From the Bahamas to Sri Lanka, there is a wide choice of the best winter vacations for couples. The Caribbean offers perfect winter weather, from tiny Aruba to thrilling Jamaica.
The Mediterranean, while not as hot, still has exciting cities to see without the summer crowds. Athens, Rome, and Barcelona all have their individual winter charms for a romantic getaway.
In the Southern Hemisphere, these months are summertime. That brings even better weather to places such as New Zealand and the Galapagos Islands.
Cozumel, Mexico
Playa Mia in Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel averages temperatures around 73 to 82°F in winter, with low humidity. December through February also sees the clearest water conditions for diving or snorkeling around the island’s colorful coral reefs.
This peak season brings a real buzz to San Miguel de Cozumel, the island’s main town. The local restaurants, shops, and markets are at their best without the intense summer heat.
Just south of San Miguel are the lovely white sands of Playa Mia Grand Beach Resort. At Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, you can look for exotic birds, sea turtles, crocodiles, and the scenic Celarain Lighthouse.
Escape to the much quieter eastern side of the island for romantic beach walks. Steady trade winds make this a good time for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Aruba
Aruba
Aruba enjoys near-perfect weather in winter, with temperatures averaging 81-84°F. Cool trade winds and low humidity add even more appeal for any couple looking for a romantic winter getaway.
Aruba is known for two picturesque beaches. Eagle Beach is where you’ll find the much-photographed, wind-blown fofoti trees, while Palm Beach enjoys an even more tropical look. Both offer idyllic white sand and clear turquoise water, perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Arikok National Park, Aruba
If you are feeling more active, you can explore the desert landscapes of Arikok National Park. Diving the Antilla shipwreck or among the coral reefs is also popular.
In Oranjestad, the capital, you’ll find excellent shopping, restaurants, and bars. Carnival celebrations typically begin in January, bringing a festive feel to the island.
Read: Best Things to Do in Aruba for Couples
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
December to February is the warm season in the Galapagos, with temperatures around 77-86°F. Calm, warm seas are ideal for couples who enjoy snorkeling and swimming together.
The clear waters, which average about 75°F, are also at their best for spotting marine life. Swimming among sea turtles and sea lions is an experience neither of you will forget.
The courtship rituals of blue-footed boobies or frigate birds are another delight for any couple to watch. This is the breeding season for many Galapagos bird species, as well as green sea turtles.
St. Kitts
Mount Liamuiga, St. Kitts
Tiny St. Kitts is a romantic escape for couples at any time of the year, but winter brings even more appeal. Temperatures average 77-82°F with low humidity, perfect for days on the beach.
Hiking in the rainforested interior is also more pleasant with low rainfall and gentle trade winds. It’s also an ideal time to climb to the impressive Brimstone Hill Fortress, or hike Mount Liamuiga.
St. Kitts Scenic Railway
Clear days mean even better views on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. Visitors also enjoy visiting the island’s former sugar plantations, now elegant resorts, and restaurants.
But eventually, you will come back to a tropical cocktail on a popular St. Kitts beach like Frigate Bay. Only three miles from Basseterre, the capital, it is a picturesque stretch of sand along the Atlantic coast.
Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman is idyllic year-round, with winter bringing temperatures around 75-80°F. The island’s famously clear Caribbean waters are always ideal for diving and swimming.
Seven Mile Beach is the perfect spot for couples to walk together on powdery white sand. One of the Grand Cayman’s best beaches, it’s long enough that you can always find a quiet spot.
At Stingray City, you can stand in shallow waters while gentle stingrays glide around you. It’s an unforgettable shared experience.
A tour of the Crystal Caves takes couples underground to explore amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations. Another treat is a shared cooking class to discover more of the island’s noted cuisine.
Jamaica
Jamaica
Jamaica is among the best winter vacations for couples, with perfect temperatures and beautiful beaches. The famous sands of Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.
This is also a lovely time of year for you both to experience Jamaica’s best sights such as Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios. Take a tube or raft trip down the White River for another unforgettable adventure.
The Blue Hole, in the hills above Ocho Rios, is a secluded paradise with waterfalls and rope swings. Less commercialized than other attractions, it is a great place for some fun time together.
Sri Lanka
Colombo, Sri Lanka
December through February is the dry season in the central and southern zones of Sri Lanka. This makes places such as Colombo and Hambantota great couples’ destinations in winter.
Colombo is a chaotic, fascinating capital city, best explored on a guided tour. You’ll see sights such as the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple and the shopping areas around the Old Dutch Hospital.
A day trip to climb Sigiriya Rock is a must-do if you have time. The view from this historic, 590-ft “Lion Rock” is well worth the effort.
Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Hambantota is a base for exploring Yala National Park, famous for its elephants, and the Bundala wetlands. Sri Lanka’s wildlife is particularly active during these dry months.
The warm waters around Hambantota are perfect for swimming and whale watching. Both blue whales and sperm whales migrate through here in winter.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Old Quarter in Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam can be stiflingly hot in summer, so December through January is an excellent time to visit. With mild temperatures around 59-68°F, you can both enjoy exploring everything this historic city has to offer.
