December Beach Vacations - 10 Best Places for a Winter Beach Getaway

Introduction

December may seem like an odd time to take a beach vacation, especially for those living in the northern hemisphere. But while much of North America and Europe are bundling up for cold winter weather, there are actually many amazing destinations around the world that have warm, sunny beach weather even in December.

The off-season appeal of a December beach vacation includes fewer crowds, lower rates on hotels and resorts, and ideal weather for relaxing on the sand and swimming in the ocean. For those looking to escape the pre-holiday stress or cold winter blues, booking a trip to one of these “hot” beach destinations in December is a great option.

From the islands of the Caribbean and South Pacific to exotic locales in Central America and the Indian Ocean, here are 10 of the best places for a beach getaway this December. These hot spots offer average December temperatures in the 70s, 80s and even 90s Fahrenheit (20s to low 30s Celsius). Picture perfect blue waters, swaying palms and plenty of beachfront fun await.

1. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a renowned resort city on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. With average December temperatures in the 80s Fahrenheit (high 20s Celsius), it’s a fantastic spot for a warm weather beach vacation. Cancun is best known for its lively hotel zone lined with all-inclusive resorts, white sand beaches, offshore coral reefs and Mayan ruins.

Where to Stay

Cancun has no shortage of all-inclusive beachfront resorts perfect for a relaxing vacation. Top options include:

• Hyatt Ziva Cancun - Family-friendly resort with multiple pools, kids club and oceanview rooms.

• Le Blanc Spa Resort - Adults-only luxury resort with butler service and chic infinity pools.

• Ocean Coral & Turquesa by H10 - Large resort with complimentary buffets, a spa and activities like salsa dancing.

• Paradisus Cancun - Upscale resort with contemporary rooms, gourmet restaurants and a sprawling pool.

What to Do

• Relax on Cancun’s picture-postcard white sand beaches like Playa Delfines, Playa Langosta and Playa Tortugas. The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

• Visit fascinating ancient Mayan ruins like the famous El Castillo pyramid at Chichen Itza (named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World) or cliffside temples at Tulum overlooking the Caribbean.

• Experience Cancun’s lively nightlife, entertainment and restaurant scene at areas like Punta Cancun and Kukulcan Plaza.

• Try water activities like jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking or hop on a boat tour to go snorkeling, diving or swimming with dolphins.

Cancun offers the perfect blend of beach relaxation and fun activities for an unforgettable December vacation. The resort city really comes alive over the holidays, making it one of the top destinations in Mexico.

2. Caribbean Islands (Jamaica, Bahamas, Cayman Islands)

The picturesque islands of the Caribbean are always a top choice for beach vacations with their postcard-worthy white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and laidback tropical vibe. Popular destinations like Jamaica, the Bahamas and the Cayman Islands have warm, sunny weather year-round making them ideal for a December beach trip. Average temperatures remain in the 80s Fahrenheit (high 20s Celsius).

Jamaica highlights include lounging on Seven Mile Beach in Negril, rafting down the Martha Brae River through rainforests, and climbing the famous Dunn’s River Falls.

The Bahamas are renowned for unforgettable encounters like swimming with dolphins, interacting with pigs at Pig Beach Exuma, or snorkeling through underwater sculpture gardens. Top beaches include Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island and Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island.

The Cayman Islands impress with Seven Mile Beach, often ranked one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Stingray City is also popular for snorkeling with Southern Stingrays.

Where to Stay

• Jamaica: Try an all-inclusive like Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort or boutique hotels like Rockhouse or The Caves.

• Bahamas: Top resorts include Atlantis Paradise Island, Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas, and Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.

• Cayman Islands: Recommended spots are the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, Margaritaville Beach Resort, and The Ritz-Carlton.

What to Do

• Relax on silky soft white sand beaches and turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling or other water sports.
• Experience each island’s unique sights and culture like Jamaican jerk chicken, Junkanoo parades in the Bahamas or Stingray City in the Caymans.
• Enjoy resort amenities like pools, spas, bars and restaurants. The islands offer the perfect mix of activity and relaxation.

