles are a true tropical paradise in December, with air and sea temperatures that make swimming possible throughout the day. Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are famous for spectacular beaches, granite rock formations and lush tropical vegetation. The warm waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, sailing and exploring secluded coves. December does bring higher humidity and a greater chance of tropical showers, however. For a romantic getaway or luxury vacation on one of the world’s most beautiful island destinations, the Seychelles are hard to beat. They are also among the world’s most spectacular beach destinations.
JANUARY – Look for Summer in the Tropics
Yucatán, Mexico
January is an excellent month to visit the Yucatán Peninsula, with pleasant temperatures, lower humidity than in summer and generally favorable conditions for both sightseeing and beach vacations. Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and the island of Cozumel offer spectacular Caribbean beaches, with sea temperatures around 79–81°F. Beyond swimming, the region is famous for its cenotes, ancient Maya cities such as Chichén Itzá and numerous nature reserves. January is also a great time to combine several days at the beach with exploring the Yucatán rather than simply staying at an all-inclusive resort. If you want a combination of the tropical Caribbean, ancient civilizations, great food and comfortable weather, the Yucatán is one of the best choices for January.
Dominican Republic
January is one of the best months to visit the Dominican Republic, as it falls within the country’s drier and slightly cooler season, with pleasant temperatures and relatively little rainfall. Punta Cana, Bayahibe, La Romana and Puerto Plata offer miles of white-sand beaches and Caribbean waters around 79–81°F. Beyond the classic resort experience, travelers can explore national parks, colonial Santo Domingo and the island’s interior. The combination of an all-inclusive resort with several day trips is particularly appealing for travelers who want to experience more than just the beach. The Dominican Republic is also well connected by air to Europe.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka offers an excellent combination of tropical beaches, nature and culture in January. The southwestern coast around Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna and Bentota is particularly attractive for swimming and beach holidays. A trip can easily be combined with visits to national parks, tea plantations and historic cities. Boat excursions, whale watching and exploring the island’s interior are among the most memorable experiences. Sri Lanka is ideal for travelers who do not want to spend their entire vacation on the beach.
FEBRUARY – Tropical Islands at Their Best
Maldives
February is one of the most reliable months for a sunny beach vacation in the Maldives. The weather is generally dry and sunny, while the sea is perfect for swimming and water activities. Resorts spread across the atolls offer private beaches, turquoise lagoons, restaurants and spectacular underwater experiences. The Maldives are particularly popular with couples, but they are also an excellent choice for families and diving enthusiasts. If your idea of the perfect vacation is luxury, privacy and picture-perfect tropical waters, it is hard to beat the Maldives.
Mauritius
Mauritius offers beautiful beaches, but its greatest advantage is that the entire island is worth exploring. In addition to lagoons and coral reefs, you will find mountains, waterfalls, national parks and a fascinating blend of African, Indian, Chinese and European cultures. The sea is very warm in February and ideal for swimming. The island is also excellent for golf, diving, sailing and exploring its diverse culinary scene. Mauritius is the right choice for travelers who want luxury and beaches but also a destination with plenty to discover.
Diani Beach, Kenya
The area around Mombasa is one of Africa’s most attractive winter-sun destinations. Diani Beach has been recognized as one of Africa’s most beautiful beaches, thanks to its white sand, turquoise water and tropical surroundings. The historic city of Mombasa offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s long trading history and cultural diversity. A beach vacation can easily be combined with a safari, making Kenya an especially appealing destination for adventurous travelers. For a combination of African culture, tropical beaches and wildlife, this is an outstanding choice.
MARCH – The Seychelles Take Center Stage Again
Seychelles
March is an excellent month to explore the Seychelles and their spectacular beaches. Air and sea temperatures remain tropical, creating ideal conditions for swimming, diving and snorkeling. The largest island, Mahé, is the best starting point for first-time visitors, while Praslin and La Digue are ideal for a quieter experience and some of the archipelago’s most beautiful beaches. Lush tropical vegetation and dramatic granite formations create landscapes that seem almost unreal. The Seychelles are one of the best choices in March for escaping the final weeks of Europe’s winter.
