Warm beaches year-round: 9 best destinations for winter sun

As winter settles in, the mind drifts to warm shores, gentle seas and sand that squeaks underfoot. Beach escapes aren’t just a summer privilege. There are plenty of corners on the map where the sun doesn’t take a season off, and even in the depths of December you can slide into balmy water and unwind under palm shade. Here are destinations for those who don’t plan their holidays around the calendar and want a beach break any time they choose.

• Maldives
• Seychelles
• Goa, India
• Canary Islands, Spain
• Phuket, Thailand
• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Dubai, UAE
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
• Zanzibar, Tanzania

Maldives

The Maldives deliver the postcard version of a tropical escape: powdery beaches, luminous water, and blue lagoons that seem to run on forever. No surprise they’re a favorite for travelers worldwide, including many from Russia, who come for an easy, any-season beach fix.

Climate and sweet-spot conditions

Set on the equator, the Maldives stay warm all year. Air temperatures hover between +25 and +32 °C, with the Indian Ocean at a welcoming +27–29 °C. There is a rainy season from May to October, but showers tend to be brief, and sunny days dominate—especially from November to April.

Direct flights and simple entry for Russians

Direct flights from Moscow to Malé take about nine hours, which keeps the journey comfortable. Russians don’t need a visa for stays up to 30 days, making planning refreshingly straightforward.

Resorts for every travel style

Many Maldivian resorts sit on their own private islands, offering seclusion and a sense of “your own little world.” Options range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxe, with overwater villas and private pools. Service standards run high, spa menus are extensive, and the lineup of water sports—from snorkeling to diving—keeps days pleasantly full.

Underwater allure

The reefs are the Maldives’ signature. Coral gardens brim with life: bright reef fish, sea turtles and even sharks. For snorkelers and divers, this is an all-seasons playground.

Romance, dialed up

It’s easy to see why couples flock here. Resorts curate private beach dinners, sunset-facing villas over the water, and thoughtful packages designed for two.

Why it works year-round

Consistent warmth, calm seas and a laid-back rhythm make the Maldives an always-on option. Even during the rainy season, showers rarely derail a day—and prices can be friendlier. For Russians seeking sun-drenched serenity far from winter, this tropical daydream lives up to the fantasy.

Seychelles

The Seychelles are a show-stopper: 115 islands in the Indian Ocean with sculpted granite boulders, shimmering bays and beaches that look hand-composed. The archipelago has become a go-to for Russians who want privacy, polish and nature at its most photogenic—any month of the year.

Warmth, without the extremes

Expect gentle tropical weather that rarely dips below +24 °C or rises past +32 °C. Ocean temperatures sit around +27 °C year-round. From December to March, you may catch brief showers, but the sun gets the upper hand and humidity stays comfortable.

Flight routes that work for Russians

Travel is typically via connections through Dubai or Doha, with total time around 12–14 hours. The payoff is instant: lush scenery and a sense of exhale on arrival. Russians can stay visa-free up to 90 days, and from October Aeroflot resumes nonstop flights from Moscow to Mahé.

Landscapes you won’t forget

Beaches framed by palms and granite outcrops are the Seychelles signature. On Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, it’s easy to find quiet coves where the day is just sun, sea and silence.

Resorts for discerning travelers

From five-star hotels to cozy villas and bungalows, choices cover the spectrum. Many hide away on private islands, pairing exclusivity with high service. Expect serious spa programs, strong dining, and activities like yoga, snorkeling, diving and kayaking.

Underwater life and eco-appeal

Coral reefs circle the islands and teem with marine life—tropical fish, turtles, rays and sometimes dolphins. Nature reserves protect rare species; on Praslin, Vallée de Mai shelters the emblematic coco de mer palm.

Equally good for couples and families

Honeymooners love the intimacy; families appreciate generous villas, kids’ programs and space to slow down. The balance between luxury and quiet feels just right.

Why it works year-round

Stable, gentle weather keeps beach time on the agenda in every season. Even passing rains tend to make the scenery pop. For Russians chasing a true tropical refuge, Seychelles deliver seclusion, high-touch service and nature that steals the show.

