travel places for december

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The 12 Best Places to Travel in December

When thinking about the best places to travel in December, you may be tempted to view the month through the lens of Christmas—which is understandable, given the wealth of cities that go all out for the holidays . And while we’re always down for a European Christmas market or dazzling lights display, there are plenty of reasons to travel this month outside of the holly and the jolly.

Whether you want to get a jumpstart on ski season or escape the winter doldrums in the Caribbean, here are the 12 best places to travel in December.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Miami, Florida

Many people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach , a glittering, four-day confab (scheduled for December 8–10 in 2023) that lures both the fashion and art worlds. The lineup of artists includes 24 first-time participants (out of 277 total) hailing everywhere from New York to Seoul, plus several guest lectures and dining experiences.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Miami beyond the final moments of Art Basel, of course—namely a booming high-end hotel scene. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an art destination in and of itself, with geometric metal walls and massive sculptures hanging from the lobby ceiling. Other luxurious amenities, like private butlers and a gourmet burger bar, make this the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. For a beachier (but just as luxurious) stay, head to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne , located about 15 miles from South Beach. Its ocean views and tequila-stocked restaurant are great any time of year, but this December welcomes a slew of holiday-themed perks, like eggnog in the lobby and peppermint pedicures in the spa.

Yellowstone National Park

If you haven’t visited Yellowstone in the dead of winter, you are missing out on one of the most incredible travel experiences out there. Not only will you escape the typical summer hoards that make it nearly impossible to see wildlife and popular sites like Old Faithful—starting in December, the park is closed to cars and will only allow snowcoaches and snowmobiles to enter—but the relative quiet and icy chills of winter make our oldest national park feel even more like a mystical wonderland. Just imagine: sleepy bison with snow-dusted beards, bright blue pools set against a blanket of white, and boardwalks billowing with steam from the surrounding thermal features.

There are only a couple of in-park lodges open in the winter, but luckily they are incredibly cozy and convenient. Located in the heart of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Snow Lodge will get an extra dose of holiday magic this December, with trees set up throughout the hotel, in-room Christmas sweets, cookie decorating stations, and visits from Santa. Guests can also book several outdoor excursions from the lodge, ranging from guided snowshoe tours to wildlife photo safaris.

The Azores, Portugal

This once-overlooked archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is tailor-made for adventurers—think whale watching, hiking calderas, and rappelling down waterfalls. (The island of Terceira is home to the only volcano in the world where visitors can explore a chimney and secondary magma chamber, sitting side by side.) And while tourism has caught up to the Azores within the past decade, visiting during the winter gives you a glimpse of what Eden once looked like.

December isn’t chilly here, despite the archipelago’s Atlantic location—the Gulf Stream keeps the year-round temperatures surprisingly balmy, with the mercury rarely dropping below 60 degrees or so. The island of Santa Maria generally boasts the warmest climate, though swimming may be off the table in the winter. If you’re craving water time, pay a visit to a geothermally heated hot spring instead.

Salzburg, Austria

Germany tends to get most of the attention when it comes to Christmas markets (for good reason), but neighboring Austria can be just as festive and charming—especially in the city of Salzburg. It’s not a surprise that the UNESCO World Heritage -listed Old City, which served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music, also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song.

With roots dating back to the 15th century, the market’s sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and stands selling ornaments and fluffy socks. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either. The market earns extra points for being just steps away from Hotel Goldener Hirsch , one of the world’s oldest luxury hotels and a perfect spot to warm up between outdoor shopping sprees.

Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatán with a fraction of the tourism, Belize has transformed from a backpacker haven into a luxury destination over the past few years. (Bonus: It’s only a five-hour flight from New York.) Along with world-class reefs for diving and Mayan ruins for exploring, the country is known for its conservation efforts, particularly when it comes to protecting ocean life. Many hotels and resorts have jumped on the eco-friendly bandwagon, including Turneffe Island Resort , which goes to great lengths to support the population of Antillean Manatees in the nearby Turneffe Atoll. Guests may get a chance to spot the gentle giants while staying on the resort’s 14-acre private island, while gift shop purchases go straight to the Belize Manatee Conservation Program.

Aside from offering an indulgent, adults-only stay on a true white-sand beach, Matachica Resort & Spa provides interactive workshops to learn about the Belize Barrier Reef, including guided scuba diving trips and helicopter tours. Given that December 4 marks World Wildlife Conservation Day, we say there’s no better time to pay these forward-thinking hotels a visit.

Switzerland

Switzerland is always one of the world’s most beautiful countries, but it becomes downright magical come winter: city squares dusted with snow and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet. It can be hard to pick just one Swiss destination to visit in December, which is why hopping on the Glacier Express is the perfect introduction to this wintery wonderland.

The Glacier Express is an eight-hour train ride that connects two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts—Zermatt and St. Moritz—but it’s really more about the journey than the destination here. The train passes over 290 bridges, delivering panoramic views of landmarks like the Oberalp Pass and Matterhorn, and it even includes three-course meals to really help you enjoy every second of the ride.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you want an immersive Christmas experience but aren’t a fan of cold weather, Charleston is the perfect destination for you. In fact, we’d argue that winter is one of the best times to visit, when temperatures hover around the 50s and 60s. Holiday attractions this year include the 34th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights (November 10–December 31, 2023), featuring an estimated 2 million twinkling lights, and Holiday Swing (December 2, 2023), a concert of reimagined Christmas carols courtesy of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra.

The city has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but some notable properties go all out for the holidays. The French Quarter Inn , voted one of the best hotels in Charleston by our readers, will be fully decked out with a Christmas tree and free gingerbread cookies in the rotunda, while the Sleigh Bell Suite comes with even more festive amenities: an in-room eggnog bar, freshly-baked cookies served by the fireplace, holiday movie screenings, and a special reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas from Santa himself. Over at The Spectator Hotel , personal butlers assigned to each guest can transform your room with personalized Christmas decorations, plus bring you any treats and drinks you request.

Whistler, Canada

If you’re desperately seeking slopes, you can’t do much better than the largest ski area in North America. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and hills ranging in difficulty from green to double-black, the twin peaks of Whistler Blackcomb truly have something for every winter sports enthusiast. Both the Big Red Express lift and Creekside Gondola were reworked a couple of years ago to hold more people, meaning the mountains will feel far less congested and visitors can enjoy even more rounds of powder.

Once you pack up your poles for the day, soak up all the après glory at Whistler Village. Here you’ll find the resort area’s largest concentration of bars and restaurants, ranging from the buzzy high-end seafood restaurant Wild Blue to the upscale yet relaxed Braidwood Tavern . In terms of hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler looks (and feels) like a true fairy tale castle, nestled at the base of Blackcomb.

Santiago, Chile

​​Travelers often overlook Chile’s capital city in favor of splashier South American destinations like Rio or Buenos Aires—but we encourage you not to make that same mistake. Santiago is not only a superb base for outdoor adventure, thanks to its location between the Andes and the Pacific, but it’s an excellent standalone destination for anyone who loves great food, great wine, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

After exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods, tack on a side trip to Valparaíso—the former seaport home of Pablo Neruda and current headquarters for the Chilean Navy. It’s just a two-hour drive here from Santiago, but you’ll want to plan to stay overnight (and not just because you’ll be drinking a lot of wine). With its colorful hillside houses and abundance of museum-worthy street art, Valparaíso is not an easy place to say goodbye to.

If you’re anything like us, emerging from two years of lockdowns and closed borders has inspired you to finally book that once-in-a-lifetime trip you’ve always dreamed about—like an expedition to Antarctica , for example. The white continent is at its best from December to March, when wildlife is active and the sun shines for nearly 24 hours a day. And while trips like these typically require a lot of advance planning, there’s still time to book a spot on an expedition cruise ship before 2023 wraps up (although you may want to use this time to start researching for next year).

Ponant has about a dozen sailings available through the end of December, with trips ranging from 10 to 15 nights and including stops in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Another great option is Quark Expedition’s “Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent” voyage, an 11-day trip with six departure dates within the month of December (plus many in 2024). Each sailing includes the typical stops, but Quark also started offering a majorly cool add-on a few years ago: alpine heli-trekking, in which guests board a helicopter (just imagine those views) and fly to typically inaccessible terrain to enjoy hiking or snowshoeing.

British Virgin Islands

Made up of more than 60 tropical isles, the British Virgin Islands are easily one of the best places to travel in December. The archipelago is the epitome of Caribbean relaxation with white-sand beaches and lush rainforests—not to mention some of the best hotels in the entire region. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous resort, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability. New wind turbines join the existing solar farm so that the resort runs on 90 percent renewable energy. Even the staff uniforms are made from recycled plastic.

Recent years saw the arrival of two new private island resorts, both of which appeared on our 2022 Hot List . Off the northern end of Virgin Gorda, Saba Rock ’s nine-bedroom boutique hotel boasts a bustling rooftop bar, spacious guest rooms, and a seemingly endless supply of water sports. Meanwhile, Branson struck gold again with Moskito Island , located just two miles away from Necker Island. Guests with deep pockets can choose from three private estate rentals, each with its own distinct style. Amenities like private chefs and house managers available to help 24/7—plus the chance of running into Branson himself on the tennis courts—offer a true taste of a billionaire’s vacation.

Paris shines extra bright during the holiday season, from the lights along the Champs-Élysées to store window displays that rival museum art installations. This year is a particularly great time to plan a trip, with inexpensive nonstop flights with French Bee (France’s first low-cost carrier ) and a crop of new hotel openings. Be one of the first to stay at Bulgari Hotel Paris or Hôtel Madame Rêve , housed in a former 24-hour post office—or choose from one of the many established hotels in the city.

For an extra-special holiday experience, book a spot on the “ Paris at the Holidays ” group trip (November 30–December 7) from specialty planning company French Affaires. Curated by France travel expert Elizabeth New Seitz, the trip includes an evening tour of the city’s Christmas lights, a private tour of the Louvre, a Buche de Noel (yule log) cooking class, and French afternoon teas at some of the city’s top palace hotels.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The 10 best places to visit in December

In December, the world transforms. The Northern Hemisphere sees winter's touch with snow and chill, while the Southern Hemisphere basks in summer's warmth.

Travelers can choose anything from snow-capped landscapes ideal for winter sports to sunlit beaches for relaxation. As the year-end approaches, many places come alive with holiday preparations, each offering unique cultural experiences.

Whether it's the allure of festive markets , the thrill of outdoor adventures, or simply exploring new terrains, December provides something for every traveler.

But where should you go? Here are the 10 best destinations to visit in December.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Imagine a place where the winter comes alive — that's Breckenridge in December. Picture world-class ski slopes, cozy family sleigh rides and thrilling snowmobile adventures. Not to mention, the history here is captivating. December's Ullr Fest is also a special treat for travelers. The festival is a local favorite held in honor of Ullr, the Norse god of snow. (We're hoping he blesses us with plenty of powder.)

There's also plenty to explore in nearby towns like Frisco and Leadville; less than an hour away, you can take a rejuvenating dip at Indian Hot Springs. Or, weather permitting, head to Rocky Mountain National Park to marvel at its natural beauty.

Related: The best ski resorts in the US for your next trip to the slopes

If you're still in Breckenridge come January, you're in for a spectacle. During the International Snow Sculpture Championships, artists carve massive snow blocks into stunning creations.

TPG tip : Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan offers a spectacular Rocky Mountain retreat with premium skiing, winter escapades, boating, mountain biking and year-round family-friendly outdoor activities. It's available for about $205 in December, or 21,000 World of Hyatt Points per night.

Truckee, California

Of all the best places to visit in December in the USA, Truckee is one that tops our list. Come wintertime, the destination transforms into a snow-draped haven. From peaceful snowshoe treks to exciting family sledding spots, there's something for everyone here. For skiing enthusiasts, some of the region's best slopes await. Beyond winter sports, the stunning beauty of nearby Lake Tahoe is a must-see.

After a day in the snow, explore downtown Truckee. It offers museums full of rich local history, and its numerous breweries and eateries provide a taste of the town's culture. You can even opt for a guided tour of the town.

Related: From hidden gems to big names: Here are 11 of California's best ski resorts

TPG tip : Book a stay at SpringHill Suites Truckee for about 37,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $282 per night.

Dorado, Puerto Rico

Seeking a warm winter getaway? Dorado sits on Puerto Rico 's stunning Caribbean coastline, and it boasts white-sand beaches perfect for surfing, swimming and many family-friendly adventures.

A short drive away, San Juan immerses you in a vibrant blend of culture, music and culinary delights. Here, you can experience cultural festivities throughout the year, savor delicious local dishes and sway to the rhythms of salsa, bomba and plena echoing from the city's picturesque squares.

Beyond that, the region offers thrilling activities like hang gliding and paragliding. For those keen to explore, guided tours can lead you to hidden beaches and lush tropical paths. Don't miss out on the YuYu Cave — a captivating and educational spot for young adventurers who love nature.

TPG tip : Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a great home base for exploring the area and is available from $1,645 or 215,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

During the holidays, Zurich becomes a festive paradise. Streets shimmer with lights, and Christmas markets spring to life. Highlights include Burkliplatz's candle dipping, the enchanting "Marlitram" fairy tale tram and the singing choirs at Werdmuhleplatz, accompanied by its famed "Singing Christmas Tree."

Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station, one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets, boasts a radiant tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. The nostalgic Dorfli market in Old Town offers a vintage charm with fondue and artisanal goods.

For a warm treat, stop by Cafe Felix and choose from a medley of hot chocolate iterations. Or, savor history at the luxury confectioner Sprungli, which has been in operation since 1836. For elevated dining, Restaurant Felsenegg provides fondue with a stunning city view.

Beyond these, visitors can skate, toboggan or take a scenic fondue eTukTuk ride. Zurich's thermal baths and saunas overlooking Lake Zurich promise relaxation. For artsy souls, the "Herzebaracke" floating theater offers diverse performances by the lake from Nov. 1, 2023, to March 10, 2024.

TPG tip : Stay near the heart of town at Crowne Plaza Zurich for around $146 or 30,000 IHG rewards points per night.

In December, Japan lights up in celebration, offering visitors a magical experience. From Tokyo's Omotesando Illuminations, aglow with around 900,000 lights, to Ashikaga Flower Park's radiant 5-million-light display, the country is a spectacle. Mie Prefecture's Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination lets guests immerse themselves in LED light fields and explore captivating light tunnels.

Meanwhile, Kobe's touching Luminarie shines in remembrance of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake victims. December also welcomes ski enthusiasts as Japan's winter sports season begins.

From the breathtaking views at Shiga Kogen Ski Area in Nagano — with its Olympic-endorsed slopes — to the sought-after resorts in Niigata — easily accessible from Tokyo — skiing here is a dream. But there's more to Niigata than just skiing: Indulge in its renowned hot springs and savor its exquisite seafood, rice and sake.

TPG tip : Book a room at the Conrad Tokyo for $389 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Dubai in December is a whole different vibe. The scorching heat takes a backseat, making way for cooler days. This means beach picnics, outdoor adventures and late-night strolls become even more inviting. And then there's the festive buzz. Everywhere you look, from the towering skyscrapers to the cozy lanes, Dubai sparkles with holiday decorations.

It's not just about twinkling lights, though. The city pulses with events — think bustling markets, lively performances and the aroma of seasonal treats filling the air. Against the backdrop of the vast desert and the iconic skyline, the festive cheer feels even more special. So, if you're dreaming of a mix of relaxation, retail therapy and rich culture, Dubai is your go-to.

TPG tip : Book a room at La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk for $586 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, or stay at the lavish Atlantis The Royal .

The Bahamas

Traveling to the Bahamas becomes a breeze this December, thanks to several new flight routes. Delta Air Lines is launching a direct flight from New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Nassau. For travelers on the West Coast, there's good news, too: American Airlines is rolling out direct flights from Los Angeles and Seattle to Nassau.

Not to be left out, JetBlue is introducing a weekly nonstop service from LA. Once you touch down, the Bahamas offers a plethora of experiences. Dive into the clear waters, explore the world's third-largest coral reef or swim with the wild pigs.

And if you're into sailing, December is the prime time to visit. Events like The National Family Island Regatta showcase the region's rich maritime heritage.

TPG tip : Book a room at the French Leave Resort for $749 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Or, for sheer indulgence, opt for the luxurious Rosewood Baha Mar , where rates start from $715 per night.

Morristown, Arizona

Just a quick 50-minute drive from Phoenix, Morristown is the perfect desert escape in December. The weather's a treat with comfy temperatures in the 60s and 70s — a lovely switch from Arizona's intense summer and the cold weather of other destinations.

If you love the outdoors, you'll be in your element. Morristown's desert beauty is a big draw, with opportunities to go hiking or 4x4 riding.

At night, the town's clear December skies, away from bright city glows, offer some top-notch stargazing. Witness the breathtaking Geminids and Ursids Meteor Showers, peaking on Dec. 14-15 and 22-23, respectively. And there's more to the celestial show: Mark your calendar for the New Moon on Dec. 13, the Winter Solstice on Dec. 22, and the Full Moon on Dec. 27.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Castle Hot Springs , which is an American Express Fine Hotels + Resort partner. Platinum cardholders receive 12 p.m. check-in (when available), room upgrade at check-in (when available), daily breakfast for two, $100 property credit to be used during the stay, complimentary Wi-Fi and 4 p.m. checkout guaranteed.

New York City

New York City in December is an enchanting experience. Imagine skating below the gleaming Rockefeller Center tree, surrounded by the city's sparkling skyline. Fifth Avenue transforms into a festive paradise, with its department stores showcasing captivating holiday window displays.

Brooklyn's Dyker Heights is a must-visit for those who admire festive lights. The neighborhood's homes are grandly decorated for the holidays, and dedicated bus tours guide visitors through the most brilliantly lit blocks.

But the magic doesn't stop there. You can also catch a classic holiday show at Radio City Music Hall, wander through the winter markets at Bryant Park or Central Park, and marvel at the giant holiday ornaments scattered throughout the city.

TPG tip : Book a stay at the Park South Hotel for $480 or 23,000 Hyatt World points, or check out TPG's favorite hotels in New York City .

December is the perfect month to explore Uganda. The landscapes are at their greenest, yet the weather stays dry. This combination is ideal for gorilla tracking, an experience you won't forget. Boat safaris also shine in December. As water sources become a focal point in the dry terrain, spotting the Big Five becomes even more thrilling.

While Uganda is gaining attention, it's still a quieter East African destination. Venture beyond the natural wonders, too. The capital, Kampala, is a city full of surprises. From the lively Equator Bar in the Sheraton to the unique crocodile tail delicacy at The Lawns, there's much to savor. And if you're into art, the Afriart Gallery showcases contemporary pieces.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Kampala for $170 or 37,000 Hilton Honors points.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

The best places to visit in December 2023

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Head to Freiburg in the Black Forest for a taste of Germany in winter © picture alliance / Getty Images

December may mean the year is coming to an end – but that doesn’t mean your travel plans have to. If you’re looking for the best place to visit in December, here are some of Lonely Planet’s top picks, whether you want stunning northern lights, epic beach adventures or cozy Christmas markets. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for relaxation?

Palawan, Philippines

Why now? Dry skies for wet adventures.

Dubbed “ the Philippines ’ last ecological frontier,” pristine Palawan – the country’s westernmost province – is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve and a haven of biodiversity above and below the water line. There are over 1700 islands here, covered by virgin forest, edged by limestone cliffs and fringed by coral reefs. The diving is varied and spectacular. At El Nido , in the north, there are 20-plus dive sites where exciting sightings range from nudibranchs and seahorses to turtles and huge shoals of snapper. Around Coron Island , there’s thrilling wreck diving, with numerous WWII remnants to explore. There’s also decent diving in easy reach of the capital, Puerto Princesa – sites include walls and pinnacles, a variety of corals, plenty of unusual macro species, colorful reef fish, crustaceans, schooling barracuda and jacks, rays and reef sharks. Puerto Princesa is also the gateway to the Subterranean River National Park , a navigable underground waterway through incredible karst formations.

San Diego, California 

Why now? For city life, winter sun, Santa and cetaceans.

Winter is relative in southern California . In San Diego rain is more likely but days remain mild (average highs: 66°F/19°C). It’s certainly still warm enough to wander the city’s village-like neighborhoods – fancy La Jolla , surfy Encinitas, alternative Ocean Beach , foodie Little Italy, the lively, bar-packed Gaslamp Quarter – and to lose yourself in enormous Balboa Park , with its museums (Air & Space, Art, Natural History) and world-famous zoo . For further wildlife encounters, book a boat tour or head to the cliff-top trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in the hope of spotting dolphins and migrating gray whales, which pass along the coast here between December and March. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for wildlife and nature?

Central Kalahari, Botswana

Why now? For cheaper prices and greater game.

In this immense wildlife reserve, covering 50,000 sq km (19,305 sq miles) and one of the largest in the world, rain does not stop play. Indeed, it positively encourages it. While December marks the start of the rainy season in Botswana , it’s the best time to visit the semi-arid Central Kalahari . In the northernmost areas, around Northern Deception Valley in particular, the flush of wildflowers and grasses attracts great gatherings of grazers, which in turn attract predators – large numbers of hyena, leopard and the reserve’s famed black-maned lions are all found here. This is also the best time for birding, as many species are wearing their breeding plumage and migrants are around. Roads may become trickier to navigate but the payoff is excellent wildlife viewing and, at times, soul-stirringly stormy skies. There are opportunities to engage with the San people too.

Arctic Sweden

Why now? Sleep on ice beneath the Northern Lights.

At the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, one degree of latitude north of the Arctic Circle, the sun never rises in the last three weeks of the year. In December, darkness is the dominant state – perfect for watching the Aurora Borealis . Jukkasjärvi is the home of the original Icehotel, where you can spend a night in a bed made of ice. The area is also a base for cross-country skiing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, meeting reindeer and learning about traditional Sámi culture – magical for kids and grown-ups alike. Some 100km (62 miles) to the northwest, Abisko National Park is even further removed from the light, an otherworldly landscape offering arguably the world’s best aurora-watching. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for culture?

Martinique 

Why now? To sing carols with a Creole twist.

December doesn’t just mean Christmas in the French Caribbean. It means Chanté-Nwel. One of Martinique ’s biggest annual festivities, held across the island from November to Christmas Day, it sees people gather to sing carols to Creole rhythms (a practice dating back to the days of slavery) and feast on local favorites including yams, pâtés, boudin créole (blood sausage), yule logs and potent shrubb – a Christmas cocktail crafted from dried orange peel, sugarcane syrup and white rum. Very festive. All that’s missing is the snow: with sunny skies and average highs of 82.4°F (28°C), this is perfect beach weather; chill out on the vast sweep of white sand at Les Salines or the black sand of Anse Noire . 

Chhattisgarh & Odisha, India 

Why now? For cultural encounters in milder weather.

The neighboring states of Odisha ( Orissa ) and Chhattisgarh (a breakaway chunk of Madhya Pradesh) offer perhaps the most authentic insight into rural India . These regions are largely neglected by tourists, perhaps due to their lack of “big” sights. But the appeal here is in getting away from the cities and meeting the people, such as the majority Gond (famed for their vibrant art), the tattooed Kutia Kondh, the Indigenous groups of the jungles around Jeypore, the bead-wearing Bonda or the cultural melee of a haat bazaar (weekly market), where many tribal groups gather to haggle over everything from butter and salt to clothes and jewelry. The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is a good place to start – visit markets, hike between village homestays and witness tribal festivals: the Madai Festival, which moves around the communities of Bastar, Kanker and Dantewada, is celebrated from December to March (when temperatures are mild, too).

Where are the best places to travel to in December for food and drink? 

Black Forest, Germany 

Why now? For a touch of Teutonic magic.

The Black Forest is Germany ’s most romantic, fairy-tale-laced region. And never more so than in December, when its rolling hills and dense-packed evergreens might be sprinkled with snow and when everywhere is sprinkled with Christmas. The lively university town of Freiburg is a fine festive choice.

