Author’s Note: As a European, I love escaping to warmer climates in December. From feeling festive at Australia and New Zealand’s sunny Christmas markets to end-of-year island-hopping trips in Southeast Asia and chasing the Caribbean sun, I often seem lucky enough to wrap up the year abroad. My most recent sun-kissed December trip was to Morocco.
The best warm places to visit in December offer clear blue skies, balmy days and crystal-clear waters, offering the perfect winter escape.
Thankfully, sun-seekers are spoiled with choices for a pre- or post-holiday season break; for most, it’s only a matter of looking south. Idyllic islands in the Caribbean, cultured-city visits in Morocco, or tropical sojourns in Southeast Asia are all excellent destinations for sunny, festive fun.
Whether you’re seeking serenity on a secluded sun-kissed bay, active adventures along a tree-shaded trail or hoping to glimpse migratory marine life on your winter travels, these warm vacation spots in December offer an unforgettable end-of-year escape.
Cozumel, Mexico

Playa Mia in Cozumel, Mexico
Mexico’s reputation for winter sun is undisputed, and the island of Cozumel, just a shop hop from the Yucatán Peninsula, is one of the country’s best warm vacation spots in December, with day-time temperatures hovering around 82℉ (28℃).

Cozumel National Marine Park, Mexico
Among the best scuba diving spots in the Caribbean, Cozumel dazzles as much underwater as above. At the Cozumel National Marine Park, a 30,000-acre reserve, divers can descend into the clear waters to spot some of the thousands of species that call the Mesoamerican Reef, which is the world’s second-largest coral reef system, home.

Punta Sur Eco Park in Cozumel, Mexico
If you prefer your nature experience on land, one of the best things to do in Cozumel is to visit the Punta Sur Eco Park. This vast, scenic nature reserve is blessed with diverse fauna and flora.
Turquoise waters lap against soft-white sands, endemic birds flit in the skies as bright as the lagoons below, and a towering lighthouse offers enchanting panoramas.
Aruba

Aruba
The Caribbean has no shortage of warm places to visit in December. Still, Aruba, basking in year-round sunshine, is undoubtedly one of the best.
Aruba is famed for its pristine, coral-white beaches, and lazy beach days are a staple of any visit to the island.

Eagle Beach, Aruba
From the watersport-heavy shores of some of Aruba’s best beaches, Eagle and Palm Beach, to the more secluded mangrove-shrouded sands of Mangel Halt or De Palm Island, the island’s 42 miles of coastline are diverse and divine.

Conchi in Arikok National Park, Aruba
But Aruba isn’t only about bath-like waters. Adventure-seekers should head to Arikok National Park, a protected, almost desert-like landscape. Here, caves adorned with historic artworks and cacti-strewn terrain lead to the roaring waves of Conchi, a natural pool perfect for a refreshing dip.

Oranjestad, Aruba
In Oranjestad, the island’s capital, local artisans, upscale boutiques, and an array of first-class dining options await.
And if Aruba’s appeal isn’t enough for you, the other two ABC Islands—Bonaire and Curaçao—are equally delightful in December, making an island-hopping tour of the trio highly tempting.
Read: Best Babymoon Destinations in Winter
Jamaica

Beach in Jamaica
World-famous music culture, a cerulean coastline, and some of the Caribbean’s tastiest cuisine collide in Jamaica, cementing the island as one of the best warm vacation spots in December for any kind of traveler.
Along the shore, sublime beaches such as Turtle Beach in Ocho Rios and Seven Mile Beach in Negril dazzle, while boat trips allow for a more intimate experience.

Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica
Other unmissable places to visit in Jamaica are the waterfalls at Reach or Dunn’s River Falls, rafting along the Rio Grande, or hiking in the Blue Mountains.
In the urban areas, culture takes center stage. Fans of reggae and Bob Marley in particular should plan a visit to both Trench Town & Culture Yard Museum, Marley’s former home-turned-cultural space, and the dedicated Bob Marley Museum.
Around Montego Bay, tour some of the stately old Great Houses; Rose Hall, said to be haunted, is one of the grandest.
The Canary Islands, Spain

Maspalomas Beach in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Europe might not seem an obvious choice for a winter sun escape, but the Canary Islands, which are closer to Morocco than Spain, are one of the best warm places to visit in December. You’ll be able to enjoy traditional European Christmas Markets during a December visit, albeit with a sun-kissed twist.
Canary Island beach highlights include Gran Canaria’s seemingly never-ending Maspalomas Beach and Lanzarote’s Playa del Carmen, where beach bars and streaks of dark volcanic sands sit side-by-side.

Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
To explore this autonomous Spanish community more actively, head to the Tilos de Moya reserve on Gran Canaria, where easy trails lead to an imposing canyon. On Lanzarote, Timanfaya National Park is a starkly beautiful place where you can learn more about the island’s constant volcanic activity.

La Geria Valley in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
After experiencing the natural side of Lanzarote, embrace the chance to slow down and sample local flavors at one of La Geria Valley’s vineyards. Dark sands and mineral-heavy soils contribute to a unique terroir, and this is your chance to sample the wines produced from the native Marmajuelo grapes.
Antigua

Beach in Antigua
Antigua, the largest isle of this three-island Caribbean nation, is one of the most tempting places to visit in December due to its scintillating shorelines.
Famed for its 365 beaches, one for every day of the year—although a recent artificial addition has bumped the number to a leap-year aligning 366—there is no shortage of places to bask in glorious sunshine.

Galleon Beach, Antigua
From the serene sands of Galleon Beach, where snorkelers might spot turtles, to the more developed Dickenson Bay, you’re never far from inviting waters. Likewise, fresh Caribbean seafood is abundant—add a sprinkle of Susie’s Hot Sauce and a sampling of local rum for an authentic Antiguan experience.

Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua
Cultural attractions include the UNESCO-listed Nelson’s Dockyard, a former British naval base, and the impressive Fort James, which once served as St. John’s harbor primary protection.
Last, no visit to Antigua is complete without venturing to the Shirley Heights Lookout. A far-reaching postcard-style panorama astounds from this elevated position, with turquoise bays, bobbing boats, and low-slung verdant hills spilling out into the Caribbean sea beyond.
Read: Best Things to Do in Antigua
Key West, Florida

Higgs Beach in Key West, Florida
While winter has firmly cemented itself in the northern states by the last month of the year, Florida is still basking in sunshine. That’s why Key West—an island on the tip of the Florida Keys—is one of North America’s best warm places to visit in December.
A semi-tropical climate and mild temperatures define this colorful and creative destination, which has been called home by the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams. You’ll find museums dedicated to both writers in their former homes.

Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Florida
Downtown, atmospheric Duval Street is the island’s central hub, with eclectic bars, brimming boutiques and local artists’ galleries.
After souvenir shopping, head to Higgs Beach to soak up the winter sun during your day in Key West before snapping a selfie at the southernmost point of the continental United States, marked by a giant buoy.
St. Lucia

Reduit Beach, St. Lucia
St. Lucia is a sun-seeker’s paradise in December, offering myriad activities and landscapes to enjoy without the summer humidity.
Whether you want to embark on some of the Caribbean’s best hikes, sample Creole cuisine and local rums, or lounge on idyllic sands such as Reduit Beach, this pocket-sized island packs in plenty.
However, some of the best things to do in St. Lucia are discovered away from the shoreline. At the Sulphur Springs near Soufrière, you can relax in a mineral-rich mud bath set inside a dormant volcanic crater, wrapping up with a soothing waterfall shower.