With a beach vacation in the Caribbean, you can’t go wrong. The islands offer laidback vibes, incredible beaches and warm December weather ideal for a winter escape.

3. Hawaii (Big Island, Maui, Oahu)

The paradise islands of Hawaii have iconic beaches, lush landscapes and near-perfect weather in December making them a top choice for a winter beach getaway. Average December temperatures range from the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (mid 20s to low 30s Celsius) on the islands.

The Big Island of Hawaii has black sand beaches like Punaluʻu Bake Shop with sea turtles and popular Kona Coast resorts. Don’t miss seeing the lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (weather permitting).

Maui highlights include the Road to Hana driving past rainforests and waterfalls to secluded black sand beaches. Also popular are resort towns like Wailea and Ka’anapali with soft sand beaches. Haleakala National Park offers stunning volcano summit views.

Oahu is home to the famous Waikiki Beach backed by hotels, shops and restaurants. Pearl Harbor and historic Honolulu are also top attractions. The North Shore is renowned for big wave surfing.

Where to Stay

• Big Island: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

• Maui: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Grand Wailea, Montage Kapalua Bay

• Oahu: Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Halekulani, The Royal Hawaiian

What to Do

• Relax on Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches like Hapuna Beach (Big Island), Ka’anapali Beach (Maui) and Lanikai Beach (Oahu).

• Snorkel at top spots like Kealakekua Bay (Big Island), Molokini Crater (Maui) and Hanauma Bay (Oahu).

• Hike in the islands’ lush volcanic landscapes like Volcanoes National Park (Big Island) and the Road to Hana (Maui).

• Enjoy luaus, hula dancing, ukulele music and more scenes of Hawaiian culture.

With a December trip to Hawaii, you can trade snow for sunshine and enjoy island life surrounded by incredible natural beauty.

4. Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a 125-mile long chain of islands off the southern tip of Florida, lapped by tropical blue waters teeming with marine life. Average December temps here are in the mild 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit (low to high 20s Celsius).

The most popular island is Key West, renowned for its lively ambiance, restaurants, bars and historic 19th century architecture. Islamorada is considered the “sportfishing capital of the world” and offers outstanding offshore fishing.

For beaches, Bahia Honda State Park has some of the best like Calusa Beach with its postcard-perfect sandbar. Smathers Beach in Key West is also popular for beach volleyball.

Where to Stay

Some top waterfront accommodation options in the Keys include:

• Casa Marina Key West - Luxurious beachfront resort dating back to the 1920s.

• Islander Resort - Islamorada resort with oceanfront pools and marina access.

• Hawk’s Cay Resort - Spacious villas and rooms with Caribbean-style decor.

What to Do

• Relax on powdery white sand beaches like Smathers Beach, Sombrero Beach and Higgs Beach in Key West.

• Snorkel or scuba dive amid vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks. Key Largo has top dive sites.

• Visit Dry Tortugas National Park and explore Civil War-era Fort Jefferson by ferry.

• Experience the lively atmosphere and nightlife of Key West including Mallory Square sunsets.

• Try fishing for mahi mahi, tuna, sailfish and other sport fish. Islamorada is the fishing capital.

With easy access to tropical beaches, outdoor activities and charm, the Florida Keys offer a perfect warm winter escape.

5. Costa Rica

With coastlines on the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica offers incredible beaches on both sides of the country. Average December temperatures are in the mid 80s Fahrenheit (high 20s Celsius).

Popular spots on the west coast include Playas del Coco, Tamarindo and the beaches surrounding Manuel Antonio National Park like Biesanz Beach.

The east coast highlights include Cahuita’s white sand beaches near coral reefs, the lively surf town of Puerto Viejo, and the remote beaches of Tortuguero National Park only accessible by boat.

Where to Stay

• West coast: Hotel Parador, The Westin Golf Resort and Spa Playa Conchal, Tulemar Bungalows & Villas

• East coast: Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, Laguna Lodge, Shawandha Lodge

What to Do

• Surf at beginner-friendly beach breaks like Playa Jaco (west coast) or challenge world-class waves at Witch’s Rock (east coast).

