Where is hot in February? 10 beautiful destinations for a last-minute winter holiday
February is the month of love, so if you’re googling ‘where is hot in February’ in search of a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day (or just because you’re celebrating the end of January), then we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of beautiful winter sun destinations to turn up the heat in February, so you can escape the dreariness of British winter and soak up the sun just like you did during the blissful summer months.
The Algarve in Portugal, is great for family holidays and has some of the best beaches in the world, while Dubai and Abu Dhabi are glamorous city breaks, ideal if you’re looking to splash out in style. Cyprus and Spain are great Mediterranean destinations for a sunny beach break. Places like these are actually best visited in the winter and spring months to avoid the half term rush. Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Barbados and Mexico are incredible long haul destinations where you can enjoy colourful parades, breath-taking natural sites and warm weather. No matter what type of holiday you’re after, whether it’s just a quick Valentine’s Day getaway or a month-long adventure to avoid the winter blues, there is a winter sun destination in our list to inspire your wanderlust this February.
Our guide of fabulous holiday destinations has hotels and resorts of all styles and budgets with sun-soaked beach holidays in the Canary Islands and the Caribbean, idyllic European city breaks, luxury escapes in the Maldives and Thailand or even safari adventures in South Africa. So — better start checking travel advice, because we’re sure that you’ll be hitting ‘book now’ before this list is through.
Ahead, our answer to your “where is hot in February” deliberations.
1. Mexico
With highs of 24°C, a colourful nightlife scene, endless hours of sunshine, beautiful sandy beaches, mythical cenotes and a vibrant foodie scene – we can’t think of a more perfect winter sun destination than Mexico. So – forgive us for ‘La Cucaracha-ing’ our way straight to Cancun this February.
Where to stay in Mexico:
Perfect for a romantic rendezvous, Las Ventanas Paraiso is one of the most romantic hotels in the whole of Mexico. Located in Los Cabos, at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, the resort has everything you need for a romantic escape. From beautiful beaches, gorgeous pools, water sports, snorkelling, and a curated selection of culinary experiences – there’s plenty to fall in love with at Las Ventanas. Las Ventanas al Paraiso roughly translates to ‘Window to Paradise’ and you’ll certainly feel like paradise once you set foot in this resort.
Located in the heart of the Mexican jungle, Chablé Yucatan is a great choice if you’re looking to reconnect with nature. This beautiful hotel is surrounded by lush tropical forests, exotic animals, dreamy cenotes and sandy beaches. Here, you can dive or snorkel in the world’s second-largest coral reef, paddle board or simply park yourself in a sun lounger on the sandy shores of the hotel. Chablé Yucatan promises to take guests on a spiritual journey that is filling the body with positive energy. That — and the fact that the hotel has some beautiful casitas, gorgeous natural surroundings a and delicious dining offer make it is just the place to goal set and reset for 2023.
3. Thailand
Looking for a place to turn up the heat? Then book a flight to Thailand this February. Average temperatures range from a mild 23°C to a sweltering 32°C, making this one of the (literal) hottest winter sun destinations on our list. Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in the world for beach holidays thanks to its beautiful tropical climate, white sand beaches, azure waters and rich local culture. Whether you’re getting lost in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok or leaving civilisation behind in Phuket ala Leo Di Caprio in the beach, there are many joyous travel moments to be made in Thailand as soon as you disembark from your long-haul flight.
Where to stay in Thailand:
Located in a private bay in Koh Samui, Garrya Tongsai Bay is fronted by a white sand beach and the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. It is a great choice for wellness and wildlife lovers who are looking to reconnect with nature and (each other) under the winter sun. Tongsai Bay is Koh Samui’s first five-star resort, so you they certainly know a thing or two about luxury. Surrounded by 28 acres of lush tropical gardens, which are home to 60 different species of exotic birds and animals (including monitor lizards), Tongsai Bay is a great place to reset and recharge in nature. Of course, there are swimming pools, but there is also a tennis court, windsurfing, snorkelling and canoeing for active travellers. Each of the rooms and suites boast sweeping views of the bay, so you can bask in the beauty of Thailand and forget all about rainy Britain.
