A winter sun holiday is just the ticket after the excitement of Christmas dies down and gives way to the dull and dreariness of January in the UK.
In the southern hemisphere, January is one of the hottest months of summer– meaning there are plenty of destinations where you can escape the UK’s plummeting temperatures and seek warmer climes.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend break in a vibrant capital city, or a peaceful, far-flung beach, there’s somewhere for every type of traveller.
And while it may not be scorching, even Europe offers some pleasant weather options if you fancy a trip that takes less than five hours.
Places like Lanzarote in the Canary Islands offer amazing beaches and sunny escapes for great prices in January.
January holiday escapes:
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Temperature: 19°C (up to 24°C)
Sunshine hours: 11 hours
Flight time: Four hours, 15 minutes
If you’re looking for winter sun close to home, the Canary Islands are an obvious choice — and there are always plenty of cheap deals on offer from the likes of Tui.
Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote all provide opportunities to sunbathe on golden beaches with a mix of dramatic volcanic landscapes and lively nightlife.
In Lanzarote, you can visit the striking Timanfaya National Park or wander through the architecturally stunning César Manrique-designed sites.
The island also boasts family-friendly beaches with gentle waves, such as Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise, perfect for relaxing or enjoying water sports.
Lanzarote is the hottest Canary Island, thanks to its proximity to the Sahara Desert. The island enjoys year-round warmth, with August averaging a toasty 25˚C.
Even during the cooler months of January and February, temperatures average 17˚C, with highs reaching up to 24˚C—making it an ideal destination for sun, sea, and stunning landscapes.
What is the weather like in Lanzarote each month?
Lanzarote has warm weather all year around, if you’re looking for some sun here is the temperature for each month:
- January: The average temperature is 17˚C with average highs up to 21˚C.
- February: The average temperature is 18˚C with average highs up to 21˚C.
- March: The average temperature is 19˚C with average highs up to 23˚C.
- April: The average temperature is 20˚C with average highs up to 24˚C.
- May: The average temperature is 21˚C with average highs up to 25˚C.
- June: The average temperature is 23˚C with average highs up to 26˚C.
- July: The average temperature is 24˚C with average highs up to 28˚C.
- August: The average temperature is 25˚C with average highs up to 29˚C.
- September: The average temperature is 25˚C with average highs up to 29˚C.
- October: The average temperature is 23˚C with average highs up to 27˚C.
- November: The average temperature is 23˚C with average highs up to 24˚C.
- December: The average temperature is 19˚C with average highs up to 22˚C.
The best part is that you won’t even notice a time difference when traveling to Lanzarote, as it shares the same time zone as the UK and Ireland.
Malta
Temperature: 16°C (up to 18°C)
Sunshine hours: 11 hours
Flight time: Three hours, 20 minutes
January is the perfect time to visit Malta, when mild temperatures and sunshine make for a refreshing winter escape.
With sparkling azure waters and picture-perfect swim spots, the island’s coastal beauty could even give the Maldives a run for its money.
The Maltese archipelago is also home to inlets brimming with colorful marine life, and the crystal-clear ocean provides excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling.
You can also take a short ferry to Gozo, Malta’s smaller, charming sister island. Here, you’ll find stunning red sands, ancient temples, and a quiet atmosphere that offers a welcome escape from the busier mainland.
Madeira, Portugal
Temperature: 19°C (up to 23°C)
Sunshine hours: Seven hours
Flight time: Three hours, 50 minutes
If you’re dreaming of unspoiled paradise, look no further than Madeira, Portugal, a subtropical island perfect for year-round sun.
Spend your days basking on volcanic beaches or exploring the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz, which are carved out by lava flows. Adventure seekers can hike along the dramatic Levada trails or take in panoramic views from Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs.
When evening falls, the capital, Funchal, comes alive with cozy restaurants, wine bars, and bustling markets such as Mercado dos Lavradores. Be sure to try the island’s famous Madeira wine or bolo do caco.
With January temperatures averaging a pleasant 19°C, Madeira is as close to tropical as you can get in Europe.
Where’s hot in January for short-haul holidays?
If you’re craving sun and aren’t afraid to venture further from the UK, here are some short-haul winter sun destinations that will get you sunbathing in no time.
Tunisia
Temperature: 15 °C (up to 18°C)
Sunshine hours: 11 hours
Flight time: Two hours, 50 minutes
Tunisia basks in January sunshine with average highs of around 18°C, perfect for exploring or relaxing by the Mediterranean.
The sea might be a bit cooler at this time, but there’s still plenty of warmth and sun-filled days to enjoy.
Tunisia is home to a mix of historic cities and stunning coastal escapes.
Visit the capital, Tunis, where the ancient Medina and the Bardo Museum await, or relax in the picturesque town of Sidi Bou Said with its iconic blue and white architecture.
Looking for something unique? Venture to Djerba, an island known for its palm-fringed beaches, whitewashed villages, and lively markets – a true blend of culture and coastal beauty.
Do you need a visa for Tunisia?
No, British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Tunisia but must have a valid passport, so you can visit Tunisia without a visa for up to 90 days.
You can contact the Tunisian Embassy in the UK for more information.
Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Temperature: 22°C (up to 24°C)
Sunshine hours: 13 hours
Flight time: Five hours, 20 minutes
You can expect nothing but glorious sunshine if you’re heading to the Egyptian resort of Sharm El Sheikh this January. With average highs of 24°C, it’s the perfect winter sun escape.
The Red Sea is beautifully warm for swimming and snorkelling, with water temperatures around 22°C – ideal for exploring the coral reefs teeming with marine life.
This Egyptian resort is famous for its coral reefs, including the spectacular underwater landscapes of Ras Mohammed National Park and Tiran Island.
Beyond the beaches, enjoy adventures like stargazing in the Sinai Desert, quad-biking through dunes, or hiking Mount Sinai for an unforgettable sunrise.
From exploring markets and unwinding at a spa to sipping cocktails by the sea, Sharm has the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Marrakesh, Morocco
Temperature: 22°C (up to 24°C)
Sunshine hours: 13 hours
Flight time: Three hours, 40 minutes
January is a great time to visit Marrakech, as the weather is mild and perfect for exploring this vibrant city.
Stroll through the bustling medina and soak up the sights and sounds of the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, or wander through the beautiful Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
If you’re craving something more relaxing, take a trip to Oualidia, where you can spot pink flamingos strolling by the lagoon or enjoy fresh oysters from the local farms.
And don’t miss the chance to explore the Saadian Tombs or relax in one of Marrakech’s luxurious riads for a taste of authentic Moroccan hospitality.
Cape Verde
Temperature: 23°C (up to 25°C)
Sunshine hours: Six hours
Flight time: Six hours
Like a few destinations on this list, January is Cape Verde’s coldest month.
But you’d never guess. The island, off the coast of West Africa, experiences temperatures in the mid 20s at this time of year, meaning it’s still one of the hottest January destinations in the world.
Cape Verde is an ideal beach break destination, with the island of Sal – and its Santa Maria Beach – offering plenty of opportunities for learning to snorkel or go diving. Kitesurfing is another activity to try, on Sal or Boa Vista, which have the perfect conditions.
Sal town Santa Maria is also a picturesque spot to visit beyond the beach, as it is home to pretty, pastel-coloured buildings and some of the archipelago’s best bars and restaurants.
Where is hot in January for long-haul holidays?
Ready for a winter getaway with real heat?
If you’re up for the long haul, these sunny destinations promise endless warmth and plenty of sunshine to escape the chill.
Antigua and Barbuda
Temperature: 23°C (up to 28°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Eight hours, 30 minutes
January might be the coldest month of the year in Antigua and Barbuda, but the average temperature still hovers around 26°C.
This means it’s idyllic weather for relaxing on its famous beaches like Dickenson Bay and the pink sands of Princess Diana Beach,which takes on a delightful rosy hue due to the number of coral reefs nearby.
If you decide to take a break from the sea, you can explore the UNESCO-listed Nelson’s Dockyard and enjoy breathtaking views from Shirley Heights.
You’ll find more than your fair share of luxe all-inclusive hotels (such as the Antigua Sandals resort), ideal for a relaxing holiday to kick off the year.
Cape Town, South Africa
Temperature: 27°C (up to 29°C)
Sunshine hours: 11 hours
Flight time: 11 hours 35 minutes
January is summer in South Africa – making it an ideal time to visit the vibrant city of Cape Town.
The city has more than its fair share of sights. Chill out on Boulders Beach and meet its penguin colony, or take a trip to the world-famous Table Mountain – the cable car service will allow you to experience breathtaking views of the city from its 3,500ft high summit.
If you want to get away from the crowds, head out to the coast where the British overseas territory of Tristan da Cunha, the world’s most remote populated island, awaits.
Or you can indulge yourself in some excellent (and affordable) wine in the Cape Winelands.
You’ll find an abundance of vineyards, including the world-famous Cavalli Estate, as well as Gabrielskloof and Hazendal, all of which are open to the public for visits.
St Lucia
Temperature: 26°C (up to 29°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Eight hours, 30 minutes
The stunning Caribbean island of St Lucia enjoys great weather all year round.
Even in January, which is technically one of its coldest months, the temperature clocks in at a dreamy average of 26°C.
Great beaches are a given, such as Anse Chastenet Beach, well known for its snorkelling opportunities. You can also get into nature and explore the Pitons – two volcanic mountains that overlook the island – either on foot or by boat and swim in the surrounding waterfalls.
Don’t forget to stop by Soufrière, the island’s original capital, home to botanic gardens and souvenir shopping in the Old Town.
Goa, India
Temperature: 26°C (up to 31°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine to 10 hours
Flight time: Nine hours, 5 minutes
Hot weather can be found all over India in January, but the western state of Goa offers a great mix of laid-back beaches and tourist hotspots.
On top of sunbathing and watersports galore – from water skiing to scuba diving – you can also visit historical temples and sites including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, housing the mummy of 16th Century Missionary St Francis Xavier.
You could also try a local dolphin safari, where you’ll head out into the Arabian Sea on an early morning tour for a chance to see some of our aquatic friends up close.