• Go on wildlife expeditions in lush rainforests to spot sloths, monkeys, toucans and more.

• Try thrilling water adventures like whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River or kayaking through mangroves.

• Unplug relaxing on quiet beaches like Biesanz Beach near Manuel Antonio or sip cocktails overlooking the surf in trendy Tamarindo.

Costa Rica blends breathtaking natural scenery with exotic wildlife, rainforests, volcanoes and fabulous beaches making it ideal for an active or relaxed December vacation.

6. Thailand

With over 1,500 miles of coastline, Thailand is renowned for breathtaking tropical beaches along the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. Average December temps here are in the mid 80s Fahrenheit (low 30s Celsius).

The popular west coast beach highlights include island hopping around Phuket, Krabi and the Phi Phi islands with iconic backdrops like Maya Bay. Hippie haven Railay Beach is only accessible by boat.

The east coast allure includes beach towns like laidback Lamai Beach on Samui Island and the full moon party island Koh Phangan. Further south, Khao Lak has quieter scenes.

Where to Stay

• West coast: The Naka Island, Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa, Rayavadee Krabi

• East coast: Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas, Napasai By Orient Express, Casa De Mar

What to Do

• Island hop to places like Koh Phi Phi, Phuket and Krabi, relaxing on idyllic beaches between snorkeling and boat trips.

• Visit elephant sanctuaries and feed, bathe and interact with rescued elephants in their natural habitat.

• Sample authentic Thai cuisine including fiery curries, fresh seafood and flavorful noodle dishes.

• Shop at buzzing night markets in beach towns for souvenirs.

• Take a Thai cooking class and learn to make staple dishes.

With lush jungle interiors, towering limestone cliffs, and a world-class selection of beaches, Thailand is a tropical paradise for a December vacation.

7. Australia

As the Southern Hemisphere is headed into summer in December, Australia boasts warm beach weather and plenty of coastal fun. Average December temperatures range from the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (mid to high 20s Celsius).

The iconic beaches of the east coast include lively Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast and the scenic bays around Sydney like Bondi and Manly Beach.

The west coast lures travelers to Perth’s City Beach and Cottesloe Beach or to more remote beaches along the Ningaloo Reef north of Perth, where you can swim with whale sharks and manta rays. The turquoise waters of Broome’s Cable Beach are also stunning.

Where to Stay

• East coast: QT Bondi, InterContinental, Byron Bay

• West coast: Crown Towers Perth, Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, Cable Beach Club Resort

What to Do

• Take to the waves surfing at legendary breaks like Bondi Beach (Sydney), Burleigh Heads (Gold Coast) and Margaret River (west coast).

• Snorkel or scuba dive at remarkable sites like Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo Reef or Julian Rocks Marine Reserve in Byron Bay.

• Hike and lounge on secluded beaches in national parks like Litchfield National Park near Darwin.

• Spend a glamorous day at the beach people watching and eating at trendy seaside restaurants.

• Visit Sydney’s iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

With urban cool and loads of aquatic adventures, Australia makes for an unforgettable summery December Down Under.

8. South Africa

South Africa boasts incredible beaches along its Indian Ocean coastline, especially on the eastern shores near Durban and Cape Town. Average December temperatures here range from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit along the coast, and into the mid-80s in Durban.

Top picks include Clifton Beaches near Cape Town, famous for its rugged shoreline and Twelve Apostles mountain range backdrop. Boulders Beach is home to a protected African penguin colony.

The subtropical KwaZulu-Natal coast near Durban has a string of beautiful beaches including Umhlanga, known for swimming and surfing.

Where to Stay

• Cape Town: Cape Grace Hotel, The Table Bay Hotel, Ellerman House

• KwaZulu-Natal Coast: Oyster Box Hotel, Beverly Hills Hotel, Fairmont Zimbali Resort

What to Do

• Relax on breathtaking beaches like Camps Bay and Llandudno near Cape Town or Umhlanga’s golden sand beaches.