Its medieval center of cobbled lanes and gabled houses is lovely to wander at any time, but now smells of Glühwein  (mulled wine) and gingerbread; browse the Christmas market, where you can make your own candles and cookies, ride the Ferris wheel and feast on raclette and wurst. Further afield, take the train or bus to nearby Hinterzarten for the striking Ravennaschlucht market, where traditional stalls cluster in a gorge beneath the Devil’s Valley Railway viaduct. 

Puerto Rico 

Why now? For a never-ending Noel.

Twelve days of Christmas? Pah! Sunny and spirited Puerto Rico stretches it to 60 days, starting with Thanksgiving (this is a US “unincorporated territory,” after all) and not finishing until mid-January. Visit in December and you’ll likely come across shops stacked with festive trinkets, late-night parrandas (carol singing in the streets), church Masses filled with aguinaldos (Christmas songs) and the hearty consumption of festive feasts: lechón (suckling pig), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pork-and-potato pasteles (steamed plantain tamales) and coquet (sweet spiced coconut drink). The Día de los Inocentes (28 December) is particularly fun, akin to April Fool’s Day, when people play tricks on each other – head to Hatillo for the best high-jinks.

Season’s greetings aside, the weather is wonderful right now for exploring this proudly Latino Caribbean idyll. Wander the bright alleys of Old San Juan (founded 1521) and lively second-city Ponce ; venture into El Yunque for rainforest hikes; check out the surf at Rincón ; and consider sailing over to the islands of Vieques and Culebra for quieter sands and dazzling after-dark kayaking in Bioluminescent Bay.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for adventure?

Why now? Crowd-lite, multi-sport, fairytale snow fun.

While snug-sized Slovenia  can’t compete with Europe’s winter-sports big boys, the country is still splendid when the snow starts to fall. There is good skiing, albeit on a smaller scale.

Resorts such as lively Kranjska Gora, reliable Krvavec and family-friendly Vogel aren’t huge but also aren’t as busy as other Alpine hubs. But where the country really excels is in multi-activity winter breaks, combining downhilling and snowboarding with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow-hiking, ice-climbing or even igloo-building and night tobogganing. The landscapes are thrilling, too, with most resorts located in and around handsome Triglav National Park . Photographers will love the high peaks, frozen waterfalls, snowy forests, beautiful Lake Bohinj and magical Lake Bled , with its lake isle and castle shimmering in the frost. 

Vancouver Island, Canada 

Why now? For really wild times.

As winter arrives, the restive region where Arctic and subtropical air collides shifts south, and low-pressure systems build in the Gulf of Alaska. This equals stupendous storms, which thwack the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island , stirring up gigantic swells, roaring winds and epic skies. It’s Mother Nature at her most marvelously unhinged and cinematic – and it’s worth braving a bit of weather for front-row seats. On the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, the little town of Ucluelet (meaning “people of the safe harbor”) is a great place to watch the action unfold. 

Want more expert recommendations for every month of the year? Check out the brand-new edition of  Where to Go When . 

This article was first published Sep 29, 2019 and updated Oct 20, 2023.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Jun 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Explore the best of the Caribbean: from Soufrière's Pitons to Old San Juan's history, vibrant festivals in Montego Bay, and tranquil escapes in Canouan.

Jun 26, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Jun 21, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 11, 2024 • 7 min read

May 31, 2024 • 6 min read

May 29, 2024 • 8 min read

May 28, 2024 • 9 min read

May 21, 2024 • 11 min read

May 14, 2024 • 7 min read

20 Best Places to Visit in December, According to Travel Experts

Check out these top destinations for a winter wonderland or warm-weather retreat.

Holiday tourism is hot . Christmas markets, Santa-themed attractions, hotels that give off hygge vibes, light shows and festivals are popping up everywhere. In fact, according to a new report by PricewaterhouseCoopers , 47% of Americans are expected to travel this holiday season, and travel-related spending is expected to increase 12% over last year.

We plowed through a blizzard of options to land on these holiday-inspired places to visit in December, and then we added a couple of beachy, warm-weather spots in case that's more your vibe. Our picks are truly next level: Some long weekend locales will blow your kids' minds and cement their belief in Santa, while others are cozy couple's retreats where you can act out your Hallmark movie fantasies. A few even perfectly align with the brilliant trend of vacationing somewhere over the holidays rather than exchanging presents.

While tickets and rooms are still widely available now, it's likely that many of these places will sell out, so dash off to request your PTO!

Hotel del Coronado, San Diego

Ice skating with an ocean view? Not only is it a thing, it's an epic holiday tradition at Hotel del Coronado, winner of a 2022 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award. Skating by the Sea returns to the historic property from November 17 to January 7. After your 90-minute skating sesh, reserve seating with firepits (mmm, s'mores) at the Frostbite Lounge. Other holiday happenings at The Del include a light show and beachside igloos.

Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Highlands, North Carolina

Give yourself an early holiday present — the gift of a couple's or girlfriend's getaway to Old Edwards Inn & Spa. The adults-only destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains oozes cozy vibes. For a special deal, book its Comfort & Joy package, available Sunday to Thursday, November 1-17 and November 28-December 15.

It includes two nights of lodging, a three-course dinner for two and two 50-minute spa treatments. Lodging options range from an intimate historic room to a two-bedroom suite (perfection for the girls' trip).

EXPLORE NOW

Santa Barbara, California

Not only does Santa Barbara get decked out for the holidays, it's also whale-watching season! Migrating Pacific gray whales pass through the Santa Barbara Channel as they head back to Baja California. Visitors can spot them on one of the town's many whale-watching tours. Fortunately, you won't feel too frosty on the boat or at the city's 37th Annual Parade of Lights on December 10.

Stay at The Steward , an all-suite property offering guests a secret hideaway tucked between the ocean and mountains on California's idyllic central coast. Not only does it boast a heated outdoor pool and sweet porch swings, but the hotel also offers many sustainable touches like solar-powered lights and water-filling stations.

Fort Worth Stockyards, Fort Worth, Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the Christmas celebrations. In its 22nd year, Christmas in the Stockyards on December 3 spreads cheer with a massive ice skating rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, strolling carolers and a holiday parade. Even if you can't make it that day, most of the activities (minus the parade) are available throughout the rest of the season. Stay at the nearby Hotel Drover , which will also be decked out for the holidays.

Nashville, Tennessee

The holiday season really makes the Music City sing. Both the iconic Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry feature festive concerts with superstar performers like LeAnn Rimes, Amy Grant and Vince Gill. As you explore Nashville's neighborhoods, one million twinkling lights can't help but put you in the holiday spirit.

If you're bringing the kids, stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort , home to an elaborate Polar Express-themed ICE! attraction where kids can zoom down frozen slides. For a more grown-up adventure, stay at the Bobby Hotel. After a show, indulge in warm craft cocktails at the Rooftop Lounge where you can rent a heated igloo while taking in an incredible view of downtown Nashville from 14 stories up.

Salt Lake City, Utah

With spectacular mountain views at every turn, Salt Lake City wows winter sports enthusiasts and foodies alike and has incredible seasonal events to boot. Throughout December, visitors can stop by the holiday art market at Alta Ski Resort , hop on a full moon lift ride at Snowbird or take a self-guided tour of the ten striking murals by some of Salt Lake’s most renowned local artists.

Restaurants like downtown's SLC Eatery and White Horse have imaginative menus. Stay nearby at Le Méridien or Element downtown. "The two hotels are under one roof and we enjoyed them both," says a Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited. "The Element is more kid-friendly and includes free breakfast while Le Méridien is high-end and has a rooftop bar."

Biddeford, Maine

A hidden gem about a half hour south of Portland, Biddeford's downtown gives off Hallmark movie vibes. Come for the annual Holiday Festival on December 1, which includes a tree and menorah lighting, caroling and even free desserts prepared by the local cultural center. Make it a weekend with a stay at The Lincoln Hotel , which fills its lobby with Christmas trees and has gas fireplaces in every room. Don't forget to stop for lunch at the Palace Diner in a vintage railcar and the oldest diner in Maine.

Tucked away in the Eastern Caribbean, Anguilla is known for its magnificent beaches and easygoing atmosphere. With 33 beaches, most boasting soft, white sand, it's an undeniable paradise in December. From fun family activities like glass floor boat rides to romantic beachside dinners, the island has something for everyone.

Visitors can stay at the Frangipani Beach Resort , a luxury boutique resort set in the middle of Meads Bay, one of Anguilla’s most renowned beaches. Featuring 23 rooms and suites, travelers can take advantage of the plentiful amenities like beach and poolside service and complimentary water sports such as tubing and kayaking.

Tulum, Mexico

There’s more to Mexico than burritos and mojitos. Tulum's legendary ruins are a historic wonder and the third-most visited site in Mexico. What's more, Tulum’s breathtaking flora and fauna make it a prime destination for those who appreciate natural beauty.

Stay at an all-inclusive beach resort that appeals to all ages: the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort . With eight pools, 13 restaurants and bars, a luxury spa and an exclusive Family Zone, it has everything you need to be a home away from home. A Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited with her family said, "The resort is beautiful and there are nice nightlife things for parents to do while the kids are in the kids club."

Snowflake Lane, Bellevue, Washington

Pick up gifts for everyone on your list and see a magical nighttime parade all in one place! That's multi-tasking at its finest. Every night from November 24 to December 24, a holiday parade with nearly 200 performers, floats and faux snow transforms this shopping and entertainment mecca near Seattle into a veritable winter wonderland. You can even stay overnight in the heart of the festivities at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue , which has an indoor pool and an amazing breakfast buffet.

Sydney, Australia

With summer heating up in the Southern Hemisphere, December is the perfect month to take a trip down under. For travelers who enjoy nature and wildlife, take an immersive walking tour with knowledgeable, indigenous guides to explore the city’s living world.

During your trek, visitors might get a glimpse of cute koalas sitting in treetops, spot a hopping kangaroo or experience other unforgettable creature encounters. For those who’d rather relax, the city has plenty of brilliant beaches to lounge on and sunbathe.

Beyond nature, Sydney is teeming with iconic sights and cultural attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, which offers kids' programming throughout the month.

Charleston Place, South Carolina

Visions of sugar plum fairies will be dancing in your kids' heads if you stay at the Charleston Place, which is embracing the Nutcracker as its holiday decor and programming theme for 2023. To say that the hotel goes all out for Christmas is an understatement: Decorations include more than 100 wreaths, 139 trees (including one that's 41 feet tall) and 10,000 ornaments. Local ballet companies even put on mini performances in the lobby. Sweet dreams are practically guaranteed.

Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania

Oh, what fun it is to ride at Hersheypark! Families can take a spin on select rides and attractions, including the newest coaster, at Christmas Candylane on select dates from November 10 to January. Santa and his nine reindeer also make special appearances at the park. Make it a weekend by staying at Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge , which also have a lineup of holiday-themed activities. Many involve chocolate, of course!

The Logan Hotel, Philadelphia

Celebrating the holidays in Philly? Book a suite that's already decked out for the season. The Logan Hotel's Holiday Lodge Suite will get you in the spirit with its twinkling lights, seasonal bedding and fully decorated tree. Room service is also included — a cart with hot chocolate and eggnog is rolled right into your suite, so your family can customize their own beverages. While you're in town, be sure to check out the Reading Terminal Market and the Christmas Light Show at Macy's.

Alexandria, Virginia

This historic town just outside of Washington, D.C. packs in the festivities all month long. It'll be tough deciding when to go — a Holiday Boat Parade of Lights takes place on December 2, while Christmas Illuminations with fireworks at George Washington's Mount Vernon light up the skies on December 15 and 16. Stay at a hotel in the Old Town area so you'll be near many locally owned shops and restaurants. The Alexandrian boasts a great location and an indoor pool.

It's never a bad time to visit Belize, but escaping the bustle of the holiday season for a place with pristine jungles, rainforests and exhilarating adventures sounds like a dream. Stay at Cayo Espanto , a private island that's an enchanting escape. With villas equipped with a personal butler, private dock area and customized meals, guests won’t soon forget the experience. To get in the holiday spirit, the resort even offers a holiday photoshoot for couples or families. Say, cheese!

Little America Hotel North Pole Experience, Flagstaff, Arizona

If it's possible to get your kids even more hyped for the holidays, the North Pole Experience will do it. The attraction transports families through a "magical portal" to the North Pole where they'll feast their eyes on Santa's Workshop, a Toy Hall of Fame, the North Pole mailroom and even the famous sleigh. It's about an hour and forty minutes of pure magic! Stay at the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff, where the magical portal opens (via trolley service) for the journey "up North" on select days from November 17 to December 24.

Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida

If you're not sure what to get the kids for the holidays this year, may we suggest a trip to Disney? Instead of spending money on more stuff, put it toward a trip over the holidays where you can make lots of memories.

Float the idea by the kids to see if they're on board, and, if it's a go, start planning your trip, including tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (shown), which runs through December 22. Other holiday must-sees including the gingerbread display (and cookies to purchase!) at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and the Epcot International Festival of Lights (running through December 30.)

Brussels, Belgium

European holiday markets are a bucket-list experience — and wouldn't it be marvelous to stop at several without schlepping your luggage (and souvenirs!) all around? The solution: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is launching a luxury river cruise from Brussels that includes stops at five holiday markets, plus chocolate tastings, cave tours and more. The boutique cruise line also offers options starting in Germany and Switzerland.

Great Wolf Lodge

This indoor waterpark chain with 20+ locations goes big for the holidays with storytimes, nightly snowfalls, crafts, Santa visits and decorations galore. The location in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania recently opened stylish woodland villas — a first for the brand and a boon for mult-gen families.

The villas can sleep 8 to 20 guests and have bunk-bed rooms for kids. Other thoughtful touches include hooks in the bathroom to hang wet bathing suits and outdoor tables that double as tic-tac-toe boards. The table idea is the brainchild of designer Nate Berkus, who masterminded the outdoor space.

The former senior editor at Parents who started the brand’s awards programs, Karen Cicero is a seasoned journalist who specializes in travel, book, lifestyle and food coverage.Cicero has visited almost every state with her family (look out Wyoming, she’s coming for you next!) She recently presented at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA and the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance. A mom who goes overboard for all the holidays, Cicero lives in the Christmas city itself: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with nearly two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping , Woman’s Day , People , Parade , BET.com. WebMD and more. Her coverage includes entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, parenting and fashion content. If she's not exploring New York City with her two young children, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears. 

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Welcome, Winter!

30 Best Winter Fashion Finds on Amazon

The Best Snow Blowers

The Best Warm Socks for Winter

The Best Dog Jackets For Winter

The Best Towel Warmers

Best Winter Quotes

The Best Snow Tires for Winter

The Best Thermal Underwear

The Best Winter Coats for Women

How to Make Easy Paper Snowflakes

The Best Light Therapy Lamps

Genius tips, tricks & beautiful things, straight to your inbox every day.

© 2010-2021 Wow Media Products, Inc doing business as PureWow. All rights reserved.

15 Warm Places to Visit in December

Oh, December. The glacial last month of the year stirs visions of snow-covered hills, wooden toboggans, hot cocoa with mini marshmallows and ripping open presents while fluffy powder falls outside. In our youth, December break meant being out of school, frequenting the local skating rink in town and competing against other neighborhood kids in sledding contests. It also meant road trips to visit grandma and grandpa at their residence upstate, or even the occassional weekend at the nearest ski mountain . As we grew older, mulled wine and decadent, spiked eggnog joined the party.

But, of course, there is another way (well many) to spend December still surrounded by friends and family that has nothing to do with freezing temperatures or icy roads.  

It’s time to trade flurries for frozen drinks and put your bikini to good use. In your not-so-distant future, we see hours lazing on the glimmering shores of a far-away beach and eating fresh coconut. We’d deem that the polar opposite of arctic. To inspire your steamy getaway—and all the torrid antics likely to ensue⁠—we’ve pulled together a list of hot spots worthy of your PTO. From sun-drenched domestic destinations to exotic islands with balmy climates, here are 15 awesome warm places to visit in December.  

25 TRIPS THAT WILL ABSOLUTELY CHANGE YOUR LIFE

1. Singapore

For a tropical escape, set your sights on Singapore. December brings daytime temperatures in the mid-80s and lower humidity. It’s also the wettest month. If, err, when, it rains, you can always duck into Takashimaya Department Store. Definitely check out Gardens by the Bay . Adjacent to the Marina Reservoir, it’s home to the iconic Supertrees and the Cloud Forest. Hungry? Run, don’t walk, to a hawker center for delicious local delicacies. As you're knocking sights off your checklist, be sure to stop by Marina Bay Sands. The jaw-dropping panoramas from the infinity pool and observation deck will be etched in your memory forever. Trust us! For the ultimate in overnight indulgence, shack up at the revamped Raffles Hotel Singapore . With such an array of activities for foodies , culture aficionados, luxury lovers, thrill junkies and relaxation seekers, the likelihood of running out of things to do is legitimately nonexistent. 

Average daily temperature in December: 84°F

2. St. Barts

Extravagant superyachts. Upscale restaurants. Designer boutiques. Five-star resorts. Sublime beaches. Boujie fêtes. It’s no secret why heaps of well-heeled jet-setters flock to Saint Barthélemy⁠—the French-speaking Caribbean island affectionately referred to as St. Barts ⁠—in the winter⁠. If you’re an A-lister or earn a seven-figure salary, you visit during la plus haute saison (the last two weeks of December through New Years-ish). Sky-high rates are the price of entry. If you’re on board with that, welcome to heaven on earth. With that in mind, consider splurging on an elegant stay at Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa or Villa Marie Saint Barth . Insert you hobnobbing with the glitterati and getting waited on hand and foot. Another bottle of rosé, madame? Oui! When in St. Barts. (Just a heads up that many properties require a minimum reservation of at least a week. So, start stockpiling your vacation days now.)  

Average daily temperature in December: 81°F 

3. Tulum, Mexico

A soulful retreat defined by good vibes, eco-chic villas, turquoise tides and jungle selfies, Tulum pulls in a bohemian crowd with money to burn⁠. Think: willowy, fresh-faced globetrotters rocking top knots, breezy crochet kaftans and been-through-the-ringer vintage Gucci sandals. In December, bank on places being busy AF. But, in our humble opinion, it’s worth dealing with a few extra bodies just to be in Tulum. Mornings begin with early a.m. yoga sessions taught by world-renowned instructors and artfully arranged smoothie bowls from Raw Love . Alternatively, opt for a SUP excursion to Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve or explore the Tulum Ruins. When the midday munchies strike, head to Taqueria La Eufemia for fish tacos (it’s got dope vegan options, too). Afternoons are for hammocks, Mayan clay spa rituals and margaritas. For dinner, Hartwood never fails to satisfy. (Just be prepared to wait for the critically acclaimed, wood-fired fare.) To cap off the evening? Dancing underneath the glow of the disco ball at Gitano . 

Average daily temperature in December: 76°F

4. South Beach, Florida

Picture-perfect weather and no passport required. South Beach has long lured travelers with its sandy stretches, sunny skies and glitzy ambiance. In keeping with that reputation, there are many fashionable hotels . And while you may have to pay peak-season rates in December, it won’t be insane since competition is so fierce. But, with all due respect, you don’t fly to South Beach to hole up in your room. Gain access the latest “it” club and let the rhythm of house music induce gyration or, for a more mellow atmosphere (which does exist), sip sauvignon blanc at a swanky wine bar . In between late-night dance parties and shopping along Lincoln Road, you can admire the well-preserved art deco architecture that lines Ocean Drive and dine at trendy eateries owned by celebrity chefs. Finally, watch the ball drop from an uber VIP venue like a trig penthouse that’s reportedly owned by Pitbull. 

Average daily temperature in December: 73°F

5. The Maldives

A honeymoon haven that’s a hit with celebs and royals alike, The Maldives exudes romance. Of course, newlyweds aren’t the only folks drawn to this slice of tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean. It’s equally alluring for couples, families, groups of pals (ever heard of a buddymoon ?) and your proudly single bestie. “Regardless of vacation style—active, adventurous, laid-back or somewhere in the middle—everyone will discover a matching itinerary in The Maldives,” says Christie Hudson, senior communications manager at Expedia . Swim with cute sea turtles, visit Malé’s bustling fish market or unplug on the pristine beaches. Wondering where to stay? With so many lavish accommodations, that’s a super tough decision. The recently opened Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi promises swish villas, plus an overwater spa and cinema. You definitely can’t go wrong with The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort .  

Average daily temperature in December: 86°F

A speck in the ocean, across a narrow channel from its more frequented counterpart, St. Kitts, Nevis is beloved by a select group of in-the-know travelers who relish its care-free attitude, relaxed pace, unspoiled natural splendor and some amazing history (Alexander Hamilton came from Nevis). Sure, it’s tiny—covering a total of 36 square miles, you can journey from one side of the island to another in a mere matter of hours—but that's part of the charm. You'd be foolish to write off this hidden gem because of its size and under-the-radar status. It’s not like there’s a shortage of beautiful scenery or leisurely pastimes. Hike to the summit of Nevis Peak for sweeping vistas or book a rainforest expedition. The adventures don't end with trekking. Scuba enthusiasts won't want to miss Booby High Shoals. We wouldn't fault you for posting up on Pinney's Beach and swigging rum punch.  

Average daily temperature in December: 82°F

7. Okinawa, Japan

December is definitely the off-season in Okinawa (for the geographically challenged, that’s in the far south of Japan). Bet on blue skies and a blissful absence of crowds. It’s not going to be scorching, but that’s far from a problem. In fact, it makes for more pleasant conditions to take advantage of the myriad outdoor activities, such as hiking and whale watching. How about snorkeling and scuba diving? Yes, still totally doable. Depending on your threshold for chilliness, you just might need to throw on a wetsuit. Walking along palm-fringed boulevards in jeans and a T-shirt sounds lovely, too. In the winter you won’t have to worry about Habu snakes. (Google 'em, but please don’t say we didn’t warn you.) And since hotel prices are more wallet-friendly, resplendent room at The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa go for a fraction of what you’d pay in the summer. To ensure you score the best deal, aim to book well in advance.  

Average daily temperature in December: 65°F 

8. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Most people associate Ho Chi Minh City (also called Saigon) with its role in the Vietnam War. But that’s only a small piece of the complex and oftentimes chaotic puzzle. Packed with history, culture and energetic personality, the former capital demonstrates both resilience and a penchant for the past. French colonial landmarks mingle with ancient temples and sleek skyscrapers. You get a lot of bang for your buck in Ho Chi Minh City. From budget backpacker hostels to high-end hotels (even the exclusive Park Hyatt Saigon ) that won’t deplete your entire travel fund, accommodations are shockingly affordable. And it goes without saying that sampling authentic Vietnamese street food at the myriad stalls surrounding Bến Thành Market promises to be a highlight of any visit. More pho, please! If all that's still not enough of a guarantee that Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect place for your December trip, note that it’s a great jumping-off point to explore the majestic Mekong Delta.

Average daily temperature in December: 80°F

9. Perth, Australia

When you think about traveling Down Under, Sydney probably springs to mind. But you couldn’t pick a better destination for an Aussie vacation than Perth—particularly if you’re a fan of art, culture and sandy shores. The capital of Western Australia is having a major moment, seeing double-digit growth in tourism over the last year, based on Expedia data. Why? Well, for starters, Perth brims with galleries, museums and riverfront dining. The sprawling, 990-acre Kings Park on Mount Eliza offers a mix of botanical gardens and bushland, plus spectacular views. Just outside the city sits Cottesloe Beach, a popular spot for swimming and riding waves that appears plucked off the pages of a glossy travel magazine. And since it’s in the Southern Hemisphere, December is the beginning of summer. So, you can soak up plenty of sun and surf. 

Average daily temperature in December: 71°F

10. San Juan, Puerto Rico

It's hot, hot, hot in Puerto Rico. As one of the bigger Caribbean islands, it has quite a few choices to fuel your wanderlust. For our money, you can’t beat the capital and largest city (though the allure of Cidra isn't lost on us). San Juan is the rise, with Kayak reporting a 47 percent increase in interest compared to last year. And as the country recovers from a devastating hurricane, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out what’s garnering such attention. A favored port for cruise ships, Old San Juan recalls an earlier era with its blue cobblestoned lanes, Spanish colonial buildings and 16th-century structures. In juxtaposition, the contemporary Condado district flaunts resorts, casinos, nightlife and restaurants, which leads us to the food. We're salivating just thinking about heaping plates full of tostones, pasteles and mofongo. Round-trip flights in December will set you back approximately $510. Not exactly a bargain, but in comparison to other warm-weather locales, it's very reasonable. 

11. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

When we scroll through our Instagram feed in December, it seems like everyone and their brother is in Cabo San Lucas. There must be a reason, right? Try many reasons. Seriously, we could (and, in a moment, will) name dozens of things that fully rationalize our desire to wait out cold snaps in the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula. The basis of our affection goes deep. Cabo San Lucas delivers endless sunshine and average temperatures in the low 80s. The tranquil tides of the Sea of Cortez appeal to travelers who just want to swim without worry. On the opposite side of the spectrum, epic swells coax surfers to the famously tumultuous Playa del Amor. Known for lively clubs and bars, Cabo San Lucas doesn’t shy away from its standing as a happening after-dark destination. Adding to the appeal are tons of tasty restaurants—notably Edith's and El Farallon —as well as a string of sophisticated lodgings. Kelly Grumbach of Quintessentially Travel , a Virtuoso Agency in New York City, recommends the stunning Montage Los Cabos , which wins hearts with its incredible views of Santa Maria Bay.  

Average daily temperature in December: 77°F

12. Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos boasts gobsmackingly gorgeous beaches. Its most privileged real estate belongs to Grace Bay, which looks like a retouched Instagram photo. Only it's #nofilter. Miles of pristine powder and calm, crystalline waters—you couldn’t dream up a more beautiful setting for a holiday. That said, sugar-fine sand and serene surf aren’t the only things that earn Turks & Caicos vacation cred. Beyond the expansive, glimmering shores and oceanfront resorts in Providenciales lies a plethora of fascinating scuba-diving sites with colorful reef creatures, coral caves and dramatic submerged walls. Presumably, you’ll be in Turks & Caicos for a few days. So, why not give windsurfing, parasailing or jetskiing whirl, too? And what’s a Caribbean getaway without savoring island flavor? Locals and out-of-towners mingle over stiff drinks, fresh-caught fish, melt-in-your-mouth ribs and live music at Da Conch Shack . Another selling point? Round-trip flights to Turks & Caicos in December cost somewhere in the ballpark of $418, according to Hopper . That’s a steal! 

13. Cape Town, South Africa

Incredible hospitality, vibrant culture and a formidable dining scene make Cape Town one of the most esteemed city breaks. History buffs, budding photographers and Instagram addicts will have a blast wandering through chromatic Bo Kaap. Located in the up-and-coming Woodstock neighborhood, the Michelin-star The Test Kitchen serves standout dishes such as pig head and smoked apple salad. It’s not all urban escapades either. Because the seasons are opposite, a December visit is actually an opportunity to experience the magic of summer in South Africa. And that’s great news because Cape Town provides access to all sorts of amazing adventures, from hiking Table Mountain and ziplining to swimming in tidal pools and paragliding. To take advantage of better pricing and avoid massive crowds, experts advise travelers to focus on the first half of the month. On the other hand, during the holidays Cape Town transforms into wonderland. “Adderley Street is illuminated by hundreds of lights, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden hosts caroling and V&A Waterfront even puts on Santa’s village,” reveals Olivia Link of Lake Shore Travel, a Virtuoso Agency in Glencoe.  

Average daily temperature in December: 75°F

14. Maui, Hawaii

Say “aloha” to luaus, hula lessons and retail therapy. December in Maui is characterized by holiday traditions with a Hawaiian twist. Lahaina's historic Banyan Tree Park dazzles with thousands of colorful bulbs. Nearby, the Maui Gift & Craft Fair showcases more than 50 local artists and vendors. Resorts get into the festive mood, too. Expect loads of Christmas-themed events. We’re talking baking gingerbread cookies and decorating ornaments. Couples seeking quietude can escape the noise and splashing of kiddos by checking into a fabulous adults-only property (hello, Hotel Wailea ), while families should consider the Fairmont Kea Lani —where Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a traditional outrigger canoe. How joyous is that? Besides mirthful and jolly pursuits, there’s lots of outdoor action. Ride the waves at Honolua Bay and Hookipa Beach. (Or, just gawk at surfers from a safe distance.) Other seasonal activities include whale watching. It's also a pleasant time to climb Mountain Haleakalā and drive the legendary Road to Hana. 

15. Curaçao

It might not have the notoriety of neighboring Aruba, but under-the-radar Curaçao isn't lacking in enticing attributes. Just 12 degrees north of the Equator, this colorful island has an unwaveringly warm climate (the thermometer rarely dips below 75°), secluded cove-like beaches and azure waters. Offshore, you'll find extensive coral reefs teeming with marine life and renowned dive sites, such as Playa Kalki. Adventurous travelers can also plan day trips to Klein Curaçao and go cliff jumping. Among the most compelling attractions on dry land? The sherbet-hued Dutch colonial facades framing Willemstad's harbor. While strolling through Curaçao’s increasingly cosmopolitan capital in December, mosey over to the light-adorned Queen Emma Bridge, which runs across St. Anna Bay, and the spirited Pietermaai District. Bonus: United Airlines is launching a direct flight between Newark and Curaçao on December 7 (that’s on top of the non-stop routes that already fly from Miami, New York, Toronto and Charlotte), making it more accessible than ever before! 

Average daily temperature in December: 85°F

6 CARIBBEAN ISLANDS YOU'VE NEVER HEARD OF (BUT SHOULD DEFINITELY VISIT)

Freelance PureWow Editor

12 Best Places to Visit in December

From warm weather romps in the sun and sand to the biting chill of a remote mountain town, there are many spectacular destinations to visit this winter season. Wander odiferous markets in Marrakech, Morocco; witness the Big Five in Kenya, Africa; with an educated expedition leader, explore our nation’s first national park, Yellowstone; or fly down a waterslide aboard a brand-new Disney cruise in the Bahamas. Whether you’re cashing in on your unused vacation days to visit a Nordic country for the first time, or you want to bring the kiddos somewhere exciting over their school break, like Puerto Vallarta, here are the top destinations to visit around the world in December.

Picture yourself wandering the slender streets of Morocco’s blue city, Chefchaouen, where cats are king; sleeping under the stars in a tented camp after a day exploring the Sahara Desert on a camel; trying a local favorite, pastilla, in a family home in Fes; learning the customs and traditions of the Amazigh people in the Dades Valley; and enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of the markets in Marrakech. Whether you visit with a friend or sign up as a solo traveler, Intrepid Travel’s Premium Morocco in Depth tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide, will help you explore the country’s best cities on a 15-day adventure.

Winnipeg, Canada

Winnipeg, Manitoba , is an intrepid traveler’s paradise in December. It’s here, in the capital city, at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, that folks come together to explore art and architecture, learn about local culture and history, and dine out at some of the best restaurants this Canadian province has to offer. Take a tour of the Royal Canadian Mint , wander around the Manitoba Museum , and explore the Nestaweya River trail via ice bikes, snowshoes, or fat tire bikes. Cross-country skiers will love Winnipeg’s Windsor Park Nordic Center , and skaters and fishermen will love the opportunities to get out on the ice. Finally, no trip to Winnipeg is complete without a visit to the well-designed Canadian Museum for Human Rights , the first museum solely dedicated to educating and inspiring visitors about human rights issues. After you’ve made a strong effort to tour the city, you’ll need sustenance. Look no further than The Forks , where you can find some of the best noshes in the city and the top shopping prospects at stores like Global Connections, Manitobah Mukluks , and Teekca’s Aboriginal Boutique.

Courtesy of Disney

Escape to the Bahamas on one of the newest ships in the Disney Cruise Line : the Disney Wish . This three or four-night cruise, which leaves out of Port Canaveral, includes Broadway-quality shows, fireworks at sea, encounters and photo opportunities with characters, first-run movie screenings, multiple swimming pools, splash zones, and a water slide. You can expect all dining experiences to be entertaining and delicious and accommodations to be comfortable, well thought out, and spacious. Disney’s Oceaneer Club is perfect for little kids ages 3-12, the Edge is fun for 11-14 year-olds, and teens ages 14-17 will dig the Vibe. And, with a mixture of adults-only spaces and access to Disney’s own private island, Castaway Cay, there’s something for everyone on this vacation.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

Two of our country’s best national parks, Yellowstone and Grand Teton , are situated near each other, making it easy to tick both off your wander list. Both parks are magical in the winter when the crowds of tourists have fallen away, and you’re left with the beauty and quiet of snowy landscapes. To make the most of your time, utilize the expert help of Natural Habitat Adventures for their week-long nature-filled Yellowstone: Ultimate Wolf & Wildlife Safari. You’ll benefit from the expertise of naturalist expedition leaders who will provide valuable context to what you’re experiencing along the way. Learn about how the wolves in the remote Lamar Valley are valuable members of the Yellowstone ecosystem, culling the population of elk and bison as a private snow coach transports you to Old Faithful and other popular attractions across the park. You’ll also ride in a horse-drawn sleigh in the National Elk Refuge in Jackson, Wyoming.

Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, is home to just over 805,000 residents. Most of the city’s attractions are well-located near the vibrant city center. Choose luxe accommodations at Villa Copenhagen , allowing you to access museums, shopping, and restaurants easily. See the most extensive collection of art in the country at the National Gallery of Denmark ; learn about the Danish royal family and watch the changing of the guards at Amalienborg Palace ; wander through the 17th-century tower and observatory, The Round Tower ; and see several castles, palaces, and gardens that dot the city. 

An African wildlife safari is on the bucket list for many travelers. This December, finally cross off your dream vacation and travel to Kenya, home to the Masai Mara and plenty of wild animals. The Classic Kenya 4WD Safari with Exodus Travels is designed for smaller groups who want to experience as much as possible in a shorter period. This six-night classic expedition includes three nights in a tented camp, two in a lodge, and one in a hotel. You’ll have excellent views out of the safari vehicle, whether you decide to pop your head out of the top or sit restfully in a window seat. For an extra fee, visit the Masai Mara village and join the early morning hot air balloon ride over the plains—you won’t regret it either.

The Maldives

Courtesy of Coco Collection

One of the most romantic destinations on the planet is the Maldives, a nation of 1,192 jewel-like islands in the Indian Ocean. You’ll enjoy a remote vacation with the one-island-one-resort ethos on one of the 200 inhabited islands. Bungalows are either situated in the lush jungle with a private pool or over the water attached to boardwalks. Book a stay at one of the two Coco Collection resorts—Coco Bodu Hithi or Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu. Both options offer top-notch service, excellent dining and spa offerings, beautiful accommodations, and breathtaking nature.

Chicago, Illinois

Courtesy of  Swissôtel Chicago

One of the most incredible experiences for kids in Chicago this December is an overnight stay in the Swissôtel Chicago ’s Santa Suite. Back by popular demand for the ninth year in a row, the 2,000 square-foot Presidential Suite is converted into Santa’s big city holiday getaway. New this year is a bold Chicago theme, which celebrates and honors the Windy City’s sports teams, specialty foods, and popular attractions. Kids can drop a letter to Santa in his mailbox, indulge in hot cocoa and sugary treats, and wake up to 17 whimsical Christmas trees (including one decorated in Chicago-style hot dogs) and over-the-top cheery décor. Don’t forget to peek in all the closets—Santa has an extra red suit and black boots hanging in the bedroom closet. It’s a luxurious experience like no other, one that the littlest members of your family won’t soon forget.

Oslo, Norway

The capital city of Norway, which was once a Viking trading hub, might not quickly strike you as the perfect December destination, and that’s precisely why it is. Known for its urban green spaces, a plethora of museums, and other-worldly accommodations— The Thief and Amerikalinjen , both part of the illustrious Preferred Hotels & Resorts lineup, are standouts—Oslo is a vibrant and artistic mid-sized city. Visit the Bygdøy Peninsula , where you’ll find national museums: Fram Museum , Norsk Folkemuseum , Kon-Tiki Museum , and Norwegian Maritime Museum . See the Royal Palace , Holmenkollen ski jump , and Norwegian Opera & Ballet. This vacation will offer something more distinctive and newfangled than you might be used to.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

The largest city in the state of Oklahoma, with a metro population exceeding 1.4 million, Oklahoma City has a lot to offer visitors—even in December. Bring your family or friends and explore Automobile Alley, located along Broadway Avenue just north of downtown. Formerly home to the city’s car dealerships, you can still see old signs as you shop and dine in this hip arts district. Explore the Oklahoma Contemporary art center, order a beverage at Sidecar Barley & Wine Bar , and pop in the inclusive feminist Common Dear boutique. Rest your head at The National, an Autograph Hotel with some of the best culinary options in the Horse Show Capital of the World. Located in a building built in 1931, the charm and character of this place shines through in all of the open spaces. Stay here, and you’ll easily access some of the city’s best attractions and museums: First Americans Museum , Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum , Scissortail Park , National Cowboy and Western Museum , and Oklahoma City Museum of Art .

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Courtesy of Hotel Mousai

It's good to have something on the calendar to look forward to, especially a tranquil vacation at Jalisco's first and only AAA Five Diamond-rated resort. The adults-only Hotel Mousai Puerto Vallarta is just the escape you've been looking for. The gourmet all-inclusive dining package and the 24-hour room service make it easy to float from each high-end restaurant to your private accommodations, taking all of the worry out of planning and logistics. Join a tequila tasting, go snorkeling and kayaking, stretch in a yoga class, and experience the hydrotherapy ritual in the spa. Leaving the beaches of Banderas Bay, Mexico, the gem of Puerto Vallarta, will be challenging, but you'll return home relaxed and ready to sink into the cozy winter season.

Whitefish, Montana

The small mountain town of Whitefish in northwest Montana is a winter tree-filled paradise inside a snow globe. From cross-country skiing at Whitefish Lake Golf Club to snowshoeing in Glacier National Park , fat biking on Whitefish Trail, or downhill skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort , there’s much to do here in the winter season. New to the scene, Clydesdale Outpost is the perfect place to rest your head during your Montana adventure. Enjoy a barn tour or sleigh ride and revel in the vast open night sky. Bonus: each cabin has a fireplace and a private deck with a cedar hot tub.

Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now

The Best Time to Visit Montana

The Best Time to Visit Oklahoma City

The 14 Best State Parks in Montana

The Best Small Town in Every State

The Best Staycation in Every State

Your Trip to Montana: The Complete Guide

25 Best Things to Do in Alaska

Where to Go in 2020: The Best Places to Travel This Year

14 Amazing Private Travel Experiences

Where to Go on a Family Vacation in 2019

Family Vacation Destinations in Montana

The 10 Best Ski Resorts in Montana

The Top 20 Destinations in Canada

Top Family Vacation Ideas for Kids of Every Age

This New $112,888 Private Jet Journey Will Take You Around the Americas

The The Best Places to Visit in December for Couples: Weather & Travel Guide

• Sheryl Nance-Nash is a freelance writer specializing in travel and personal finance.
• She has reported and written for publications like Fodors, Conde Nast Traveler and the Wall Street Journal.
• Travel is what feeds her adventurous spirit.

December is a special time of year, and it can also be one of the best months to travel. There are all the festivities of the holiday season, plus a bit of sentimentality as the end of another year approaches. A December vacation is a welcome reprieve, especially for couples who want to reflect back on the year and partake in merriment.

The best places to visit in December are scattered across the globe, whether you're looking for a ski resort, the sunny Caribbean, an all-inclusive in Hawaii, a well-being resort (hello, 2024 travel trend ), or towns that go over the top with holiday festivities. Choosing the best cities or countries to visit in December for your anniversary trip , honeymoon or romantic getaway is a task that will put a smile on your face and get you through a routine day at the office. Here's fodder for your fantasy.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland in December, and the spirit of the holidays is vibrant with the city's infamous Christmas markets. If you're a couple not bothered by a bit of chill in the air, this European escape is for you.

Things to Do: Shop 'til you drop at the Christmas markets with stalls full of art, crafts and local goodies like lebkuchen (similar to gingerbread cookies). You will surely find yourselves in one of the many cafes and coffee houses warming up with a melange , a Viennese coffee that will remind you of a cappuccino. Come evening, head to St. Stephen's Cathedral for classical music at an Advent concert. Another night, attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera House . Visit the city's many museums, like the Albertina or Belvedere . Shake off any stress by indulging in Vienna's 2,000-year-old bathing culture and hitting one of the spas.

Places to Stay: Almanac Palais Vienna , Hotel Beethoven Wien , The Guesthouse Vienna and Alma Boutique Hotel .

Western Pennsylvania

Western Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, is a holiday playland. The list of festivities is long and all-but-guarantees a good time. For those who prefer the countryside, Nemacolin is its own standalone destination: with 2,200 acres of resort grounds to take in, couples will find everything from ice skating to gingerbread house competitions (really though)… all against the ornate decorations and architecture that make this place memorable around the holidays. Plus, Pittsburgh is a 90-minute drive away. When you think of where to travel in December, put this entire region on the map.

Things to Do: Downtown in Market Square of Pittsburgh, you'll find the Peoples Gas Holiday Market that might make you think you're in Europe. You can also skate at the downtown ice rink. GLOWLAND , in the city's Oakland neighborhood, boasts interactive installations, music, art and more. The Walk the Burgh holiday lights tour will give you insight on the city's history and architecture, with a chance to peep all of the area's lights and decorations. The Pittsburgh Botanic Dazzling Nights is 65 acres of lights, plus seasonal beverages and bites. If you don't want to get out of the car, the Zoo Lights Drive-Thru will let you see the animals and lights from your car. Beyond holiday happenings, take in a show in the Cultural District and finish the day with a romantic dinner at one of many top restaurants in town.

Places to Stay: The Priory Hotel , Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh , Omni William Penn Hotel , The Grand Lodge at Nemacolin Resort and The Mansions on Fifth Hotel .

Basseterre, St. Kitts

You might be craving sand, sea and sun for your romantic getaway. If so, one of the best countries to visit in December is St. Kitts, with its steamy and perfect honeymoon weather . This tiny Caribbean island comes alive in December when it celebrates its national Carnival, also called Sugar Mas, as well as the holidays. Expect music, dance, folklore, food, beach parties and more.

Things to Do: For adventure, there's hiking through rainforest and volcanoes; diving; and ATVs. Care for something more serene? Soak up the sun on the beach or take a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway for a three-hour tour that makes a 30-mile circle around the island—18 miles on train and 12 miles on sightseeing buses.

Places to Stay: Belle Mont Farm , Royal St. Kitts , Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour and Marriott's St. Kitts Beach Club .

Pacific City, Oregon

December is a magical time to visit the Oregon Coast. Pacific City is where forested cliffs and tall dunes meet the Pacific Ocean. You'll see whales and exceptionally high tides showcasing the power of the Pacific Ocean. The natural beauty sets the stage for romance, and the chilly weather is a perfect excuse to cuddle around a beach bonfire.

Things to Do: Whale watching is a must. If you're adventurous, December ushers in the arrival of King Tides, a natural phenomenon that occurs just a few times a year with extreme high tides and crashing waves. You'll always remember taking a guided King Tides hike where you climb to the top of the Great Dune at Cape Kiwanda. Horseback ride on the beach. Explore the boutiques and eateries downtown. Not only can you quench your thirst at the Pelican Brewery , but the ocean views are also stunning. Places to Stay: Headlands Coastal Lodge and Spa , Hart's Camp , Inn at Cape Kiwanda and Surf and Sand Inn .

London, England

London knocks itself out of the park during the holidays. Expect holiday lights everywhere . The holiday spirit is infectious, and in the city, you'll find famous Christmas markets and the must-see 60-foot Covent Garden Christmas tree.

Things to Do: Shop the Christmas markets and enjoy all the holiday lights. Be sure to hit Oxford, Regent and Carnaby Streets for their legendary holiday light displays. Catch a show in the theater district, go ice skating and find out the dates for Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. You can't be in London and not have a spot of tea—an afternoon tea experience is not to be missed.

Places to Stay: Canopy by Hilton London City , The Montcalm Royal London House , Park Grand London Hyde Park and The Resident Covent Garden .

Hamilton, Bermuda

The thought of pink sand beaches probably sounds good as you're thinking of where to go in December, especially if your hometown is likely to be covered in snow. Plan to go early in the month of December, as that's when you can catch the Bermuda Christmas Boat Parade through Hamilton Harbour. Boats are decked out with lights and holiday characters will stream by, topped off with grand finale fireworks. It's tradition for some on Christmas Day to go to Elbow Beach to watch the sunrise.

Things to Do: Find out when the MarketPlace Christmas Parade is, as it's something you won't want to miss. Another December event to look out for is the City Art Fest featuring gallery tours, workshops, music and poetry. Beyond the holiday festivities, enjoy cliff jumping, diving, snorkeling and Blue Hole Park for a swim.

Places to Stay: The Loren at Pink Beach , Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa , Rosewood Bermuda and The St. Regis Bermuda Resort .

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Nobody in the Caribbean (maybe, besides, Anguilla) does the holiday season like Puerto Rico. Festivities start in November and continue into the middle of January. From December 15 through 24, churches hold masses with aguinaldos —a folk genre of Christmas music—at dawn. The parranda (carolers) travel around neighborhoods singing Afro-Indigenous Christmas aguinaldos.

Things to Do: In addition to the holiday happenings, enjoy a bioluminescence bay tour, and visit sites like Castillo San Cristobal, and the San Juan Cathedral. Do not miss Old San Juan, with its cobblestone streets, cafes and shops.

Places to Stay: San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino , Dreamcatcher by DW , La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort and Caribe Hilton .

Hope Town, The Bahamas

Considering a visit to the Bahamas in December? Think beyond the much-traveled Nassau and Freeport to under-the-radar locales like Hope Town, which has beautiful beaches, tons of sunshine and a slower pace.

Things to Do: Rent a bike or golf cart to tool around town. Snorkel, dive, fish, paddleboard or kayak. Climb to the top of the Hope Town Lighthouse, and you'll be rewarded with epic views. Some other hot spots include Cap 'n Jacks , the Cantina at The Island Retreat and Firefly Bar and Grill .

Places to Stay: The Island Retreat , Abaco Inn , Hope Town Inn Marina and The Clifford Sawyer House .

Madeira, Portugal

The Madeira archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean about 280 miles from the Canary Islands and 310 miles from the Moroccan coast. Madeira is lovely any time of year, but the holidays are something special, with Madeira spending millions on its Christmas lights and decorations. Plus, the area has a legendary New Year's Eve fireworks celebration.

Things to Do: For the thrill-seeking couple, there's canyoning, paragliding and hiking. Take in the view at Cabo Girão, which at over 1,900 feet tall is the highest sea cliff in Europe. Venture out on the skywalk's suspended glass floor for views of the Atlantic that are beyond spectacular. Visit Câmara de Lobos and consider a tour of Rabaçal, a three-hour walk exploring an evergreen forest, valleys, waterfalls and natural springs. Ride the cable car to reach the Monte Palace Tropical Garden .

Places to Stay: Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel , The Cliff Bay , Porto Mare Hotel and Quinta Jardins do Lago .

Sedona, Arizona

The end of the year is a good time to visit Sedona—it's when fewer tourists are around, so you're likely to score discounts on hotels with less people in town. That means you also stand a better chance of getting a reservation at that restaurant you absolutely must dine at ( Mariposa , anyone?).

Things to Do: Hike those gorgeous red rocks. The trails will be less crowded in December. If you're not game for action by foot, rent a jeep and drive the off-road trails. Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad train. Relax and pamper yourselves in one of Sedona's much beloved spas.

Places to Stay: The Wilde Resort and Spa , Enchantment Resort , Sky Ranch Lodge and Arabella Hotel Sedona .

Big Sky, Montana

For the outdoorsy couple who loves winter fun, Big Sky might be the best place to travel in December. Skiers will think they've died and gone to heaven with the abundance of trails. This place is for foodies too–hint, if you need bach party inspiration . You'll get everything from a gourmet hot dog stand, sushi and street tacos to barbecue and a slope-side dinner in a yurt , accessed by snowcat.