3. Morocco
While the summer months bring sweltering temperatures in Morocco, February is the ideal time of year to visit this desert jewel. With average temperatures at a mild 20°C, Morocco, and particularly its magical capital city of Marrakech, is a great short haul destination that has everything from beautiful hotels, rich cultural sites and an excellent gastronomic scene.
Where to stay in Morocco:
Feel like an Arabian princess at La Sultana Marrakech, which is located in the heart of the UNESCO protected medina. La Sultana is housed within five adjoining Moroccan riads, centred around a magnificent courtyard pool. Flowered patios with palms and glamorous rooftop terraces make La Sultana an oasis of calm in the middle of the Kasbah. It’s also a great spot to explore all of Marrakech’s key cultural attractions like the Jardin Marjorelle, Yves Saint Laurent Museum, Bahia Palace and Jamaa el Fna Square.
4. South Africa
February is one of the driest and warmest months of the year in South Africa, making it the best time to visit. Whether you’re going on safari or simply touring the plethora of excellent South African vineyards, there are plenty of reasons to hop on a long haul flight to South Africa this February. We can’t think of a better way to welcome the new year than enjoying a nice glass of South African wine, while relaxing in a safari lodge.
Where to stay in South Africa:
With highs of 28°C in February, South Africa’s Babylonstoren is the perfect escape from the bleak English winter. This restored Cape Dutch farm is nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, perfect for wine lovers who have just completed Dry January. There are 28 guest cottages and six lux Cape Dutch-style Fynbos Cottages with beautiful vineyard views. The hotel is surrounded by French-inspired gardens that include vegetable patches, fruit orchards, ducks, chickens, bees and a prickly pear maze – great for a rustic retreat in the heart of South Africa. Babylonstoren offers a luxurious nature-focused getaway, complete with a farm-to-fork menu that celebrates the best of South African produce. We think it’s a great alternative to Cape Town in the winter months.
5. Canary Islands
Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro, with the smallest being La Graciosa are the seven islands that make up the Canary Islands, a favourite winter sun destination amongst Brits. This Spanish archipelago off the coast of Africa is a fabulous holiday destination at all times of year but is especially good for winter sun. In February, you can still enjoy the beautiful volcanic beaches, gorgeous hikes, delicious Spanish and Canarian restaurants and of course – soak up the sunshine (but without tourists). With average temperatures of 21°C, February is an excellent time to visit this tourist favourite, minus all the crowds.
Where to stay in the Canary Islands:
If you’re looking to escape peak winter in February, then Parador La Palma in Tenerife is just the tonic. One of the best hotels in Tenerife and home to alien volcanic landscapes, majestic waterfalls and pine forests, it’s no wonder why the island is called ‘Isla Bonita’. Parador La Palma is a four-star wonder build in traditional Canarian style in the quiet coastal town of Santa Cruz. It has sprawling gardens with over 70 species of flora and fauna. The hotel restaurant has excellent views of Tenerife and La Gomera, best enjoyed while indulging in the traditional Canarian menu. Of course, what Tenerife hotel would be complete without a sprawling swimming pool, sun loungers and cocktails and the cliffside pool at Parador La Palma is extra magical.
Princess Yaiza is so well loved by travellers that it was announced the Winner of Trip Advisor Traveller’s choice award in 2021. This luxury five-star resort in sunny Lanzarote has 385 elegant rooms in the beautiful southern coast of Playa Blanca. A destination within itself, Princess Yaiza has 15 bars and restaurants and eight outdoor swimming pools, plus Playa Dorada beach is just a five-minute walk from the resort. Great for families, Princess Yaiza has a kid’s club and is just a ten minute walk away from the weekly handicraft market. Sovereign has a seven-night stay at Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort, Lanzarote at £1096 per person, which we think is an absolute steal.
6. Miami
With highs of 24°C, Miami well and truly brings the heat in February. This sunny city in the East Coast is great for sun-starved travellers. Because February is dry season, it offers a slightly milder climate than the summer months. Miami is a fabulous city break with plenty to explore. Check out the Cuban salsa clubs in Calle Ocho, the colourful Art Deco buildings in South Beach, enjoy Miami’s bustling nightlife or explore the vibrant graffiti of Wynwood. There are plenty of things to eat, sea and do to spice up your February in Miami.
