Best Islands to Visit in December

As the year winds down, some folks might be dreaming of an escape from the chilly weather and the Christmas holiday rush. Picture this: a tropical retreat where palm trees sway, the climate is cozy, and the beaches boast pristine white sands. Sounds perfect, right?

Imagine spending your holidays in the Caribbean or perhaps on a secluded island in the Indian Ocean. December vacations on these islands have their perks: it's usually less rainy, the crowds are smaller or even non-existent, and the weather is just right, warm and inviting. If you're a globetrotter looking to switch things up this year, a tropical island getaway could be just what you need. Let's explore some of the world's best islands to jet off to this December.

Each of the ten below comes with what the island is like in December, the things worth doing while you are there, and the one detail most likely to shape your trip. They are numbered for navigation rather than ranked.

In This Article

1. Tenerife, Canary Islands
2. Jamaica, Caribbean
3. Fiji, South Pacific
4. Mauritius, Indian Ocean
5. Aruba, southern Caribbean
6. Bali, Indonesia
7. The Dominican Republic, Caribbean
8. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
9. Turks and Caicos, Caribbean
10. St Lucia, Eastern Caribbean

• 4 Things to Know Before You Book

1. Tenerife, Canary Islands

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, in recent years highly popular for Europeans. This island, sitting southwest of Spain, is a December paradise with its warm winter sun, comfortable climate, and vibrant nightlife, making it a top destination for a winter getaway.

But there's more to Tenerife than just its inviting beaches. For nature lovers, a hike up Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak and the world's third-tallest volcanic structure, offers a unique adventure. For a taste of local life, the towns of La Laguna and Garachico are must-visits, where you can wander through streets lined with colorful, historic buildings.

Things to do

• Explore the Botanical Garden
• Relax at Playa de Las Teresitas
• Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria
• Enjoy the scenic Playa Jardin
• Ascend Mount Teide

Interesting fact: Tenerife is home to one of the world's largest carnivals, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, rivaling even Rio de Janeiro's famous festival in its color, energy, and scale. It runs in the weeks before Lent, so check the current dates before you plan around it.

Tenerife's ideal weather in December offers a perfect escape from colder climates, letting you enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences in a comfortable and festive atmosphere. Feliz Navidad!

2. Jamaica, Caribbean

December in Jamaica offers an unforgettable experience, despite being one of the top times for visitors. December marks the start of Jamaica's dry season, welcoming travelers with delightful low 80s temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Though Jamaica attracts its fair share of visitors in December, the island buzzes with activities and festive events. You can either participate in or cheer on runners at the Reggae Marathon during the first weekend of December, soak up the vibrant atmosphere in Montego Bay, or unwind on the idyllic Seven Mile Beach.

Things to do

• Discover the Bob Marley Museum
• Bask in the sun at Doctor's Cave Beach
• Explore the Green Grotto Caves
• Experience Montego Bay
• Wander through Port Antonio

Good to know: if you need somewhere to stay, take a look at the biggest hotels in Jamaica. Some of them look amazing.

3. Fiji, South Pacific

If Santa asks us what we want for Christmas, the answer is instant: a trip to Fiji. Fiji isn't just a feast for the eyes with its nature; it's also renowned for being a safe destination for travelers. In December, Fiji transforms into a serene paradise, less crowded yet brimming with luxurious resorts, vibrant cultural festivals, and ceremonies.

Early December in Fiji is a hidden gem, offering a welcoming tropical climate and fewer people. You'll find many activities and water sports to enjoy in the island's crystal-clear oceans, and skydiving here comes with a backdrop of spectacular island views. The latter half of December sees a rise in tourist numbers, so the early part of the month remains the sweet spot.

Things to do

• Wander through the Garden of the Sleeping Giant
• Lounge at Natadola Beach
• Explore Bouma National Heritage Park
• Experience a traditional Kava ceremony

Interesting fact: Fiji is home to over 330 islands, many of which are uninhabited.

4. Mauritius, Indian Ocean

Why Mauritius? It has many things: water sports, underwater adventures like scuba diving and snorkeling, and cultural explorations in museums and bustling local markets.

What sets Mauritius apart, however, is its extraordinary cuisine. The island's food scene is a melting pot of global flavors, where Indian, Chinese, European, and African influences blend seamlessly, offering a delectable way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Things to do

• Trek through Black River Gorges National Park
• Relax at Flic en Flac Beach
• Marvel at Chamarel Waterfall
• Stroll along Caudan Waterfront
• Visit the historic Château de Labourdonnais
• See the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

5. Aruba, Southern Caribbean

Aruba beckons families and couples, but also solo adventurers looking for a mix of sun-kissed beaches and vibrant towns. The December climate in Aruba is generally warm, averaging around 29°C / 85°F, despite the occasional rain. That weather is perfect for a range of water sports, from windsurfing to jet skiing, adding a splash of adventure to your trip.

