The Best Holiday Destinations for December

Holidays in December are perfect for warming up during those cold winter months – and enjoying a bit of ‘chill out time’ before the craziness of Christmas kicks in!

While temperatures drop back home, you could be jetting off to sunny skies and pretty places lined with palm trees. We’ll trade snow for sunshine any day!

Take a look at what we think are some of the best holiday destinations for December…

Tenerife

The largest of the Canary Islands, this Spanish delight is the full package. With blue-flagged beaches, the largest mountain in Spain, and home to one of the world’s top water parks, it should come as no surprise that this is also the most popular of the islands!

Playa de Las Americas is a firm family favourite – the kids will simply love making a splash at Siam Park, whilst on a night there’s plenty of bars for the adults to enjoy a tipple or two! Not too far away and remaining in the south of the island is Costa Adeje, which is graced with a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. 

Head north and you’ll find a shoppers’ paradise in Santa Cruz, not to mention all the fun of Loro Parque – a real showstopper when it comes to experiencing the wildlife of the Canary Islands.

Tenerife enjoys all-year-round good weather, meaning it’s perfect for a getaway in December when it’s all-too chilly back home! With highs of 20 degrees celsius, you’ll certainly still come back with a tan. 

Benidorm

Holidays to Benidorm are all about big beaches and even bigger nightlife. This destination is only a short flight away – but it’s certainly not short on things to do. 

This bubbly seaside resort flaunts its super long sandy beaches, while in the old town you’ll find bustling tapas bars serving your favourite tipples and tasty treats, like sangria and sizzling chorizo. 

The Levante area is where Benidorm comes to life, playing host to comedians, tribute bands and even the occasional drag queen. And if you’re not too shy, you’ll be able to showcase your singing talent at one of the many karaoke bars!

With highs of 16 degrees even in December, it’ll be much more pleasant than back at home…but with so much more to see and do. Benidorm in December is perfect for a break that’s all about the good times! 

Egypt

If you’re after a hot December holiday without having to travel to the other side of the world, then Egypt is the perfect choice. Boasting high temperatures of 23 degrees celsius, you’ll still be able to get your tan on.

What isn’t there to love about holidays to Egypt – endless stretches of golden sand, giant pyramids and crystal clear waters that are home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the world. Sounds good to us!

Sharm El Sheikh’s bustling strip is the place to be on a night, where you can bag a bargain in the market stalls before making your way through the cocktail list at a karaoke bar or nightclub. If tradition is more your style, enjoy a belly-dancing show in a sea front bar. This captivating culture of this country will 

Morocco

Bustling bazaars, scorched earth scenery, and pretty rooftop bars where you can watch the sunset – Morocco is just a short-haul flight from the UK, but it boasts such a unique and welcoming vibe. 

Take a trip into the imposing Atlas Mountains, visit a traditional Berber village, and barter for leather goods in the souks – there are countless ways to spend your time on a holiday to Morocco.

Although one of the cooler months of the year, December still sees high temperatures of 20 degrees celsius – plenty warm enough in comparison to the rainy, dreary skies of the UK!

Most people choose Agadir as their base – and it’s easy to see why. With a six mile stretch of coast and the shape-shifting dunes of the Sahara Desert nearby, this fascinating destination makes for a worthwhile holiday location. 

Marrakech will also have you marveling at sights and sounds, especially at the chaotic and yet captivating markets where you can snap up a bargain if you’re willing to barter. You’ll be able to bag your friends and family some truly unique Christmas presents to take back! 

Jamaica

If you’d like to venture further afield for some wonderful winter sun, then say hello to the feel-good vibes of Jamaica.

December is the perfect time to travel to this colourful and charismatic Caribbean island – the weather couldn’t be anymore perfect, with highs of a toasty 29 degrees celsius! Make sure to pack that sun cream!

If you’ve been before, you’ll remember scenes from paradise…if you haven’t, picture white sands, palm trees and beach bars facing the sparkling turquoise sea, serving all your favourite rum cocktails.

The main resorts are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril, while the more secluded Runaway Bay offers up plenty of nods to the King of Reggae music, Mr Bob Marley himself, who was born there. Negril boasts one of the best beaches in Jamaica – Seven Mile Beach, and believe us when we say, you’ll be hard pushed to find a more beautiful sight. 

Tuck into delicious home-cooked reggae chicken and party the night away to reggae beats. This is a dream destination you’ll simply love!

Cyprus

A small island with a big heart – Cyprus is the perfect place to head for a December holiday. Seeing scorching temperatures in the summer, by the end of the year things have cooled down a little – but you can still see highs of 19 degrees celsius. 

Cyprus is a firm favourite with families, thanks to the Water World water park and the fun-filled Luna Park in Ayia Napa. Couples love Paphos, with its palm tree lined harbour and pretty marina. History buffs will be in their element too, with sights like the Tombs of the Kings to explore. 

All around this idyllic island you’ll be spoilt for choice with beautiful beaches and clear shallow waters – with the likes of Nissi Beach being one of the most popular. Embark on scenic beachy walks or head further inland and explore the Troodos Mountains – 

The Cypriot people are well known for being some of the most hospitable people in the world too, so expect to be greeted with a smile. The food certainly won’t disappoint either – have your fill of Greek meze and eat freshly grilled halloumi to your heart’s content! 

Time to book?

December needn’t be dreary. Now you’re armed with the lowdown about where to go for the best holiday in December, there’s no need to waste any more time thinking about it. 

Take your pick from our tempting selection and get ready to jet off into the sunshine. It’s the perfect way to shrug off the winter blues, breathe a little warmth into your bones, and enjoy a week or two in the sun. What could be better?