ooty places to visit in december

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• Ooty In December: Weather, What To Pack, And Family-Friendly Activities

26 Dec 2021

Are you planning to use your kid’s school break to catch up on some quality time with your child? Don’t let winter go by without taking your family on a great vacation. Ooty in December is a perfect choice for a family getaway because, as cliche as it may sound, it has something for everyone. You can start your day with a hike to Catherine Waterfall if you’re feeling adventurous, eat a lavish lunch at Club Mahindra, amuse your kids by taking the centuries-old Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train, and end your day by hogging on chocolates and other sweet treats at the flea markets.

Weather In Ooty In December

Winter season is peak tourist season in Ooty, with tourists coming from far and wide to enjoy the chill in the air. The weather in Ooty is December is pleasant enough to hike up to Dolphin’s Nose without breaking into a sweat. The chances of getting sunlight are low since the days are usually foggy, cloudy or both. The maximum temperature in Ooty in December is 22 degrees celsius and the maximum temperature is 9 degrees celsius.

7 Things To Do In Ooty In December

From catching picturesque sunsets to boating in the pristine lakes, here are 7 things to do in Ooty in December with your family:

1. Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train – Take Scenic Shots

We suggest you board the Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train to make your Ooty tour more memorable. Since 1908, people have been travelling through the single track railway. It moves through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges and 208 curves. Try to get a seat on the right side of the train for excellent views while going through Mettupalayam-Coonoor-Ooty and on the left side of the train for the other way round.

Route covered: Kallar, Lovingdale, Wellington, and Coonoor Time taken: 5 hours uphill and 3.5 hours downhill

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2. Higginbothams Book Store – Stock English Books

It didn’t take very long for Higginbothams Book Store to become the preferred bookstore for the locals of Ooty. You can buy everything here. From literary and scientific publications to the latest romantic novels, there’s no dearth of genres at this bookstores. If it isn’t on the shelves, you can order it from a catalogue. It is a delightful spot for both serious bookworms as well as those who want to casually browse.

Location: Super Market Complex, Commercial Road, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001 Opening hours: 9 AM – 1 PM, 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM (Monday – Sunday)

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3. Catherine Waterfall – Take A Dip

If you didn’t take a dip in the pool formed below Catherine Waterfall, what did you even do in Ooty in December? Sure, the water is bone-chilling and there’s a nip in the air, but a swim is welcome after a strenuous hike to the fall. After all, we deserve it, don’t we? It is the second highest waterfall in the Nilgiri Mountains and can be clearly seen from the top of Dolphin’s Nose.

Location: Tamil Nadu 643201 Opening hours: 9 AM – 6:30 PM (Monday – Sunday)

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4. Ooty Lake – Cycle Around

Ooty is among the country’s hottest biking locations, with hundreds of eager amateurs and scores of professional riders heading there yearly. The most rewarding route is Ooty Lake without a shadow of doubt. It presents everything you want for a brief biking break: a nice local weather and all kinds of terrain. Discover the shoreline or head inland seeking empty roads.

Opening hours: 9 AM – 6 PM (Monday – Sunday) Entry fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 560 for foreigners, INR 30 for still camera, INR 125 for video camera

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5. Toda Huts – Step Back In Time

There are a few Toda villages, or munds as they are called in their language, which contain the traditional grass and bamboo house lived in by their ancestors. These houses are called dogles. You must visit these UNESCO sites in Ooty in December. Stretching across the rolling hills of green, the entrance of the homes are so low that one feels like they would have to crawl to get inside.

Highlights: Dairy-temples that are the most sacred are typically built outside regular Toda settlements.

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6. Dolphin’s Nose – Meditate

It’s named so because the tip of its peak resembles a dolphin nose. With an altitude of 1,550 metres, this stunning viewpoint in Ooty allows a spectacular view of rolling hills covered with tea estates and morning mist stretching for miles and miles. The drive from Coonoor to Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint is particularly rewarding with aromatic tea estates and sharp hairpin turns.

Location: Dolphin’s Nose Road, Alwarpet, Burliyar, Tamil Nadu 643103 Timings: 9 AM – 6:15 PM (Monday – Sunday)

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7. Botanical Gardens – Take A Stroll

The Government Botanical Gardens is home to a 1000 varieties of rare trees such as monkey puzzle, cork, paper bark, plants, and medicinal herbs. What takes the cake though is a fossilised tree trunk that is estimated to be 20 million years old. Is your mind blown yet? Established in the 19th century, these twenty two hectare gardens are a living embodiment of the charm of Ooty in December.

Location: Vannarapettai, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643002 Entry fee: INR 40 for adults, INR 20 for children below 12 years of age

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What To Pack For Ooty In December

Our ultimate Ooty packing checklist will help you pack like a pro and prevent mishaps like forgetting a cardigan (or even worse, your passport):

1. Travel documents (copy of e-tickets, photo ID, hotel booking confirmation, offline map) 2. A backpack with a lock (for trekking purpose) 3. A raincoat or an umbrella 4. Woollen clothes and thermals 5. Trekking shoes 6. A stainless steel bottle (say no to plastic) 7. Mosquito repellent (if required) 8. Toiletries and a first aid kit

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Ooty in December turns into a beautiful winter wonderland, thanks to fresh snowfall. Its surreal views and wintery landscapes will take your breath away. Just a disclaimer, you may never want to leave! Take your family on a trip of a lifetime by planning a trip to Ooty with TravelTriangle. The earlier you book, the more exciting discounts and deals you can avail. Hurry!

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ooty In December

What is Ooty famous for?

Ooty is perfect for planning family trips. It is because you can enjoy whatever you want to with the most beautiful weather to the scenic beauty of the toy train and marvellous waterfall of Catherine, this place is one of the best tourist places.

When is the perfect time to pay a visit to Ooty?

One of the best months in which travelers can think about visiting Ooty in December. December is one of the most magnificent months which invades the best weather for enjoyment.

What are the things to keep when you are visiting Ooty for the first time?

With all the basic things for yourself, one should not forget to carry a backpack for trekking, travelling documents, an umbrella or raincoat, thermals and winter clothes, shoes for trekking and many more things.

What should not be missed when visiting Ooty?

One should not miss the beauty of Catherine’s waterfall, botanical gardens, meditation at dolphin’s nose, Toda huts for getting into the ancient way of living, etc.

What is the temperature of Ooty in December?

As already mentioned, December will be a perfect blend of winter and monsoon. At maximum, there will be 22-degree centigrade and minimum as 9-degree centigrade.

Which activity holds the most significance in Ooty?

Hiking is the most significant activity at Ooty. You will enjoy the happiness while trekking in the mountains in December.

Why Ooty is preferred?

Ooty is preferred as the best location for the trip by most of the fun-loving families because it is one of the best family-friendly places to visit in.

How many days are enough to spend in Ooty?

For covering all the tourist places, 2 days are enough in Ooty. The travelers can plan their trip in the same way.

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Things to do in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December

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Looking for a different month?

December is a less popular time to visit Ooty (Udhagamandalam) . The weather is usually pleasantly warm, humid but cool, with temperatures ranging from 62—82°F (17—28°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Tribal Research Center and Museum, visit the St. Stephen's Church for the Christmas celebrations, go birdwatching at the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and more!

Ooty (Udhagamandalam) has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Ooty (Udhagamandalam). Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December

Top experiences in december, visit the tribal research center and museum, visit the st. stephen's church for the christmas celebrations, go birdwatching at the nilgiri biosphere reserve, go on a picnic at pykara lake and waterfalls, go on a trek to doddabetta peak, explore the botanical gardens, take a ride on the nilgiri mountain railway, holidays in ooty (udhagamandalam) in december.

• Christmas ( December 25 )

Other notable holidays

• Guru Nanak Jayanti ( November 15 )
• Lohri ( January 13 )
• Republic Day ( January 26 )
• Ramadan Start ( March 2 )
• Holi ( March 14 )
• Dolyatra ( March 14 )
• Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar ( March 31 )
• Rama Navami ( April 6 )
• Mahavir Jayanti ( April 10 )
• Ambedkar Jayanti ( April 14 )
• Good Friday ( April 18 )
• Buddha Purnima/Vesak ( May 12 )
• Bakrid/Eid ul-Adha ( June 7 )
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December

Temperatures on an average day in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December

The average temperature in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 82°F (28°C) to a low of 62°F (17°C). Some would describe it as pleasantly warm, humid but cool.