Pitons, St. Lucia
To the south, the landmark Pitons, two dormant volcanic plugs, Petit Piton and Gros Piton soar, peaking at 2,588 feet. For those who tackle a guided ascent, the panoramic views are just a reward for the challenging climb.
December also brings its own magic with the Festival of Lights. This week-long cultural event sees lanterns illuminating doorways, ending with the National Day celebrations on December 13th. It’s also an excellent time to visit St. Lucia for glimpses of migrating humpback and pilot whales.
Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
With no monsoons (unlike some other Southeast Asian countries at this time of year), Vietnam boasts some of Asia’s most consistently dry and warm vacation spots in December.

Temple of Literature in Hanoi, Vietnam
In the capital, Hanoi, the generally rain-free days are ideal for appreciating the architecture in the French and Old Quarters, strolling around Truc Bach or Hoan Kiem Lake or touring some of the city’s thousand-plus temples and pagodas.
From here, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay is only a short journey. Here, traditional junk boats or kayak tours will take you around the cinematic limestone islands that Vietnam is known for.

Golden Bridge in Da Nang, Vietnam
In the central region—anchored around Hue and Danang—attractions spill out from the countryside to the coast. The Golden Bridge, a suspended pedestrian walkway supported by a giant “hand” structure, offers breathtaking views of the Ba Na Hills. Nearby, Hoi An, arguably Vietnam’s prettiest town, is renowned for its canals, markets, and rainbows of lanterns.
Further south, you’ll find the hottest December days in the non-stop city of Ho Chi Minh. Cultural and historic spaces like the War Remnants Museum and Independence Palace provide respite from the midday heat.
British Virgin Islands

Cane Garden Bay in Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Known as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands is an excellent warm vacation spot in December to get out on the water, especially as this month signals the start of peak sailing season.
Try adjusting the ropes yourself onboard with a professional instructor, or sit back and admire the experts and flotillas while sipping a Painkiller cocktail, a creamy mix of coconut and Caribbean rum.

White Bay Beach in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Beaches are also one of the BVI’s best assets, and you don’t need to venture far to enjoy some of the Caribbean’s finest sands. On Tortola, head for Cane Garden Bay to be lulled by a lapping-wave lullaby. The white-sand beaches of lush Jost Van Dyke island also deserve a dedicated day trip.

The Baths at Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
On Virgin Gorda, meanwhile, The Baths is a playground of giant granite boulders concealing shallow pools, caves, and turquoise lagoons.
While the BVI has a unique event to celebrate Christmas in July, they still reserve much of their festive cheer for December, meaning you’ll find a few Christmas Markets and celebrations taking place.
Morocco

Casablanca, Morocco
Morocco swelters in the summer, making winter a far more appealing time for sightseeing. In December, daytime temperatures hover around a pleasant 72℉ (22℃), offering the perfect climate to experience the cultured coastal cities of Casablanca and Tangier.
As the largest city in the country, Casablanca offers plenty. In the medina (the city’s old town), you can get lost among narrow streets, local craft stores, and hospitable cafes selling sweet mint tea before strolling the fashionable Corniche waterfront promenade.

Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco
Visiting its architectural wonders is one of the best things to do in Casablanca. These include the modern yet mesmerizing Hassan II Mosque, which claims the second-highest minaret in the world, and the strikingly white Casablanca Cathedral.
In Tangier, the labyrinth-like medina is equally as beguiling, with the city’s souk abuzz with trade and activity. For a slightly more serene experience, take it all in from afar at the Kasbah, an 18th-century hilltop fortress.

Chefchaouen, Morocco
Alternatively, head inland towards the Rif Mountains, calling in at the town of Chefchaouen, characterized by its houses painted in multiple hues of blue.
Still, with Morocco being one of the best warm places to visit in December, you’ll likely want to enjoy some downtime along the coast, too. Inviting Achakar Beach, where the Strait of Gibraltar begins, is just a short drive from Tangier. On the Atlantic-facing side, Plage Aïn Diab—part of Casablanca’s Corniche—blends urban living with a surf-friendly swell.
Read: What Is Morocco Known For?
The Bahamas

Atlantis in Nassau, Bahamas
December is the start of the dry season in the Bahamas, making it one of the best times to enjoy this 700-island-strong archipelago’s natural treasures.
But you don’t need to tour countless islands to be charmed; many of the best experiences are right on the doorstep of the capital city, Nassau. Walk among salmon-pink flamingos at Ardastra Gardens, hop on a bike tour of the historic downtown area, or simply sink into the soft sands of Cable Beach.

