Where is hot in December?

If you’re thinking of jetting off on a winter sun holiday in December 2026, the good news is there are lots of places that enjoy warm weather this month. That includes sunny short-haul destinations like Tenerife and Madeira, as well as mid-haul options like Cape Verde – a string of islands off Africa’s west coast. And if you’re travelling long-haul, consider winter sun favourite Barbados, which enters its dry season in December.  

To help you narrow things down, we’ve looked at average temperatures plus things to do in each destination below. We’ve also covered what currency you’ll need to take with you to each one – so you can buy your travel money online once you’ve decided where to go.

Where is hot in December?

Tenerife, Canary Islands

The Canary Islands stay warm all year round, and December is no exception. Tenerife, the biggest of the islands, is a good choice if you want to swap chilly temperatures back home for weather that’s warm enough for sunbathing – particularly in southern areas like Costa Adeje and Playa de las Americas, where temperatures tend to be higher. Pack layers for the evenings, when it can feel more chilly, and for hiking in Teide National Park – as the temperature is lower at altitude. 

Average daytime high temperature: 23°C
Flight time: Around 4.5 hours from London
Currency: Euros 

Madeira, Portugal

If you’re planning an active winter break, put Madeira on your radar. The Portuguese island is known as ‘the land of eternal spring’ thanks to a mild, subtropical climate that keeps its leafy landscapes in bloom all year round. That means temperatures are mild rather than hot in December, and short showers aren’t uncommon, but conditions are ideal for winter walks without having to wrap up in thermals. Madeira also goes big when it comes to Christmas displays and decorations this month, especially in the capital, Funchal. 

Average daytime high temperature: 20°C 
Flight time: Around 3h 55m from London 
Currency: Euros  

Cape Verde islands

December sits firmly in Cape Verde’s dry season, so you can expect minimal rain, warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine on islands like Sal and Boa Vista. Steady trade winds make this a popular time for kitesurfing and windsurfing, and the sea water is warm enough for snorkelling and swimming. Just bear in mind that December is peak travel season, so it’s worth booking things like flights and accommodation in advance. 

Average daytime high temperature: 26°C
Flight time: Around 6h 15m to Sal or Boa Vista from London
Currency: Cape Verde escudo, although euros are widely accepted 

Barbados, Caribbean

December is the start of Barbados’ dry season, which runs to April, so it’s a popular time to visit the Caribbean island for winter sunshine. Temperatures can rise to 30°C towards the end of the month, sea temperatures are plenty warm enough for swimming, and rainfall is minimal – so most visitors head straight for one of the island’s white-sand beaches. If you’re here mid-month, don’t miss Carols by Candlelight – a Barbadian Christmas tradition held in the capital, Bridgetown.  

Average daytime temperature: 26°C
Flight time: Around 8h 55m
Currency: Barbadian dollars 

Looking for a holiday in the new year instead?

Take a look at some more of our recommendations for the best winter sun destinations.

Buying foreign currency with Marks & Spencer Travel Money

You can buy currency online for free collection from 580+ participating M&S stores, including Simply Food stores*. Got some leftover notes after your trip? Sell your currency back at an M&S Travel Money bureau**. 

*T&Cs apply. Subject to availability. **Sell-back only available at bureau locations.