For comparison, the hottest month in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) , March, has days with highs of 95°F (35°C) and lows of 68°F (20°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 86°F (30°C) and lows of 60°F (16°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December based on historical data.

Visiting Ooty (Udhagamandalam)? See our Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in December

General weather summary, what to wear in december, best attractions for ooty (udhagamandalam) in december.

Popular road trips from Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

What's the weather like in ooty (udhagamandalam).

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in January
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in February
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in March
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in April
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in May
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in June
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in July
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in August
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in September
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in October
• Weather in Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in November

All road trips from Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Bengaluru drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Kochi (Cochin) drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Munnar drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Mumbai drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to New Delhi drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Hyderabad drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Kodaikanal drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Kalpetta drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Jaipur drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Pondicherry drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Coimbatore drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Madikeri drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Madurai drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Thekkady drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Agra drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Pune drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Udaipur drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Mahabalipuram drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Kathmandu drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Hampi drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Yercaud drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Panjim drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Kanyakumari drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Rameswaram drive
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) to Alappuzha drive

Explore nearby places

• Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
• Bandipur National Park
• Mettupalayam
• Booluvampatti
• Karuvarakundu
• Vaduvanchal
• Sultan Bathery
• Kolagapaara
• Chamarajanagar
• Chamrajnagar
• Kakkadampoyil
• Seerapalayam

All related maps of Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

• Map of Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
• Map of Coonoor
• Map of Gudalur
• Map of Masinagudi
• Map of Kotagiri
• Map of Mudumalai
• Map of Bandipur
• Map of Bandipur National Park
• Map of Mettupalayam
• Map of Booluvampatti
• Map of Karuvarakundu
• Map of Bannari
• Map of Coimbatore
• Map of Nilambur
• Map of Mannarkkad
• Map of Vaduvanchal
• Map of Wandoor
• Map of Sultan Bathery
• Map of Kolagapaara
• Map of Kidanganad
• Map of Meppadi
• Map of Chamarajanagar
• Map of Meenangadi
• Map of Chamrajnagar
• Map of Kakkadampoyil
• Map of Seerapalayam
• Map of Vellinezhi
• Map of Palakkad
• Map of Pulpally
• Map of Kalpetta
• Map of Chundale

Ooty (Udhagamandalam) throughout the year

• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in January
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in February
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in March
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in April
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in May
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in June
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in July
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in August
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in September
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in October
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in November
• Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Ooty (Udhagamandalam)?

Get inspired for your trip to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Itinerary
• 2-Day Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Itinerary
• 3-Day Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Itinerary
• 4-Day Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Itinerary
• 5-Day Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
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• Auto-import hotels and reservations
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• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• What to do in Ooty in December 2024

Why you should visit Ooty in December

Ooty weather in december, ooty events in december.

• Ooty's top places to visit in December

Flights, tours, and hotels in Ooty

Video guide.

Visiting Ooty in December offers a magical experience as the hill station is transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland. The pleasant weather, lush greenery, and a myriad of holiday festivities make it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating and joyful vacation.

In December, Ooty experiences a beautiful winter climate with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 22°C. The days are pleasantly cool, perfect for exploring the town, while the nights can get chilly, creating a cozy atmosphere for bonfires and warm beverages.

Winter Festival

Embrace the festive spirit at the Winter Festival, showcasing Ooty ‘s rich culture through traditional dance performances, handicraft exhibitions, and mouthwatering local cuisine. The festival creates a vibrant atmosphere that captivates both locals and tourists.

Christmas Celebrations

Immerse yourself in the joyous Christmas celebrations in Ooty , marked by colorful decorations, lively carol singing, and the scent of aromatic spices filling the air. Experience the warmth of the season as the town comes alive with festive cheer.

New Year’s Eve Gala

End the year in style at Ooty ‘s New Year’s Eve Gala, featuring exciting events, live music, and spectacular firework displays. Join locals and visitors alike in bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new with enthusiasm and revelry.

Ooty’s top places to visit in December

Ooty botanical gardens.

The Ooty Botanical Gardens are a treat for nature enthusiasts, boasting a diverse collection of exotic plants and vibrant flowers. Stroll through the serene landscapes and revel in the tranquil ambience, making it a perfect escape from the bustling city life.

Doddabetta Peak

Embark on a trek to Doddabetta Peak for awe-inspiring panoramic views of the mist-clad Nilgiri Mountains. The breathtaking sight of the surrounding valleys and lush foliage during December creates a mesmerizing experience that’s truly unforgettable.

Indulge in a serene boat ride at Ooty Lake, where the tranquil waters and verdant surroundings offer a peaceful respite. In December, the lake exudes a captivating charm, providing a soothing backdrop for moments of relaxation and reflection.

Tea Factory and Museum

Explore the Tea Factory and Museum to delve into the history and art of tea production in Ooty . Witness the tea-making process firsthand and savor aromatic brews, encapsulating the essence of the region’s renowned tea culture.

For an authentic experience, don’t miss the opportunity to savor Ooty’s renowned homegrown chocolates and freshly brewed teas, perfect for gifting or indulging.

Tours in Ooty

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Places to Visit in Ooty | Top Ooty Tourist Sightseeing Places

Ooty, the Queen of Hill stations, welcomes you with mesmerising meadows, soothing environment, cool weather and a wide array of sightseeing places to visit and admire. Each tourist attraction in Ooty promises a unique and lively experience that will leave you in awe for many days to come. However, if you are wondering what to do in Ooty and what to see in Ooty then have a look at the various sightseeing places that we have mentioned below. With these interesting tourist places to see in Ooty, you can be sure of having a memorable Ooty tour.

You cannot go back from Ooty without spending time at the scenic Coonoor. Hence, we have also added all the popular places to visit in Coonoor that you can explore during your holidays in Ooty.

1. Avalanche Lake

• Recommended Duration: 2 Hours
• View details..

Located 28 km away from Ooty, Avalanche lake is a must visit when on Ooty Tour. This lake, beautifully lying amid the lush greenery of mountains and landscapes mesmerises every visitor. It was created due to a massive landslide somewhere around 1800s hence the name. It is popular for trout fishing and the required equipment for it can be taken from Trout hatchery. Along with exploring the surrounding areas and its rare flora and fauna, other activities that are popular here are camping, rafting and trekking to nearby hilly regions such as Upper Bhavani. It is also an ideal picnic spot.

2. Ooty Lake

One of the most important parts of every Ooty tour, Ooty lake is indeed a place to visit. nIt is an artificial lake that was built for fishing purposes. This lake is popular for boating. Tourists can be seen enjoying a refreshing ride on its serene waters. There is boating house located near the lake offering a wide array of boats on hire. Cycling by the side of lake is also worth experiencing. There are also a few shops located around the lake, selling various locally made items.

3. Emerald Lake

Located near the Emerald Village in the Nilgiri District, Emerald Lake lies in a place called as SIlent Valley. It is situated around 25 km away from Ooty. A beautiful lake offering an ideal place for picnic where you can relax and spend some quality time with your loved one. Tea plantation surrounding add on to the overall beauty of the lake. The view of sunrise and sunset from here is breathtaking and not to be missed.

4. Ooty Botanical Gardens

Maintained by the Horticultural Department of Tamil Nadu, Botanical Gardens of Ooty is undeniably one of the most popular places to see in Ooty. Spread over 55 acres of land, this garden is divided into five different sections such as Fern House, Lower Garden, Italian Garden, Conservatory and Nurseries. The flower show conducted here as a part of Ooty Summer festival is a major attraction. Another popular attraction of Botanical Garden is the Fossil Tree Trunk that is said to be around 20 million years old. The wide variety of plants here are worth exploring.

5. Deer Park

Located at a distance of 2 km from Ooty Lake, Deer Park is easily accessible by road. With its rich fauna along with varieties of deer such as Sambhar and the Chithal, Deer park makes up for an interesting visit, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. Equally rich is the variety of flora in this park. Spread across an area of 22 acres, this park was established in the year of 1986. It is one of the known wildlife sanctuaries of not only Tamil Nadu but of India presenting amazing opportunity to observe the wildlife and various animals from closer.

6. Doddabetta Peak

Located at an altitude of 2623 meters, Doddabetta Peak is the highest peak in the Nilgiris. At the junction of Western and Eastern Ghats, it is around 10 km away from Ooty. Covered by dense sholas, this peak is trekkers favourite point. The view fro the top of the peak is absolutely mesmerising, there is a telescope house at the peak with two telescopes presenting captivating view of the valley around. Rich flora and fauna here add on to the overall charm of Doddabetta Peak.