Blue Lagoon Island, Bahamas
For an even more exclusive beach experience, slip away to Salt Cay (known as the Blue Lagoon), a private island just a stone’s throw from Nassau. On this retreat, you can go snorkeling among colorful coral reefs, sunbathe in serenity, or read under the shade of a coconut tree.
Alongside the expected Christmas cheer that comes with visiting The Bahamas during December, preparations for the kaleidoscopic cultural celebration of Junkanoo, a national festival hosted between Christmas and New Year’s Day, make the atmosphere even more festive.
The Galapagos Islands

Española Island, Galapagos
December marks the start of The Galapagos‘ warm (and wetter) season. Showers are sporadic, and the humidity is still rising, making it an excellent time to island-hop across this pristine and protected volcanic archipelago.

Snorkeling in the Galapagos
The start of the season also delivers plenty more highlights, with warmer waters and calmer currents increasing visibility ideal for diving and snorkeling in the Galapagos. It’s also the last chance of the year to spot newly-hatched waved albatrosses on Española Island, as the chicks will have fledged by the end of the month.
Whether you’re admiring flamingos from the coral sands of Las Bachas Beach, spotting lava lizards on Rabida Island, or marveling at the Galapagos’ giant tortoises on Santa Cruz, this cluster of otherworldly island’s promises wildlife galore.
New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand
With summer officially starting, effortlessly enchanting New Zealand is one of the most tempting warm countries in December to visit.
The two main islands of this southern hemisphere beauty boast a little of everything and with December’s average highs of 75°F, or 23°C, this is the perfect month to tour top-to-toe whether you’re seeking sightseeing, city life, or outlandishly impressive scenery.
For the warmest temperature, make a beeline to the Bay of Islands. With a subtropical climate, this clutch of nearly 150 isles is a paradise of sparkling water and soft, sandy coves sheltered by verdant outcrops.

Napier, New Zealand
December is also an excellent time to explore the country’s three largest cities: Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington, New Zealand’s cute-as-a-button capital. With a festive atmosphere from the fast-approaching holidays, now’s the time to soak it all in with some of the best seafood of your life on al fresco coastal terraces.
Yet year-round, New Zealand’s most beautiful landscapes and untouched wildlife shine brightest. A special seasonal highlight is Cape Kidnappers, a sandstone headland near Napier, home to the world’s largest gannet colony. December falls within the nesting period and seeing the chicks hatch throughout the month is magical.
Grand Cayman

Snorkeling in Grand Cayman
Gorgeous, tropical, and idyllically laid-back, Grand Cayman is one of the most soothing warm places to visit in December. Add in the bubbling festive atmosphere of this British Overseas Territory and it’s a compelling time to visit the largest of the Cayman Islands.
With delightfully warm, dry days and low humidity, December firmly spotlights the coastline and aquatic adventures.

Stingray City, near Grand Cayman
World-class snorkeling and scuba diving with excellent visibility spans wrecks, reefs, and colorful coral gardens. Stingray City’s shallow sandbars teem with their namesake rays, providing a unique and up-close marine life experience. And if you’d prefer to catch sun rays rather than swim with them, sweeping Seven Mile Beach and its crystal-clear waters offers it all, from festive bars and first-class seafood restaurants to jet ski adventures.
Bali, Indonesia

Nusa Dua in Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia’s most magical island, Bali, is one of the most popular warm places to visit in December—especially with Australians and Kiwis heading away for summer holidays.
Characterized by warm and humid weather, December is also the beginning of Bali’s rainy season. However, don’t let the sporadic tropical showers put you off—downpours are often brief and help to reduce humidity and restore the island’s lush jungle and world-famous rice paddies to their leafy green best.
Starting any December day on a Balinese beach is a good idea, as mornings are usually rain-free. Whether you’d prefer surfing or sunbathing on Nusa’ Dua’s silky soft sands or the lively buzz of Kuta Beach, Bali has the perfect spot for all.