Things to Do: While skiing is the big attraction, the action doesn't stop there. Go for a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride, or go dog sledding or ice skating. Take a snowmobile tour of Yellowstone National Park .

Places to Stay: Big Sky Resort , Lone Mountain Ranch , Residence Inn Big Sky/The Wilson Hotel and The Lodge at Big Sky .

Grapevine, Texas

You know they do everything bigger in Texas, and that goes for the holidays, too—especially in Grapevine, which is nicknamed the Christmas Capital of Texas. Between November and December, there are 1,400 holiday events, including markets, parades and the Christmas Wine Train.

Things to Do: Browse Grapevine's historic Main Street District with its boutiques, restaurants, winery tasting rooms and art galleries. Catch a show at the Palace Arts Center. Take a ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad . Hike or bike the nine miles of wilderness trails at Lake Grapevine.

Places to Stay: Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center , Hotel Vin , Hilton Garden Inn Grapevine at Silverlake Crossings and Hyatt Place/Grapevine .

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

If you want to celebrate the holidays like a local in the Caribbean island of St. Vincent, you'll need to forget about sleep—the Nine Mornings Festival is for those who like to party. Nine mornings before Christmas, folks wake up at 4 a.m. to enjoy concerts, cultural performances and games. The final morning of the festival ends with a steel band "jump up" (party).

Things to Do: After you've recovered from the early morning festivities, visit one of the black sand beaches. St. Vincent is home to an active volcano, waterfalls, hiking trails and fishing villages. Explore the historic capital city of Kingstown, with its cobblestone streets and majestic churches. Spend a couple of days in nearby Bequia basking in the sun on the beautiful beaches.

Places to Stay: Sandals St. Vincent , Bequia Beach Hotel , Jenny's Place and Bequia Plantation Hotel .

Port Antonio, Jamaica

For a slightly quieter holiday season in Jamaica, go to Port Antonio, as you won't find the crowds of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Port Antonio is lush, awash in greenery, jungle and beautiful beaches. This city is ideal for the couple seeking scenery and serenity.

Things to Do: Take your pick of beaches, whether it's Frenchman's Cove , Winnifred Beach or San San Beach. Each has a different vibe, so you might want to go to all three if you have time. Raft on the Rio Grande. Browse the Portland Art Gallery and check out the Folly Lighthouse and Folly Ruins, the remains of an early 1900s mansion.

Places to Stay: Geejam Hotel , Kanopi House , The Trident Hotel and Goblin Hill Villas at San San .

Mallorca, Spain

If you've already done Barcelona and Madrid, December is a good time to go beyond familiar locales in Spain. Explore the Spanish island of Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic islands. The city of Palma is romantic with its 18th century homes, cathedrals and castles… and even dreamier with holiday decor and sans summertime crowds.

Things to Do: Palma's Old Town has landmarks like La Seu, a sandstone cathedral that took nearly 400 years to build (it's one of Europe's tallest Gothic structures, noted for its massive rose windows). The Golden Mile is the spot for shopping and eating. You'll believe in fairytales with a visit to Bellver Castle from the 14th century—it's about a 10-minute drive west of Palma, located atop a pine-forested hill with awesome views of the Bay of Palma and the Tramuntana Mountains. Mercat de l'Olivar is Palma's largest covered market. See what treasures you can find. If you want a more laid-back experience, consider staying a couple of days in Grand Portals Nous, located about 20 minutes from the city's center on the Mediterranean shore.

Places to Stay: Es Princep , Iberostar Grand Portals Nous , Puro Hotel Palma and Castillo Hotel Son Vida, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mallorca .

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

The 12 best places to travel in December

The most wonderful time of the year? Our list of the best places to travel in December covers more than Christmas.

Photograph: Shutterstock

December is widely considered the ‘most wonderful time of the year’, but that merry attitude can apply to much more than the month’s international festivities and celebrations – this part of the year is an excellent time to pack a bag and head on holiday, too. 

And whether you’re after a super-Christmassy weekend to explore magical European markets and amp up the vibes or you’ve got a phobia of cold weather and are in need of some winter sun, there are plenty of options. The end of the year is fast approaching, and you deserve to spend it wherever takes your fancy, be it in the warmest or the coldest parts of the world. So, without further ado, here are the very best places to travel in December.

RECOMMENDED: ☀️The world’s best places for winter sun ✨The world’s best places to celebrate New Year 🌨️The  best places to travel in January 🌎The best places to travel throughout the year

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best places to travel in December

1.  san diego.

Everyone should do Christmas in California at least once in their lives. ‘Winter’ in San Diego is clear, sunny days that idle comfortably around the 20C/68F mark – which to San Diegans means sweater weather, but to me, as a Brit, meant bikini days on the beach. For festive fun, join the San Diego SantaCon – allegedly the country’s biggest Santa bar crawl – and check out the OTT decor at Hotel del Coronado.  

Average temp in December:  20C/68F

📍 Discover the best things to do in San Diego

2.  Lyon

Every December, Lyon lights up for four days of dazzlement: a riot of huge light displays across the whole city centre, with millions swarming the traffic-free streets for music, mulled wine and merrymaking. But if you’d rather swerve the crowds and expense of the Fête des Lumières, you’ll still find Lyon (which contends with Marseille for the title of France’s second city) makes for the perfect midwinter city break. Shop for Christmas presents in the hip and crafty boutiques of the Pentes de la Croix Rousse. Walk the Rhône and Saone riverbanks after dark, checking out the illuminated bridges. Take a turn in the winter-only ferris wheel that towers 200 feet above Place Bellecour. And settle in for some epic meals at the traditional  bouchons  (Lyon’s ultra-trad answer to the Parisian bistrot). Nothing banishes the winter blues like a few of the sausage-heavy local classics and a bottle of burgundy.

Average temp in December: 4C/39F

📍 Discover the best things to do in Lyon

3.  Las Vegas

This might come as a shock, but Vegas is actually every bit as amazing as they say it is. It’s a bucket list destination for a reason, full of wonder and amazement and music and frozen margaritas the size of a small child. It’s serious fun all year round, but it’s especially exciting in the festive months; in December you’ll find Candelight concerts, ice skating, festive shows and The Strip decked out in Christmas lights. If there’s ever a time to visit Sin City, it’s in its December glory.

Average temp in December: 9C/48F

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Las Vegas

4.  Austria

December is when Austria really sparkles. Soak up the festive vibes (and the glühwein) at the spiritual HQ of Christmas markets, Vienna . The most iconic is held in front of the illuminated, baroque Schönbrunn Palace, with crafts, gingerbread and an enormous tree, while Art Advent on Karlsplatz has live music and an all-organic policy on the food. And while Vienna may be very good,  Salzburg ’s a bit subversive, too: at its folkloric Krampus parades in early December, goat-demon characters run riot through the streets. Less scarily, it’s also home to the uniquely Christmassy Salzburg Advent Singing, featuring traditionally dressed Alpine folk choirs and festive markets—the Christkindlmarkt is one of the world’s oldest.

Average temp in December: 3C/37F

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Vienna

5.  Finland

This picturesque Nordic nation is a perennial award winner in annual travel gongs, not to mention eco-centric ones, and it makes sense: Finland is big on conservation, with 39 national parks and nearly three-quarters of its land covered in forest. All kinds of cold-weather dwelling creatures live here, from arctic foxes to lynxes, wolverines and snow hares—but go in December to see Rudolph and his chums in the snowy winter paradise that is Finnish Lapland. Where, of course, you’ll also find Santa—this is the home of Christmas, after all.

Average temp in December: -4C/28F

📍 Discover the best things to do in Helsinki

6.  Cambodia

For memorable travel moments, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat at sunrise has to be up there. So, how about Cambodia’s Angkor Wat at sunrise, amped up and ready to run a half-marathon? Every December (December 5, to be exact), thousands of runners peg it through the grounds of the 900-year-old Hindu temple, a UNESCO site, in support of Cambodian charities. It’s  totally  what Indiana Jones and Lara Croft would want (both  Temple of Doom  and  Tomb Raider  were filmed in the complex). Afterwards, head out to one of Cambodia’s quieter tropical beaches for well-deserved lounging: Koh Rong Samloem’s Lazy Beach should fit the bill.

Average temp in December: 26C/78F

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Cambodia

7.  Miami

For an arty party in the city, it has to be  Art Basel  in Miami. In December, the Swiss-born contemporary art fair arrives in Miami to exhibit and sell the work of established international artists. But you don’t have to be in the industry, or uber-rich, to get in on the action: plenty of fringe events happen outside the main convention centre at  Miami Beach  that same week. Check out the public sculpture and the many pop-ups, gallery events and installations that have led this to be dubbed ‘Art Week’ by locals. Welcome to Miami!

Average temp in December: 21C/70F

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Miami

8.  Kerala, India

It’s easy to see why tourism in  India ’s serene southwestern state is flourishing, with palm-fringed beaches, tranquil tea plantations, and tiger-spotting opportunities,  and  it’s also one of India’s more eco enclaves. In forward-looking Kochi, heritage meets hip, between colonial ruins and cutting-edge galleries. Then there is the fabulous Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India’s biggest contemporary art event. Galleries, disused buildings, public spaces and heritage sites across the city are filled with sculpture, film, painting, installations and performance art. Still, that counts as teasing, so best head this way to enjoy India's magical south.

Average temp in December: 28C/82F

📍 Discover the best  places to visit in India  

9.  Northern Patagonia

Because of its vast dark skies, Northern Patagonia is an epic stargazing spot at any time of year, but with a meteor shower and a total eclipse coming up, this December’s the time to go. The sky with be illuminated with cosmic debris for the Geminids meteor shower (it’s a big’un) on 14 and 15 December. Fly into  Buenos Aires ,  Argentina , a few days before for steak, street art and sexy tango vibes before basing yourself in San Martin de los Andes for the main event—it’s on the banks of a glacial lake and right at the edge of forested Lanín National Park, at the foot of the Andes. 

Average temp in December: 22C/72F

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Buenos Aires

10.  Costa Rica

In case you haven't heard, nature immersion and eco-tourism are big, and Costa Rica might be the most eco of them all. It is well on its way to hitting its target of being the first carbon-neutral country, and a quarter of the country is made up of unspoilt conservation land. Expect fascinating nature, from vividly hued birds and tree frogs to blissed-out sloths. Eco-lodge-hop your way from the cloud forest at San Gerardo de Dota to the whale’s tail-shaped Marino Ballena National Park to surf spot Santa Teresa.

Average temp in December: 30C/86F

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Costa Rica

11.  Berlin

Brave the harsh Berlin winter and reap the rewards: the run-up to Christmas is when the city is at its most charming. Get a round of glühwein while exploring a Christmas market (at Bröhan Museum market products are handmade by locals, while Spandau’s market is all old-Europe vibes). Alexanderplatz’s funfair will be in full swing, while Berlin’s Botanical Garden becomes an illuminated wonderland with twinkling fairy lights and glowing sculptures every December, with an ice rink to slip and slide around. Warm up after a spin by the fire pit with more hot booze.

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Berlin

12.  Mexico City

With the rainy season and the summer crowds out of the way, December is a great time to hit up Mexico City. Go for the street tacos, tamales and tlacoyos, the Templo Mayor Aztec ruins, and the Frida Kahlo Museum. Then get stuck in to hip neighbourhood Juarez where there are more new design restaurants and bar openings than you can shake a margarita at (if you can find Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar speakeasy, it’ll be worth the hunt). And if you happen to be in the city for New Year’s Eve, make for the nearby Angel of Independence on Reforma Avenue for the street party and fireworks at midnight.

📍 Discover the best  things to do in Mexico City

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

The Best Places to Travel in December

From the Montana wilderness to Chile's Atacama Desert, here are the best destinations for a December holiday.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Greenough, Montana

Situated along the edge of the 37,000-acre Resort at Paws Up is the new Green O , a sister property of just 12 freestanding homes. Surrounded by nothing but soaring pine trees and sagebrush, consider this an extravagant way to get in touch with nature, but with the comfort of sleek, modern accommodations, hot tubs, floor-to-ceiling windows, plus access to all of the activities at Paws Up like horseback riding and cross-country skiing. The best part? It's adults-only.

Atacama Desert, Chile

When Chile reopens to vaccinated international travelers on November 1, so will one of its greatest natural wonders, the Atacama Desert, aka the driest place on earth. Along with so many otherworldly landscapes to explore, come nighttime the stargazing potential is beyond incredible, especially at the year-old Nayara Alto Atacama , the Nayara brand's first hotel outside of Costa Rica. The 42-room property is situated away from the village (and the light pollution) and is the only one in the San Pedro River valley, where neighbors are local shepherds and family orchards.

Read Reviews Nayara Alto Atacama

Big Island, Hawaii

Hawaii is stunning pretty much all year-round but winter is especially ideal for East Coasters in dire need of sun and warmth. The Big Island, with its rustic, untamed feel, amazing marine life, and majestic volcanoes, is a truly unique destination. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai , one of the best hotels in the state, recently underwent a $100 million renovation, meaning it'll pretty much be like staying in a brand new hotel.

Read Reviews The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

With a temperate California climate, vineyards, hiking trails galore, top-notch spa treatments, and a world-class golf course, the Carmel Valley Ranch , located in the chic Monterey area ( where Big Little Lies was filmed ) is a great destination for a not-so-freezing December jaunt. The sprawling resort has something for everyone, adults and kids alike. In addition to the aforementioned list, there are activities such as beekeeping, whisky tastings, archery, ice cream churning, and candle-making. An added bonus: all rooms are spacious suites equipped with fireplaces and private decks.

Read Reviews Carmel Valley Ranch

Starting December 1, Fiji reopens its borders to vaccinated international travelers after shutting them early last year due to the pandemic. Only a 10-hour direct flight from the west coast (or about 15 from NYC) the country has more than 300 pristine islands to explore. One of them, Malolo Island, which is the largest of the Mamanuca Islands archipelago, is home to the Six Senses Fiji . With just 24 spacious villas that each measure at least 1,200 square feet and are equipped with private pools and outdoor showers, plus several palatial two- to five-bedroom residences, this is home-away-from-home luxury at its finest. And in keeping with the Six Senses brand ethos, sustainability efforts figure largely at this property—the resort is home to 39 Fijian Crested iguanas, an endangered native species with less than 5,000 left in the world.

Read Reviews Six Senses Fiji

New Orleans, Louisiana

December in New Orleans ticks off many boxes. With high temperatures in the 60s, you'll avoid the stifling heat and humidity of the summer months. And with Mardi Gras still a few months away, you'll enjoy the city without having to contend with throngs of unruly partygoers. And with Christmas just around the corner, there will still be plenty of festive spirit all around. As for where to stay, book one of the whimsically appointed rooms at Maison de la Luz , the jewel box of a property from the team behind the Ace hotels that opened two years ago in the Warehouse District. It'll be the prettiest place to lay your head after a day full of beignets and gumbo.

Read Reviews Maison de la Luz

Los Cabos, Mexico

There is never really a bad time to visit Cabo, but the abundance of sprawling 5-star resorts that dot the tip of Mexico's sunny Baja California Peninsula are particularly alluring in December. Thanks to the region's feverish development over the past several years, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodations. At the Esperanza, an Auberge Resort , this month will be especially eventful. On December 21, to celebrate the winter solstice, an astronomer will be on hand to guide guests through an evening of storytelling and stargazing (Cabo has a long history of celestial observation thanks to its dependably clear skies). Then over the last two weeks of December, a specially curated dinner series will celebrate cooking styles from around the world while also paying homage to the four elements: water, fire, earth, and air.

Read Reviews Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

Quebec City, Canada

If you can brave the cold, Quebec City provides all the winter wonderland charms of a quaint European village for a fraction of the flight time. Think: pretty snow-dusted cobblestone streets, heaps of fondue and mulled wine, the grand Notre-Dame Cathedral, all situated within the 400-year-old walled city center (which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Stay at the family-owned Auberge Saint-Antoine , a 95-room Relais & Châteaux in the heart of the Old Port, which also happens to sit on top of a major archaeological site—hundreds of artifacts from the French and British colonial regimes, dating back to 1608, are on display throughout the hotel.

Read Reviews Auberge Saint-Antoine

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} T&C Travel @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

10 Wonderful Places to Spend Thanksgiving

14 'Outlander' Filming Locations

The World's Best Adults-Only Resorts

38 Luxurious All-Inclusive Resorts

Easy, Labor Day Trips to Book in a Jiffy

Things to Do in London At Christmas Time

The 9 Best Places to Go in November

The Best of Charleston, South Carolina

London's Best Christmas Markets

20 Ski Towns That Are Just as Great in the Summer

19 Things You Should Never Wear While Traveling

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

Where is hot in December? Our top 13 destinations

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As the cold takes firm hold of Europe , sun seeking generally requires a longer flight. True, there are spots closer to home with the good grace to linger around 20°C, but winter provides an excellent excuse for a far-flung getaway, when a powerful and prolonged dose of vitamin D is practically prescribed. Hot cities in Africa and Australia will come alive this month, as their summers finally arrive, while tropical islands and unsung corners of the world will hit their peak. See below for our edit of where is hot in December. For more travel inspiration, see our guide to the best winter sun destinations and the best holiday destinations in December .

Average December temperature : 26°C

The seven hour-flight from London to Dubai can just about be classed as medium-haul, while the time difference between the two is a jet-lag-free four hours – but this desert city in the Middle East feels worlds away from chilly England in December. Sure, there’s the glitzy side of Dubai – its mega-malls and skyscraping hotels are decked out in festive lights and ginormous trees for the season – but there’s a more laidback side to the city, too. Life’n One is a hidden yoga retreat for those hoping to end the year on a healthy note, while cultural hub Alserkal Avenue is a great place to escape the heat in arthouse cinemas and indie galleries.

Where to stay: Forget the glitz and glam, this cool new un-Dubai hotel is 25hours Hotel One Central , a hub for creatives, digital nomads, and those in the know. If you're here to venture to the pool and nothing more, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is a great option, especially for families. For a stay that’s unlike anything else in Dubai, book a room at the secluded five-room hotel and spa Al Faya Lodge an hour east of the city. See our edit of the best hotels in Dubai for more.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Average December temperature : 21°C

We called it ‘the surprisingly cool Canary island ’, but we weren’t talking about the weather. The fact that Lanzarote resides off Africa’s west coast means that even in December it’s still fairly sane to take a dip. Avoid the package hordes and head to fine, white-sand Papagayo Beach on the southern tip of the island, or try world-class surfing in north-west Famara. In fact, more surprises lie in store the further you stray from the tourist hotels. There’s the Jardín de Cactus in Guatiza, a surreal succulent amphitheatre; or starkly alluring Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic wilderness that starred in 1966 film One Million Years BC. And don’t forget Finca Malvasia , a seductive ranch-like retreat in the central wine region, owned by a pair of designers who swapped London for island life. After wintering in Lanzarote, you might just join them.

Where to stay: La Cabaña , a slick and earthy villa with a quote-mark-shaped swimming pool and views down to Puerto Calero. For more, check out our list of the best villas in Lanzarote .

Bali, Indonesia

Average December temperature : 27°C

It’s one of South-east Asia ’s winter-sun kingpins for good reason – tropical Bali ’s lush rainforest and white-sand beaches tick all the boxes when it comes to a warm-weather escape. Once-scrappy beach town Canggu draws Indonesia 's thriving digital-nomad crowd, along with blissed-out surfers, while artists’ village Ubud is a hub for those seeking a more spiritual getaway.

Where to stay: Teetering on a high clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean on Bali’s southern coast, Six Senses Uluwatu is a wellness retreat that gets it just right. In Canggu, we like The Slow , a 12-room bolthole with an achingly cool cocktail of art, music and interior design. Riverside jungle hideout Capella Ubud feels like an African tented camp from the 19th century and makes an ideal base that avoids any desert-island clichés. If you're travelling in a group, Bali has some incredible villas and Airbnbs, like Laputa Villa which sleeps four and is widely known as "The Bamboo Castle in the Sky." For more, see our pick of the best Bali hotels .

Marrakech, Morocco

Average December temperature : 20°C

When winter is in full flow, don’t underestimate the power of a three-and-a-half-hour flight to another world. Yes, Marrakech is hectic, but a recent influx of design hotels – most of them reimagining glorious, red-brick riads – means there’s always somewhere more sedate to escape to. Alternatively, take up residence in a palace: La Mamounia , a grande dame of landscaped gardens, fountains, opulent tiles and velvets, is a card-carrying member of our best hotels in the world Gold List . Or book a stay at Royal Mansour , the city's most lavish hotel, which proves you needn’t plunge into the medina madness outside to get the best of Marrakech.

Where to stay: As we mentioned above there are no shortage of hotels in Marrakech . For a traditional riad stay, Riad Goloboy is a feast for the eyes (and Instagram) with kaleidoscopic walls and a gallery-worthy art collection.

Average December temperature : 24°C

The city’s year-round warm weather comes into its own in December, when the beach parties continue while other sun spots – we’re looking at you, California – pull on a sweater. For a calmer vibe, try the less-developed northern end of Miami Beach. It’s here that chef Thomas Keller serves elegant classics (oysters, steak tartare, lobster thermidor) at the landmark The Surf Club, among potted palms and white-coated waiters who evoke the spot’s history as the go-to of the 1950s jet set. Better yet, the recently extended, hacienda-style Four Seasons is here (Elizabeth Taylor and Wallis Simpson count among former guests). Refined might not be the word typically associated with Miami, but let this breath of fresh air change your mind.

Where to stay: Miami Beach Edition sits inside the skeleton of the Seville, one of the giant 1950s hotels, with nods to the past, a connection to the city's heritage and a bar with uninterrupted ocean views.

Bahamas, Caribbean

It’s peak season in the Bahamas , and while that will certainly keep the beaches busy, it also means perfect weather. Our tip: strike out for Harbour Island, a three-mile-long, mile-and-a-half-wide sliver of sensational, pink-sand stretches, where there are always enough sunbeds to go around. Make camp at its smartest hotel, Bahama House , a chic cottage with retro Palm Beach vibes, a sunken tiki bar and just 11 rooms. It’s part of Eleven Experience, an experiential-travel specialist, you can also take advantage of custom adventures such as diving in secret grottoes or swimming with swines on Pig Beach.

Where to stay: Pelican Bay Hotel . Inside, waterside rooms combine Caribbean cheerfulness with classic European style. Outside, white-sand beaches, lush boulevards and beautiful seascapes.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is always a good idea, but particularly in December, when the fledgling South African summer sets beaches and vineyards aglow. The mere sight of beautiful crowds bronzing against its theatrical, cragged mountain backdrop will banish the winter blues in one blow. And just when you thought the Mother City’s raw good looks, smart art and design scenes and world-class food couldn’t get more appealing, it only goes and adds a pair of super-hot hotels, too.

Where to stay: The Silo , which is ingeniously set inside a former grain elevator house at the top of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa on the Victoria and Albert Waterfront. Also on our Gold List, Ellerman House is an imposing Edwardian mansion with smashing views of the Atlantic and one of the country’s finest private-art collections.

Auckland, New Zealand

Average December temperature : 22°C

Just like that low-and-slow New Zealand drawl, Auckland is a big, beautiful city that’s seldom in a hurry. Perhaps that’s what happens when there’s nature everywhere – rainforest-covered hills here; the glittering Hauraki Gulf there. And the notion that the affable country is somehow behind the times is rebuffed by the likes of the Britomart complex, a series of waterfront heritage buildings turned boutiques and restaurants, and Iko Iko, a fabulous concept store with fans such as Emilia Wickstead. Add in a ferry trip to nearby Waiheke Island’s sandy beaches and vineyard wine tastings and be totally converted to the Kiwi lifestyle.

Where to stay: Hilton Auckland is über-trendy retro futurism in a gleaming wharf shed redeveloped to resemble a cruise-liner.