7. Kalhatty Waterfalls

About 13 km away from Ooty, on the Ooty-Mysore Road, Kalhatty Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls that you will see on an Ooty Tour. This waterfall can be reached via a trek of 2 mile from Kalahatti village. It is believed that great Hindu saint Agastya has once lived here. With its rich avian fauna, it is often visited by bird watchers as well. Its scenic beauty is sure to leave you spellbound.

8. Kamraj Sagar Dam

A popular place for picnics and film shooting, this dam is situated around 10 km from Ooty bus stand. Also known with the name of Sandynallah Reservoir, this dam offer peaceful environment with beautiful surrounding where tourists can spend some time at ease. Along with being a popular picnic spot, it is also visited by tourists for bird watching as well as for fishing. It is a popular site for researchers who come to study environment.

9. Mudumalai National Park

Connecting Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats, on the Ooty Mysore route, Mudumalai National Park is another place to visit by Nature lovers when on their tour to Ooty. This national park boasts of many wild animals and rich avian fauna along with equally rich flora. It has also been declared as a tiger reserve as it is home to approximately 50 tigers. If interested one can also find accommodation as many guest houses are offered by the Forest Department at different location of the park.

10. Mukurthi National Park

A part of Nilgiri Bio reserve, Mukurthi National Park promises a memorable time to everyone amid its enthralling scenic beauty and rich nature. Spread across 80 sq.km, this national park has various streams and rivers flowing through it, which in turn add to the overall attraction of this place. Many animals and birds can be spotted around these sources of water. There are also a few watch towers located inside the national park. It is a popular site for trekking as well.

11. Needle View Hillpoint/Needle Rock View-point

Located about 8 km from Gudalur, Needle Rock view-point presents a mesmerizing 360 view of the surrounding valley and areas. Gudalur is around 51 km from Ooty. Also known as Soochimalai, it is also a popular spot for trekking. This view point got its name as its shape resembles a needle. The view of clouds meeting hills, crossing you as you stand watching them is sure to take your breath away.

12. Ooty Rose Garden

Rose Garden is another popular place to visit in Ooty. Maintained by Government of Tamil Nadu, this garden is spread across 4 hectares of land and proudly presents more than 20 thousand variety of roses. A well maintained garden, it also boasts of winning Garden of Excellence Award for South Asia from the World Federation of Rose Societies. The unparalleled beauty of roses promises a visual treat and an ideal backdrop for photography.

13. Ooty Toy Train

A part of Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Toy Train is a an integral part of every Ooty Tour. It runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor. The ride in this historical toy Train is unmatched to any other train ride; passing through lush green landscapes and breathtaking nilgiri mountains, this train runs on a track of 46 km. There are first class and second class coaches to choose from.

14. Tribal Research Center

Situated around 10 km away from Ooty, Tribal Research Center presents a glimpse into the live of indigenous people. Along with researching into the lives of tribal tribes of SOuth India, it also houses a well stocked library. It also a museum displaying artefacts. Easily accessible by road, this place is an ideal place to understand the lives of local people.

15. Parsons Valley Reservoir Ooty

As the name suggest Parson valley reservoir is located in Parson valley, which is spread over an area of 200 hectares at an altitude of 2,196 meters above sea level. Situated on the Ooty Mysore road, it can be reached via road. This hydel reservoir can be entered after getting a permission from the forest department. It is the primary source of water to the Nilgiri District. The view of the valley around the reservoir is worth travelling for.

16. Pykara Waterfalls

Situated on the Ooty Mysore road, this waterfall is around 20 km away from Ooty. Developed as a picnic spot, this place is ideal to come and relax while admiring the scenic beauty of the waterfall and greenery around. There is boat house and a restaurant can be found also near the waterfall, where you can enjoy snacks while the beauty of pristine streams of water mesmerises you. The surrounding area is also popular for Toda settlements.

17. St Stephens Church

Dating back to 19th century, St. Stephan Church is a place to visit in Ooty for its architectural beauty and religious importance. Although comparatively simpler, this church has beautiful interiors. The painted glass windows along with the painting of Last Supper is especially captivating.It is said that the timber used in the construction of thsi chruch was brought from Srinangapatna as well as from the Tipu Sultan Palace.

18. Ooty Stone House

The first bungalow which was built in Ooty is the Stone House. It was constructed by John Sullivan in 1822. Used to be called as Kal Bungalow by the locals, it was built on the land which was brought from the Toda people. Its an ancient architecture is worth seeing. Many tourists visit this place to have a glimpse of this bungalow.

19. Toda Huts Ooty

One of the most attractive and unique sightseeing places in Ooty are the Toda Huts. These are the residing place for the Toda people, one of the indigenous tribes of Ooty. The huts are made in the shape of a semi-barrel. These huts don’t have any windows and very low doors where one has to stoop and enter. While once you are inside the hut there is space to stand as well. This close-knit community of Toda people mostly depend on cattle herding and farming for living.

20. Wax World Ooty

Located at a distance of 2 km from center of the town, Wax World is definitely as place to see in Ooty. Many real-like statues of great Indian personalities have been displayed here. Some of the statues at this museum are of Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mother Teresa, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, late Dr.A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and many more. Replica of local people and their living styles has been been displayed here.

21. Wenlock Downs Ooty

Over 80 acres of lush green landscapes also housing Hindustan Photo Films Company presents vast spread of greenery and calm environment. A walk here, amid the soothing touch of nature and its calm surroundings with nothing but the sound of birds and leaves hustling as the wind passes by, is something that will make your Ooty tour complete. The sight of sheeps grazing and long stretch of eucalyptus trees is sure to mesmerise you.

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Home › Ooty Blog › Places to visit during December in Ooty

Places to visit during December in Ooty

With the holiday season, underway and the festivals & christmas are just near, December is the ideal time to plan your trip. With the several numbers of festivals and events in December, selecting the destination is a great confuse.

Ooty being one of the renowned tourist destinations in South India is a perfect place to enjoy your vacation. Also if you are planning to visit Ooty in December month, make sure that you do the train and flights bookings in advance. December offers a heavenly climate and makes the hill station a peak time for tourism. December is one of the best times of year to inflict as there is no rain in this month. The temperature in December ranges from 5 degrees to 10 degrees. The night is bit cold but the days are lovely and pleasant. Days will be sunny and nights will be little frosty. Better to carry some warm stuff clothes with you. Ooty is very attractive in all months; winters can be chilly with ice forming.

What next check all must visit places in Ooty for your trip

       Ooty is blessed with nature's most beautiful creations which make the place heavenly for tourists. There are many places to visit in Ooty. The Gardens are enchanted for nature lovers. Several tea estates and sparkling lakes like Ooty lake, Pykara Lake, Kamaraj Sagar dam, Bellikal lake are some renowned sightseeing in Ooty which adds beauty to your vacation. There are also other Ooty attractions like Mudumalai National Park, Mukurthi National Park, Pandian Park, Deer Park, Wax world; Thread Garden equally attracts tourists with its unique beauty.

      Amidst the rich green mountains and valleys of Ooty, Hotels in Ooty provide the rooms with a beautiful view. From Luxury to budget hotels, the Ooty town has plenty of accommodation options at reasonable rates. As December is a second season and also festivals are in this month the hotel will charge the season tariff. The last week during Christmas and New Year are little crowded. Many of the hotels will conduct the events in the dates 31st December night and January 01st.

       December month is a peak time for tourism activities in Ooty. You can indulge in several things to do in Ooty during this month. Nilgiri Toy train ride one of the must things to do in Ooty. The eye-catching view through the woods, mountains and valleys with the "Heritage Train" ride make an excellent trip. Ooty is a hometown to some of the most terrific adventure activities. You can opt for trekking, hiking, angling, camping, cycling, with your family and friends in December. But make sure you are fully covered when you opt for this activity in December month. Boating you can avail either in Ooty Lake or Pykara Lake. There are a variety of boats available according to your wish you can opt. Without the shopping and eating your Ooty trip will not be complete. You can get chocolates, Medicinal oils, Nilgiri tea and other items. For eating, there are many Local restaurants available which offer vegetarian dishes, non-vegetarian meals.

Therefore picking Ooty as a vacation gateway is the best way to enjoy your trip.

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Is December good time to visit Ooty - Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Forum

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Is December good time to visit Ooty

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Are temperatures really low, as mentioned in this thread ? I see the weather forecast is ususally ~10*c (min). Which place is better to stay for the night - Ooty or Coonoor ?