Sacred Monkey Forest in Bali, Indonesia
After a delicious lunch of nasi campur, or mixed rice, in a traditional, family-run warung, head inland to explore Bali’s spiritual side. Ubud, the island’s cultural capital, is home to the infamous Sacred Monkey Forest, myriad temples, and some of Bali’s most famed rice terraces, irrigated by the ninth century Subak system, listed by UNESCO.
With rainforest walks, waterfalls to cool down in, and the possibility to partake in Melukat, a Balinese Hindu water purification ritual at Pura Tirta Empul temple, even if there is a spot of rain, water is very much the running theme of Bali’s unapologetically green interior.
Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina’s capital city is passionate and pumps with life year-round. Yet in early December, with summer’s arrival and Christmas celebrations on the horizon, it feels even more alive.
Plaza de Mayo, the iconic central square of Buenos Aires, is embellished with a towering, sun-warmed Christmas tree. Atmospheric Avenida Corrientes is decked out with seasonal decorations, and weekly markets like Mataderos Fair and the Feria de San Telmo take on another level of gift-shopping purpose.
Special mention goes to the historical San Telmo neighborhood, where the rhythm of tango drifts through the streets in impromptu performances. With the start-of-summer buzz and the lead-up to International Tango Day on December 11, it’s an enjoyable time to soak up the energy.
Dominica

Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica
Unlike many of its Caribbean neighbors, Dominica’s draw is wild scenes rather than white sands, making it one of the most irresistible warm countries in December for those seeking sunny adventures.
December in Dominica is especially magnetic as it’s the first month of the dry season. Warm temperatures and blue skies abound, yet dramatic waterfalls like the twin-cascading Trafalgar Falls are in full flow, the rainforest at its greenest after the November rains.
Make the most of the fine weather by tackling the Emerald Pool Nature Trail or circling the Boiling Lake, a formidable bubbling fumarole, in Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

River tubing in Dominica
December’s drier days are also ideal for more adrenaline-pumping activities, such as canyoning in moss-clad Titou Gorge December or river tubing from Hibiscus Eco-Village.
Prefer to sit back and enjoy nature? Embark on a whale-watching boat trip. Dominica is one of the few countries with a high probability of seeing sperm whales year-round as it has a resident population. Chances increase in December as the breeding season begins, and the exciting possibility of seeing migrating humpbacks is also on the cards.
Read: Best Things to Do in Dominica
Thailand

Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand’s swoon-worthy islands, palm-shaded shorelines, and buzzing cities are some of Southeast Asia’s best warm places to visit in December.
Unlike some other countries on the continent that are experiencing monsoon seasons, Thailand’s dry season is well underway. With rainfall unlikely and pleasant temperatures of around 78°F, or 26°C, now’s the perfect time to both sightsee and sunbathe.
Exploring Bangkok, Thailand’s pulsating capital city, is a delight now that humidity has reduced. Hop on a tuk-tuk to enjoy a refreshing breeze as you whiz between the iconic, ceramic tile-clad Wat Arun temple and the dazzling golden stupas and palatial buildings across The Grand Palace complex.
Yet, for all Bangkok’s bustling pizzazz, no visit to Thailand is complete without sinking into the soft white sands of the southern islands.