Cancun, Mexico
Temperature: Up to 28°C (Cancun)
Sunshine hours: Six to eight hours
Flight time: 10 hours, 30 minutes
Mexico pops up in a fair few of our ‘where is hot?’ travel guides over the winter months, for good reason.
Tourist hotspot Cancun will be busy this month, but offers temperatures in the 20s and an average maximum of 28°C – plus the water will be warm in January at 26°C.
It’s a similar story for resorts Playa del Carmen and Tulum, while temperatures in Acapulco can average 26°C and can climb as high as 31°C, according to Holiday Weather.
All ideal for beach holidays, but what if you prefer a culture-packed city break? The heat in Mexico City and Oaxaca also averages daily highs in the lower to mid-20s, so you won’t miss out on the sun.
Barbados
Temperature: 26°C to 29°C
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Eight hours, 30 minutes
With highs of up to 28°C, a sea temperature of 27°C and lots of warm evenings, January is an ideal month to visit Barbados.
The Caribbean nation is often a bucket list-type destination, thanks to its jaw-dropping beaches and stunning hotels all around the island.
Bridgetown is Barbados’ capital, where many travellers will fly into – and it is home to a range of museums, historic buildings, colonial architecture, shops, and the Mount Gay Visitors’ Centre distillery.
During a visit to the country, there’ll be plenty of opportunity to try the local cuisine and drink plenty of rum, too.
Phuket, Thailand
Temperature: 27°C (up to 33°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: 14 hours, 30 minutes
If you love soaking up the heat on a sunny beach, head to Phuket in Thailand– as you’ll have over 30 to choose from.
Top up your tan, enjoy a spot of snorkelling, start exploring Phuket’s plentiful sights – such as the brightly-colored buildings in the capital Phuket Town – or take a trip to Koh Tapu, aka the ‘James Bond Island’ where The Man With The Golden Gun was filmed.
When the sun goes down, don’t forget to pay a visit to one of the night markets, or check out Bangla Road, a nightlife hub known for music, neon lights, bars, and restaurants.
In terms of the temperature, Phuket is a total win-win – as the typical low is 22°C, average 27°C, and high is 33°C.
Is Phuket worth visiting?
We know what you’re thinking — Phuket is the island for cheap cocktails and go-go bars. But while it has gained a reputation for being overcrowded, there are so many reasons to head to this tropical paradise.
Beyond the nightlife, you’ll find its beautiful beaches, private islands just a short boat ride away, countless yoga classes, and a variety of wellness retreats to help you unwind.
Singapore
Temperature: 26°C (up to 30°C)
Sunshine hours: Six hours
Flight time: 13 hours
Singapore is known for balmy weather, with temperatures potentially pushing into the 30s in January.
And in addition to the warm weather, you won’t get stuck for things to do, as there are plenty of sights to see in the South-East Asian city-state.
Among them are the famous Gardens by the Bay, taking a peek at the Marina Bay Sands, gazing up at the epic Cloud Forest, or stopping at the Raffles Hotel for a gin-infused Singapore Sling cocktail.
Beyond the mainland, you could day trip to Sentosa – an island resort with a 2km-long sheltered beach, which is home to the Universal Studios Singapore theme park.
Is Singapore expensive?
Singapore is known for being one of the pricier destinations in Southeast Asia, but it’s still possible to explore the city on a budget.
Avoid high-end dining spots like Marina Bay Sands or Sentosa, where meals can cost £50-£100+ per person, and opt for hawker centres instead. Popular spots like Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex, and Tiong Bahru Market serve local favourites such as Hainanese chicken rice or laksa for just £2-£5.
For a slightly higher budget, mid-range restaurants and cafés offer meals for £10-£20, catering to a variety of tastes.
When it comes to accommodation, mid-range hotels in areas like Chinatown, Bugis, and Little India provide comfortable options at £70-£150 per night, depending on location and season.
Bahamas
Temperature: 21°C (up to 25°C)
Sunshine hours: 11 hours
Flight time: Nine hours, 50 minutes
If you head to the Bahamas this January, dip straight in the sea – as the water temps this month are a gorgeous 25°C.
You can expect average highs of the same on a visit to the country’s many islands – perhaps even a few degrees higher in some parts – along with plenty of sunshine and 6 pm sunsets, says Thomas Cook.
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But where in the Bahamas to go? There’s the capital, Nassau, and the famous Paradise Island (home to a huge Atlantis hotel).
Fancy something a bit different? Find your way to the Exuma district, where you’ll discover a fascinating beach full of swimming pigs (seriously).
Where is hot all year round? More sunny holiday ideas
- Where is hot in February?
- Where is hot in March?
- Where is hot in April?
- Where is hot in May?
- Where is hot in June?
- Where is hot in July?
- Where is hot in August? – It’s hot enough in the UK!
- Where is hot in September?
- Where is hot in October?
- Where is hot in November?
- Where is hot in December?
Before you travel…
Now that you know where to soak up the sun, make sure to check the luggage rules, snag those travel deals, and pack the essentials for a stress-free getaway.
Book your dream holiday now!
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It’s also wise to check the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office website for the latest travel advice for your dream destination.
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