Goa, India

Goa on India’s west coast blends cultures, coconut groves and golden-sand beaches with an easygoing vibe that sticks. Russians gravitate here for warm water, big flavors and a dash of history alongside the shore.

Climate that plays along

It’s tropical, steady and warm: roughly +25–32 °C year-round. Peak season runs November to March—sunny, low rainfall, and comfortable humidity. The June–September monsoon brings evening and nighttime showers, while days often stay open for beach time. The payoff then is lush greenery and fewer crowds.

Direct connections and straightforward entry

Goa is popular in part because of direct flights from Moscow and other major Russian cities. You can also fly direct to Delhi, and there are direct options from Moscow and Yekaterinburg to Goa. Flight time is around 7–8 hours. Russians benefit from a simplified visa on arrival, which trims paperwork.

Beaches with different personalities

North and South Goa feel like two chapters of one book. In the north, Baga, Calangute and Anjuna brim with nightlife, markets and parties. The south steps back: Palolem, Agonda and Colva are quieter, ideal for a reset and long swims.

Stays for any budget

From beachside guesthouses to five-star resorts, Goa is flexible on price and style. Choose simple bungalows by the water or villas with ocean views and full amenities.

Cultural layers

The Indo-Portuguese mix is everywhere. Old Goa’s churches—like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Cathedral of St. Catherine—are UNESCO-listed. Narrow lanes, colonial-era facades and kitchens that borrow from both traditions make wandering part of the fun.

Goa is also a hub for yoga and Ayurveda, with retreats and wellness centers offering classes, meditation and treatments for a deeper reset.

Always something to do

On the water: surfing, kitesurfing, parasailing and diving. On land: eco-tours, the Dudhsagar waterfalls, and walks through rice fields and coconut plantations. Wildlife sanctuaries hide deer and peacocks for those who keep their eyes open.

A place to eat well

Seafood anchors the menu—prawns, crab, fish and mussels in curries brightened with coconut milk and spice. Expect classics like fish curry, plus chicken or lamb in local sauces. You’ll also find European spots and vegetarian cafes for those who want lighter fare.

Why it works year-round

Warm weather, accessible flights, varied beaches and a long list of activities make Goa a crowd-pleaser—equally tempting for party seekers and those craving quiet. Any time you land, it delivers a summer state of mind.

Canary Islands, Spain

This Atlantic archipelago off Africa’s coast is Spain’s year-round sunshine card: seven main islands, each with its own character. For Russians, the Canaries promise gentle weather, varied landscapes and an easy blend of beach time with active days.

Climate that feels like spring

The Canaries are famous for their “eternal spring.” Even in winter, temperatures rarely drop below +18 °C; in summer they hover around +25–30 °C. The ocean stays swimmable, which keeps beach plans on track any month you choose.

Getting there

There are no direct flights between Russia and Spain at present. Travelers connect via hubs such as Istanbul or Cairo. A Moscow–Barcelona journey with a stop in Istanbul can take from eight hours. The Canaries are part of Spain, so a Schengen visa applies—practical for those already traveling in Europe.

Different islands, different moods

Tenerife is the largest and a magnet for visitors. Expect standout beaches, the volcanic spine of Teide—Spain’s highest peak—and a full spread of hotels and activities, from outdoor sports to food-focused exploring.

Gran Canaria trades in contrasts: the Maspalomas dunes, green mountains and ravines, fishing villages and cities with a lively nightlife.

Lanzarote’s lava fields create otherworldly scenery and black-sand beaches. It draws water-sports fans, especially windsurfers, and anyone curious about its stark, beautiful terrain.

Fuerteventura is for unhurried beach days—home to some of the archipelago’s finest white sands and a steady breeze that suits kitesurfing and surfing.

Active days and natural drama

Beyond the shore, hiking trails weave through volcanic craters, lava caves, forests and dunes. National parks like Teide in Tenerife and Timanfaya in Lanzarote showcase landscapes you won’t see elsewhere.

On the water, there’s surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, diving and snorkeling throughout the year. Marine life keeps dives interesting.

Family-friendly fun

Big-ticket parks dot the islands. Siam Park in Tenerife is often cited among the world’s best water parks, and Loro Parque is famed for its collection of animals and birds. Boat trips to spot dolphins and whales add some wonder to the itinerary.