The narrow lanes and historic architecture of the Old Quarter should be the first stop. Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake or find one of the many cafés to enjoy some people watching.
Hanoi’s food scene is thriving, with plenty of restaurants less busy than in summer. Why not take a cookery lesson together for more shared memories of Vietnamese cuisine?
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Even more romantic is beautiful Ha Long Bay, an easy day trip from Hanoi. Sail on a junk through the many limestone islands set like jewels in a turquoise sea.
Athens, Greece
Acropolis in Athens, Greece
An off-season city break in Europe can be one of the most romantic winter getaways. In the low season, Athens is sunny, but temperatures drop to an average of 45-59°F. That’s a welcome relief to anyone wanting to visit this ancient city without its sweltering summer heat.
Along with the lower temperatures come lower visitor numbers. Without the crowds, the Acropolis and other famous archaeological sites are much easier to see and photograph.
Plaka in Athens, Greece
This is a good time to explore Athenian neighborhoods such as Plaka or enjoy local life even further afield. With outdoor terraces closing down, eating together inside is a more intimate, romantic experience.
Christmas and New Year celebrations enliven this time of year. One lovely local custom is traditional New Year good luck charms—you’ll find them for sale in gift stores and museum shops.
Read: Greece in Winter: Things to Do, Weather, & What to Expect
Rome, Italy
Colosseum in Rome, Italy
Winter in Rome brings occasional rain and crisp, sunny days. With plenty to see indoors, not to mention eat, it’s a lovely time to enjoy one of the world’s most romantic getaways without the crowds.
Temperatures will range from 39-55°F, ideal for cozy dining with a loved one in a romantic trattoria. Shopping streets such as Via del Corso and Via Margutta are even more photogenic with their seasonal lighting.
Vatican, Italy
November through February is the best time to visit the Borghese Gallery, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel. They won’t be empty, but you’ll have much more space to see them.
At Roman landmarks such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum, you can transport yourself back 2,000 years in time with fewer distractions. Couples will also enjoy magical moments at the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain.
Puerto Rico
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Any couple will enjoy the many attractions of Puerto Rico, from the wonderful beaches to the amazing food. In winter, temperatures are typically 77-82°F, with humidity much lower than the summer months.
This is a good season to wander the streets of Old San Juan together. You’ll see colorful colonial buildings and fortifications such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro.
Isla Verde, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rican beaches such as Condado, Isla Verde, and Luquillo have ideal conditions now. The north coast has calm waters, while the northwest sees some of its best surf.
El Yunque National Forest has comfortable hiking temperatures and fewer mosquitoes than other times of year. Viewing conditions at the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay in Vieques are also at their best.
Barcelona, Spain
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, with its mild Mediterranean winters, is a great city during winter. The beaches are empty, the crowds are gone, and the city comes into its own.
The Gothic Quarter, with its narrow medieval streets and cozy tapas bars, is made for strolling around. Montjuïc Hill or the Port Vell waterfront are also perfect for romantic walks.
Gaudí’s masterpieces, such as Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, are easier to appreciate without the summer crowds. And La Boqueria market adds the smell of roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate with churros to its shopping appeal.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife is the perfect escape from cold European winters. Its black sand and golden beaches are still warm enough for sunbathing, although water temperatures might call for a wetsuit.
Winter might bring snow to the peak of Mount Teide, but Teide National Park is still great for hiking at lower altitudes. The clear skies make the park a notable winter destination for stargazing.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital, offers outdoor dining and interesting seasonal shopping. Although it’s peak season, there are big crowds only around the spectacular Santa Cruz Carnival in February.
Read: Things to Do in Tenerife
South Island, New Zealand
Milford Sound in South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is an exceptional destination from December to February. This is the southern summer, with long daylight hours and temperatures hitting the high 70s.
That’s perfect weather for outdoor activities such as hiking or cruising around Milford Sound. Do expect some rain, however, as this is one of the wettest places in New Zealand.
Marlborough Sounds, in the north, is a playground for kayaking, boating, and hiking. The Southern Alps, running the length of the island, is an adventure destination for mountaineers and other thrill-seekers.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is a pretty city, with its beautiful botanic gardens in full bloom and outdoor cafes busy with visitors. Dunedin is the place for bird lovers, with its nearby royal albatross and penguin colonies.
The Bahamas
CocoCay, The Bahamas
From December through February, The Bahamas sees temperatures around 70-75°F and low rainfall. These perfect conditions for beach activities make it an ideal winter destination for couples.
Bimini, famous for beaches such as Honeymoon Harbor, is a paradise for any couple. There is excellent underwater visibility for snorkeling and diving.
CocoCay is a private island, particularly enjoyable in winter with its more comfortable temperatures. Enjoy the water park, zip lines, and many beach activities.
Atlantis, The Bahamas
Nassau, the capital on New Providence Island, mixes colonial charm with the appeal of modern resorts such as Atlantis. You’ll find shopping and cultural attractions with none of the intense heat of summer.
The winter months bring perfect conditions for island hopping. The Christmas and New Year period also sees colorful Junkanoo celebrations throughout the islands.
The Bahamas
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