Merida, Yucatan Peninsula

Average December temperature : 31°C

Tulum , Cancún and Playa del Carmen are the seaside giants of the Yucatán in south-east Mexico , but head instead for the state capital of Mérida for the best of everything: Mayan ruins, a charming colonial town, dense jungle and – if you don’t mind a short drive – beaches, too. Best of all, there’s Chablé just outside the city, an astonishingly lush estate with a spa and private cenote, a restaurant led by renowned chef Jorge Vallejo, a tequila ‘library’, a sweat lodge and a local shaman. Plus it has 40 splashy, limestone-and-glass casitas, each one with its own terrace and pool.

Where to stay: Hacienda Xcanatun for marble mosaic and coral stone floors on the verandahs, exteriors are daubed in terracotta and cream, and rough-hewn rustic tables and hammocks hung between trees that give this 18th-century Italianate estate a lived-in feel.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Long the Shangri-La of feverish backpacker dreams, Koh Samui has grown up. Yes, its raison d’être remains pure pleasure – in the shade of three million coconut palms, and on its bone-white beaches – but the packaging is more Four Seasons, less ratty bungalow. Wellness has well and truly arrived here, with yoga studios, health retreats and even monk-led mentoring for those looking to make a real change. If, however, you just want a proper, idyllic tropical break, Panacea takes the cake. The former home of one of the world’s top hedge-fund managers, this sprawling hilltop estate features five enormous residences, 82ft swimming pools, a cinema, a nightclub – and even a Muay Thai boxing ring (tattooed instructor included).

Where to stay: Set high on a hill, Panacea has a mix of four-, five- or six-bedroom villas filled with tropical hardwoods, silk fabrics and petrified wood that’s over a million years old, plus there's a kids’ room, a private cinema, gambling den and nightclub. At COMO Point Yamu a 100-metre long white-tiled swimming pool shoots out towards the Andaman Sea. Tip-top service, zingy cuisine and a wondrous spa has made this Thai hotel a favourite with LGBTQ+ Thais and travellers.

No doubt, Havana is spectacular. But leaving Cuba ’s main drawcard to explore its steamy eastern mountains will bring you closer to a country that, in its isolation from modernity, has much to teach. In Baracoa, the mystical hangs like a heavy mist. The city, surrounded by the Cuchillas del Toa mountain range, is a world unto itself: streets infused with music, sleepy beaches and rivers and canyons where – yes, even here – you’ll stumble upon the odd thatched bar. At the very south of the island, Santiago de Cuba, with its palatial Spanish buildings by the sea, is set to be the next It destination, but for now remains thrillingly tourist-free.

Where to stay: Casa de Miriam y Sinai is a fantastic first-floor flat that is an oasis of calm and space, with three spacious rooms, one with a street-side balcony, are spotless and have top-drawer bathrooms.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne ’s erratic climate ensures it’ll never hold the beachy appeal of Sydney . But December’s summer temperatures are ideal for exploring the city’s beloved laneways: narrow passages packed with street art , galleries, restaurants and bars. It’s here that trends are set rather than followed; where a cup of coffee has both a caffeine kick and global acclaim. And in Australia ’s always dynamic second city, there’s never a shortage of new and miraculous places to explore. Currently it’s Di Stasio Città, Spring Street’s Brutalist Italian restaurant, where guests eat fabulous crab capellini in a concrete-bunker-like setting as video installations play across the walls.

Where to stay: Lindenderry at Red Hill , a silver-birch-lined drive leading to a white rural hideout, with comforting, pared-back style and a restaurant that uses the with best local produce.

Average December temperature : 30°C

There's a lot to love about Costa Rica. The awe-inspiring nature – two coastlines, Caribbean and Pacific, which have not only distinct landscapes but distinct vibes; rainforests; volcanoes; powerful waterfalls that crash into rivers. You can surf, raft or relax in natural hot springs, spot sloths, monkeys and thousands of species of birdlife. All of this, plus Costa Rica is consistently named one of the happiest countries in the world, as well as having a higher-than-average life expectancy. December to April are the best times to visit – you can expect dry, sunny days, perfect for exploring on your own terms.

Where to stay: Aguas Claras in Puerto Viejo, on the Caribbean coast has six cabanas and a handful of restaurants loved by locals. See our edit of the best Costa Rica hotels for more ideas.

32 Warm Places to Visit in December in USA (Best Spots to Escape the Cold)

Posted on Published: August 10, 2022  - Last updated: October 7, 2023

There’s nothing quite like a warm getaway to escape the cold, dreary weather. The USA has some pretty incredible vacation spots that are perfect for winter. Feel the sunshine at these amazing destinations: warm places to visit in December in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

To find warmth in the USA in December, you’re pretty much heading south. From island vacations to coastal destinations and deserts, there’s so many beautiful and adventurous places to beat the cold.

This list of warm places to visit in USA in December includes spots you’ve definitely had on your radar – but perhaps more intriguing are the underrated places you haven’t heard of!

Whether you’re looking for a vacation destination to get outdoors and active instead of cooped up, a perfect location to spend your holiday break, or you’re just looking for the best beach to visit in December, you’ll find a bit of everything on this list!

Map of the best warm places to visit in USA in December

From Hawaii to Florida, there’s so many ideas on this list! Use this map as a visual of the destinations, then check out the photos and tips below on what to do in each location.

By the way, since I’m actively crossing places off my bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some fellow travel writers to help with this list.

Let’s get to it!

Must-see video: best warm December vacation ideas

Warm places to visit in December in USA

Starting this list off with a bang! When all you want in December is warmth, these are the perfect vacation destinations for you!

1. St Croix, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 82, low 72

Wishing for warmer temps in December? Well St. Croix might just be the perfect spot for your winter getaway! The largest and least visited of the US Virgin Islands, St. Croix is an tropical oasis while escaping the cold.

Just at the start of the dry season, December is a perfect time to visit St. Croix. It’s a festive time of year with Christmas events and festivals across the island, including the Crucian Christmas Festival .

If you’re looking for the perfect beach in December on St. Croix, then Sandy Point Beach is it! Open on the weekends, it’s a National Wildlife Refuge, and one of the longest beaches in the US Virgin Islands. It’s closed during sea turtle nesting season, typically April through August, so December is the perfect time to visit!

For a true taste of the Caribbean, visit a rum distillery. St. Croix is home to Captain Morgan Rum Distillery and Cruzan Rum Distillery. Or, visit one of the 150+ sugar mill ruins on the island to soak in some history.

Other popular activities are hiking for those turquoise water views, taking a day trip to Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge and visiting Fort Christiansvaern.

There’s so many things to do in St. Croix, you won’t get bored! It’s one of the very best warm places to visit in USA in December, and one you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Monterey, California (one of my favorite warm US destinations in December)

Average temp:  high 61, low 45

One of the ‘coolest’ warm places to visit in December in USA is Monterey, California. Known for it’s mild temperatures year-round, it’s a great spot for a winter getaway.

December is especially a great time to visit Monterey because the marine fog has mostly dissipated , versus the summer or early fall when it’s still lingering around. Crowds are fewer and prices are reduced, which is awesome for enjoying the area attractions.

Monterey is home to one of the United States best marine sanctuary, making it one of the best spots in the US for wildlife viewing ! Take a kayak tour of the Monterey Bay or witness seals and sea otters in their native habitats at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve .

Spend a day – or more experiencing Big Sur and one of the best scenic drives in the US, just south of Monterey. There are so many things to do in Big Sur that you’ll find something you love! Chase waterfalls, relax on beaches or get active on a hiking trail with incredible views of the coast.

Be sure to visit Cannery Row where you’ll find shopping, dining and plenty of entertainment options for all ages. It’s home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the best things to do with kids in Monterey.

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

San Juan is a must on any  Puerto Rico itinerary , no matter when you vacation, but December is a particularly wonderful time to visit. Hurricane season is officially over, and daytime temperatures are in the low 80s, making is a great time to explore and hit area beaches.

The holidays are celebrated with verve all through the month. Old San Juan, the city’s historic district, is decked up in holiday lights and nativity scenes.

Enjoy Puerto Rican eggnog, an alcoholic concoction made with rum, coconut milk, and sweet spices. You’ll also find live music in the streets, and, leading into Christmas, folks singing Christmas carols at night. Very festive!

December is also perfect for sightseeing. Be sure to visit the historic forts of Old San Juan, and walk the colorful alleys to snap photos of the beautiful facades. 

The balmy weather makes December a great time to spend time of the many idyllic beaches in San Juan and just beyond , from the beaches of Isla Verde to Luquillo. For more beach time, plan on a day trip to Culebra Puerto Rico or Icacos Island ! If you’re looking for unique experiences, consider the Bioluminescent Bay, as reviewed in the battle of Culebra vs Vieques .

It’s also a great time to visit El Yunque, the tropical rainforest near San Juan. Hike amidst lush vegetation and waterfalls and take in the views from the observation tower. 

Hotel El Convento is a great place to stay in Old San Juan! It’s housed in a beautiful historic building. 

Recommended by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

4. Maui, Hawaii

Average temp:  high 80, low 66

If you’re looking for the best winter sun destinations, look no further than Maui. Home to incredible scenery like gorgeous beaches, tropical rainforests with beautiful waterfalls and epic adventures, Maui is an awesome place to visit!

It’s especially great in December because the rainy season hasn’t hit yet and the crowds of summer are gone, making it more affordable and more enjoyable. If you go in the first 2 weeks of December, you’ll avoid the holiday pricing.

Be sure to relax on Maui’s beautiful beaches! For year-round snorkeling fun, Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach is a must. Don’t forget your snorkel gear so you can go when you want! Or, watch the surfers at D.T. Fleming Beach on the North Shore.

If you’re looking for adventure, hike the Waihee Ridge Trail . You’ll get epic views of the valley and coast. Just be sure to wear hiking shoes for this one – the trail can get muddy after it rains.

And if you’re up for a road trip, driving the popular Road to Hana is one of the best road trips USA and an experience you’ll never forget. Be sure to make it to Wai’ānapanapa State Park and see the black sand beach (reservations required).

Side note: if you’re really into unique beaches, a must-see is the Black Sand Beach Vieques in Puerto Rico. So stunning!

Anyway, for a more remote drive, consider the Kahekili Highway. This one-lane road offers stunning views and adventure like hiking, waterfalls and more.

Maui is an ideal destination for the best beaches in December, and one you’ll definitely want to consider!

5. St. George, Utah

Average temp:  high 56, low 31

One of the most unique spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is St. George, Utah. Nestled on the southwest corner of the state, it’s just minutes away from Arizona and Nevada.

A great launching spot for a Utah national parks road trip, St. George is located about an hour west of Zion National Park. You could certainly take a day trip to Zion, but it may have a bit of snow in December.

There’s so many things to do in St. George. The downtown is rich in history, with museums and parks to learn about the region in years – and centuries past. From the dinosaurs to the Paiute natives and then finally settled by Mormons in the 1800’s.

Of course there’s plenty of outdoor activities in St. George – even in December! Snow Canyon State Park is just 15 minutes north of town, and worth the visit. With 20 miles of hiking trails through petrified dunes, lava tubes and of course, stunning overlooks, it’s a hiker’s dream.

For more adventure, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride near the city. Or, rent a sled and sandbar at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, a little over an hour south of town.

6. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 74, low 55

Ranked as one of the best beaches in the USA over and over again, Siesta Key is an amazing getaway. Although high’s in the mid 70’s may not seem like great swimming weather, it still means you can enjoy this beachy destination.

You’ll get more of the beach to yourself in December, which is one of the perks of traveling to Siesta Key in winter. Fly a kite or build a sandcastle. Take beach chairs or a lightweight beach towel and just enjoy the sound of the gentle waves hitting the shore.

And when you need a break from the beach (if that’s even a thing😉), you can head into Siesta Key Village where you’ll find the cutest town square . With boutique shops and restaurants, there’s plenty to do here, too. Be sure to try Meaney’s Mini Donuts & Coffee House (the cinnamon ones are the best).

With so many things to do in Siesta Key , there’s truly something for everyone! You’ll love this beach town, as it’s one of the best warm places to visit in the USA in December.

7. Temecula, California

Average temp:  high 67, low 47

If you are ready to escape the cold, snowy weather for somewhere warmer this December, look no further than Temecula, California. Located in Southern California, just an hour’s drive from San Diego, this city has plenty to do – including wine tasting, shopping, and more! 

In December, Temecula’s high temperature is just shy of 70°F, with only 2 days of precipitation, so you can expect warm, sunny days. And there’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather than with a visit to Temecula Valley Wine Country!

Temecula is home to 50+ local wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms . Some of the best wineries in Temecula include Wilson Creek Winery, Leoness Cellars, and Baily Vineyard & Winery. 

December is a fabulous time to visit Temecula because of the fun holiday events you can attend, like the Temecula Chilled Holiday Market and Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Old Town Temecula. Despite the warm weather, you can even ice skate at the Peltzer Ice Skating Rink or Temecula on Ice during the holidays. 

Old Town Temecula is a fantastic location to base your trip if you want to walk around and soak up the sunshine, as it’s one of the best winter sun destinations in the US.

You can eat at some of the best restaurants in Old Town Temecula , like The Goat & Vine or 1909 Temecula, or you can shop at the dozens of quaint boutiques selling unique items, like wine-barrel furniture, olive oils and more. 

Carter Estate Winery and Resort is the perfect place to stay for your warm-weather getaway to Temecula, CA. Located on a gorgeous vineyard, this resort allows you to wake up in the heart of wine country every morning! 

Recommended by Brittany of Travel By Brit

8. South Padre Island, Texas

Average temp:  high 72, low 57

If you’re looking for an amazing warm destination to visit in December in the USA, then South Padre Island is the perfect destination for you. 

After all, temperatures are usually around 72 degrees during the day and then around 57 degrees in the evening throughout the month of December.

Plus, the weather here is usually pretty dry, making it the perfect place to relax, take a walk through the Padre Island National Seashore, and enjoy the single biggest undeveloped barrier island in the world.  Additionally, December is off-season. Therfore, crowds will be minimal and hotel prices will be quite reasonable. 

As a result, you can quietly enjoy some of the best things to do in South Padre Island , like take some time to explore the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse from 1852 . In fact, it’s the only lighthouse on the coast of Texas that is open to visitors and makes for a fun place to visit. 

Then, learn about local wildlife at the Sea Turtle Conservation Center. In fact, this amazing wildlife rescue center helps upwards of 100 turtles per year and is an ideal place to learn all about these fascinating creatures. 

You can also visit the South Padre island Birding Center and admire local populations of Buff-bellied hummingbirds, White Ibis, and Red-winged Blackbirds as you stroll along the picturesque boardwalk here. 

Then, pamper yourself at the Sapphire Spa before spending the night at the swank Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island to create the ultimate getaway. South Padre Island is one of the best warm places to visit in USA in December.

Recommended by Victoria of Texas Travel 365

Warm places to visit in December in USA, continued

Can you believe this list?! Just 25% through it and there’s so many more adventures to have. Let’s keep going!

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 65, low 46

If you’re looking for a place to escape winter’s frigid clutches and have a little fun in December, there is no better place than New Orleans! While the weather in New Orleans can be oppressive at certain times of the year, December is ideal as it averages in the 60s – 70s which is perfect for sightseeing!

You might think The Big Easy is only a party town during Mardi Gras – wrong! December ushers in plenty of its own one-of-a-kind holiday fun.

The beginning of December kicks off with the Krewe of Jingle – a downtown holiday parade with special appearances from Mr. and Mrs. Clause. New Orleans knows how to host a parade, so this is one you should make sure you don’t miss!

In the middle of December, head to historic Lafayette Square to enjoy the LUNA Fête festival . Over a long weekend, the city celebrates with awe-inspiring light shows; it generally brings in over 100,000 attendees!

In addition to the holiday fun, another great way to get to know the city is on a walking tour. This is an especially great activity if this is your  first time visiting New Orleans  — there are a range of tour options, from learning about Voodoo to exploring the chic Garden District.

New Orleans is a fun city and one of the best warm places to visit in December. And, if you have a bit more time in the area, be sure to check out the best things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana .

Recommended by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad

10. Oahu, Hawaii (a destination full of the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 82, low 67

When you think of a warm December getaway, Oahu may be one of the first destinations to come to mind. And with its stunning white sand beaches, epic mountains, and abundant wildlife, it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular destinations, come December. 

Thanks to its location close to the equator, Oahu enjoys temperatures in the low 80s in December, which is warm enough to break out the tank tops, sun dresses and even a long travel skirt .

In December the island may experience a rain shower or two. These showers usually only last for a few hours and should not be too much of a hindrance on your outdoor adventures. 

Many visitors primarily focus their explorations of the island to Honolulu, but there’s so much else to see and do here. For example, one of the best things to do in Oahu in December is to watch the professional surfers take on the big waves of the North Shore . Check out the Banzai Pipeline or Waimea Bay Beach Park, which can see waves up to 25 feet in height! 

While snorkeling along the North Shore is probably not advisable in December, given the aforementioned monster waves, you can still check out some of the best snorkeling in Oahu by heading to Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, just 10 minutes east of Honolulu .

Here, the waters stay calm year round, where you can swim with and observe the 400 species of fish, turtles and other marine life. Bring your own snorkel gear to hit the water when and where you want while on Oahu!

For a conveniently located home base during your stay, consider The Modern Honolulu , just steps away from Waikiki Beach, both a family-friendly and adults only pool and an excellent onsite restaurant. 

Oahu is one of the best winter sun destinations in the US, and one you won’t want to miss!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

11. Disney World, Orlando, Florida

Average temp:  high 75, low 55

The happiest place on Earth, aka Disney World, is an easy pick for any families out there looking for iconic warm places to visit in December in USA. 

After all, Disney World comes alive at this time of year with festive holiday decor and fun seasonal events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. 

Plus, the weather at  Disney in December  is super comfortable throughout the month since the average high is 74 F and the average daily low is 56 F. 

However, to avoid insane crowds, try to time your visit for the first week of December. This is when kids are still in the school and when the park is less crowded. 

You should also try and buy Park Hoppers so that you can avoid more crowded parks on an as needed basis. 

Additionally, try and visit Magic Kingdom on Party Days and avoid parks with extra Magic Hours to get the most out of your visit. 

Then, make time to enjoy seasonal activities like Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party (an add-on experiences for extra fees), Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace or Plaza Garden Viewing (another add-on event), A Frozen Holiday Wish (happens nightly all month long) and more. 

You can also attend the International Festival of the Holidays at Epcot before spending the night at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.  It’s probably the best Deluxe resort in Disneyworld and features an island theme that is accentuated by leis that are presented to you as you walk in the door.

Looking for more fun? Check out the best Hollywood Studios rides in the park!

Recommended by Victoria of Disney Trippers

12. Augusta, Georgia

Average temp:  high 60, low 41

One of the most underrated spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is Augusta, Georgia . A southern city full of charm, Augusta is known for outdoor recreation, historical sites and hist vibrant restaurant scene.

Tour downtown finding fun murals, shopping and dining. A foodie’s delight, Augusta is known for outdoor patios, which you’ll find especially inviting in the warm sun during mid-day. Bring layers for the evenings as it gets chilly!

One of Augusta’s top attractions is the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. Walk the trails and soak in the peaceful nature all around you. Or, get a little more active on the 32 miles of biking trails through the Forks Area Trail System.

And you can’t visit Augusta without a stroll along the Augusta Riverwalk . It’s a fun, brick trail along the Savannah River! If traveling with kids, they’ll love the playground on the Riverwalk.

During December, the city has holiday festivals and markets. Enjoy historic holiday tours where you can visit homes from the 1800’s, including the childhood home of President Woodrow.

13. San Diego, California (perfect for this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 49

San Diego is an incredible place to visit during December. With incredible weather and tons of fabulous attractions, you can’t go wrong with visiting this Southern California City! 

You can expect temperatures around the high 60’s during the day and in the 40’s at night. Some of the best things to add to your San Diego itinerary in December include wandering through the famous Balboa Park.

Balboa Park is comprised of 1,200 acres. You can explore beautiful gardens and dozens of museums including The San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Museum of Us, San Diego Natural History Museum and more! Additionally, the famous San Diego Zoo is also located in Balboa Park.

The Old Town San Diego Historic State Park is another must-visit. Here you can indulge in amazing food while experiencing San Diego’s Spanish roots and history.

A special experience in San Diego during December is whale watching . Around 20,000 Grey Whales start migrating in mid-December. Seals also start giving birth around mid-December at the La Jolla Caves. You will likely also be able to see the Sea Lions in La Jolla too!

If you are in search of some additional beach time, don’t forget to check out Coronado Island. Walk along the beach, enjoy the many eateries, and visit the famous Hotel Del Coronado .

Recommended by Sam of Find Love and Travel

14. Sedona, Arizona

verage temp:  high 60, low 34

Sedona is the perfect sunny escape in December! Excellent for various travel styles, there’s hiking and outdoor adventures, as well as low-key things to do in town. With mild temperatures and minimal crowds, December is a great time to visit Sedona.

Take the Sedona Trolley around town to get acquainted without the worry of driving or traffic. Visit the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for just that – shopping.

Go hiking or horseback riding at Cathedral Rock or Oak Creek Canyon. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love jumping around the unique landscape at Slide Rock State Park .

Perhaps the most popular hiking trail in the area is Devil’s Bridge Trail . At 3.9 miles and rated as moderate, this trail is perfect for an afternoon hike in December! Bring your grippy hiking shoes for this one, as the rock stairs leading up to the bridge can get pretty slick.

For the best views of the incredible landscape in Sedona, head up to Airport Mesa. There’s a parking lot at the overlook so it doesn’t require much hiking at all. It’s also a great spot for stargazing!

15. Culebra, Puerto Rico (perfect for visiting the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 85, low 74

Quite possibly the warmest place in the US in December, Culebra Puerto Rico is an amazing destination you’ll love. Puerto Rico was previously mentioned above, but Culebra is so spectacular it deserves it’s own spot.

Culebra Puerto Rico is located just 18 miles off the eastern side of Mainland Puerto Rico . Getting to Culebra requires a ferry ride or small plane, but it’s so worth it!

Home to one of the most incredible beaches in the Caribbean, Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is one of the best beaches you’ll ever see, and a phenomenal place to visit for the best beaches in December.

This crescent-shaped beach sits along rolling hills and its undeveloped land makes it seem from a fairytale. With plenty of parking and amenities, you’ll want to spend a day – or more – at Flamenco Beach.

Spend some time in with the sea turtles while snorkeling at Tamarindo Beach. Or, for some solitude, visit the lesser-known Zoni Beach. And when you’re hungry, be sure to head downtown to grab a bite.

For couples traveling, consider the cozy cottages with phenomenal views – Aleli Cottages . For more space, try the Oceania Villas .

You’ll fall in love with Culebra. It’s definitely one of the best on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA!

16. Florida Keys

Average temp:  high 75, low 70

The snow is falling, the temperatures keep dropping and you’re ready to escape to a tropical paradise. One of the best warm places to visit in December is the Florida Keys!

Stretching approximately 120 miles from Key Largo to the southernmost point in the continental USA (Key West), the Florida Keys are the perfect getaway if you are looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. With average December temperatures in the high 70’s, you’ll never want to leave! 

Your best and most affordable option would be to fly into Miami and rent a car to make the Miami to Key West road trip . From here, you can take your time exploring each island and all they have to offer. You’ll want to spend at least one night in Key Largo, Islamorada and Key West. 

The list of things to do in the Florida Keys is never-ending. Depending on how much time you have, you will have to decide between scuba diving in John Pennekamp State Park, deep sea fishing at Robbie’s, parasailing over the sparkling blue water or simply relaxing on the beach. 

After your road trip of adventures, you’ll definitely want to stay in Key West at Tiki Suites.  There are 2 suites located in the middle of the ocean! You’ll have nothing but the ocean surrounding you as you relax and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

Best winter sun destinations

Okay – let’s catch a breath here. We’re 1/2 way done. A few of my personal favorites are coming up next!

More winter sunshine ahead…

17. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 84, low 76

The US Virgin Islands are a great place to visit in December for a number of reasons, especially St. Thomas . First, the weather is absolutely beautiful during this time of year.

The average high temperature is about 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low is only about 75 degrees. This makes it the perfect time of year to enjoy all that the islands have to offer, including the beaches, without having to deal with crowds of people.