On the table and in the calendar

Canarian cuisine pairs Spanish and African influences—fresh seafood, goat cheeses and the island-famous mojo sauces with fish and potatoes. Wine routes showcase vintages grown on volcanic soil.

Across the year, carnivals, music festivals and traditional celebrations give visitors a taste of local life.

Why it works year-round

Mild weather, varied scenery and reliable infrastructure make the Canaries a safe bet for families, couples or travelers who want to stay active. Whenever your vacation window opens, the islands are ready.

Phuket, Thailand

Thailand’s largest island is a crowd favorite for a reason: sweeping beaches, tropical backdrops and a warm welcome. For Russians, direct flight options, accessible pricing and a rich culture keep Phuket high on the list.

Weather that fits the plan

Temperatures stay around +28–32 °C, with sea temperatures rarely below +26–28 °C. The main season runs November to April—dry and sunny. From May to October, showers are typically short and often fall at night, leaving plenty of daytime for the beach.

Flights and visa

There are direct flights from Moscow and other Russian cities to Bangkok and Phuket, with additional charter options in package tours from cities such as Yekaterinburg, Irkutsk and Kazan. Flight time is about nine hours. Russians can stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days.

Beaches for every mood

Patong is the liveliest—nightlife, dining and shopping right by the sand.

Karon and Kata are calmer and family-friendly, with clean sands and water sports.

Kamala keeps it quiet for those who prize peace and long seaside walks.

Surin pairs white sand and clear water with a taste for the upscale—think beachfront hotels and refined dining.

Nature and adventure

Phuket’s not just the shore. Explore tropical forests, national parks and waterfalls, or spot wildlife in protected areas. Phang Nga Bay’s karst towers rise straight from the sea—one of the region’s headline sights.

Divers, snorkelers, kayakers and surfers have plenty to do. The island is also a launch pad for trips to Phi Phi or the Similan Islands, famed for reefs and crystalline water.

Culture and sights

Temples and viewpoints dot the island, with the Big Buddha watching over it all. Phuket Old Town shows off Sino-Portuguese architecture, markets and street food that turns a stroll into a tasting tour.

Evenings bring shows and performances—Phuket FantaSea blends traditional dance, acrobatics and circus-style spectacle.

Food to remember

Spicy, bright and varied: tom yum, pad thai and curries in many shades. Seafood—crab, prawns, lobster, fish—often comes grilled to order. Night markets and beachside stalls pile on local flavors and tropical fruit.

Why it works year-round

Phuket has the trifecta: beaches, culture and a deep bench of activities. With easy flights and forgiving weather, it’s an easy yes whether you want a lazy week or a packed itinerary.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

In the heart of the Pacific, Bora Bora is the island people imagine when they close their eyes: a blue-green lagoon, pale sand and volcanic peaks set like a crown. It’s tailored for travelers who want privacy, polish and warm water on repeat—Russians included.

Climate: a gentle constant

Air sits around +26–30 °C and the lagoon stays at +27–29 °C. The dry season (May–October) is sunniest; from November to April, rains are usually brief and often at night, leaving bright, warm days.

How to get there and entry

There are no direct flights. Routes run via Paris or Los Angeles to Tahiti, then a short domestic hop to Bora Bora. From Moscow, connections to Paris can be through Yerevan, Istanbul, Ankara or Belgrade. Total travel can take around 20–25 hours depending on the route. Entry requires any Schengen visa.

Resorts and overwater bungalows

Many of Bora Bora’s luxury resorts feature the famed overwater villas—wake to the lagoon at your doorstep and step straight in for a swim. Names like Four Seasons, St. Regis and InterContinental offer high-touch service, standout spas and refined dining—no wonder couples make this a top pick for honeymoons.

The lagoon and its pull

Protected by a coral ring, the lagoon is calm and clear—ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving. Tropical fish, turtles, rays and sharks animate the coral gardens.

Kayaking, paddleboarding and catamaran cruises keep days varied. Swimming with sharks and rays adds a dose of adrenaline to the serenity.

Volcanic heart, island views

Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia rise at the island’s center. Hikes and 4x4 safaris reveal rainforest trails and panoramic outlooks across the lagoon and open ocean.