December should be pretty cold.

Thanks for your reply. I am planning to visit in the first week of December.

Ooty is better choice...have proper jackets and woolen cloths to beat the cold

Can anyone tell me , what is the gate closing time of Bandipur check point while returning from ooty to bangalore.

Any one visited recently?

Many thanks. My plan is visit 4nights during Christmas. Nandan

Can u suggest me a good place to stay In ooty...

Yes those who want to enjoy the weather, the best place to stay is sterling resorts fern hills.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Where is hot in December? Our top 13 destinations

By Sarah James

As the cold takes firm hold of Europe , sun seeking generally requires a longer flight. True, there are spots closer to home with the good grace to linger around 20°C, but winter provides an excellent excuse for a far-flung getaway, when a powerful and prolonged dose of vitamin D is practically prescribed. Hot cities in Africa and Australia will come alive this month, as their summers finally arrive, while tropical islands and unsung corners of the world will hit their peak. See below for our edit of where is hot in December. For more travel inspiration, see our guide to the best winter sun destinations and the best holiday destinations in December .

Average December temperature : 26°C

The seven hour-flight from London to Dubai can just about be classed as medium-haul, while the time difference between the two is a jet-lag-free four hours – but this desert city in the Middle East feels worlds away from chilly England in December. Sure, there’s the glitzy side of Dubai – its mega-malls and skyscraping hotels are decked out in festive lights and ginormous trees for the season – but there’s a more laidback side to the city, too. Life’n One is a hidden yoga retreat for those hoping to end the year on a healthy note, while cultural hub Alserkal Avenue is a great place to escape the heat in arthouse cinemas and indie galleries.

Where to stay: Forget the glitz and glam, this cool new un-Dubai hotel is 25hours Hotel One Central , a hub for creatives, digital nomads, and those in the know. If you're here to venture to the pool and nothing more, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is a great option, especially for families. For a stay that’s unlike anything else in Dubai, book a room at the secluded five-room hotel and spa Al Faya Lodge an hour east of the city. See our edit of the best hotels in Dubai for more.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Average December temperature : 21°C

We called it ‘the surprisingly cool Canary island ’, but we weren’t talking about the weather. The fact that Lanzarote resides off Africa’s west coast means that even in December it’s still fairly sane to take a dip. Avoid the package hordes and head to fine, white-sand Papagayo Beach on the southern tip of the island, or try world-class surfing in north-west Famara. In fact, more surprises lie in store the further you stray from the tourist hotels. There’s the Jardín de Cactus in Guatiza, a surreal succulent amphitheatre; or starkly alluring Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic wilderness that starred in 1966 film One Million Years BC. And don’t forget Finca Malvasia , a seductive ranch-like retreat in the central wine region, owned by a pair of designers who swapped London for island life. After wintering in Lanzarote, you might just join them.

Where to stay: La Cabaña , a slick and earthy villa with a quote-mark-shaped swimming pool and views down to Puerto Calero. For more, check out our list of the best villas in Lanzarote .

Bali, Indonesia

Average December temperature : 27°C

It’s one of South-east Asia ’s winter-sun kingpins for good reason – tropical Bali ’s lush rainforest and white-sand beaches tick all the boxes when it comes to a warm-weather escape. Once-scrappy beach town Canggu draws Indonesia 's thriving digital-nomad crowd, along with blissed-out surfers, while artists’ village Ubud is a hub for those seeking a more spiritual getaway.

Where to stay: Teetering on a high clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean on Bali’s southern coast, Six Senses Uluwatu is a wellness retreat that gets it just right. In Canggu, we like The Slow , a 12-room bolthole with an achingly cool cocktail of art, music and interior design. Riverside jungle hideout Capella Ubud feels like an African tented camp from the 19th century and makes an ideal base that avoids any desert-island clichés. If you're travelling in a group, Bali has some incredible villas and Airbnbs, like Laputa Villa which sleeps four and is widely known as "The Bamboo Castle in the Sky." For more, see our pick of the best Bali hotels .

Marrakech, Morocco

Average December temperature : 20°C

When winter is in full flow, don’t underestimate the power of a three-and-a-half-hour flight to another world. Yes, Marrakech is hectic, but a recent influx of design hotels – most of them reimagining glorious, red-brick riads – means there’s always somewhere more sedate to escape to. Alternatively, take up residence in a palace: La Mamounia , a grande dame of landscaped gardens, fountains, opulent tiles and velvets, is a card-carrying member of our best hotels in the world Gold List . Or book a stay at Royal Mansour , the city's most lavish hotel, which proves you needn’t plunge into the medina madness outside to get the best of Marrakech.

Where to stay: As we mentioned above there are no shortage of hotels in Marrakech . For a traditional riad stay, Riad Goloboy is a feast for the eyes (and Instagram) with kaleidoscopic walls and a gallery-worthy art collection.

Average December temperature : 24°C

The city’s year-round warm weather comes into its own in December, when the beach parties continue while other sun spots – we’re looking at you, California – pull on a sweater. For a calmer vibe, try the less-developed northern end of Miami Beach. It’s here that chef Thomas Keller serves elegant classics (oysters, steak tartare, lobster thermidor) at the landmark The Surf Club, among potted palms and white-coated waiters who evoke the spot’s history as the go-to of the 1950s jet set. Better yet, the recently extended, hacienda-style Four Seasons is here (Elizabeth Taylor and Wallis Simpson count among former guests). Refined might not be the word typically associated with Miami, but let this breath of fresh air change your mind.

Where to stay: Miami Beach Edition sits inside the skeleton of the Seville, one of the giant 1950s hotels, with nods to the past, a connection to the city's heritage and a bar with uninterrupted ocean views.

Bahamas, Caribbean

It’s peak season in the Bahamas , and while that will certainly keep the beaches busy, it also means perfect weather. Our tip: strike out for Harbour Island, a three-mile-long, mile-and-a-half-wide sliver of sensational, pink-sand stretches, where there are always enough sunbeds to go around. Make camp at its smartest hotel, Bahama House , a chic cottage with retro Palm Beach vibes, a sunken tiki bar and just 11 rooms. It’s part of Eleven Experience, an experiential-travel specialist, you can also take advantage of custom adventures such as diving in secret grottoes or swimming with swines on Pig Beach.

Where to stay: Pelican Bay Hotel . Inside, waterside rooms combine Caribbean cheerfulness with classic European style. Outside, white-sand beaches, lush boulevards and beautiful seascapes.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is always a good idea, but particularly in December, when the fledgling South African summer sets beaches and vineyards aglow. The mere sight of beautiful crowds bronzing against its theatrical, cragged mountain backdrop will banish the winter blues in one blow. And just when you thought the Mother City’s raw good looks, smart art and design scenes and world-class food couldn’t get more appealing, it only goes and adds a pair of super-hot hotels, too.

Where to stay: The Silo , which is ingeniously set inside a former grain elevator house at the top of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa on the Victoria and Albert Waterfront. Also on our Gold List, Ellerman House is an imposing Edwardian mansion with smashing views of the Atlantic and one of the country’s finest private-art collections.

Auckland, New Zealand

Average December temperature : 22°C

Just like that low-and-slow New Zealand drawl, Auckland is a big, beautiful city that’s seldom in a hurry. Perhaps that’s what happens when there’s nature everywhere – rainforest-covered hills here; the glittering Hauraki Gulf there. And the notion that the affable country is somehow behind the times is rebuffed by the likes of the Britomart complex, a series of waterfront heritage buildings turned boutiques and restaurants, and Iko Iko, a fabulous concept store with fans such as Emilia Wickstead. Add in a ferry trip to nearby Waiheke Island’s sandy beaches and vineyard wine tastings and be totally converted to the Kiwi lifestyle.

Where to stay: Hilton Auckland is über-trendy retro futurism in a gleaming wharf shed redeveloped to resemble a cruise-liner.

Lauren Burvill

Darcie Imbert

CNT Editors

Sarah James

Merida, Yucatan Peninsula

Average December temperature : 31°C

Tulum , Cancún and Playa del Carmen are the seaside giants of the Yucatán in south-east Mexico , but head instead for the state capital of Mérida for the best of everything: Mayan ruins, a charming colonial town, dense jungle and – if you don’t mind a short drive – beaches, too. Best of all, there’s Chablé just outside the city, an astonishingly lush estate with a spa and private cenote, a restaurant led by renowned chef Jorge Vallejo, a tequila ‘library’, a sweat lodge and a local shaman. Plus it has 40 splashy, limestone-and-glass casitas, each one with its own terrace and pool.