The beaches on St. Thomas are calm and perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of water sports activities to keep everyone entertained. Magen’s Bay is the most popular beach on the island and is great for families.

Coki Beach and Sapphire Beach are also a lot of fun! Sapphire Beach, especially is a great place to base during your stay because Sapphire Beach Resort offers discounts on snorkeling equipment rental to its guests. There are also several pools and a restaurant there, in case you don’t feel like going elsewhere to eat.

December is also a great time to visit St. Thomas and the US Virgin Islands because it’s one of the quieter times of the year.

While the islands do see a significant number of tourists during the winter months, it’s nothing compared to the summer crowds. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy all that the US Virgin Islands have to offer without having to worry about fighting for space on the beach or in restaurants.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

18. Santa Barbara, California

Average temp:  high 65, low 45

Known for its incredible Spanish architecture, wineries, expansive beaches and moderate temperatures, Santa Barbara is always a good idea. Deserving on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA, Santa Barbara offers sunshine to those wishing to escape grey skies or snow elsewhere.

Dive into culture, history and art in Santa Barbara. See a performance at the Lobero Theater, visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara, get lost in the beauty of Santa Barbara Museum of Art or shop and dine on State Street.

Of course, you’ll want to visit the beach while you’re at the California Coast! Santa Barbara is one of the best stops on a Pacific Coast Highway vacation from San Francisco to San Diego road trip . The area’s best beaches along the way are East Beach, Hendry’s Beach and Goleta Beach Park.

December is a fabulous time to visit Santa Barbara, as the city is full of events and festivities . Watch the boat parade through the harbor at Stearns Wharf. Shop for someone special at the city’s annual Folk and Tribal Arts Marketplace.

And don’t forget about New Year’s Eve in Santa Barbara! For a night to remember, try a champagne cruise, catch a drag show, do a bar crawl or so much more. It’s a great way to celebrate the end of the year!

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

19. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 82, low 65

You gotta go to Kauai! It’s not only one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA, it’s also an incredible destination for adventure and relaxation! Known as ‘the garden isle’ for its lush vegetation and epic waterfalls, it has stunning coastlines unlike any other spot on this list – or in the world.

You’ll want to see the Waimea Canyon, AKA the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Explore it’s epic views from the inside by hiking the Waimea Canyon Trail . Right down the road is the Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park, to see the stunning NaPali Coast.

For sunshine in December, you’ll want to stay in the Poipu area to get the least amount of rain . Popular for awesome beaches like Poipu Beach or Shipwreck Beach, the waves can be the smallest in the winter, which is perfect for a warm getaway to the beach.

Kauai is home to some amazing food too. On the North Shore, try Kalypso Island Bar & Grill in Hanalei. You’ve gotta try the acai bowls at Java Kai in Kapaa, or the famous Hula Pie at Keoki’s Paradise in Koloa. Some of the best places to eat in Kauai won’t break the bank, either, like Da Crack Mexican Grinds.

Early December is a fabulous time to visit Kauai as it’s the shoulder season. The pricing is lower than late December over the holiday, and the crowds are much fewer, meaning you’ll have less waiting at restaurants and attractions.

20. Bisbee, Arizona

The quaint, little town of Bisbee, AZ is attracting winter travelers from all over the world due to its stunning beauty and quirky vibe.

Why visit Bisbee in December? It is truly the best month, boasting highs in the mid-50s and lows in the low-30s. Being an inherently dry climate, you can expect little to no precipitation this time of year. Instead, you’ll find clear skies, colorful sunsets and more stars than you can imagine. 

In visiting Bisbee you can expect a true getaway. The town is small, with just over 5,000 residents. However, what it lacks in population, it makes up for in charm.

A haven for artists and other creative types, the town is full of murals, quirky antique shops, charming cafes and relaxed breweries. Make sure to spend some time shopping in downtown, visiting the nearby ghost town of Lowell and viewing the Lavender Pit, which is an open copper mine located just outside of town.

If you’re lucky enough to spend some time  road tripping in the area , you should also check out Saguaro National Park and Chiricahua National Monument, which are both less than 2 hours away. 

You can’t go wrong with booking a boutique hotel in the main part of town. If you are looking to get close to the action, try the  Copper Queen Hotel . If you would like something a little bit quieter, the  School House Inn Bed & Breakfast  may be more your speed.

Either way, you are sure to enjoy a picturesque and relaxing stay in the heart of the American Southwest, one of the best warm places to visit in December!

Recommended by Michele of Slow Traveling Cat

21. Anna Maria Island, Florida (another one of my favorites for warm places to visit in USA in December)

It’s small-town charm and crisp, white beaches will draw you in. Anna Maria Island is definitely one of the most fabulous (and underrated) warm places to visit in USA in December!

Located just an hour west of Sarasota, this island is the picturesque Florida vacation destination. Lacking chain hotels or restaurants, you’ll find boutique shops, fun places to eat and awesome beaches.

Check out the Anna Maria Pier for unique views of the island and local waters. If you’re lucky, one of the local fevers (groups) of sting rays will be lurking in the waters below! Hunt for seashells at Coquina Beach, hang out the beach at Bean Point or find some adrenaline in a parasailing adventure.

Celebrate the holidays in Anna Maria Island by visiting the cute Bridge Street, covered in twinkling lights . Or catch one of the island’s boat parades, where locals and tour companies decorate their boats with holiday lights and show them off during a water parade.

December is a special time on Anna Maria Island, and with so many unique things to do on Anna Maria Island , you won’t get bored!

22. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

When planning a summer vacation, Myrtle Beach might come to mind, but have you ever considered retreating to beautiful South Carolina in December? This southern beach town is the perfect retreat if you’re trying to escape the cold and enjoy some warmer weather.

In December, Myrtle Beach offers weather in the 60s with mostly sunny days. Visiting this month means very little crowds, cheaper room rates at places like the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes .

One of the  locals’ favorite things to do in Myrtle Beach  is to visit Brookgreen Gardens, located just 30 minutes outside of downtown. The gardens are an amazing destination year round, but from the end of November to the beginning of January, they hold the Nights of a Thousand Candles. The whole property is lit with over a million lights and almost 3,000 hand-lit candles. You can listen to holiday music, admire the lights and drink some hot apple cider, getting in the holiday spirit.

Spend another evening at one of Myrtle Beach’s famous theaters for a holiday themed show! Pirates Voyage, The Alabama Theater and The Carolina Opry all hold special holiday themed shows during December and are so much fun for all ages.

The daytimes will be warm enough to walk on the beach, eat fresh seafood outside on the boardwalk and ride the massive Ferris Wheel. Try the Sea Captain’s House or River City Cafe for some of the best food with ocean views!

Recommended by Tori of Tori Pines Travels

23. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Average temp:  high 61, low 37

Joshua Tree is an incredible place to visit in December for warm weather and sunshine! The desert landscape means that unlike most national parks in the US, summers are too hot for outdoor adventures. 

December brings perfect weather for hiking in Joshua Tree , as daytime temperatures are comfortable , usually in the high 50s or low 60s. It does get chilly at night, so be prepared with some layers – especially if you’re camping, or if you plan to be out in the mornings or evenings!

December is also less crowded than spring or fall, when the park is most popular – but, starting your day early or staying in the park close to sunset will be the best way to avoid crowds. Some of the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park include the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Ryan Mountain and the Lost Palms Oasis Trail.

Some other great things to do in the park include stargazing, off-roading and wildlife viewing. You can see lizards, snakes, tortoises, birds, and if you’re lucky, maybe some big horn sheep, foxes and bobcats!

When you’re in Joshua Tree, you can camp in the park, check out some of the quirky vacation rentals nearby, or stay at the Joshua Tree Inn.

Recommended by Anna of Anna Tee

24. San Antonio, Texas

Average temp:  high 64, low 40

If you’re looking for the best warm places to visit in December, then San Antonio, Texas should be on your radar! With sunshine and temperatures in the 60’s during the day, you’ll be exploring this fun city in warm weather, a nice escape from the cold.

The San Antonio River Walk is the shining star of this destination, but it offers visitors so much more!

Explore The Alamo – the location of the Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution in 1863 (timed ticket entry required). For more history and art, visit the San Antonio Museum of Art, Brisco Western Art Museum or the McNay Art Museum.

If you’re looking for a family getaway during December, you’ll want to hit up Six Flags Fiesta Texas . Rides for kids and adults of all ages, it’s a thrilling way to enjoy your time in San Antonio.

And of course, you can’t go to San Antonio without experiencing the River Walk. There’s so much to do and see in the area. From street vendors and shops to restaurants and cool architecture, you can spend a whole day (or more) exploring the area.

A warm getaway, San Antonio just might be the perfect December getaway!

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to plan your trip to San Antonio to include the best Texas resorts for families .

More warm places to visit in USA in December

From the best beaches in December to adventurous destinations off the beaten path, let’s round out this list with more incredible destinations!

25. Page, Arizona

Average temp:  high 45, low 30

If you’re looking to spend time in the American southwest, Page, Arizona is one of the best places to visit. It’s home to some of the most popular places to visit in Arizona including Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. December is a great time to visit because the weather is beautiful. 

In the month of December, the days are warmer and the night cold so it’s a good idea to make sure you bring layers. There is little to no rain here during the month of December. These are great temperatures for hiking and going on outdoor adventures in the area. 

There are lots of great  places to stay in Page . If you’re looking for a unique experience, try glamping with Under Canvas . For a traditional hotel stay, consider Country Inn & Suites by Radisson or the Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell .

One of the best things to do in Page is tour Antelope Canyon . This beautiful slot canyon is one of the most famous in the country, and it’s an amazing experience to walk through. It’s gorgeous!

December is a popular time to tour Antelope Canyon, so you’ll want to make your reservations well in advance. After your tour of Antelope Canyon, be sure to leave some time to walk out to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook.

There are lots of other fun destinations in this area, including Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Sedona. Page, AZ is a great destination to include if you’re going on a road trip through this area, and one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

26. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Average temp:  high 70, low 60

Clearwater Beach is one of the best winter sun destinations! Located just 25 miles west of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast, it’s one of the most popular beaches in the country.

Temperatures consistently stay between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter, but the crowds are significantly less during this time of year. This makes it the perfect time to be able to relax in comfort without having to fight for a free spot on the sand or get overheated by the scorching summer sun. 

Unlike the majority of beaches on mainland USA, Clearwater Beach has powder white sand and turquoise blue water. It’s absolutely beautiful, and the sunsets on this beach are even prettier!

There’s even an entire nightly festival that was created just to celebrate the sunsets! It’s called the Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival, and it starts 2 hours before sunset every evening. When deciding  where to stay in Clearwater Beach , a hotel right by the pier is your best pick to keep you close to the action. Opal Sands is a top-rated choice!

Boat tours are another popular activity during December. There are dolphin-spotting cruises and even pirate cruises for kids.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium also celebrates the holiday season. W hen you visit during December, you can see Christmas lights, festive habitats and even tank divers dressed up as Santa and his helpers.

Definitely consider Clearwater Beach for your next warm weather vacation in the US in December!

Recommended by Jillian of Adventure Dragon

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 60, low 27

You know what’s awesome? Las Vegas in winter, as opposed to summertime. 🤣 Las Vegas deserves a spot on this list because of its entertainment and food scene. Not to mention the outdoor adventures that are perfect during December!

Perfect for a long weekend away in December, Las Vegas is home to countless entertainment opportunities. Get concert or show tickets and you’ll be sure to see top-notch performances!

Of course there’s gambling and clubs, but also plenty of things to do that don’t include being on The Strip your entire trip. For some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city lights, check out Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . A timed entry reservation is required in December. Bring your hiking shoes and hit the trails!

Or enjoy one of the many day trips from Las Vegas. Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam are cool to see in person. And if you’re really up for some cool sights, be sure to do a Las Vegas to Zion National Park day trip for incredible canyon views!

Las Vegas is an excellent destination for December, and also one of the top warm winter vacations in the US !

28. Gulf Shores, Alabama (must-see for warm places to visit in USA in December)

Average temp:  high 66, low 47

Okay, if you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway to a warm winter sun destination, then Gulf Shores, Alabama is for you! Offering mild temperatures year-round and some of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast , you’ll fall in love with Gulf Shores and its sister city, Orange Beach.

One of the most fun things to do in December in Gulf Shores is a day at The Track. With go karts, mini golf, roller coaster and kiddie rides and an arcade, you could literally get lost here!

Head over to The Wharf at Orange Beach for some serious entertainment and dining. Take a Ferris wheel ride, enjoy some laser tag, grab ice cream or enjoy some water-front dining.

In December, The Wharf hosts a variety of winter and holiday festivities including an ice skating rink, horse-drawn carriage rides under twinkling lights and shopping events.

Don’t forget to enjoy some activities on the Gulf! Go for a dolphin cruise, build a sand castle, rent jet skis or go sand crab hunting at Gulf State Park .

29. Big Island, Hawaii (one of the best winter sun destinations)

One of the best warm US destinations in December is the Big Island of Hawaii. People can escape the chilly weather on the Mainland and enjoy a tropical island without needing a passport.

If you’re visiting the Big Island during the holidays, you can enjoy many island-style decorations and community events.

Another fun Big Island activity is stargazing at Mauna Kea. Winter is a great time to do this because the sun sets a bit earlier than in the other seasons, so you won’t have to stay up as late to see the dazzling stars.

December is also whale watching season in Hawaii. It’s best to see them on a whale watching tour .

One of the unique  things to do on the Big Island  is swimming with manta rays. Luckily, these manta ray tours run throughout the winter so you can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The top attraction on the Big Island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is the only place to see lava in Hawaii. It’s important to check conditions before your trip to see if and where the lava is flowing.

The weather on Kona in December is typically in the low 80s during the day and the upper 60s at night. The Hilo side of the island is usually rainier than the Kona side.

And you should pack warm layers if visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea. There is often snow at the summit of Mauna Kea!

A few great places to stay on the Big Island are the Royal Kona Resort in Kona and the Grand Naniloa Hotel in Hilo.

Recommended by Marcie of Hawaii Travel Spot

30. Catalina Island, California

Average temp:  high 59, low 43

Off the coast of Southern California is Santa Catalina Island, and it definitely deserves a spot on this list of warm places to visit in December in the US. Just an hour ferry ride from Long Beach, getting to Catalina Island is convenient from the LA area.

Visit Catalina Island in early December to enjoy off-season pricing and fewer crowds than later in the month. With temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s, pack layers and enjoy the sunshine on the island!

Find adventure on the water with kayaking, parasailing or a submarine tour. Enjoy the island views by soaring through the air on a zipline or hiking. Try the Avalon Bay Trail with water views, or for more of a challenge, hike the Hermit Gulch Trail.

Downtown Avalon is such a charming harbor town. It’s as cute as ever with brightly colored shops and homes, which reminds me more of Europe than California! Enjoy strolling the Green Pleasure Pier and grabbing some delicious food from a variety of locally-owned restaurants.

31. Phoenix, Arizona

Average temp:  high 68, low 44

One of the best warm US destinations in December is Phoenix! With sunshine and only a few days of rain, it’s perfect weather for indoor and outdoor activities.

Phoenix is a great destination for families, couples and solo travelers of all ages. One of the best places to include on your Phoenix itinerary is Papago Park. Stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can see over 50,000 plants!

Have a picnic at the Papago Ponds or hike the short 0.3 miles to Hole in the Rock. Animal lovers will enjoy spending time at the Phoenix Zoo, also located at Papago Park.

The city of Phoenix and neighboring Scottsdale really celebrate the holidays big, too. Enjoy pop-up ice skating events, various festivals and multiple light shows throughout the area, including 2 drive-through animated light shows.

And of course, you can’t come to Phoenix without eating delicious food! For the best Mexican food in town, try Taco Guild or Barrio Cafe. Or enjoy a variety of local restaurants in downtown Phoenix on 7th Street.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or longer vacation, Phoenix is one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

32. Destin, Florida (warm places to visit in December in USA – a must-see destination)

Average temp:  high 64, low 48

Destin, Florida is a beautiful place to visit during December. The weather is perfect for spending time on the beaches, and there are plenty of great activities and attractions to enjoy. 

Destin Harbor is especially festive during this time of year, with decorated boats and lights everywhere.  Every year in December, HarborWalk Village has the Destin Boat Parade with fireworks and activities for everyone. 

The city of Destin also has an annual Christmas Parade which covers most of the town. This parade is a must-see for anyone in town in December and features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself. 

Destin Commons and The Village of Baytowne Wharf both have events going on throughout the month of December. Destin Commons has pictures with Santa and Baytowne Wharf has a holiday concert series in December and even an ice skating rink!  

Other places to visit in December in the Destin area include Crab Island, James Lee Beach and Norriego Point.  If you’re looking for state parks, Henderson Beach State Park is great and offers a beautiful beach, walking trails and camping. Topsail Hill State Park is in nearby Santa Rosa Beach and offers many amenities, as well. 

A great place to stay in Destin is The Palms of Destin , which is right in the heart of the city, near Henderson Beach State Park and The Track (go-karts and mini-golf). 

If you’re looking for a fun, festive and warm place to visit in December, be sure to visit Destin, Florida!

Recommended by Wayne of Always on the Shore

Whew! What a list!

Warm places to visit in USA in December

• St. Croix, USVI
• Monterey, CA
• San Juan, PR
• St. George, UT
• Siesta Key, FL
• Temecula, CA
• South Padre Island, TX
• New Orleans, LA
• Disney World, Orlando, FL
• Augusta, GA
• San Diego, CA
• Culebra, PR
• Florida Keys
• St. Thomas, USVI
• Santa Barbara, CA
• Anna Maria Island, FL
• Myrtle Beach, SC
• Joshua Tree National Park, CA
• San Antonio, TX
• Clearwater Beach, FL
• Las Vegas, NV
• Gulf Shores, AL
• Big Island, HI
• Catalina Island, CA
• Phoenix, AZ

Related content you might like: 30 FUN Warm Winter Vacations in the US (You’ll Absolutely Love) 32 Awe-inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

Saturday 2nd of December 2023

So many good ideas! I need a getaway this winter and these are all good options. Now it's just about choosing! HA

Sunday 3rd of December 2023

Haha that's the truth! So glad you found some inspiration here :)

A great list! So many warm winter sun places in the USA, you are really lucky! I have been to Hawaii and would go back there in an instant! LAst time I visited was early December and it was wonderful weather

Friday 1st of December 2023

There's quite a few places on your list that my husband and I would enjoy. We are always on the lookout for someplace to escape the winter snow.

Oh yay Jolayne! Sounds like it's time for a getaway😎

Saturday 3rd of September 2022

What a great list! So many beautiful places to access with a US Passport. We've visited 7 of these in the off season and St. Croix is probably our fave so far!

Wednesday 7th of September 2022

Oh awesome Kathryn! St. Croix is certainly dreamy💛

It's always good to find a comprehensive list like this, especially to escape the cold! I'm off to Puerto Rico for the first time next year & this has really whetted my appetite too!

Ah thanks so much for the compliment, Sue. I hope you love Puerto Rico, it's one of my favorites!!

18 Best Places to Visit in the USA in December

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023

There are three main types of December travelers: the snowbird , looking to combat goosebumps with a little warmth and sunshine; the ski aficionado , searching for the best slopes; and the holiday lover , searching for a fun, festive spot to enjoy their winter vacation .

With a vast array of climates and terrain, the USA boasts a bevy of exciting places to visit in December. From warm-weather wonders like Florida, Hawaii, and California to snow-laden mountain locales boasting the top ski resorts in the United States to big cities like New York and Las Vegas, you'll have a lot of choices when planning your December vacay.

Plan your travels with our list of the best places to visit in the USA in December.

2. Miami, Florida

3. new york city, new york, 4. salt lake city, utah, 5. u.s. virgin islands, 6. las vegas, nevada, 7. pasadena, california, 8. phoenix, arizona, 9. charleston, south carolina, 10. washington d.c., 11. anchorage, alaska, 12. key west, florida, 13. breckenridge, colorado, 14. new orleans, louisiana, 15. santa fe, new mexico, 16. stowe, vermont, 17. savannah, georgia, 18. st. augustine, florida.

One of the best warm places to visit in the USA in December is Hawaii. Its tropical breezes, ample sunshine, bathwater-warm ocean waves, captivating scenery, and beaches make this an ideal place to relax on island time.

There are several islands from which to choose, and you can vacation on one or plan to visit several in the same trip. The more time you can spare, the more awesome your Hawaiian holiday will be.

The island of Oahu is a great starting point, especially if you stay in the capital of Honolulu . Relax on Waikiki Beach , visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial , and enjoy the urban scene.

The island of Maui has a nice combination of activity and solitude, with golf courses; Wailea Beach; and the dormant volcano Mount Haleakala, where you can witness a spectacular sunrise.

The Big Island has many natural attractions and outdoor activities , like Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Kaunaoa Beach, and Akaka Falls State Park.

The small island of Kaui is the oldest island and the ideal spot for quiet and romantic vacations. It is also known for its many tropical waterfalls, gorgeous hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

Lanai is another small island with remote natural spots that is not as touristy as the other islands.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hawaii

If you are looking for a warm destination with plenty of activity in December, Miami, Florida will fit the bill. Miami has a festive scene in the winter, with holiday performances like The Nutcracker and the magical lights that decorate Zoo Miami .

There are lots of local beach events, so you get the best of both worlds by combining the holiday festivities with warm Florida weather. If you do decide to skip the cold locales by spending your holidays beachside, you will be in good company. It's a popular idea, and seeing the festive holiday lights and decorations in the palm trees will be the perfect change of scenery.

All the best Miami attractions also include options like boating and visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens . Since you do not have to worry about snow in December in Miami, you can explore the local neighborhoods, like Little Havana and the Miami Design District.

Many snowbirds from the north retreat to Florida for the winter, so you will want to plan your lodging far in advance. If you are particular to a favorite section of the Miami beaches , it is best to book lodging where you will spend the majority of your time.

New York City is one of the most festive destinations to visit in December, and some would say it's the best time to visit New York . Bundle up and head out onto the downtown streets to see the holiday store window displays, or catch a performance of the famous Rockettes. Be sure to stop by Rockefeller Square to see the iconic Christmas tree.

There is never a dull moment in New York City , even during the winter. Many people visit New York City in December just to do their holiday gift shopping at the famous department stores and Christmas markets , and to see the many festivals during the holiday season. A must-experience is ice skating at Central Park with the spectacular New York City skyline in the background.

If you end up blowing your budget on presents, you can still catch a Broadway show for a reduced price by hitting the ticket office a few hours before the performance to see if last-minute bargain tickets are available.

Since snow storms are unpredictable in December in the northeast, you should plan a little extra time and flexibility in your itinerary in case of travel delays. Save the extra-cold days for museum visits (there's plenty!) when you can stay warm inside and only go out for short periods at a time.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

Not everyone wants to escape the cold in December. In fact, for avid skiers, December is prime time to hit the slopes and ski resorts near Salt Lake City . There are nearly a dozen ski resorts in Utah's Wasatch Mountains, which are just a short drive from Salt Lake City. The ski slopes are equipped to accommodate both novice and advanced skiers.

If you prefer to just look at the snowcapped mountains instead of traversing them, that is an option, too. Salt Lake City has many festive holiday events in December, like horse-drawn carriage rides through Temple Square , which is adorned with holiday lights.

You can also shop in small boutiques for unique gifts. You can experience a vintage Salt Lake City holiday by visiting the This Is The Place Heritage Park, which showcases life and the holidays in the 1800s in Utah during the month of December.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salt Lake City

For a Caribbean vacation in the USA in December, the Virgin Islands are a no-brainer. The islands of Saint Croix , Saint Thomas , and Saint John are United States territories and have tropical natural landscapes perfect for a mid-winter getaway. Beach days and snorkeling will top your to-do list, as well as hitting some of the natural park locations on the islands.

St. Thomas is the most populated of the three islands since it has a cruise ship port, so while there are many tours and activities available, you will be sharing the sandy beaches with many other December tourists.

