Booking a beach trip during the winter months may sound absurd. Surprisingly, choosing a warm or hot beach could be the best travel decision you will ever make. Visiting beaches in winter, during the cold season can help you explore the best parts at a friendly cost and at your pace, without the rush that comes with peak-season and summer crowds.
Deciding on the top beaches to explore and escape the taunting cold days isn’t always easy. That is why we at Heymondo have compiled the perfect checklist of the top and warmest coastlines around the globe in winter.
If you love our checklist and plan a winter beach getaway, consider purchasing travel insurance. Even though it isn’t a legal requirement, it covers you from uncontrollable events before, during, and after your trip.
What beaches are hot during winter?
Want to spend time participating in beach activities during the winter months? We have prepared a list of the top destinations to swap snow for some blue waters and sandy beaches. Read on to discover our top ten selection of beaches to visit in winter, where temperatures never go below 50°F or 10°C despite the prevailing winter conditions.
La Jolla Beach, Southern California
Spend time in La Jolla Beach, one of the terrific coastlines in the South of California. Generally, the weather here is pleasant all year round, making the beach a perfect spot to eliminate the winter shivers. La Jolla beach temperatures range from 66 to 72°F. The best activity here is to visit La Jolla Cove, where you can experience wildlife in its natural habitat. Seals usually spread out and get their much-needed sunbathe on the rocks; it’s such a spectacular view! You can also walk around the cove and dive into the water with high temperatures. Even though wildlife watching is fun, ensure you don’t interfere with the animals by disturbing them. Other activities you can engage in around La Jolla Beach include shopping and exquisite dining.
Photo by Ameer Basheer on Unsplash.
Pink Sands Beach, The Bahamas
If you want to witness one of the world’s pink sand beaches, head to Pink Sands Beach in the Bahamas. The outstanding pale pink color on the sand results from Foraminifera, which are microscopic coral reef organisms. These insects have lively red or pink shells with extended footings they use to attach themselves and feed. The temperatures here average 70-75°F, and the beach is famous for its calm tides and natural beauty. If you visit Pink Sands Beach, the shallow water and spectacular coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. You can also rent a beautiful beach resort, which is usually quite affordable as the number of visitors is low during winter.
Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos, a warm winter refuge
Grace Bay Beach lies in Turks and Caicos, on Providenciales Island’s north shore. The beach experiences excellent weather from January to December, with an average temperature of 80°F. Winter months are the perfect time to visit when the crowds are minimal. This Caribbean beach has over 3 miles of white sand, which exudes natural and luxurious vibes. You will experience calm and shallow waters that are perfect for swimming. The most outstanding thing about Grace Bay Beach is the existence of a huge barrier reef that safeguards it from Atlantic Ocean waves. You can, therefore, explore different water sports without worrying about violent storm conditions during the winter.
Photo by Jennifer Ranicki on Unsplash.
Syracuse, Sicily, Italy
Italy is always a top tourist destination; during the winter, traveling to the warm southern side is an excellent option. Syracuse Beach lies on the Coast of the Syracuse Province, the most stunning Coastline in Sicily. The Coastline is famous for its white and natural bays with breathtaking landscapes. Syracuse is one of the coziest places on the Sicily Coastline. Captivating historical buildings surround. The area also boasts clean water and sandy beaches. The weather is pleasant, with sunny days and temperatures of over 16°C or 61°F all through the winter.
Elafonisi Beach in Greece, enjoy the winter sun on the beach
The Elafonisi Beach on the southwest coast of Crete, Greece, was always a hidden gem until 2014 when it was included on the list of the world’s top coasts. This breathtaking sandy beach is a destination for thousands of tourists looking for fun water sports and sunny coasts. When visiting the beach, consider snorkeling in the warm waters; if you are lucky, you may spot some rare loggerhead sea turtles. Elafonisi’s weather is usually slightly cool and windy, with temperatures ranging from 57 to 62°F. The water is warmer than the surrounding temperature so you can sneak in a cosy swimming session. Other exciting activities at Elafonisi Beach include taking a winter boat tour around the Elafonissi Lagoon and hiking the Elafonissi Nature Reserve.
Photo by Dimitris Kiriaka on Unsplash.