Where to stay: Hacienda Xcanatun for marble mosaic and coral stone floors on the verandahs, exteriors are daubed in terracotta and cream, and rough-hewn rustic tables and hammocks hung between trees that give this 18th-century Italianate estate a lived-in feel.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Long the Shangri-La of feverish backpacker dreams, Koh Samui has grown up. Yes, its raison d’être remains pure pleasure – in the shade of three million coconut palms, and on its bone-white beaches – but the packaging is more Four Seasons, less ratty bungalow. Wellness has well and truly arrived here, with yoga studios, health retreats and even monk-led mentoring for those looking to make a real change. If, however, you just want a proper, idyllic tropical break, Panacea takes the cake. The former home of one of the world’s top hedge-fund managers, this sprawling hilltop estate features five enormous residences, 82ft swimming pools, a cinema, a nightclub – and even a Muay Thai boxing ring (tattooed instructor included).

Where to stay: Set high on a hill, Panacea has a mix of four-, five- or six-bedroom villas filled with tropical hardwoods, silk fabrics and petrified wood that’s over a million years old, plus there's a kids’ room, a private cinema, gambling den and nightclub. At COMO Point Yamu a 100-metre long white-tiled swimming pool shoots out towards the Andaman Sea. Tip-top service, zingy cuisine and a wondrous spa has made this Thai hotel a favourite with LGBTQ+ Thais and travellers.

No doubt, Havana is spectacular. But leaving Cuba ’s main drawcard to explore its steamy eastern mountains will bring you closer to a country that, in its isolation from modernity, has much to teach. In Baracoa, the mystical hangs like a heavy mist. The city, surrounded by the Cuchillas del Toa mountain range, is a world unto itself: streets infused with music, sleepy beaches and rivers and canyons where – yes, even here – you’ll stumble upon the odd thatched bar. At the very south of the island, Santiago de Cuba, with its palatial Spanish buildings by the sea, is set to be the next It destination, but for now remains thrillingly tourist-free.

Where to stay: Casa de Miriam y Sinai is a fantastic first-floor flat that is an oasis of calm and space, with three spacious rooms, one with a street-side balcony, are spotless and have top-drawer bathrooms.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne ’s erratic climate ensures it’ll never hold the beachy appeal of Sydney . But December’s summer temperatures are ideal for exploring the city’s beloved laneways: narrow passages packed with street art , galleries, restaurants and bars. It’s here that trends are set rather than followed; where a cup of coffee has both a caffeine kick and global acclaim. And in Australia ’s always dynamic second city, there’s never a shortage of new and miraculous places to explore. Currently it’s Di Stasio Città, Spring Street’s Brutalist Italian restaurant, where guests eat fabulous crab capellini in a concrete-bunker-like setting as video installations play across the walls.

Where to stay: Lindenderry at Red Hill , a silver-birch-lined drive leading to a white rural hideout, with comforting, pared-back style and a restaurant that uses the with best local produce.

Average December temperature : 30°C

There's a lot to love about Costa Rica. The awe-inspiring nature – two coastlines, Caribbean and Pacific, which have not only distinct landscapes but distinct vibes; rainforests; volcanoes; powerful waterfalls that crash into rivers. You can surf, raft or relax in natural hot springs, spot sloths, monkeys and thousands of species of birdlife. All of this, plus Costa Rica is consistently named one of the happiest countries in the world, as well as having a higher-than-average life expectancy. December to April are the best times to visit – you can expect dry, sunny days, perfect for exploring on your own terms.

Where to stay: Aguas Claras in Puerto Viejo, on the Caribbean coast has six cabanas and a handful of restaurants loved by locals. See our edit of the best Costa Rica hotels for more ideas.

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Places to visit in Ooty in 3 days

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Places To Visit In Ooty on Day 1

Nilgiri mountain railway.

Best of Bangalore

Rose Garden

Best of Coorg

Best of Munnar

Botanical Garden

Best of Wayanad

Needle View Hillpoint

Best of Chikmagalur

Mudumalai National Park

Best of Dandeli

Places To Visit In Ooty on Day 2

St. stephen’s church.

Best of Sakleshpur

Avalanche Lake

Best of Pondicherry

Best of Kodaikanal

Thread Garden

Best of Yelagiri

Kamraj Sagar Dam

Best of Yercaud

Ooty Boat House

Best of Coonoor

The Tea Factory and The Tea Museum

Best of Kabini

Places To Visit In Ooty on Day 3

Emerald lake.

Best of Horsley Hills

Doddabetta peak.

Best of Nagarhole

Dolphin’s Nose

Pykara Falls

Wax World Ooty

Mukurthi National Park

Camping By Tea Gardens Ooty

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Ooty Top Attractions

The Mudumalai national park happens to reside on the northwestern side of the great Nilgiri hills. It has been one of the most important wildlife corridors of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The national park is flourished with many other adjoining forests and wildlife reserves like the Mukurthi National Park, Silent Valley National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Bandipur National Park. The Mudumalai National Park is also referred to as the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. There are more than 48 tigers in the park and they are allowed to roam freely inside the park without any restriction. The National Park is not only a house to the elephants and tigers, but it is also home to countless other endangered wildlife species like amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and birds. As per the reports, more than 13% of the total mammal species in India is present in the Mudumalai National Park and more than 8% of birds find their home in the National Park. The National park has got a perfect balanced ecosystem. The National Park also houses various medicinal as well as rare plant species like Pongamia glabra, Mangifera indica, Dalbergia latifoli, Terminalia arjuna, Syzygium cumini and the bamboo. Visit this amazing place in your next holiday vacation and spend some time in the serene atmosphere.

Emerald Lake is located in Emerald Village  away from the hustle and bustle of a city, offering some peace and quiet so that you can relax in the lap of nature. That is because Emerald Lake is still pristine and less frequented compared to other places visited by tourists in South India every year. Travel enthusiasts visit Emerald Lake for its breathtaking scenic beauty such as the lush Nilgiri hills and the tea plantations surrounding the water body. With tea plantations surrounding Emerald lake, you can buy various tea products if you like.  The lake and its picturesque surroundings are a photographer’s paradise for taking beautiful photos of the landscape. Emerald Lake is also visited due to its stunning sunrise and sunset views, which is a bonus or takeaway for photographers.     It is an ideal picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. You can carry picnic baskets and some badminton gear when visiting this place.  The surrounding woods and blue lake-water are home to diverse flora and fauna. Take delight in watching some native birds including ducks and other aquatic animals. It is a bird watcher’s paradise, where you can spot them easily  without having to wait for a long time. Emerald Lake is also popular for activities like mountain biking and trekking down the lakeside. Again, if you are not much of an adventure-seeker, you can fish by the lake or sit with your favorite book and read in peace. 

Also known as the Ooty Boat House, Ooty Lake is one of the major attractions of Ooty, the queen of Nilgiris. Spread over a vast area of 65 acres, this lake was first constructed by John Sullivan way back in 1824. Made with the water flowing down from the mountain streams in Ooty, the lake was initially made solely for fishing. However, gradually it became more of a tourist attraction, and when it was taken over by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation in 1973, the lake was transformed into a tourist park and more attractions were built around it. Surrounded by groves of Eucalyptus and the Nilgiri ranges in the background, the Ooty Lake is one of the most serene and peaceful tourist attractions in Ooty. If you are lucky, you can also spot some rare birds near the lake. But it is not just the beauty of the lake that makes this place so popular - the fun activities for kids and adults alike are also a major crowd puller. Boating is a popular tourist activity at Ooty Lake. One can hire paddle boats, motorboats, and rowing boats from the boathouse in Ooty Lake and take a ride across the pretty lake. Kids can enjoy a joyful ride on the mini train and take a tour of the lake and the park. The amusement park that houses a haunted house, mirror house, and other fun activities like horse riding, is also loved by tourists that visit Ooty Lake.

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Best places to visit in december 2024.

Planning a vacation in December can feel overwhelming alongside holiday shopping and year-end festivities. But you'll thank yourself later if you squeeze in time for a trip before the new year. U.S. News considered prices, events, accessibility and seasonal crowds to decide the best places to visit in December. Whether you're seeking a warm-weather hideaway or want to experience the holiday spirit in a snow-covered town, you'll find it in these destinations. Vote for your favorite spot below to help decide next year's list.