• Swim and snorkel with penguins at Boulders Beach or spot dolphins and whales along the coast.

• Try world-class surfing at spots like Jeffrey’s Bay on the Eastern Cape.

• Visit wineries in scenic valleys like Franschhoek and Stellenbosch.

• Consider a safari to see the Big Five wildlife—lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos.

South Africa combines stunning coastline, cosmopolitan cities like Cape Town and exotic wildlife for an unforgettable beach escape this December.

9. Brazil

Brazil boasts over 4,600 miles of coastline with world-famous beaches, particularly in hot spots like Rio de Janeiro and the Northeast region. Average December temperatures are in the 80s Fahrenheit (high 20s Celsius).

Highlights include legendary Rio beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema with their vibrant beach culture and scenic backdrops of mountains and high-rises.

Further north, the beaches of Bahia like Morro de São Paulo and Praia do Forte charm with their tropical vibes, palm trees and calm turquoise waters.

Jericoacoara is a hip, remote beach town only accessible by 4x4, known for giant sunset dunes, kitesurfing and beach parties.

Where to Stay

• Rio: Belmond Copacabana Palace, Miramar Hotel by Windsor, Janeiro Hotel

• Bahia: Kiaroa Eco Luxury Resort, Villa Paraiso, Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte

• Jericoacoara: Vila Kalango, Pousada Papaya, Casa Na Praia Guest House

What to Do

• Stroll and people watch along Rio’s iconic beaches or hike up Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views.

• Try beach sports like stand up paddleboarding, surfing, kite surfing and beach volleyball.

• Party at lively beachfront kiosks and beach clubs serving caipirinhas and snacks.

• Visit thundering Iguazu Falls in the south and the Amazon Rainforest up north.

Brazil’s alluring blend of natural wonders, urban energy and laidback beach culture promises an incredible December vacation.

10. Cuba

The island of Cuba boasts postcard-worthy beaches and old-world Caribbean charm. Average December temperatures here are in the 80s Fahrenheit (high 20s Celsius).

Top beach destinations include the stunning white sand beaches of Varadero, the Caribbean’s largest resort peninsula. Cayo Santa Maria has more secluded island beach vibes. Playa Paraiso on the Cayo Largo del Sur island is renowned for its tranquil turquoise waters.

Where to Stay

• Varadero: Melia Internacional Varadero, Royalton Hicacos Varadero Resort & Spa, Iberostar Selection Varadero

• Cayo Santa Maria: Melia Buenavista, Warwick Cayo Santa Maria Resort

• Cayo Largo: Iberostar Playa Blanca, Hotel Pelicano

What to Do

• Unwind relaxing on talcum-powder beaches overlooking bright blue waters teeming with tropical fish. Snorkeling and diving here are world-class.

• Soak in the old-world architecture and lively music scene of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Tour the lush Viñales Valley for tobacco, coffee and rum tastings at traditional countryside farms.

• Admire classic cars from the 1950s, enjoy Cuban cigars and mojitos.

With its time-capsule vibe and alluring beaches, Cuba lets you experience the Caribbean of yesteryear on the perfect December getaway.

Conclusion

December opens the door to amazing beach vacations around the globe without the crowds and heat of summer. From the white sand beaches and reefs of the Caribbean to the palm-fringed shores of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, you can soak up the sun and surf this winter.

These 10 hot destinations offer ideal weather with temperatures in the 70s, 80s and even 90s Fahrenheit. You can lounge seaside at world-class resorts or discover culture and adventure beyond the beaches.

Escape the pre-holiday stress and winter cold to one of these warm beach havens. Spend your days lounging on the sand with a tropical cocktail, snorkeling through rainbow reefs or sailing into a spectacular island sunset. The beach awaits this December!

For more beach vacation inspiration, check out these blog posts for the 20 Best Places to Visit in December, 10 Best Winter Travel Destinations for Couples and Winter Park Resort Travel Guide. GlobetrotterGO