Key Largo, Florida
If you love an activity-filled beach trip, Key Largo in Florida is the perfect spot. The beach has soft white sand and clear views, with temperatures averaging 74°F all through the winter. Key Largo is famous for snorkeling in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, fishing sessions, swimming with dolphins, and kayaking. You can also take part in biking along the Overseas Trail, traversing the Florida Keys. Another interesting thing you can experience while touring Key Largo is the annual cook-off and a holiday boat parade. If you enjoy a chilled time, Key Largo is the best spot to sit and relax as you sip your tropical drink and take in the beautiful sunsets.
Photo by Baron Alloway on Unsplash.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
Isla Holbox is a family-friendly winter beach destination in Quintana Roo, Mexico. The Isla Holbox Island is car-free and less crowded even though it is just a short distance from Cancun. The beach has the perfect weather all year, with temperatures of 80°F and 90°F during the day and up to 68°F at night. The water temperatures maintain 75°F to 82°F throughout, making the beach a top spot for swimming, water sports, and bathing. If you enjoy relaxing and taking beautiful photos, you will be excited to know that most seashores here have beautiful hammocks over the water.
Photo by Katrina Julia on Unsplash.
The Baths, British Virgin Islands
The Baths in Virgin Gorda are the most picturesque coastlines in the world. The huge rocks with beautiful blue waters make the beach a breathtaking scene you wouldn’t want to miss. The winter weather at the Baths is excellent, and it never goes below 80°F. When you visit, you will experience sunny days and calm breezes, the best conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Besides, the beach has consistent winds and adequate waves perfect for diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing.
Photo by Kristen Sturdivant on Unsplash.
Los Cristianos in Tenerife, the idyllic Canarian winter
Los Cristianos is the most outstanding and warmest beach on Spain’s Canary Islands, averaging 20°F to 69°F during winter. Tenerife experiences warm temperatures, but the temperatures are different across the island. Los Cristianos, South Coast of Tenerife, has the best climate and is the most popular destination within the region. The beach is a water sports hub with activities like surfing and snorkeling. If you love adventures, hop on the two-hour Viking Cruise and experience a once-in-a-lifetime whale and dolphin watching experience. You can also spot some whales swimming offshore.
Photo by Tara Vester on Unsplash.
Praia da Luz, Algarve
Luz Algarve is located about six kilometers from the west coast of Lagos. The beach is the perfect destination for beautiful sunsets, breathtaking ocean views, and numerous sunny hours during winter. The Luz is a renowned fishing village with clear blue waters and a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing. The average temperature in winter is 15°C or 60°F, which is ideal for a calm and relaxing holiday. Some fun activities around Luz Beach include fine dining at nearby restaurants, hiking from Lagos to Praia da Luz, swimming, and sunbathing.
Photo by Netnutter on Unsplash.
Are beaches warm in winter?
Not all beaches experience sunny days during the winter months, and it solely depends on the location. In places where the coastlines are warm during winter, it could be their closeness to the equator or pleasant climates. In other areas, most seashores may experience harsh conditions during the cold months. For warm winter coastlines, the best times to visit are usually from November to February.
What happens to a beach in winter?
Beaches go through numerous significant changes in winter. One of the major effects is erosion. During the cold months, strong storm winds throw sand into the air. As a result, coastlines get eroded, sand patterns change, and sandbars are created. Sandbars are narrow and exposed sand and residue spaces near the beach. As the months get warm, water waves recover sand from the sandbars, making the beach perfect again.
During winter, a beach may also experience a drop in the number of visitors as people get afraid of unfavorable weather conditions. There is also a decline in water sports due to the changing tidal conditions and rougher seas.
Don’t forget your insurance
We hope our list has helped you select a beach to visit during winter to spice up your life. We know you are excited about switching snow for some sun and participating in every beach activity. But don’t forget to purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
At Heymondo, we understand the importance of your travels, which is why we have brought you comprehensive travel insurance for family vacations and budget travel. Our policy ensures that you get immediate medical assistance in the event of emergencies through our Heymondo assistance app. It is available 24/7 across the globe.
Whether you are in Asian or European countries, you can be sure to get the necessary medical support you need during the trip. Our travel insurance coverage not only prioritizes your health, with up to USD 10,000.000 in medical coverage. It also extends to safeguarding your luggage against loss or theft.
When you choose Heymondo, you choose peace of mind throughout your warm winter beach escapades. Choose Heymondo today and experience the perfect travel insurance coverage for you and your family.
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