London, England

U.s. virgin islands, french alps, torres del paine national park, hawaii - the big island, new york city, rio de janeiro, quebec city.

London is abuzz with holiday-themed activities in December. Holiday pop-ups transform attractions like Hyde Park and the London Zoo, while Christmas ballets and concerts take over the city's legendary entertainment scene. What's more, "Harry Potter" fans can opt for a festive tour during the Hogwarts in the Snow event at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Chilly temperatures in the 40s and rainy conditions mean it's the perfect time to don your coziest jumper. Plus, London's rainy day standbys like the Tower of London and the British Museum are typically less crowded at this time of year.

If you're seeking palm-fringed festivities without the need for a passport, look no further than the U.S. Virgin Islands. December is the start of the dry season in this Caribbean island chain, and average temperatures in the 70s and 80s are perfect for lounging on beautiful white sand beaches like Magens Bay or snorkeling in Virgin Islands National Park. Plus, you'll get a taste of the islands' vibrant culture during the Crucian Christmas Festival, which takes place on St. Croix at the end of the month. Partake in the merriment with parades, music competitions and more.

Snow-capped mountains, quaint villages and mouthwatering cuisine (much of which involves some form of melted cheese) make the French Alps a classic winter getaway. Most ski resorts open by early December, so you can get an early start on the slopes for the season, or just take part in the lively après-ski experience in iconic destinations like Val d'Isère and Chamonix. What's more, many villages like the châteaux-studded Annecy amp up the charm with cozy Christmas markets throughout the month. Winter in the Alps is never cheap, but try visiting earlier in the month before school holidays for the best room rates.

Make the trek to the Finnish Lapland for the ultimate Arctic experience. Finland's northernmost region promises a deep layer of snow all winter, perfect for skiing or sledding down the longest toboggan run in Europe. Most flights to this region land in Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man in red, step across the Arctic Circle or embark on a reindeer sleigh ride. Though you'll only see about four hours of daylight, this makes for prime conditions to view the dazzling aurora borealis from the comfort of one of the glass hotels in the region.

December is one of the most popular months to visit the Bahamas – and for good reason. By the time this month rolls around, the threat of hurricanes has passed, making it terrific time to enjoy the outdoors. Spend your days lounging on one of the Bahamas' many beaches, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear water or taking a boat tour to a private island . What's more, if you're visiting around the holidays, you'll catch the travel-worthy Junkanoo festival , which celebrates Bahamian culture with parades and festivities on Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Although Phuket, Thailand, offers a consistently warm climate year-round, its dry weather and calm water in December make this month a great time to visit. Plan on spending most of your time sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving and more at beautiful beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi. But remember, December falls within Phuket's peak tourist season, so you won't find many deals for flights and accommodations during this month. Avoid a holiday visit in late December for slightly better rates.

Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a backpacker's dream due to its breathtaking landscapes and unmatched preservation. The remote kingdom's focus on cultural and environmental sustainability means heritage sites like the cliff-clinging Paro Taktsang and the riverside Punakha Dzong are never overcrowded. But cooler winter temperatures (averages range from the 30s to the 60s, depending on elevation) mean you'll encounter even fewer tourists. While a trip to this intriguing destination won't be cheap, a low-season visit can drive down the price of lodging and tours.

Nestled in southern Chilean Patagonia, this national park offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hailed among hikers as one of the most scenic destinations in the world, the park is home to turquoise lakes and dense forests, plus massive Grey Glacier and the towering granite of Cuernos del Paine. December offers up to 17 hours of daylight, allowing plenty of time for extensive hikes. But even though December is part of Patagonia's peak summer season, temperatures drop dramatically after nightfall, so visitors will want to pack layers.

This Hawaiian paradise is the perfect place to escape winter's onset. Weary travelers can thaw on colorful beaches like Punalu'u Beach (which has beautiful black sand ) and Papakolea Beach (a unique green sand option), while more adventurous types can go for a hike in 'Akaka Falls State Park or catch a glimpse of the more than 4,000-foot-tall Kilauea volcano at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. You'll likely contend with other snowbirds in December, but you'll find that hotel prices on the Big Island are still consistently lower than those on neighboring isles.

If Old Man Winter has you dreaming of warming things up, consider a trip to the Spice Island. Grenada, a tiny island in the Caribbean known for its aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, boasts steady temps in the 80s. And since December sits just between the rainy season and high tourism season, it's the perfect time to catch some rays without the crowds (or cost) of the months to come. Spend your days lounging on Grand Anse Beach or sampling the island's rich flavors at local markets or the House of Chocolate.

It's not surprising that dozens of holiday movies are set in New York. Dazzling sights like the iconic Christmas tree and ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center, decked-out window displays at Macy's and horse-drawn carriages in Central Park conjure up holiday cheer throughout the city. And while this metropolis offers plenty to do throughout the year, festive shows, Christmas-themed pop-up experiences and even the nip in the air make December one of New York's most magical months. Just be prepared for a bit of sticker shock; the holiday season is also one of the most popular (and expensive) times of year to visit.

If you're willing to brave the cold, travel to Prague for a fun and festive winter vacation. The city turns into a winter wonderland in December, with snow-dusted buildings and Christmas markets selling everything from locally made jewelry to toys to Christmas ornaments. Those with little ones in tow should try to arrive in early December when the annual St. Nicholas Eve event takes place. During this traditional celebration, you'll see Czechia's version of St. Nick, along with his angel and devil guides, hand out candy and other treats as they walk around the city.

While the Northern Hemisphere transitions to winter in December, Rio de Janeiro enters its peak summer season. And although this is one of the wettest times of the year here, you'll still enjoy optimal warmth and mostly sunny conditions. As such, there will be plenty of opportunities to see must-visit sights like the Christ the Redeemer statue or Sugarloaf Mountain. If you're keen on experiencing Rio's lively party scene during your visit, be sure to time your trip around Réveillon. This popular New Year's Eve celebration on Copacabana Beach draws millions of people annually with its music, dancing and fireworks.

The holiday season in Germany's fourth largest city can only be described as magical. Cologne hosts a handful of Christmas markets, including the popular Advent village at Cologne Cathedral, which boasts 150 stalls. When you're not taking in the city's imposing architecture or getting into the jovial spirit with a glass of Kölsch beer (a Cologne original), pop into Museum Ludwig to view modern art or the Chocolate Museum for tasty samples. Combat the dreary weather – average highs are in the low 40s and rain is common – by soaking away the chill at a thermal spa such as Neptunbad or Claudius Therme.

It's easy to fall in love with this Canadian destination, especially when it's covered in fresh snow. You'll be enchanted by Old Québec's sights and sounds as it transforms into a Christmas village. Shop for gifts (or for yourself) in Quartier Petit-Champlain, home to one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. Plus, with its 17th- and 18th-century architecture, French-speaking Quebec City allows you to soak up European culture without dropping the cash for a flight across the pond. Just be sure to bundle up; temperatures can drop to the single digits in December.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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Leavenworth

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32 Warm Places to Visit in December in USA (Best Spots to Escape the Cold)

Posted on Published: August 10, 2022  - Last updated: October 7, 2023

There’s nothing quite like a warm getaway to escape the cold, dreary weather. The USA has some pretty incredible vacation spots that are perfect for winter. Feel the sunshine at these amazing destinations: warm places to visit in December in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

To find warmth in the USA in December, you’re pretty much heading south. From island vacations to coastal destinations and deserts, there’s so many beautiful and adventurous places to beat the cold.

This list of warm places to visit in USA in December includes spots you’ve definitely had on your radar – but perhaps more intriguing are the underrated places you haven’t heard of!

Whether you’re looking for a vacation destination to get outdoors and active instead of cooped up, a perfect location to spend your holiday break, or you’re just looking for the best beach to visit in December, you’ll find a bit of everything on this list!

Map of the best warm places to visit in USA in December

From Hawaii to Florida, there’s so many ideas on this list! Use this map as a visual of the destinations, then check out the photos and tips below on what to do in each location.

By the way, since I’m actively crossing places off my bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some fellow travel writers to help with this list.

Let’s get to it!

Must-see video: best warm December vacation ideas

Warm places to visit in December in USA

Starting this list off with a bang! When all you want in December is warmth, these are the perfect vacation destinations for you!

1. St Croix, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 82, low 72

Wishing for warmer temps in December? Well St. Croix might just be the perfect spot for your winter getaway! The largest and least visited of the US Virgin Islands, St. Croix is an tropical oasis while escaping the cold.