When the sun sets, Aruba's nightlife comes alive. Solo travelers can mingle and unwind in the island's clubs, beachfront lounges, and restaurants, sipping delightful beach-themed cocktails.

Things to do

• Lounge at Palm Beach
• Explore Conchi Natural Pool
• Unwind at Baby Beach
• Visit Renaissance Island
• Wander around Oranjestad

6. Bali, Indonesia

Bali, the "Island of the Gods" in Indonesia, is a haven for those seeking a mix of spirituality and adventure. Despite being the wet season, December in Bali is a time of lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife, offering a plethora of activities for every type of traveler.

The rains bring Bali to life, accentuating its lush rice paddies, majestic temples, and stunning beaches. If you're in Bali towards the end of December, you might get to experience local festivities like the Denpasar or Pandawa Beach Festival, adding a unique cultural flavor to your visit.

Things to do

• Discover the spiritual Uluwatu Temple
• Explore Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida
• Go surfing at Echo Beach or Balangan Beach
• Snorkel the reefs
• Hike up Mount Batur
• Visit the iconic Tanah Lot
• See Batu Bolong

Read next: The Ultimate Canggu Travel Guide: Explore & Experience Bali on a Budget

7. The Dominican Republic, Caribbean

This Caribbean gem is also known for being budget-friendly. It's a perfect spot for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, with horseback riding along scenic trails, kayaking through serene waters, exhilarating ziplining, and more. December is an ideal time to visit, as the country basks in its dry season, offering comfortable weather with low humidity.

Things to do

• Relax on the pristine sands of Juanillo Beach
• Surf at Playa Macao
• Explore the 7 Waterfalls of Damajagua
• Soak up history at Columbus Park
• Enjoy the vibes of Bavaro Beach

8. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora extends beyond being a honeymoon destination; it's an enchanting destination for families and couples seeking a unique winter escape. From December to March the island sees fewer tourists, pleasant weather, and the chance to unwind in its iconic overwater bungalows.

Things to do

• Hike to the summit of Mt. Pahia
• Bask on the shores of Matira Beach
• Discover the underwater wonders at Coral Gardens
• Try paddleboarding or snorkeling
• Explore the majestic Mt. Otemanu
• Experience the Bora Bora Lagoonarium

9. Turks and Caicos, Caribbean

For those looking to flee the chilly winter, Turks and Caicos, nestled in the British Overseas Territories, is an ideal destination. With December temperatures averaging around 26°C / 80°F, it's the perfect climate for indulging in aquatic pleasures. Imagine swimming in the island's crystal-clear turquoise waters, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply soaking up the sun's warmth on the sandy beaches.

Things to do

• Enjoy the pristine sands of Grace Bay Beach
• Explore the island of Providenciales
• Visit the West Caicos Marine National Park
• Relax at Taylor Bay Beach
• Attend the Maskanoo Parade, which showcases the islands' cultural heritage and festive spirit

10. St Lucia, Eastern Caribbean

Another affordable destination that shines as one of the Caribbean's finest islands to visit in December. Situated in the Eastern Caribbean, the island boasts ideal weather, and December here is a time for luxury, adventure, and festive traditions.

Instead of traditional Christmas markets and cookie baking, St. Lucia hosts the annual Festival of Lights and Renewal, savors delectable Christmas pudding, and engages in the intriguing "burst the bamboo" tradition.

Things to do

• Stay in the island's overwater bungalows
• Explore its magnificent volcanoes
• Walk the lush rainforests
• Catch the Festival of Lights and Renewal
• Try the local Christmas pudding
• Watch the "burst the bamboo" tradition

Four Things to Know Before You Book

All ten of these islands are warm and welcoming in December. Where they differ is in what December actually costs you, and in what the month means locally.

• December is peak season on most of this list, not low season. Jamaica calls it the start of the dry season, the Dominican Republic and Turks and Caicos are at their most comfortable, and prices reflect that. Turks and Caicos is the one place here where December is genuinely quieter and cheaper than the rest of the year.
• Early December is consistently the sweet spot. Fiji, the Dominican Republic and Bali all get busier and pricier as the month goes on and the holidays arrive. If your dates are flexible, the first two weeks beat the last two almost everywhere.
• Wet season is not the same as bad weather. Bali is technically in its rainy season in December, which is exactly what makes the rice paddies and the landscape look the way they do.
• Check what is on while you are there. The Reggae Marathon in Jamaica, the Maskanoo Parade in Turks and Caicos, and the Festival of Lights in St Lucia all fall in December, and the Carnival in Tenerife lands in the weeks before Lent.

Why wait? Seize the moment and book your December island escape now. Picture basking in the warm sun, strolling on sandy beaches, and enjoying the vibrant culture of some of the best islands the world has to offer. Give yourself the gift of an unforgettable holiday season, where winter jackets and cold nights are replaced with swimsuits and balmy evenings.