Chasing the sun: where to go for sunshine, season by season

30 January 2026

If sunshine is non-negotiable when you travel, choosing the right destination at the right time makes all the difference. Some places are at their best when others are off-season, giving you warmer days, clearer skies, and a better overall experience. From southern-hemisphere summers to autumn escapes that keep the heat going, here’s where to plan your trip for sunshine throughout the year.

Chasing the sun: where to go for sunshine, season by season

Winter sun: Australia & South Africa

Winter in the UK lines up perfectly with summer in Australia, making it an easy choice for guaranteed sunshine. Queensland is a favourite at this time of year, particularly the Gold Coast and Port Douglas, where beach days, coastal walks, and scenic boat trips run all day long. Over in Western Australia, Perth combines bright skies with a relaxed city feel, while nearby beaches like Cottesloe are ideal for swimming and sunset dinners.

South Africa offers a different style of winter sun, mixing outdoor experiences with consistently clear days. Cape Town is a standout, with sunshine that suits everything from beach time in Camps Bay to cable-car rides up Table Mountain. The nearby Winelands are also at their best, with dry weather for vineyard visits and scenic drives, while the Garden Route is ideal for a slower-paced road trip along the coast.

Spring sunshine: Madeira & Dubai

Springtime is when Madeira feels effortlessly easy. Areas like Funchal and Calheta enjoy mild, sunny days that work well for exploring without the heat of summer. Walking routes along the island’s levadas are particularly enjoyable at this time of year, and the coastline offers plenty of spots for swimming and relaxed afternoons by the sea.

In Dubai, spring brings warm, sun-filled days without the intense summer temperatures. It’s the perfect season for beach clubs along Jumeirah, desert safaris just outside the city, and evenings spent dining outdoors. Resorts are in full swing, and it’s a great time to balance poolside downtime with sightseeing, from the Marina to the old districts along Dubai Creek.

Summer classics: Spain & the Greek Islands

Spain in summer delivers consistent sunshine and a pace that doesn’t slow down once the sun sets. The Costa del Sol is a reliable favourite, with resorts like Marbella and Estepona offering beaches, promenades, and plenty of alfresco dining. Further north, Alicante and the Costa Blanca combine city life with easy beach access, making them ideal for a classic summer escape.

Autumn sun: Southeast Asia & Mexico

A move into autumn in the UK signals the start of drier weather across much of Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. From October onwards, destinations such as Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui see calmer seas and more consistent sunshine, which makes a real difference for beach days, boat trips, and island hopping. In the cities, the shift in weather is just as noticeable. Bangkok and Hanoi are easier to explore once the heavier rains ease, with warm temperatures that suit sightseeing, food tours, and evenings spent outdoors. You still get the heat you’d expect from the region, but with fewer interruptions from sudden downpours, making autumn a practical and enjoyable time to travel.

In Mexico, autumn brings plenty of sunshine, especially along the Riviera Maya. Cancún and Playa del Carmen are popular for their beaches and resorts, while nearby Tulum offers a more laid-back feel with easy access to cenotes and ancient sites. It’s a great time to combine relaxation with day trips, enjoying warm temperatures without the peak-season crowds.

Want to get more sun in 2026? Speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

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4 of Europe's best high-altitude ski destinations

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