Ang Thong National Marine Park in Koh Samui, Thailand
Whether you choose to lounge in the coves of the Phi Phi Islands, rising like emeralds from the cyan sea or to snorkel in the crystal-clear water of Koh Samui’s Ang Thong National Marine Park, Thailand’s shorelines never disappoint.
Puerto Rico

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
With daytime December temperatures mainly in the 80s, Puerto Rico is a perfect end-of-year northern hemisphere getaway, no matter what type of vacation you crave.
If you’re after a cultural, pre-holiday season break, Old San Juan won’t disappoint. Bathed in sunshine and seasonal festivities—including parades, craft markets, and amusement parks—the cobbled streets, weathered 16th-century forts like El Morro, and leafy plazas buzz.
Prefer an active afternoon? Venture to El Yunque National Forest to hike rainforest trails, pausing for refreshing dips in natural pools fed by waterfalls. Or simply snuggle onto Isla Verde’s golden El Alambique Beach and take it slow.
Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia
Few warm places to visit in December are finer than Sydney. Australia’s iconic coastal city is arguably at its atmospheric best this month as summer starts, blue skies rule supreme, and the festive spirit builds.
If you hail from the northern hemisphere, there’s also a novelty to wandering The Rocks—Sydney’s historic, cobbled neighborhood that wouldn’t look out of place in Europe—shopping for seasonal souvenirs at a sun-kissed Christmas Market.
Indeed, this is a city where life is designed to be lived outdoors. From admiring the legendary Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge with a fresh seafood lunch to roaming the Royal Botanic Gardens, many of Sydney’s best attractions are al fresco.

Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia
To make the most of the sunny but not scorching summer days—average temperatures hover at 72°F, or 22°C—squeeze in a little time on one of Australia’s famed beaches. Hop on the ferry to Manly, take a surf lesson on world-famous Bondi Beach, or walk the coastal trail to Coogee to appreciate the full Aussie summer experience.
St. Maarten

St. Maarten
For sensationally bright white beaches and endless blue skies, look no further than St. Maarten, one or technically two of the best warm places to visit in December.
This southern Caribbean island is unique in that it’s shared by two countries: the north is French, while the south part falls within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This creates a rather distinctive festive atmosphere leading up to the holidays.
December marks the start of St. Maarten’s peak vacation season, with lower humidity, less precipitation, and tempting temperatures hitting 85°F, or 29°C. Lazy days on gorgeous beaches are a must.
Be it lounging on the white sands of Grand Case Beach with a guavaberry colada—a local cocktail made with the tart, sweet Guava liqueur—or finding the perfect sunbathing spot along Great Bay Beach’s two miles of cyan-lapped shoreline, the beach is always calling.
Barbados

Bathsheba Beach, Barbados
Barbados, the easternmost island of the Caribbean, is one of the most pleasantly warm countries in December. Land temperatures have dropped slightly from their wet, humid summer highs—you can still expect some days to hit 85°F, or 29°C—making a full beach day much more appealing.
Lay your towel in front of Bathsheba Beach’s striking rock formations or along Carlisle Bay Beach’s more typically Caribbean white sands and relax. Barbados is true beach perfection.
Still, there are plenty of things to do in Barbados to tempt even the most ardent beachgoers away from the shorelines. Dive into the history of the capital, Bridgetown, before purchasing Bajan art Christmas gifts at the Pelican Craft Village Market. Take a guided tour under the impressive stalactites of limestone Harrison’s Cave. And end it all with a quintessentially Barbadian festive toast at Mount Gay Rum Distillery, following an informative tour.
Singapore

Singapore
December is one of the “coolest” months in Singapore, which makes it so appealing for sightseeing. Even though the rainy season usually starts mid-late December, the first few weeks are generally dry, with temperatures around 78°F, or 26°C.
These agreeable temperatures are ideal for soaking up Sentosa Island’s palm-shaded beaches, sightseeing Chinatown’s temples, and walking the boardwalk around Marina Bay, the iconic, Marina Bay Sands hotel soaring above.