Just at the start of the dry season, December is a perfect time to visit St. Croix. It’s a festive time of year with Christmas events and festivals across the island, including the Crucian Christmas Festival .

If you’re looking for the perfect beach in December on St. Croix, then Sandy Point Beach is it! Open on the weekends, it’s a National Wildlife Refuge, and one of the longest beaches in the US Virgin Islands. It’s closed during sea turtle nesting season, typically April through August, so December is the perfect time to visit!

For a true taste of the Caribbean, visit a rum distillery. St. Croix is home to Captain Morgan Rum Distillery and Cruzan Rum Distillery. Or, visit one of the 150+ sugar mill ruins on the island to soak in some history.

Other popular activities are hiking for those turquoise water views, taking a day trip to Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge and visiting Fort Christiansvaern.

There’s so many things to do in St. Croix, you won’t get bored! It’s one of the very best warm places to visit in USA in December, and one you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Monterey, California (one of my favorite warm US destinations in December)

Average temp:  high 61, low 45

One of the ‘coolest’ warm places to visit in December in USA is Monterey, California. Known for it’s mild temperatures year-round, it’s a great spot for a winter getaway.

December is especially a great time to visit Monterey because the marine fog has mostly dissipated , versus the summer or early fall when it’s still lingering around. Crowds are fewer and prices are reduced, which is awesome for enjoying the area attractions.

Monterey is home to one of the United States best marine sanctuary, making it one of the best spots in the US for wildlife viewing ! Take a kayak tour of the Monterey Bay or witness seals and sea otters in their native habitats at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve .

Spend a day – or more experiencing Big Sur and one of the best scenic drives in the US, just south of Monterey. There are so many things to do in Big Sur that you’ll find something you love! Chase waterfalls, relax on beaches or get active on a hiking trail with incredible views of the coast.

Be sure to visit Cannery Row where you’ll find shopping, dining and plenty of entertainment options for all ages. It’s home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the best things to do with kids in Monterey.

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

San Juan is a must on any  Puerto Rico itinerary , no matter when you vacation, but December is a particularly wonderful time to visit. Hurricane season is officially over, and daytime temperatures are in the low 80s, making is a great time to explore and hit area beaches.

The holidays are celebrated with verve all through the month. Old San Juan, the city’s historic district, is decked up in holiday lights and nativity scenes.

Enjoy Puerto Rican eggnog, an alcoholic concoction made with rum, coconut milk, and sweet spices. You’ll also find live music in the streets, and, leading into Christmas, folks singing Christmas carols at night. Very festive!

December is also perfect for sightseeing. Be sure to visit the historic forts of Old San Juan, and walk the colorful alleys to snap photos of the beautiful facades. 

The balmy weather makes December a great time to spend time of the many idyllic beaches in San Juan and just beyond , from the beaches of Isla Verde to Luquillo. For more beach time, plan on a day trip to Culebra Puerto Rico or Icacos Island ! If you’re looking for unique experiences, consider the Bioluminescent Bay, as reviewed in the battle of Culebra vs Vieques .

It’s also a great time to visit El Yunque, the tropical rainforest near San Juan. Hike amidst lush vegetation and waterfalls and take in the views from the observation tower. 

Hotel El Convento is a great place to stay in Old San Juan! It’s housed in a beautiful historic building. 

Recommended by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

4. Maui, Hawaii

Average temp:  high 80, low 66

If you’re looking for the best winter sun destinations, look no further than Maui. Home to incredible scenery like gorgeous beaches, tropical rainforests with beautiful waterfalls and epic adventures, Maui is an awesome place to visit!

It’s especially great in December because the rainy season hasn’t hit yet and the crowds of summer are gone, making it more affordable and more enjoyable. If you go in the first 2 weeks of December, you’ll avoid the holiday pricing.

Be sure to relax on Maui’s beautiful beaches! For year-round snorkeling fun, Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach is a must. Don’t forget your snorkel gear so you can go when you want! Or, watch the surfers at D.T. Fleming Beach on the North Shore.

If you’re looking for adventure, hike the Waihee Ridge Trail . You’ll get epic views of the valley and coast. Just be sure to wear hiking shoes for this one – the trail can get muddy after it rains.

And if you’re up for a road trip, driving the popular Road to Hana is one of the best road trips USA and an experience you’ll never forget. Be sure to make it to Wai’ānapanapa State Park and see the black sand beach (reservations required).

Side note: if you’re really into unique beaches, a must-see is the Black Sand Beach Vieques in Puerto Rico. So stunning!

Anyway, for a more remote drive, consider the Kahekili Highway. This one-lane road offers stunning views and adventure like hiking, waterfalls and more.

Maui is an ideal destination for the best beaches in December, and one you’ll definitely want to consider!

5. St. George, Utah

Average temp:  high 56, low 31

One of the most unique spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is St. George, Utah. Nestled on the southwest corner of the state, it’s just minutes away from Arizona and Nevada.

A great launching spot for a Utah national parks road trip, St. George is located about an hour west of Zion National Park. You could certainly take a day trip to Zion, but it may have a bit of snow in December.

There’s so many things to do in St. George. The downtown is rich in history, with museums and parks to learn about the region in years – and centuries past. From the dinosaurs to the Paiute natives and then finally settled by Mormons in the 1800’s.

Of course there’s plenty of outdoor activities in St. George – even in December! Snow Canyon State Park is just 15 minutes north of town, and worth the visit. With 20 miles of hiking trails through petrified dunes, lava tubes and of course, stunning overlooks, it’s a hiker’s dream.

For more adventure, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride near the city. Or, rent a sled and sandbar at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, a little over an hour south of town.

6. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 74, low 55

Ranked as one of the best beaches in the USA over and over again, Siesta Key is an amazing getaway. Although high’s in the mid 70’s may not seem like great swimming weather, it still means you can enjoy this beachy destination.

You’ll get more of the beach to yourself in December, which is one of the perks of traveling to Siesta Key in winter. Fly a kite or build a sandcastle. Take beach chairs or a lightweight beach towel and just enjoy the sound of the gentle waves hitting the shore.

And when you need a break from the beach (if that’s even a thing😉), you can head into Siesta Key Village where you’ll find the cutest town square . With boutique shops and restaurants, there’s plenty to do here, too. Be sure to try Meaney’s Mini Donuts & Coffee House (the cinnamon ones are the best).

With so many things to do in Siesta Key , there’s truly something for everyone! You’ll love this beach town, as it’s one of the best warm places to visit in the USA in December.

7. Temecula, California

Average temp:  high 67, low 47

If you are ready to escape the cold, snowy weather for somewhere warmer this December, look no further than Temecula, California. Located in Southern California, just an hour’s drive from San Diego, this city has plenty to do – including wine tasting, shopping, and more! 

In December, Temecula’s high temperature is just shy of 70°F, with only 2 days of precipitation, so you can expect warm, sunny days. And there’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather than with a visit to Temecula Valley Wine Country!

Temecula is home to 50+ local wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms . Some of the best wineries in Temecula include Wilson Creek Winery, Leoness Cellars, and Baily Vineyard & Winery. 

December is a fabulous time to visit Temecula because of the fun holiday events you can attend, like the Temecula Chilled Holiday Market and Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Old Town Temecula. Despite the warm weather, you can even ice skate at the Peltzer Ice Skating Rink or Temecula on Ice during the holidays. 

Old Town Temecula is a fantastic location to base your trip if you want to walk around and soak up the sunshine, as it’s one of the best winter sun destinations in the US.

You can eat at some of the best restaurants in Old Town Temecula , like The Goat & Vine or 1909 Temecula, or you can shop at the dozens of quaint boutiques selling unique items, like wine-barrel furniture, olive oils and more. 

Carter Estate Winery and Resort is the perfect place to stay for your warm-weather getaway to Temecula, CA. Located on a gorgeous vineyard, this resort allows you to wake up in the heart of wine country every morning! 

Recommended by Brittany of Travel By Brit

8. South Padre Island, Texas

Average temp:  high 72, low 57

If you’re looking for an amazing warm destination to visit in December in the USA, then South Padre Island is the perfect destination for you. 

After all, temperatures are usually around 72 degrees during the day and then around 57 degrees in the evening throughout the month of December.

Plus, the weather here is usually pretty dry, making it the perfect place to relax, take a walk through the Padre Island National Seashore, and enjoy the single biggest undeveloped barrier island in the world.  Additionally, December is off-season. Therfore, crowds will be minimal and hotel prices will be quite reasonable. 