Romance made easy

Resorts tailor experiences for two—private beach dinners, secluded villas, spa rituals and slow cruises. With quiet beaches and glass-clear water, the mood takes care of itself.

Culture and the kitchen

French Polynesian traditions—music, dance and crafts—add depth to the scenery. Cultural shows offer a window into local life.

On the plate: ultra-fresh seafood—tuna, lobster, crab—paired with tropical fruit. French technique woven with island ingredients makes meals part of the memory.

Why it works year-round

Soft weather, warm water, white sand and high-caliber resorts make Bora Bora a sure bet, whether you come for activity or pure escape.

Dubai, UAE

On the Persian Gulf, Dubai blends tradition with futurism and does it at full volume. Think immaculate beaches, marquee hotels, mega-malls and a roster of things to do that never seems to end. For Russians, the sunshine and service make it a year-round staple.

Climate: sunshine on tap

From November to March, daytime temperatures sit around +25–30 °C—ideal for the beach and city exploring. June to September brings serious heat—+40 °C and higher—but indoor attractions, cooled resorts and vast aquaparks keep comfort levels high.

Easy to reach

Frequent direct flights from Moscow take about five hours, suitable for a long holiday or a quick escape. Russians can obtain a visa on arrival.

Beaches and stays to match your style

Jumeirah Beach and Palm Jumeirah anchor the coastline with private sands and brand-name stays—Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm and One&Only Royal Mirage among them. Service is polished, and dining and spas are world-class. Budget-minded travelers will also find solid options near public beaches.

What to do

Burj Khalifa tops the list—the tallest tower on earth, with views that reset your sense of scale from the 148th-floor observation deck.

Dubai Mall is a world unto itself: shops, an aquarium, an ice rink, cinemas and themed parks for kids.

Desert safaris deliver dune-bashing by jeep and camel rides—an easy way to experience the landscape and a taste of local traditions.

Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm and Wild Wadi are family favorites for a full day of slides and pools.

Golf courses and marinas round out the list; chartering a yacht for a spin along the coast is a classic Dubai move.

Shopping capital

From luxury labels to spice souks, Dubai treats shopping like a sport. The annual Dubai Shopping Festival turns up the volume with big-ticket sales and citywide events.

On the plate

Global flavors converge here. Restaurants by star chefs sit alongside beloved local spots serving Middle Eastern staples—mezze, hummus, falafel and charcoal-grilled lamb. Variety is the point.

Winter in Dubai

December and January shine—temperatures are made for strolling and sightseeing, beaches stay inviting, and the city decks itself out for the holidays with festivals and fireworks.

Why it works year-round

Endless entertainment, standout beaches, top-tier service and guaranteed sun make Dubai an easy recommendation. With convenient flights, simple entry and options at every price point, it caters to every kind of traveler.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

On the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas pairs desert tones with turquoise seas and a festive spirit. It’s a favorite for its beaches, resorts and water-based adventures—an easy pick if you want sun and energy in equal measure.

Climate: predictably sunny

A tropical desert climate brings warmth year-round—about +20 °C in winter to +35 °C in summer. Ocean breezes take the edge off peak heat, and the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez stay warm enough for swimming and underwater exploring.

Getting there and entry

There are no direct flights from Russia; connections typically run via Mexico City or Los Angeles, with possible links through hubs such as Istanbul. Total travel can be 14–20 hours. Entry requires a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa, or a valid multiple-entry visa for Canada, the USA, Japan or the UK, or proof of permanent residence in one of the Schengen countries or in Canada, the USA, Japan, the UK, Chile, Colombia or Peru.

Beaches, from lively to secluded

Medano Beach is the main hub—soft sand, warm water, and a lineup of beach bars and restaurants. Expect rentals for kayaking, parasailing and water-skiing.

Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) sits between the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez and is reached by boat—quiet, scenic, and home to the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas.

Chileno Beach wins with clear water and coral—snorkelers spot tropical fish and sea turtles here.

Resorts with a view

Beachfront luxury is the norm—spa programs, fine dining, infinity pools and private villas at properties such as Esperanza Resort, One&Only Palmilla and Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos. There are also smaller, budget-friendly hotels with strong service and sea views.