Thailand
Thailand remains an excellent choice in March for travelers who love warm water and tropical temperatures. The sea remains comfortably warm, while the beaches of Koh Samui, Koh Tao and other islands in the Gulf of Thailand are ideal for swimming. Temperatures begin to rise during the month, so beach time and excursions are best planned for the morning or late afternoon. Thailand also offers outstanding food, culture and accommodation for virtually every budget. For travelers who do not mind the heat, March is an excellent month to explore Thailand’s islands, as well as Bangkok and northern cities such as Chiang Mai.
Egypt
By March, the Red Sea is once again approaching ideal spring conditions for European travelers. Days are getting warmer, sunshine is reliable and the sea is warm enough for swimming and water sports. Sharm El Sheikh and Marsa Alam are particularly attractive to diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Egypt is also considerably closer and often more affordable than tropical long-haul destinations. If you want to experience summer without taking a long intercontinental flight, Egypt is one of the best choices in March. Diving is one of the main reasons travelers visit the Red Sea.
APRIL – Spring Returns to Europe, While Bali Shines Again
Vietnam
April is an excellent month to travel through Vietnam, as much of the country is warm and relatively dry, with conditions suitable for both sightseeing and beach vacations. For swimming and beach time, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang and the Da Nang area are particularly attractive, offering warm water and beautiful beaches. At the same time, travelers can explore Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, making Vietnam much more than a traditional beach destination. Northern Vietnam is generally more comfortable in April than during the summer months, while the south can be quite hot. Ha Long Bay is considered by many travelers to be one of the world’s most beautiful coastal landscapes.
Bali
April marks the end of Bali’s rainy season and the beginning of its drier period, making the island one of the best tropical choices once again. Weather conditions gradually become more stable, temperatures remain high and the sea is ideal for swimming and water sports. Bali is much more than a beach destination, so a trip should include Ubud, temples, rice terraces and volcanic landscapes. Nusa Penida and the surrounding islands can add several days of spectacular beaches and underwater experiences. April is therefore an excellent time to visit Bali, particularly for travelers looking to combine beaches, nature, culture and exotic experiences.
Turkey – Antalya and the Turkish Riviera
April is an excellent month to explore Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, with pleasant air temperatures and increasingly sunny days. Antalya, Alanya, Side, Belek and Kemer offer numerous luxury hotels, long beaches and excellent tourist infrastructure, although the sea is still noticeably cooler than during the summer. This makes April more suitable for travelers who want to combine a hotel stay, swimming pools, excursions and sightseeing rather than spend the entire day in the sea. Another major advantage is the absence of the intense summer heat, making April ideal for visiting ancient sites such as Perge, Aspendos and Termessos. If you are looking for your first taste of Mediterranean spring and do not mind cooler sea temperatures, Turkey is an excellent choice for April.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands offer reliable spring sunshine and pleasant temperatures in April. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote have numerous beaches, but also volcanic landscapes, hiking trails and interesting towns and villages. The Atlantic Ocean is cooler than the tropical seas, but the water is perfectly suitable for travelers who do not mind lower temperatures. One of the biggest advantages of the Canary Islands is their easy accessibility from most of Europe. For an active spring vacation with plenty of sunshine, the Canary Islands remain one of Europe’s best choices.
So, Where Should You Go?
If warm seawater is your top priority, the best choices during the European winter include Thailand, the Maldives, the Seychelles, Kenya, Zanzibar and Mauritius. If proximity to Europe matters most, Egypt, Cyprus, the Canary Islands and Cape Verde are the strongest options. And for travelers who want to combine beaches with exploration, Bali, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, Vietnam and Mexico stand out.
The key is choosing the right month. Bali is excellent in October and again in April, Thailand is particularly good from December through March, the Seychelles are a superb choice during the European winter, while Egypt is almost a year-round winner for travelers who want warmth without a long journey.
In other words, summer never really ends – you just have to know where to find it.