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Just behind are the astonishing Gardens by the Bay, combining beds of blooms with towering “Supertree” structures and giant greenhouses complete with a tumbling cascade and exotic species. Visit in December and you’ll see the gardens at their most magical, with festive lights, decorations, and even an unexpected tropical ice skating rink.
Food is another of Singapore’s greatest joys, with local cuisine best tasted at one of the city’s many food markets, known as hawker centers.
Sample some of the excellent stands at Victorian-style Lau Pa Sat Market; Nasi Lemak Ayam Taliwang here even gets a nod in the Michelin guide. Or savor a tangy Singapore chili crab and you’ll soon realize that even if there is a short rain shower, it’s the perfect excuse for another snack.
Belize

Crystal Caves, Belize
There’s no shortage of warm countries to visit in December, but for snorkelers and scuba divers, a winter vacation to Belize is hard to beat.
With temperatures averaging 78°F, or 26°C, and the dry season not disturbing the nation’s bath-like waters, the Belize Barrier Reef—the world’s second-largest coral reef system—begs to be explored.
For the ultimate adventure in Belize, dive into the deep blue and cyan-surrounded shallows of Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where you’ll encounter every color of the rainbow.

Stingrays in Belize
Dramatic drop-offs and pristine corals harbor one of our planet’s most dazzling ecosystems, and it’s more a question of when, rather than if, you’ll spot turtles, rays, reef sharks, and shoals of flashy fish.
On land, Belize is equally breathtaking, from sunbathing on the soft sands of teeny Caye Caulker and tubing through the Crystal Caves, named for its “frozen waterfalls”, to marveling at jungle-shrouded Mayan ruins.
Langkawi and Penang, Malaysia

Pantai Cenang in Langkawi, Malaysia
While December is the wet season on Malaysia’s east coast, the west’s showers have been and gone, making the western isles of Langkawi and Penang two of the most appealing warm places to visit in December.
Both islands share common traits—blissfully blue skies, warm temperatures, and a welcome slight breeze—but the pair have distinct personalities, creating an ideal twin-island escape.
Langkawi, the largest island of its 99-strong namesake archipelago, is a tropical temptation.
Postcard-perfect white sand beaches, such as Pantai Cenang, are flanked by gentle azure-sparkling waters and arching coconut palms. The rainforest-coated mountain views are equally astounding and best appreciated without breaking a sweat on the SkyCab Cable Car.

George Town in Penang, Malaysia
Slightly south, Penang—connected to the mainland by a bridge—is more about urban exploration. The island’s cosmopolitan capital, George Town, has established itself as one of Southeast Asia’s best destinations for street art and street food, with a colorful mural or delicious morsel on practically every corner.
Not that Penang lacks lush scenes or spirituality. Ride the funicular to the top of Penang Hill, and the sweeping panorama of the island and Malacca Strait will leave you spellbound. Once back down, don’t miss Kek Lok Si, one of Malaysia’s most impressive Buddhist temple complexes.
St. Kitts

Mount Liamuiga, St. Kitts
With the Caribbean’s storm season firmly in the rearview mirror, St. Kitts, the larger island of St. Kitts and Nevis—one of the most eye-pleasing warm countries in December—is a delight.
With anticipation building for both Christmas and Sugar Mas—St. Kitt’s mega carnival that begins in mid-December—the island’s energy is addictive.
Spend a little time exploring Basseterre, the compact, colorful capital, and you’ll leave with the call of calypso playing in your mind for weeks to come.
Still, the island’s spectacular scenery also demands a sojourn. Whether you’re taking it easy paddling in the turquoise shallows of powdery South Friars Beach or hiking to Mount Liamuiga’s dormant stratovolcano rim, it’s impossible not to fall for St. Kitts’ charisma.

Grand Cayman
Are you eager to escape the winter chill and embark on a warm end-of-year escape? Browse Celebrity’s December cruises to start planning your next idyllic getaway.