Water sports and beyond

Diving and snorkeling reveal rich marine life—tropical fish, turtles, rays and even whale sharks, with dive centers offering trips to reefs and wrecks.

Surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing thrive on reliable winds and surf breaks along the coast.

Sportfishing is a Cabo signature, with annual tournaments for marlin, tuna and more. Charters take anglers offshore in search of big-game catches.

Boat trips to El Arco are a must—often with sea lion and dolphin sightings on the way.

Culture and nightlife

After dark, Cabo leans into live music, bars and clubs—names like Cabo Wabo and Mango Deck are known for parties that run late. Traditional shows spotlight regional music and dance, with local cuisine and tastings of tequila and mezcal.

Nature on the doorstep

Desert safaris by jeep or ATV head into dunescapes and cactus forests.

From December to April, gray and humpback whales migrate close to shore, a spectacle that draws visitors season after season.

Nearby archaeological sites preserve rock art and stories from the region’s original inhabitants.

Why it works year-round

Warm weather, diverse beaches, water sports and nature encounters make Cabo San Lucas a winning all-season escape—easy to relax, easy to keep busy, and generous with coastal views.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Off East Africa in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar has become a favorite for white-sand beaches, warm water and a cultural tapestry that rewards curiosity. It’s a laid-back refuge with a distinctly exotic rhythm—ideal for unhurried days and long swims.

Climate: summer, on repeat

Temperatures stay about +25–32 °C year-round, with sea temperatures around +26–28 °C. Popular months include December–March and June–October for drier, sunnier weather. April and May bring a short rainy season, but showers are usually brief, with plenty of sun in between.

Flights and entry

There are no direct flights from Russia. Major airlines serve Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar with connections; total flight time is around 9–10 hours. Russians need a visa for Tanzania—applications go through the Tanzanian immigration portal, and visas can also be issued on arrival at entry points. Return tickets may be required. From October 1, 2024, a mandatory insurance fee applies to all arrivals to Zanzibar.

Beaches: long, white and quiet

Nungwi on the north coast pairs clear water with spectacular sunsets and plenty of water activities—diving, snorkeling and fishing.

Kendwa, on the northwest, offers soft sand and swimmable water at all tides—great for families.

Jambiani and Paje, on the southeast, have the steady winds kitesurfers love, plus a calmer pace and glimpses of island life.

Stays for every budget

Luxury resorts such as Baraza Resort and Spa, The Residence Zanzibar and Zuri Zanzibar offer five-star service, spas, restaurants and curated excursions. Smaller guesthouses and boutique hotels give budget travelers beachside simplicity and ocean views.

On and under the water

Diving and snorkeling shine around Mnemba and Pemba—reefs host tropical fish, turtles, dolphins and, in season, whales.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing thrive along the east coast, especially at Paje and Jambiani.

Boat trips on traditional dhows and deep-sea fishing add to the mix.

Culture and history

Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, winds through alleys lined with carved wooden doors, historic homes and lively markets. Once a hub of the spice and slave trades, the city blends Arab, Indian, Persian and African influences in a way that feels uniquely Zanzibar.

Highlights include the House of Wonders, a former sultan’s palace turned museum, and spice farm visits to see cloves, cinnamon, cardamom and other local staples at their source.

Flavors of the islands

Seafood takes center stage—fish, prawns, octopus and lobster paired with aromatic spices and rice. The local pilau, fragrant with island spices, is a favorite. Tropical fruit—mango, papaya, pineapple and jackfruit—sweetens the table year-round.

Nature and day trips

Jozani Forest is a protected tropical habitat for rare red colobus monkeys—found only here. It’s perfect for a shaded walk and wildlife sightings.

Prison Island, a short hop from Stone Town, shelters a colony of giant tortoises and carries a layered history.

Mnemba Island tempts with pristine reefs that reward divers and snorkelers with clarity and color.

Why it works year-round

Zanzibar blends quiet beaches, deep-rooted culture and lush nature. With workable flight connections, clear entry rules and forgiving weather, it’s a compelling choice for Russians looking to trade winter for warm tides and an unmistakable slice of Africa.