Where’s hot in January? Long and short haul holiday destinations for 2025 winter sun

THERE is no better way to beat the January blues than heading off for some winter sun.

In case you are wondering where the holiday hotspots are, we've put together a list of five long and short haul destinations for you to choose from.

January in the UK can get bitterly cold, so why not book yourself in for a trip away to somewhere hot?

There are plenty of long-haul destinations like Barbados and Cancun and that feel the heat.

But there are also a number of European holiday hotspots that also get plenty of sunshine too.

Here are the best where you can still find temperatures as high as 30C

Cancun

Average temperature: 30C

This Mexican holiday hotspot remains around 30C even in January, making it perfect for a long-haul break.

Many tour operators offer cheap package deals to the Cancun resorts.

With its impressive sandy beaches and amazing Mexican food on offer, this will be a holiday to remember.

St Lucia

Average temperature: 28C

St Lucia is the perfect place to beat the winter blues.

This idyllic Caribbean island is filled with palm-shaded white sandy beaches and plenty of coves for swimming in.

St Lucia’s tropical landscape is filled with waterfalls, banana groves and rum shacks.

There is also the world’s only drive-in volcano for you to explore.

Maldives

Average temperature: 31C

If you're looking for luxury and idyllic surroundings, the Maldives is the place for you.

It is a popular destination thanks to its stunning beaches and perfect year-round weather.

The Maldives is heaven for both adventure-seekers and sun-worshippers.

Barbados

Average temperature: 29C

With the sparkling Caribbean sea and serene beaches, Barbados has something for everyone, including plenty of sunshine.

You can laze by the pool, or head out for an outdoor adventure and soak up the island's heritage and culture.

There is also snorkelling and surfing on offer in Barbados, as well as fabulous food, fine rum, partying and dancing.

Dominican Republic

Average temperature: 29C

The Dominican Republic will help beat the January blues and more.

It's a great place for outdoor activities like swimming, sunbathing and exploring the beaches. 

January is a sunny month, with nine hours of daily sunshine and lower humidity levels.

Costa Rica

Average temperature: 25C

If you're looking for an adventure as well as plenty of winter sun, head to Costa Rica.

This Central American country is a tropical paradise with a diverse landscape, abundant wildlife, and a variety of activities.

Costa Rica has a kaleidoscopic landscape with rugged coastlines, rainforests, lakes, mountains and active volcanoes.

Morocco

Average temperature: 25C

If you are looking for a holiday destination with cheap deals, year-round sunshine and plenty to do, Morocco might be the answer.

Just four hours from the UK, the country offers options for both city breaks and beach holidays.

Temperatures can reach 25C during winter, so it's safe to say the destination is excellent all year round.

Egypt

Average temperature: 19C

Egypt is a popular destination throughout the year, and a great place to go to get some winter sun.

It's not as far away as you may think, with flights averaging four hours and 40 minutes.

Beach locations in Egypt include Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, where tourists can take a dip in the famous Red Sea.

Lanzarote

Average temperature: 21C

Lanzarote is a popular choice for Brits seeking some winter sun close to home.

The sunny island maintains warm temperatures all year.

With highs of 21C and lows of 14C, Brits can jet off and enjoy some much warmer weather than the UK.

It's just a four hour flight away, so if you're looking to get some sun without having to travel too far, Lanzarote is a great choice.