St. Croix is the largest of the islands and has many cultural attractions. St. John is the smallest and most natural, with great snorkeling, hiking, tropical plants, and untouched beaches.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

Many December travelers in the USA are attracted to the lights and warm temperatures that are guaranteed in Las Vegas . You will find all of the normal flare, with an overload of sights and sounds along the Vegas Strip and a twist of festive December décor. Many of the hotels feature elaborate holiday decorations with an abundance of flowers and lights.

Besides the great shopping in Las Vegas, there is plenty of December entertainment to enjoy. One of the most beautiful spots to visit is the Botanical Cactus Garden at Ethel M Chocolates . The state's largest cactus garden features light displays (sometimes in 3-D) that will put you into the holiday spirit.

With the mild December temperatures in Las Vegas, you can even enjoy spending a winter day poolside at your hotel.

Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Las Vegas

If you are looking for warm weather and a unique experience for your December vacation, you can head to Pasadena, California, where the city is preparing for the famous Tournament of Roses Parade . With Southern California temperatures, it is possible to spend one day at the beach and the next day taking part in one of the biggest events in the city.

Deco Week happens at the end of December as Rose Parade participants make their final tweaks to the elaborate rose-covered floats. You can volunteer to help with those final preparations. If you do plan to head to Pasadena to take part in this annual tradition, book far in advance to hold your spot.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Pasadena, CA

December is a fabulous month to visit Phoenix, especially if you're a fan of the outdoors. Popular winter activities include hiking , golfing, biking, rock climbing, and camping . Shopping is another fun activity, as is museum-hopping.

As for the weather, you'll definitely be pleased. With little rain and highs in the upper-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit, you won't need to pack a parka or run the risk of sweating through your wrinkle-free travel shirt. The extra room in your suitcase means you'll have plenty of space for the finds you'll grab at holiday markets.

While in town, be sure to visit the Desert Botanical Garden , skate on the ice rink at CityScape , and tour the Heard Museum . Glendale Glitters is a fun, festival-type event in nearby Glendale, featuring thousands of holiday lights, music, food, and other activities on the weekends throughout December.

• Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Phoenix, AZ
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Phoenix

Charleston in December is a refreshing sight. While cool (highs hover around 60, and lows can drop to 25), this old-world Southern gem is so lovely and charming, it will warm your spirit. And if the weather turns, you can always head indoors, to the South Carolina Aquarium , Charleston Museum , or Old Slave Mart Museum .

Make time to wander around the captivating Historic District . Picturesque homes and churches that were built centuries ago; cobbled alleyways; and gnarled, twisting oak trees make it easy to feel romantic. Feeling extra amorous? Hop in for a ride in a horse-drawn carriage.

Make the most of the lack of humidity with a visit to the Middleton Place Plantation, Boone Hall Plantation, or Magnolia Plantation & Gardens . December plays host to an array of lights shows and holiday markets. The Holiday Festival of Lights , for instance, begins mid-November and lasts until January.

Read More: Top Attractions in Charleston, SC

Though the nation's capital is generally snow-covered in December it is one of the best places to visit at the end of the year for a number of reasons: A winter trip to Washington D.C. is ideal for getting cheap rates on hotel rooms and for fewer crowds at attractions in the city , which can be challenging during the busy summer tourist season.

The other reason to go to D.C. in December is that most of the Smithsonian museums are indoors, so it is easy to visit many of them during your visit. Washington D.C. is beautifully decorated in December for the holidays, especially the White House. There are lots of holiday activities around the city, from walking tours to seeing the national Christmas tree.

December in D.C. offers some things that you just can't experience any other time of the year. Plan some time to see the national Christmas tree near the White House, which is illuminated just after Thanksgiving; the Wharf District holiday boat parade, which happens in early December with dozens of festively decorated boats floating along Washington Channel; and the Winternational global market, which has booths hosted by international embassies, with crafts for sale from their respective countries.

Many people head for warmer weather in December, but it is a great month to head north to Alaska. December is in the middle of peak season for viewing the Northern Lights , so it is easy to find a tour to see them. You can also take a scenic ride from Anchorage to Fairbanks on the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train .

Another way to take in Anchorage in December is by taking a dogsledding trip, hitting the slopes, watching for wildlife, or taking a glacier trek. There are a number of museums in Anchorage to visit when you need a break from the cold. Otherwise, put on the layers and experience Anchorage during this magical time of the year.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

The tranquil waters and key lime pie in Key West in December will almost make you forget that it is even wintertime. That is why it is one of the best places to go in December. As you might expect from this warm-weather destination, the holidays are showcased on the water, with the Lighted Boat Parade at the Historic Seapor t and offshore excursions to clear up any winter blues.

You can take a tour of the Victorian mansions in Key West, which are elegantly decorated with wreaths and holiday décor. If you feel like doing nothing but sitting on the beach for your December getaway, you can do that, too. Bear in mind that Key West is a popular winter spot, so you will pay a premium for hotels and airline tickets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Key West, FL

December means ski season in Breckenridge , so it is one of the best places to go for some downhill adventure. While some of the warm-weather destinations will see crowds in December, Breckenridge will, too, but it is the place to be if you are looking for quality winter skiing.

Hotel and resort rates will be at a premium, but you can usually package them with lift tickets for the duration of your stay. When you're not carving through the white powder on the slopes, you can enjoy the festive scene in town, where the small shops along Main Street are decked out for the holidays. Breckenridge gets into the holiday spirit, which is why it is considered one of the best Christmas towns in Colorado .

Though you will have plenty of company in Breckenridge in December, there are nearly 3,000 acres of ski areas, so there is enough space to accommodate the rush of winter travelers.

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado

The festive city of New Orleans is a great December vacation destination, where you can enjoy the warmer weather, walk through the city streets and the French Quarter , and leave before the influx of Mardi Gras revelers start to arrive in the following months. December weather is warm, but it is not the stifling heat that you would experience in the summer, so you can enjoy it more comfortably.

There are many holiday festivals and over-the-top light and decorative displays throughout the city to enjoy in December, including illuminated art pieces at Lafayette Square. The Roosevelt Hotel is another must-see, with 50 themed and decorated Christmas trees and thousands of holiday lights decorating the historic hotel.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Orleans

The southwestern city of Santa Fe is a great getaway in December for those who want to lay low in a small, artsy location. The city is rooted in Native American culture. The historic buildings and small shops are fun to stroll through as you buy local artwork ranging from paintings to jewelry.

Santa Fe is a nice place to escape from the cold and snow and is known for its many health retreats and relaxing spa resorts. If you still want to see the snow, you can head into the mountains for a day of skiing.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Santa Fe

For some December travelers, especially those looking for a romantic vacation in one of the best small towns in Vermont , hunkering down in a cozy bed-and-breakfast or cottage with several feet of snow outside might be appealing. If so, then Stowe, Vermont is where you need to spend a holiday. December is cold in Stowe, but that is part of the charm for a getaway filled with fireplaces and hot chocolate.

You can still spend your days outdoors by layering up and hitting the ski slopes , snowshoeing, or taking a dog-sledding adventure before returning to your cozy accommodations. December in Stowe is marked with traditional holiday parades, celebrations, and tree lightings in the center of town.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

You'll want to pack a sweater when visiting Savannah in December. With highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s, you may want to block the nightly (or daytime) chill. That won't stop you from fully enjoying this Georgian wonderland.

Peppered with historic mansions; luxurious parks; and picturesque, moss-draped trees; this idyllic beauty is even more magical when dressed for the holidays in December. Head to River Street during the first weekend of December for music, treats, and shopping. You'll find handmade stocking stuffers and other creative gifts from these unique vendors.

Savannah's Lighted Christmas Parade is another holiday must-see that takes place during the first weekend of December . It includes a tree lighting ceremony, caroling, dancing, and more on Tybee Island.

When you aren't busy getting festified, visit the area's historic homes, museums, and the large and lush Forsyth Park .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah

St. Augustine is a lovely place to visit at all times of the year, although it can get unbearably hot during summer. In December, though, this historic Floridian gem really comes to life. A Sunshine State marvel, St. Augustine lies on the northeast coast and offers visitors archeological masterpieces along with soft, sandy beaches.

One of the best Christmas towns in Florida , this town literally jingles and sparkles during December. The annual Night of Lights festival runs from mid-November through January and features over three million lights swirling their way around town. It's incredibly charming, even if you aren't into holiday festivities.

Hop on the Old Town Trolley, explore Castillo de San Marcos, go fishing in the surf , or lounge on the beach at Anastasia State Park. You'll have fewer crowds to fight, but with temps in the low to mid-70s Fahrenheit, you may not be tempted to play in the water all day.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in St. Augustine, FL

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Winter Travel Ideas : Many of the best places to visit in December are also going to be the most expensive. If you are on a budget, you can consider some of the cheap places to travel in December or specifically cheap Christmas holiday destinations . If warm weather is calling you, then you might consider the beaches in California or the Caribbean as options.

More on Hawaii

Best Places to Visit in December | 25 Awesome Places to Travel

Looking for the best places to visit in December? Whether you plan on being in a winter wonderland of snow and twinkle lights or getting a sun-kissed tan on a hot beach, these are the December travel hotspots not to miss. 

December is the ornate signature at the end of the year: the month in which Christmas finally rolls around, complete with all its jolliness and activities…

But it’s also the month where (if you’re in the northern hemisphere) the days are at their very shortest and where you realise that you’re burnt TF out from a long year. 

I don’t know about you, but December at home can be well… a little overhyped. What better time to plan a little (or big) escape? 

Put those holiday days to good use and discover the best places to travel in December.

Tip : If you missed out on the best places to travel in November , what better time to make up for it than December? 

Best Places to Visit in December

Average Temperatures: 28ºC high; 22ºC low

Season: Winter

The Mexican hotspot of Tulum is hands-down one of the ​​best places to travel to in December. Sure, it’s *technically* winter in Tulum in December, but let me tell you, Tulum winter and London winter are not the same thing at all. 

Swap foggy and drizzly days for sun-drenched beaches, pitch black evenings for sundowners with kaleidoscopic sunsets. 

Sounds pretty wonderful, right? But what should you do when you get there? 

There are the beaches , of course — and epic beach parties at venues like Papaya Project and Mia Beach Club. 

It’s not all about the beach life, though: Tulum was the last great city built by the Mayans, so the Tulum ruins are an obvious must-see. 

Add to that snorkelling, swimming or (if you’re feeling adventurous), diving in the area’s many cenotes — and you can see why it makes the perfect December escape.  

Next Read: Two Weeks in Mexico: A Step-by-Step Itinerary Suggested Stay: Copal Tulum Hotel

Average Temperatures: 5ºC high; 1ºC low

Copenhagen is one of the best places to go in December if you love whimsical snow-kissed cities alongside canals overflowing with Christmas charm. Although Copenhagen is a cool destination at any time of the year, the city really comes into its own in the winter months.

The sun might set at 3pm, but that’s when the markets start glowing. 

Grab a steaming mug of gløgg (mulled Danish wine with almonds and raisins) and meander through the Julemarked and Nyhavn Christmas markets. Then, hit the rink and go ice skating for ultimate festive vibes. 

Don’t forget to visit the holly-bedecked Tivoli Gardens or the numerous snow-kissed Copenhagen castles for which the city’s known. Plus, a winter cruise along the famous Nyhavn canal is a must.  

Next Read: Copenhagen in Winter: A Visitor’s Guide Suggested Stay: Generator Copenhagen

Average Temperatures: 30ºC high; 24ºC low

Swap your snowshoes for some flip-flops and prepare to get festive in sunny Jamaica! 

While there are standard tourist experiences like bamboo rafting, snorkelling, and even trying out the bobsled track at Mystic Mountain, there are plenty of Christmas parties, too. 

There’s the Potter’s Fair, the Market on the Lawn, the annual Christmas Concert, and plenty of shows from their National Dance Theater Company. 

It’s one of the unexpectedly festive places to visit in December. Oh, and don’t forget to see the glowing Luminous Lagoon while you’re there — it’s not every day you see bioluminescence in action, so you can’t miss it.  

Next Read: The Most Beautiful Islands in the Caribbean Suggested Stay: Skylark Negril Beach Resort

Average Temperatures: 9ºC high; 5ºC low

If pretty cobbled streets and plenty of carbs is your vibe, Trentino is the best place to visit in December. 

You may not want to escape the snow in winter, so why not embrace it? Trentino has a lot of natural wintery beauty, especially when the snow hits the slopes in December. 

Madonna di Campiglio is a stunning ski resort, and a ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the snow at Val di Sole is pure magic. 

So naturally, snowboarding and skiing are top activities. But so are drinking hot alcohol-drenched bombardinos and tucking into some of the incredible cuisines Trentino offers. 

The food culture is strong here with robust tastes and hearty dishes, so bring your appetite — foodies, you’ve been warned!

Pop into the Lefay Resort Dolomiti for an indulgent spa session for an hour or a day — I love a good pamper sesh, so I’d say go for the latter.

Next Read: Winter in Trentino: The Ultimate Italian Winter Getaway Suggested Stay: Villa Orso Grigio

Average Temperatures: 35ºC high; 20ºC low

Season: Summer

Mauritius might be tiny, but it has plenty to offer in its warm December months. 

From sea cave kayaking to swimming with dolphins, there’re plenty of aqua-orientated activities to make it one of the best December vacations for water babies. 

Visit Port Louis for cosmopolitan shopping, Grand Baie for relaxing beach fronts with warm waters and soft sandy shores, or venture inland to the tea plantations. 

If you’re looking for more nature, try the Black River Gorges National Park and its ribbon-thin waterfall or the Chamarel Seven Coloured Sands Geopark.  

Next Read: Visiting Chamarel Waterfall in Mauritius Suggested Stay: Azure Beach Boutique Hotel

Average Temperatures: 30ºC high; 23ºC low

Patagonia might be experiencing its summer, but prepare yourself for a chill! 

Glacier tours in Los Glaciares National Park, kayaking, rock-climbing, spectacular hikes through Torres del Paine — and that’s just during the day. 

By night you can turn your eyes to the vast, dark heavens and enjoy the splendid Geminids meteor shower in mid-December. If you’re the outdoor type and are looking for the experience of a lifetime, Patagonia is one of the best places to vacation in December this year.

Next Read: Torres del Paine W Trek Patagonia Suggested Stay: Río Serrano Hotel & Spa

Atacama Desert

Average Temperatures: 20ºC high; 7.5ºC low

When considering where to travel in December, the Atacama Desert might not be the first place that comes to mind. But you’re missing out if you don’t consider it. 

It’s one of the most gorgeous places in Chile, with rose-pink valleys, red dunes, and spiked terrain covered with a blanket of sparkling stars each night. The Salar de Atacama is unworldly in its beauty, and December is prime time to witness it. 

Rainbow Valley is also a breathtaking sight, and if you continue to the Valle de la Luna, you’ll think you’ve teleported to a Martian landscape. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the Tatio geysers — just go see for yourself.

Next Read: 12 Extraordinary Things to Do in Chile Suggested Stay: La Casa de José

Average Temperatures: 28ºC high; 20ºC low

Some of the best December vacations involve sunblock and hot sand between your toes. It’s summertime in Australia , and the Gold Coast has stunning beaches and lush jungles waiting just for you. 

Hit the surf, check out Dreamworld Theme Park and Zoo, or visit Sea World and watch the Dolphin Discovery show. 

The beaches are where the parties are, though. Christmas events take place on the sandy shores, and nearby bars and restaurants feature holiday specials, so get a sun-kissed Christmas tan with your ice-topped cocktail. 

Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads Beach, and Currumbin Beach are among the best beaches to choose from.

Next Read: Winter Sun Destinations Suggested Stay: Voco Gold Coast

Average Temperatures: 31ºC high; 24ºC low

India is arguably the best place to travel in December for adventurers seeking exotic treasures, and Kerala is one of its warmer spots. 

It’s in the south of the country and boasts palm-fringed beaches, opportunities to spot tigers, and serene tea plantations during these warm winter months. 

You can visit Kochi with its colonial ruins, hipster art galleries, and many museums like the Catholic Art Museum or the Museum of Kerala History for a history fix. 

Stick around for the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, the biggest art event in the country, where public squares and heritage sites are decorated in sculptures, installations, and more. 

Suggested Stay: Rouba Residency Hotel

You won’t be stuck for December vacation ideas if you choose Malaysia as your destination. 

View the tallest twin towers in the world, the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur, and admire the view of KLCC Park below on the sky bridge. 

Malacca has the most vibrant and interesting architecture from its Portuguese period and a plethora of art galleries, museums, and other historical interests like A Famosa. 

You can also visit the orangutans and sunbears in Sepilok, embark on some mega treks in the Taman Negara National Park, or shop at the Jonker Street Night Market.

Next Read: 20 Fantastic Things to Do in Malaysia You Shouldn’t Miss Suggested Stay: Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel

Average Temperatures: 30ºC high; 22ºC low

The balmy weather of Cambodia is perfect if you’re dreaming of warm places to go in December. It’s also one of the best times to see the sights in Cambodia as there’s little rain.

Not only is it free from the icy embrace of a northern winter, but it’s also full of incredible heritage sites like Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. 

You can channel your inner Lara Croft (or Indiana Jones) and explore the ruins of the 900-year-old Hindu “temple-mountain”, pay your respects at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and wander around the beautiful Phnom Penh.

Read Next: Three Awesome Southeast Asia Travel Routes Suggested Stay: Lotus Blanc Hotel

Average Temperatures: -3ºC high; -10ºC low

Dreaming of a conventional white Christmas? Then Quebec is your city.

With plenty of snow-related fun, buttery pastries everywhere, and Christmas decor dripping from 17th-century architecture, you might forget that you’re not in the heart of Europe. 

Go dog-sledding or cross-country skiing, indulge on a shopping trip, and head for the souvenir stands beckoning with Christmas wares. Stroll through the streets of Quebec and see the cultural attractions like Place-Royale and the Basilica of Sante Anne Beaupre are superb points of interest that you’ll want to add to your itinerary, too.

Next Read: Best Places to Visit in Winter Suggested Stay: Monastère des Augustines

Average Temperatures: 4ºC high; 0ºC low

For many people, the festive displays are a big part of December vacations, and no place does Christmas quite like Berlin. 

So why not nurse a steaming cup of glühwein in this sparkling Christmas city? With ice rinks, twinkling lights, and the finest Christmas markets in Europe, it’s a joy. 

The funfair at Alexanderplatz is a blast, and the Botanical Garden springs to illuminated life with glowing sculptures. Be sure to also stop at the Spandau Christmas Market and spend an evening wandering around Gendarmenmarkt for the ultimate festive feels.

Next Read: Best European Places to Visit in Winter Suggested Stay: Hotel Palace Berlin

Average Temperatures: 0.5ºC high; -4.5ºC low

Finland makes an obvious choice amongst the best countries to visit in December because of its association with the Big Guy in red — old Saint Nick himself. 

As well as spending a weekend eating, drinking, and being merry in Finnish Lapland, there are also the Northern Lights to bask beneath on a good night, ice hotels, dog sledding through the Finnish landscape, and the stunning architecture of Helsinki to admire. 

Next Read: Things to Do in Rovaniemi, Finland Suggested Stay: Arctic City Hotel

The heart of European Christmas beats in Austria. Come December, Vienna lights up with the ultimate festive cheer. 

Live music flows from the Art Advent on Karlsplatz, and the Christmas markets tote unique crafts and organic foods. 

Salzburg also has Advent Singing, Alpine folk choirs traditionally clothed, and Christkindlmarkt, one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets.

Suggested Stay: Grand Ferdinand Vienna  

Average Temperatures: 23ºC high; 6ºC low

December might mean winter in Mexico but it’s still a warm destination during this time. 

With the summer crowds dispersed and the rainy season over, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some architectural delights. There are the Templo Mayor Aztec ruins to peruse, the Frida Kahlo Museum to visit, and some extra fun pre-Christmas festivals with punch, traditional food, and candy. 

Celebrate the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, and buy a carved radish from the Night of the Radishes event in Oaxaca. 

Next Read: Two Weeks in Mexico Itinerary Suggested Stay: Cadillac Hotel Boutique

Average Temperatures: 27ºC high; 17ºC low

Cape Town will welcome you with a warm embrace in December with ideal temperatures for hiking, biking, and spending time outdoors. 

Ascend Table Mountain via the cable car to watch the sun rise over the landscape, or pack in some epic shopping in the cosmopolitan V&A Waterfront. 

Head over to Boulders Beach to watch the adorable penguins, then drive to Cape Point to see where the warm Indian Ocean meets the cold Atlantic. 

Finish the day by hiking up Lion’s Head and watching the sun set over the city. 

Next Read: Unmissable Things to Do in Cape Town Suggested Stay: Bliss Boutique Hotel  

Average Temperatures: 20ºC high; 4ºC low

Where to go in December that oozes Christmas cheer? How about Solvang in southern California? 

Founded by Danish settlers in 1911, it oozes a European atmosphere with windmills, bakeries, shops, and Danish-style Christmas festivities. 

Twinkle lights, Christmas trees, a Julefest parade, holiday markets, Santa’s Village in the park — there’s almost no end to the seasonal cheer here. 

Next Read: The Ultimate California Road Trip Suggested Stay: Hotel Corque

Average Temperatures: 26ºC high; 16ºC low

Dubai is an oasis of light and futuristic architecture in the warm desert — what’s not to love? 

Stand on the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa) for incredible views, or have fun cooling off at the Wild Wadi Waterpark. Go on desert safaris by camelback or visit the aquarium for some impressive aquatic entertainment. 

There’s also the Film Festival and Shopping Festival to look forward to and the Dubai Miracle Garden (which reopens in the cooler months) for floral delights.

Next Read: The Best Things to Do in Dubai Suggested Stay: Kempinski Hotel Mall

Average Temperatures: 10ºC high; 4ºC low

You’ll adore Madrid when the heat doesn’t drain you in the cooler winter months. 

Enjoy iconic monuments like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and mediaeval castles, along with fun carnivals toting crunchy churros and hot chocolate. Ride the Christmas Bus and take in a Christmas market or meander through the winter wonderland of the Botanical Gardens.

Just don’t forget to seek out the conventional touristy sights like El Retiro Park or Plaza Mayor during your festive getaway.

Next Read: The Perfect Spain Itinerary Suggested Stay: Ocean Drive Madrid

Average Temperatures: 24ºC high; 18ºC low

Peru makes one of the best vacation spots in December for a healthy dose of ancient culture and hiking, plus some awesome weather. 

Strap your hiking boots on and walk the Inca Trail, or climb to Machu Picchu and marvel at the ruins (stopping only to watch the adorable llamas grazing nearby). 

The city of Cusco is a delight, with the Cathedral of Santo Domingo and the Plaza de Armas standout landmarks — oh, and put your foodie taste buds to the test by trying some cuy . 

Next Read: 16 Incredible Things to Do in Peru Suggested Stay: Hotel Hacienda  

Average Temperatures: 31ºC high; 22ºC low

Thailand has the potential to offer you one of the best vacations in December, especially in Krabi. 

With sparkling turquoise waters, limestone mounds, and beach-ready temperatures, it’s a clear winner. You can ascend the 1,200+ stairs of Wat Tham Sua or dip in the hot springs at Klong Thom for some much-deserved R&R. 

There are also prehistoric caves to explore at Khao Khanap Nam and lush jungle treks to enjoy. Stop at the night markets and eat until you’re fit to burst.

Next Read: 50 Best Things to Do in Thailand Suggested Stay: The Brown Hotel

Rio de Janeiro

Average Temperatures: 29ºC high; 23ºC low

Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant, colour-filled city brimming with energy and an almost perpetual carnival aura. The incredible weather makes it the best place to vacation in December if you want to avoid the snow and instead party it up under the sun.

Fill your itinerary with spectacular sights such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain, or bask in the glorious sun on Copacabana Beach or Ipanema Beach. 

Next Read: The Best Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro Suggested Stay: Hilton Copacabana

Average Temperatures: 24ºC high; 19ºC low

Miami is known for its gorgeous winter weather, but it also boasts many cultural events throughout December. 

Music concerts, ballet performances, and the Art Basel Fair are wonderful ways to spend time there. 

If Christmas cheer is what you covet, then check out Santa’s Enchanted Forest in Tropical Park, or tour the Deering Estate as it’s decked out for the festive season. You could even make a detour to Disney World for a couple of days if you fancy a really special vacation.