Where to stay in Miami:
One of the best luxury hotels in Miami, the Setai is a super-private escape in the heart of South Beach. The Setai combines Asian hospitality with Miami flair, and you will certainly feel the Miami glam during your stay. You can book Pool Villas which are shaded by palm trees and are the perfect spot to soak up that Florida sunshine. There are temperature controlled pools, amazing dining experiences and a relaxing spa too. You can choose from Art Deco Rooms or Ocean Suites so you can really get a taste of Miami’s diverse flavours.
7. Singapore
They say big things come in small packages and while this small country in the Pacific ocean is only 728.6km (it’s smaller than New York City), it offers a powerful punch. Singapore is wonderful mix of old and new, high and low with hawker markets sitting beside luxury skyscrapers and high-fashion boutiques neighbouring traditional tea houses. There’s plenty to see and do in this island in the Pacific. You can check into Singapore’s towering mega hotels like the Marina Bay Sands (which is a shopping paradise), marvel at the Botanical Gardens, explore the quirky shops and cafes in Hacci Lane or even visit one of the many theme parks like Universal Studios. February in Singapore enjoys average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C, so expect plenty of sunshine and almost no rain as February is one of the driest months of the year.
Where to stay in Singapore:
If you’re going to splash out on a long haul flight to Singapore, you may as well check into Raffles Singapore, one of the chicest most luxurious hotels in the city. Raffles is where the famous ‘Singapore Sling’ cocktail was born and is the epitome of Singaporean luxury. Located in the Downtown Core neighbourhood, the hotel is a great base to explore the big shopping malls of Orchard Road and Marina Bay, the ArtScience Museum and Botanical Gardens. Plus, the Esplanade station is just steps away if you want to explore attractions that are a bit further away.
8. Jamaica
When you think of winter sun destinations, Jamaica must be one of the first places that come to mind. This beautiful island in the Caribbean enjoys average temperatures of 25°C in the daytime and lows of 21°C in the evening with February being one of the direst months of year. With white sandy beaches, warm weather, delicious food, plenty of gorgeous luxury resorts and a warm and inviting local community, we simply can’t think of a better destination to banish the winter blues than Jamaica.
Where to stay in Jamaica:
The Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa is the epitome of the lush Caribbean resort. The hotel has just recently finished a 20 million pound renovation and now has a suite of swanky new luxury suites that come with private pools, hydromassage bathtubs and of course, panoramic ocean views. This five-star all-inclusive getaway in Montego Bay is great for both ‘fly n flop’ and active sun-seekers alike. Of course, what beach resort would be complete without a pool, and the one at Grand Palladium is one of the largest swimming pools in the Caribbean. More of a beach gal? You can access four pristine white sand beaches directly from the resort too. You can also try windsurfing, snorkelling or even embark on a catamaran trip. In terms of food and drink, there are 14 themed bars and 11 restaurants, some with live performances, so you can enjoy cocktails while dancing the night away on the Caribbean.
9. Maldives
The Maldives has inspired plenty a winter sun getaway and for good reason. These group of picture-perfect atolls on the Indian Ocean is the perfect beach holiday and home to countless luxury beach resorts. The Maldives is a great honeymoon destination, which means it will make a great splash out Valentine’s Day holiday for you and your partner this February too. If you’re picturing yourself on a water villa, relaxing leisurely on a hammock while sipping a piña colada straight out of a coconut, then the Maldives is the winter sun holiday for you.
Best hotels in the Maldives:
Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is one of the most luxurious hotels in the Maldives, and that’s saying a lot. The only resort on the Shaviyani Atoll, Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is the ultimate private island escape. ‘Sirru Fen Fushi means ‘Secret Water Island’, which is apt since the resort sits in the largest resort lagoon in the Maldives. Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi’s swish luxury villas each have their own private pool and beaches. When you’re not relaxing in your villa, you can dive into the Maldives’ longest infinity pool or go snorkelling in the resort’s nine kilometre reef, home to colourful tropical fish, manta rays and turtles. You can even check out the hotel’s underwater art installation/regeneration project – the Coralarium.
