The Best Sunny Places to Vacation in December
Depending on where you live, December can be a cold, dreary month, with chances of snow, hail and ice storms. There are parts of the world where the sun shines in December, though, affording those who live in colder climates the opportunity to get away to a warm and sunny environment. Some of the best sunny places to vacation in December can be found in the United States, in exotic foreign countries and on beautiful tropical islands around the world.
In the U.S.
When you think sunny places in December, Florida immediately comes to mind. Disney World in Orlando is a busy place in December because it offers warmth, as well as a taste of the holiday spirit throughout its theme parks. But other parts of Florida are just as warm and inviting, and a little less crowded. Sanibel Island, Fort Myers Beach, Naples, Venice and other areas along Florida's Gulf Coast offer vacationers warm, sunny beaches, crystal clear water and plenty of attractions to explore.
Beyond Florida, the desert areas of Arizona are among the best sunny places to vacation in December. They have boundless warm sunshine and plenty of things to see and do. The warm places to stay in Arizona are Scottsdale and Phoenix, where daytime temperatures in December hover around 75 to 80 degrees. While there, enjoy their health spas, nature walks, and a round of golf on world championship courses. The Grand Canyon is just a day-trip away.
Outside the U.S.
December means summer in some parts of the world. Such is the case in Australia and New Zealand, which have delightfully warm temperatures at that time of year. Sydney is a popular destination in Australia, as is Brisbane with its renowned beaches, theme parks and active nightlife. New Zealand is also noted for its spectacular beaches along its picturesque coastline.
Africa is another place where it's summer in December. Some of the best beach resorts in the world can be found in parts of Africa, including Diani, Malindi, Lamu and Mombasa in Kenya and Zanzibar in Tanzania.
It's warm in Dubai in the Middle East in December, with daytime temperatures ranging from 77 to 95 degrees. Jumeirah Beach, Aquaventure and Wild Wadi water theme parks, spas, professional golf courses and shopping are some of the popular vacation activities in this city in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is also known for its snorkeling, sailing and kayaking.
Other top sunny places to vacation in December include Acapulco, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico; Rio de Janeiro in Brazil; and the beaches of Costa Rica.
The Islands
An island paradise guarantees a sunny vacation spot in December. Hawaii has ideal temperatures year-round. The islands in the Caribbean also offer the ideal climate for sun and fun.
December in the Galapagos Islands and Barbados means sunny weather with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees. Other islands to consider for sun in December are the Canary Islands, Belize and the gorgeous beaches of Trinidad and Tobago.
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