Next Read: The Best Things to Do in Miami Suggested Stay: citizenM Miami Brickell   

Singapore 

Average Temperatures: 31ºC high; 25ºC low

Singapore is a delightful Asiatic retreat during the cold winter months when the weather is warm but not stiflingly so. 

Visit the Gardens by the Bay with over 1.5 million plants and the iconic Supertree constructions, or take to the skies in the Singapore Flyer for incredible city views at night. 

You can also visit Madame Tussauds or the National Gallery Singapore, as well as the cultural hotspots of Little India, Chinatown, and Little Arabia. Head to Universal Studios or Sentosa Island for fun and games — there’s no limit to the fun that can be had.

Next Read: 18 Cool Places in Singapore for You to Explore Suggested Stay: Grand Park City Hall  

Best Places to Travel in December: Practical Tips and Guides

• Depending on your destination, December might be a peak season. Check so you can book far enough in advance and not miss out.
• The earlier you book your flights, the cheaper they tend to be. You can search Skyscanner to get the best deal.
• Pack according to the weather of the place you’re travelling to. Places like Berlin and Copenhagen get incredibly cold – wrapping up warm is essential.

Best Places to Travel in December: Map

Where To Travel in December: Read Next

• Finland in Winter: An Insider’s Guide
• Things to do in Norway in Winter
• Why You need to Visit Iceland in Winter
• Copenhagen in Winter: The Ultimate Guide
• Trentino: Italy’s Gorgeous Winter Wonderland
• 2 Weeks in Mexico: The Ultimate Itinerary
• The Best Things to do in Cape Town

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

Best Places to Travel in June: Top Destinations for a Summer Getaway

How to See the Northern Lights: Top Tips for Seeing the Aurora Borealis

Mastering the Art of Solo Travel for Women: How to Travel Alone

House of the Dragon Filming Locations: 9 Epic Game of Thrones Spots

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

29 of the Best Places to Travel in December (USA Edition)

12/01/2023 by Kristin Addis 1 Comment

With the end of the year comes a new world of travel possibilities. You can spend December fully embracing the chill of the season, or find a warm getaway if that’s more your style! Good thing the United States offers opportunities for travelers of all types, with appealing destinations scattered throughout the country. 

Starting from the West Coast and heading east, here’s a list of the top 29 destinations to visit this December:

Table of Contents

1. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Winter is without a doubt the best time to see the deserts in California . Joshua Tree National Park is  one of the best places to visit in the colder months . The park’s temperatures range on average by December from near 40 degrees Fahrenheit overnight to near 60 by afternoon, which makes daytime hiking and rock climbing infinitely more enjoyable than the unbearable summertime heat. 

Read Next: What to Do in Joshua Tree National Park

Deserts make up around a quarter of the state, so there are plenty of others as well.  Check out this BMTM post  for some of the best deserts in California.

2. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada

If you’ve been dying to check out Death Valley (see what I did there?) but are a little nervous about its famously scorching temperatures, consider going in December! All throughout the winter months, the area sees a dip in its usually high temps, making it much more enjoyable for hikers.

Death Valley National Park is home to some seriously out-of-this-world landscapes that you definitely don’t want to miss out on. From the colorful Artist’s Palette to the stunning  Golden Canyon , there’s plenty  to see and do in Death Valley . Even though December is one of the best times to visit this incredible national park, it’s not typically crowded, so you can enjoy some of the best spots without worrying about overwhelming crowds cramping your style.

3. Mendocino County, California

While Mendocino County is famous for having weather reminiscent of eternal spring, December sees chilly temperatures that are cold enough to bundle up for, but warm enough to be able to get outside and enjoy the area’s moody coastline.

Mendocino County is the perfect December getaway for nature lovers and anyone who loves the cozy vibe of the beginning of winter. Fort Bragg is home to the legendary Glass Beach, which gets its name from the layer of colorful sea glass that washes up on its shore. In  Mendocino , you can check out Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, Van Damme State Park, Mendocino Headlands State Park, and other stunning natural areas. Stay at a chic boutique hotel to soak it all in each evening!

4. Truckee, California

Truckee in the winter is a snowy wonderland and absolutely beautiful when the snow settles. You’ll want to check out the lake views at Donner Memorial State Park, hike the Truckee River Regional Park Legacy Trail, and dive in the Emerald Pools swimming hole — it’ll be cold, but so very refreshing. Lake Tahoe and Reno are only day trips away, and Donner Pass is a historic experience to drive through. There’s also fun to be had with snowboarding, skiing, and ice skating!

If you get snowed in though and must spend time indoors, there are plenty of neat museums, breweries, and coffee shops to fill your heart. Check out this amazing list of things to do in Truckee .

5. Sun Valley, Idaho

Idaho  is one the country’s best-kept secrets, and December is especially a great time to visit the state. Sun Valley gives you the opportunity to see some of the most picturesque winter landscapes  in the United States. Throughout December, the nearby Sawtooth Mountains get  that  much more magical when a new layer of snow decorates the scenery. With fantastic skiing opportunities,  naturally occurring hot springs , and hospitable locals, Sun Valley is one of the most ideal trips for a cozy December getaway.

6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

As the least populated state, Wyoming may be the ideal destination to get some peace and quiet.  Yellowstone National Park is beautiful  no matter what time of year, but especially so during the winter. There’s a reason why  the park is one of BMTM’s bucket list–worthy road trip stops !

Many roads may be closed during the month, but the oen between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance is open all year. Check out the  park’s webpage  for more information.

7. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Head 30 miles south of Yellowstone and you’ll find  Grand Teton National Park , which can be enjoyed just as much in December. Most of it is only reachable by cross-country ski or snowshoe during this time of the year, but the isolation is more than worth it.

8. San Juan County, Utah

Many people thinking of December trips may not consider  Utah . Lucky for you (and your wallet!),  there’s so much to explore in the state’s off season . The temperatures in the area dip to highs only in the 40s Fahrenheit and lows in the 20s in December, making the weather chilly but bearable. If you want a trip  full of exploration , San Juan County’s Valley of the Gods is BLM land, meaning you can camp in any of the road pulloffs (provided you leave no trace). If you decide to hike in any of Utah’s national parks, be sure you’re prepared for potentially icy conditions.

9. Moab, Utah

Moab sits between two of  Utah’s best national parks :  Arches  and Canyonlands, so this charming town surrounded by red-rock landscapes is a great pick for December adventurers. Not only can you hit up popular places like Delicate Arch and Mesa Arch without seeing too many crowds, but the chilly weather here isn’t too frigid to put a damper on your trip.

Moab doesn’t get very much snow, but the surrounding La Sal Mountains will likely be completely white this time of year. The color contrast between the white mountains and red-orange rock formations is a stunning sight that you only get in the wintertime.

Find out what else to do in Moab here.

10. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

If you want a December full of towering mountains, Colorado is the place to go. For one, the state is known for having the most “fourteeners” (mountains higher than 14,000 feet) in the country. 

While some parks close during this time of the year,  Rocky Mountain National Park  is open year-round. Though you can enjoy your trip here with just snowshoeing gear, there are opportunities for sledding and skiing too. The colder months are also ideal for watching wildlife like elk, moose, and deer. Check out the  park’s page  for more details on the winter activities you can do here. 

Colorado also makes for a  fun road trip  if you want to explore the state during your December trip. 

11. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona , is one of the  United States’ hubs for everything spiritual , but it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors in December. If you’re coming from a place that gets super cold in the winter, Sedona is a great escape to warmer temperatures without it being too hot.

Another huge plus of visiting Sedona in December is the laid-back atmosphere and thinner crowds. Head out for a hike to the Seven Sacred Pools or Devil’s Bridge, and you might be able to enjoy some solitude, as there won’t be as many hikers as there are in the warmer months.

Find out what else there is to do in Sedona here .

12. Bisti Badlands Wilderness, New Mexico

Want to see some otherworldly landscapes with names like “Alien’s Throne” and “Dragon Eggs”? Head out to the Bisti Badlands Wilderness in New Mexico for all that and more. This incredible slice of undisturbed nature is a  must-see place in New Mexico  because of its uniqueness. The Bisti Badlands are a whopping 45,000 acres, with no real trails or paths to follow, making it ideal for travelers seeking a truly rugged adventure.

You can visit the Bisti Badlands any time of year and find very few people, but December is especially ideal because of the mild weather and even fewer people. Make sure to bring a 4×4 vehicle and plenty of water!

13. Taos, New Mexico

After the heat of the New Mexican climate fades away, December brings a time of rich cultural activities to the state. Taos combines both the natural and traditional draws of New Mexico, as a historic town located a half-hour drive from mountains ideal for skiing. If you come around Christmas, you’ll be able to see  luminarias  light the streets and parks of the state.

Taos is also a hub for forward-thinking architecture and has an entire community of people with Earthships, a sustainable type of home with all kinds of neat, environmentally friendly features.  Read more about the Taos Earthships here .

Check out this post  for other things to do in New Mexico.

14. Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you like history, Albuquerque might be the best next vacation for you. Definitely take a walk through Old Town, check out the Albuquerque Museum, stay at Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm , go to the Petroglyph National Monument, and watch a film at the historic KiMo Theatre.

But there’s plenty more to do if you’re not that into history, like snowshoe the Cibola National Forest , hike the Sandia Mountains, and get a view from above on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.

15. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park  is a desert area along the southwest Texan border with Mexico. This park is arguably the best place on this list to stargaze — it  has the least light pollution of any other national park unit in the lower 48 states ! 

The average temperatures in Big Bend range from a nighttime low of 39 degrees to a daytime high of 63 degrees Fahrenheit, though sudden periods of cold weather happen on occasion. According to the park’s website,  the holidays are typically busy , so reservations for accommodations are highly recommended.

16. Fredericksburg, Texas

For a holiday experience with a  German  touch, check out Fredericksburg, home to the largest number of Texas German speakers. If you come in the latter part of December, you’ll be able to  see the town decked out in full Christmas decorations — German Christmas pyramid included!

The town is also around 70 miles from other cities, such as San Antonio and Austin, making for a great roadtrip stop.

17. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans has  so  much to offer beyond the Mardi Gras season. Besides being a great city for solo female travelers , it is just as full of energy in December as in February during Mardi Gras. Definitely go to the Bywater District , and maybe try some delicious vegan food ! Here’s a great itinerary for exploring New Orleans , and a helpful packing list . As a plus, December is during the shoulder season, so you’ll be able to still find relatively good accommodation deals.

18. Florida Keys Road Trip

If you’re craving a sense of freedom, the Florida Keys are the answer. You can drive the entire Overseas Highway and gaze out at the Atlantic Ocean the whole time, hopping from key to key. There’s plenty of things to do in Key Largo , Islamorada , Marathon , Big Pine , and Key West , like sunset sails , snorkeling , and heading to the beaches . It’s America’s own slice of Caribbean paradise, with a special feel. (If you’re traveling solo, here’s everything you need to know .)

Where to Stay in Marathon Where to Stay in Key Largo Where to Stay in Key West

19. St. Augustine, Florida

If you want a December trading snowboards for surfboards, few places fit the bill as perfectly as Florida. During the holiday season, St. Augustine is most known for its  Nights of Lights , a free celebration during which the city is covered in lights! 

In general, you can enjoy Florida’s summer activities during the winter. Whether you want to  learn how to sail in Ft. Myers or  explore Cocoa Beach , the state has a ton to offer throughout the end of the year.

20. Savannah, Georgia

For a quaint Southern getaway,  Savannah  is an ideal destination. Shops selling holiday trinkets fill the hallmark  River Street  in December, offering the festive experience without the intense cold.

As a bonus, head about an hour and a half south to Georgia’s Jekyll Island for its annual  Holly Jolly Jekyll  festival. Throughout December, the island offers activities, ranging from a skating village to an array of light displays.

21. Charleston, South Carolina

Similar to the charm and historic landscape of Savannah,  Charleston  is a relaxing option for travelers this month. The city has a mild climate, giving visitors a slight chill of winter without the dramatic snowfall. Throughout December, the city hosts a celebration called the Holiday Festival of Lights , complete with lights, sculptures, and Santa!

22. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville’s location lets you experience the best of the Appalachian’s winter scenery while keeping the conveniences of the city. Depending on the weather, some parts of the Blue Ridge Mountains may be closed.

But there are more things to do here than just day hike.  Here are a few of the best free and budget-friendly things to do in Asheville . If you’re willing to spend some money, the Biltmore Estate hosts an annual  Christmas at Biltmore  celebration that’s made the city popular during the holiday season.

23. Nashville, Tennessee

Even though much of December is  Nashville ‘s low season, the city doesn’t lose any of its charm. Popular pastimes throughout the month include seeing the Christmas decorations at the  Gaylord Opryland Hotel  and attending the  annual Christmas Parade . If you come at the end of the month, you can catch Music City’s  New Year’s Eve extravaganza .

This is also a fantastic  budget destination in the US , as there are dozens of  free things to do in Nashville .

24. Hocking Hills, Ohio

Hocking Hills is an area in southeastern Ohio with some of the most dramatic topographic features in the Midwest. There are a ton of scenic preserves and parks in the area, the most famous being  Hocking Hills State Park . In December, you may see snow and ice formations along the trails, adding to the beauty of the parks’ hikes.

25. Chicago, Illinois

There’s no denying that winters in  Chicago  can get very cold. However, December doesn’t suffer the brunt of the winter freeze, which makes it an excellent destination if you want to take advantage of some off-season deals. You’ll be able to see some of the city’s main holiday attractions, including light displays at the  Lincoln Park Zoo and the traditional  Christkindlmarket .

Chicago also has tons of  free things to do , so between that and the off-season deals, December is the  perfect time to visit Chicago  on a budget. 

26. New York, New York

If Hollywood has showed us anything, it’s that  New York City  is the quintessential place to spend the holiday season. And how can it not be iconic? From ice skating in the parks to holiday shopping down Fifth Avenue, NYC is a playground of festive activity.

If you’re intimidated by its reputation for being super expensive, consider all of these  free things to do in the Big Apple , which can help offset some of the higher prices on things like food and accommodation.

27. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park , a piece of northeastern coastal land mostly on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, shines in December. Some of its roads close this month, so be aware of the park’s  operating hours and seasons . Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are a few of the popular activities this time of year, along with  ice fishing  (though that is mainly popular during the latter part of winter).

Off the Mainland

28. maui, hawai’i.

There isn’t really a bad time to visit Hawai’i , making it a popular destination for those with time off during the holiday season. Maui is a great spot to explore, especially solo (here are tips for how to experience Maui alone ), with journeys like the  Road to Hana  to keep you busy.

Check out  our Hawai’i guide  for more tips as to how you can spend your December here. Not sure what to pack? We’ve got you covered with this perfect Hawai’i packing list .

29. Vieques, Puerto Rico

Thanks to its location south of the Tropic of Cancer,  Puerto Rico  is in a year-round state of summer. As one of two territories in the Caribbean that US citizens can enter without a passport, Puerto Rico is a perfect option for December travelers wanting to brush up on their Spanish. Most people visiting Vieques Island come to see  Mosquito Bay , one of the five bioluminescent bays in the world. Come out here on a dark night to experience nature’s very own light show.

Regardless of where in the US you are, there is no one way to spend the month of December. With the holiday season in full swing, there’s bound to be a destination that’ll finish your year off in an unforgettable way.

Is there a place you want to visit this December? Let us know!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

09/20/2023 at 2:03 am

All places are perfect

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

See All December Tours

Deposit now, pay later

Booking is easy. Secure your place with a $200 deposit.

No booking or change fees

Flexible bookings. Change your mind up to 60 days before you travel.

Driven by service

Everything taken care of and 24/7 on tour support.

Most loved travel company

Our happy guests have independently reviewed us 4.6*/5

Take advantage of the many December vacation packages to Japan to experience the magic of this ancient land in the holiday season. Dazzling lights, traditional delicacies, and snow-capped landscapes create a serene beauty that'll make for an unforgettable December trip.

Discover Japan

Costa Rica is one of the most perfectly warm vacation spots in december: pristine beaches, thrilling jungle excursions and exotic wildlife aplenty, it's no wonder that Costa Ricais one of the most popular December travel destinations.

Discover Costa Rica

Tanzania is undoubtedly one of the best tropical vacations in December, with Zanzibar's incredible beaches rivalling those of the Maldives. Nearby, the Serengeti National Park undergoes the Great Migration, and Ngorongoro Crater waits to be explored.

Discover Tanzania

Best place to visit in December

Last minute deals.

Travelling soon? Book now & save up to 15% when departing within 4 months

Splendours of Japan

Tokyo City Tour

Explore Tokyo's iconic landmarks and discover how this modern metropolis harmonizes with its ancient heritage on a city tour.

Costa Rica Eco Adventure

Visit Tortuguero National Park

Embark on a wildlife adventure in Tortuguero National Park. Cruise through its canals with a Local Specialist, spotting howler monkeys, toucans, egrets, and crocodiles. Visit Tortuguero Village.

African Safari Adventure

Safari in the Serengeti

Explore the legendary Serengeti, renowned for unrivaled wildlife encounters. Witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest traverse the Mara River. With your expert Driver Guide, traverse the sweeping plains and discover the park's diverse ecosystems and landscapes.

December travel experiences

Best vacation destinations by month

Search for your tour with Trafalgar

Back To Top

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

• Travel Planning Center
• Ticket Changes & Refunds
• Airline Partners
• Check-in & Security
• Delta Sky Club®
• Airport Maps & Locations
• Flight Deals
• Flight Schedules
• Destinations
• Onboard Experience
• Delta Cruises
• Delta Vacations
• Delta Car Rentals
• Delta Stays
• Onboard Wi-Fi
• Delta Trip Protection
• How to Earn Miles
• Ways to Redeem Miles
• Buy or Transfer Miles
• Travel with Miles
• SkyMiles Partners & Offers
• SkyMiles Award Deals
• SkyMiles Credit Cards
• SkyMiles Airline Partners
• SkyMiles Program Overview​
• How to Get Medallion Status​
• Benefits at Each Tier
• News & Updates
• Help Center
• Travel Planning FAQs
• Certificates & eCredits
• Accessible Travel Services
• Child & Infant Travel
• Special Circumstances
• SkyMiles Help

Summer Flight Deals

Every adventure starts with a plan. Take advantage of these flight deals or take a look at our Premium Flight Deals to treat yourself, and start your next vacation — sooner than you think.

Terms & Conditions

Restrictions: Advertised fares are based on real-time itinerary pricing available at delta.com. Fares are subject to availability and may change at any time prior to completion of ticketing.

SkyMiles | SkyMiles program members are eligible to earn miles on most flights. Tickets booked in Basic Economy are not eligible to earn miles in the SkyMiles Program or earn towards Medallion Status. To review program rules, miles, offers, mile accrual, mile redemption and travel benefits, please review our Membership Guide & Program Rules .

Booking Travel | Basic Economy fares are non-refundable and non-changeable. Tickets booked in Basic Economy do not include a seat assignment until check-in and are not eligible for paid or complimentary upgrade options. To review all the Basic Economy product details and restrictions, see Basic Economy rules .

Seat configuration and amenities may vary depending on aircraft type and size . Read more about our seat products and Onboard Experience .

Baggage Charges | For travel within the United States (including Puerto Rico), $35 USD fee for first checked bag and $45 USD fee for second checked bag. For travel between the United States and Canada, $35 USD fee for first checked bag and $45 USD fee for second checked bag. For travel between the United States and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Central America (excluding El Salvador and Panama), Caribbean, Guyana or Bermuda, $35 USD fee for first checked bag and $45 USD fee for second checked bag. For travel between the United States and Mexico, $35 USD fee for first checked bag and $45 USD fee for second checked bag. For travel between the United States and El Salvador or Panama, $35 USD fee for first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $45 USD fee for second checked bag. For travel between the United States and Ecuador or Colombia, $45 USD fee for first checked bag (Basic Economy only), and $100 USD fee for second checked bag. For travel between the United States and Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, or Uruguay, $70 for the first checked bag (Basic Economy only) and $100 fee for the second checked bag. For travel between the United States and South America (excluding Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay) on a Basic Economy fare, $60 fee for first checked bag and $100 for second checked bag. For travel between the United States and South America (excluding Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay) on a Main Cabin fare, no fee for first checked bag and $60 for second checked bag. For travel between United States and Europe, no fee for first checked bag and $100 USD or 85 EUR fee for second checked bag. For travel between United States and Africa, the Middle East, and India, no fee for first checked bag and $100 fee for second checked bag (Basic Economy only). For travel between United States and Asia (excluding Australia, New Zealand, China, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea), no fee for first checked bag and $100 USD fee for second checked bag (Basic Economy only). For travel between United States and Australia, New Zealand, China, Fiji, or Papua New Guinea, no fee for first checked bag and $100 USD fee for second checked bag. Allowances subject to size/weight limits. Contact a Delta agent or see Excess Baggage for details.

SkyMiles Award Travel | Award Travel is subject to taxes and fees and carrier-imposed charges which are the responsibility of the passenger and must be paid at the time the ticket is booked. Award Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or in all markets. For Main Cabin and above Award Travel tickets, Members may change or cancel Award tickets without a redeposit or change fee for travel originating from the United States and Canada. Full Award Travel policy details can be found on our Travel With Miles page.

Cancellations/Refunds/Changes | Tickets are non-refundable except in accordance with Delta’s cancellation policy.

Basic Economy tickets and tickets issued for travel originating outside of the United States and Canada are subject to charges and fees for changes and cancellations. Learn more about all change and cancellation fees on our Change or Cancel Overview Page .

#SkyMilesLife | By tagging photos using #SkyMilesLife, user grants Delta Air Lines a royalty-free, worldwide, perpetual license to display, reproduce and create derivative works. Full terms: delta.com/skymileslife

Miscellaneous | Fares, fees, rules, and offers are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.

• Investor Relations
• Business Travel
• Travel Agents
• Comment/Complaint
• Browser Compatibility
• Accessibility
• Booking Information
• Customer Commitment
• Tarmac Delay Plan
• Sustainability
• Contract of Carriage
• Cookies, Privacy & Security
• Combatting Modern Slavery (PDF)

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

This Historic European Capital Was Just Named the Best City in the World for Expat Families to Live

Take the leap and move abroad.

MEDITERRANEAN/Getty Images

An estimated 9 million Americans live abroad , finding new places to call home all over the world. If you're thinking of becoming one of them, Italki, a language-learning app, has a few locations for you to consider. 

The company released its list of the best cities for expat families, specifically considering which cities around the world offer best-in-class safety and education, along with things to do, cost of living, and maternity leave policies. After looking at all this information, the team named Edinburgh , the capital of Scotland , the top city in the world for expat families. 

The team wrote in its findings about the city: "It boasts 32.8 things to do per 10,000 people, translating to an impressive 1,833 activities overall to keep everyone entertained. From exploring historic castles to strolling through charming gardens, Edinburgh promises endless opportunities for family bonding." 

Additionally, Italki wrote that Edinburgh also offers "more paid maternity leave than any other location, at a generous 39 weeks. Plus, with a high quality of life index score (187.7), you can be sure your family will be thriving in this vibrant city." 

Joining Edinburgh as a top destination for expat families to consider is Amsterdam in the Netherlands, which came in second.

"The city ranks highly when it comes to safety in particular, with a safety index score of 71.6. Not only will you feel secure, but Amsterdam also offers an even better quality of life score than Edinburgh (198.4)," the findings stated. "Education is another big win for Amsterdam, ranking third in the world. This makes it a particularly attractive location for families with school-aged children, setting them up to receive a world-class education." 

Rounding out the top 10 spots are Seville, Spain, in third; Helsinki, Finland; Copenhagen; Munich; Madrid; Vienna; Manchester, United Kingdom; and Oslo. 

Beyond offering a list of top spots, Italki also offered a few suggestions for how to make the transition abroad feel a little more seamless, including involving kids in the planning process, connecting with other expats before you move over social media, learning the history of your new home, and, of course, learning the language.

See more of their advice and more on the rankings at italki.com . 

Related Articles