As a result, you can quietly enjoy some of the best things to do in South Padre Island , like take some time to explore the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse from 1852 . In fact, it’s the only lighthouse on the coast of Texas that is open to visitors and makes for a fun place to visit. 

Then, learn about local wildlife at the Sea Turtle Conservation Center. In fact, this amazing wildlife rescue center helps upwards of 100 turtles per year and is an ideal place to learn all about these fascinating creatures. 

You can also visit the South Padre island Birding Center and admire local populations of Buff-bellied hummingbirds, White Ibis, and Red-winged Blackbirds as you stroll along the picturesque boardwalk here. 

Then, pamper yourself at the Sapphire Spa before spending the night at the swank Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island to create the ultimate getaway. South Padre Island is one of the best warm places to visit in USA in December.

Recommended by Victoria of Texas Travel 365

Warm places to visit in December in USA, continued

Can you believe this list?! Just 25% through it and there’s so many more adventures to have. Let’s keep going!

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 65, low 46

If you’re looking for a place to escape winter’s frigid clutches and have a little fun in December, there is no better place than New Orleans! While the weather in New Orleans can be oppressive at certain times of the year, December is ideal as it averages in the 60s – 70s which is perfect for sightseeing!

You might think The Big Easy is only a party town during Mardi Gras – wrong! December ushers in plenty of its own one-of-a-kind holiday fun.

The beginning of December kicks off with the Krewe of Jingle – a downtown holiday parade with special appearances from Mr. and Mrs. Clause. New Orleans knows how to host a parade, so this is one you should make sure you don’t miss!

In the middle of December, head to historic Lafayette Square to enjoy the LUNA Fête festival . Over a long weekend, the city celebrates with awe-inspiring light shows; it generally brings in over 100,000 attendees!

In addition to the holiday fun, another great way to get to know the city is on a walking tour. This is an especially great activity if this is your  first time visiting New Orleans  — there are a range of tour options, from learning about Voodoo to exploring the chic Garden District.

New Orleans is a fun city and one of the best warm places to visit in December. And, if you have a bit more time in the area, be sure to check out the best things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana .

Recommended by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad

10. Oahu, Hawaii (a destination full of the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 82, low 67

When you think of a warm December getaway, Oahu may be one of the first destinations to come to mind. And with its stunning white sand beaches, epic mountains, and abundant wildlife, it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular destinations, come December. 

Thanks to its location close to the equator, Oahu enjoys temperatures in the low 80s in December, which is warm enough to break out the tank tops, sun dresses and even a long travel skirt .

In December the island may experience a rain shower or two. These showers usually only last for a few hours and should not be too much of a hindrance on your outdoor adventures. 

Many visitors primarily focus their explorations of the island to Honolulu, but there’s so much else to see and do here. For example, one of the best things to do in Oahu in December is to watch the professional surfers take on the big waves of the North Shore . Check out the Banzai Pipeline or Waimea Bay Beach Park, which can see waves up to 25 feet in height! 

While snorkeling along the North Shore is probably not advisable in December, given the aforementioned monster waves, you can still check out some of the best snorkeling in Oahu by heading to Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, just 10 minutes east of Honolulu .

Here, the waters stay calm year round, where you can swim with and observe the 400 species of fish, turtles and other marine life. Bring your own snorkel gear to hit the water when and where you want while on Oahu!

For a conveniently located home base during your stay, consider The Modern Honolulu , just steps away from Waikiki Beach, both a family-friendly and adults only pool and an excellent onsite restaurant. 

Oahu is one of the best winter sun destinations in the US, and one you won’t want to miss!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

11. Disney World, Orlando, Florida

Average temp:  high 75, low 55

The happiest place on Earth, aka Disney World, is an easy pick for any families out there looking for iconic warm places to visit in December in USA. 

After all, Disney World comes alive at this time of year with festive holiday decor and fun seasonal events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. 

Plus, the weather at  Disney in December  is super comfortable throughout the month since the average high is 74 F and the average daily low is 56 F. 

However, to avoid insane crowds, try to time your visit for the first week of December. This is when kids are still in the school and when the park is less crowded. 

You should also try and buy Park Hoppers so that you can avoid more crowded parks on an as needed basis. 

Additionally, try and visit Magic Kingdom on Party Days and avoid parks with extra Magic Hours to get the most out of your visit. 

Then, make time to enjoy seasonal activities like Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party (an add-on experiences for extra fees), Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace or Plaza Garden Viewing (another add-on event), A Frozen Holiday Wish (happens nightly all month long) and more. 

You can also attend the International Festival of the Holidays at Epcot before spending the night at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.  It’s probably the best Deluxe resort in Disneyworld and features an island theme that is accentuated by leis that are presented to you as you walk in the door.

Looking for more fun? Check out the best Hollywood Studios rides in the park!

Recommended by Victoria of Disney Trippers

12. Augusta, Georgia

Average temp:  high 60, low 41

One of the most underrated spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is Augusta, Georgia . A southern city full of charm, Augusta is known for outdoor recreation, historical sites and hist vibrant restaurant scene.

Tour downtown finding fun murals, shopping and dining. A foodie’s delight, Augusta is known for outdoor patios, which you’ll find especially inviting in the warm sun during mid-day. Bring layers for the evenings as it gets chilly!

One of Augusta’s top attractions is the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. Walk the trails and soak in the peaceful nature all around you. Or, get a little more active on the 32 miles of biking trails through the Forks Area Trail System.

And you can’t visit Augusta without a stroll along the Augusta Riverwalk . It’s a fun, brick trail along the Savannah River! If traveling with kids, they’ll love the playground on the Riverwalk.

During December, the city has holiday festivals and markets. Enjoy historic holiday tours where you can visit homes from the 1800’s, including the childhood home of President Woodrow.

13. San Diego, California (perfect for this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 49

San Diego is an incredible place to visit during December. With incredible weather and tons of fabulous attractions, you can’t go wrong with visiting this Southern California City! 

You can expect temperatures around the high 60’s during the day and in the 40’s at night. Some of the best things to add to your San Diego itinerary in December include wandering through the famous Balboa Park.

Balboa Park is comprised of 1,200 acres. You can explore beautiful gardens and dozens of museums including The San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Museum of Us, San Diego Natural History Museum and more! Additionally, the famous San Diego Zoo is also located in Balboa Park.

The Old Town San Diego Historic State Park is another must-visit. Here you can indulge in amazing food while experiencing San Diego’s Spanish roots and history.

A special experience in San Diego during December is whale watching . Around 20,000 Grey Whales start migrating in mid-December. Seals also start giving birth around mid-December at the La Jolla Caves. You will likely also be able to see the Sea Lions in La Jolla too!

If you are in search of some additional beach time, don’t forget to check out Coronado Island. Walk along the beach, enjoy the many eateries, and visit the famous Hotel Del Coronado .

Recommended by Sam of Find Love and Travel

14. Sedona, Arizona

verage temp:  high 60, low 34

Sedona is the perfect sunny escape in December! Excellent for various travel styles, there’s hiking and outdoor adventures, as well as low-key things to do in town. With mild temperatures and minimal crowds, December is a great time to visit Sedona.

Take the Sedona Trolley around town to get acquainted without the worry of driving or traffic. Visit the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for just that – shopping.

Go hiking or horseback riding at Cathedral Rock or Oak Creek Canyon. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love jumping around the unique landscape at Slide Rock State Park .

Perhaps the most popular hiking trail in the area is Devil’s Bridge Trail . At 3.9 miles and rated as moderate, this trail is perfect for an afternoon hike in December! Bring your grippy hiking shoes for this one, as the rock stairs leading up to the bridge can get pretty slick.

For the best views of the incredible landscape in Sedona, head up to Airport Mesa. There’s a parking lot at the overlook so it doesn’t require much hiking at all. It’s also a great spot for stargazing!

15. Culebra, Puerto Rico (perfect for visiting the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 85, low 74

Quite possibly the warmest place in the US in December, Culebra Puerto Rico is an amazing destination you’ll love. Puerto Rico was previously mentioned above, but Culebra is so spectacular it deserves it’s own spot.

Culebra Puerto Rico is located just 18 miles off the eastern side of Mainland Puerto Rico . Getting to Culebra requires a ferry ride or small plane, but it’s so worth it!

Home to one of the most incredible beaches in the Caribbean, Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is one of the best beaches you’ll ever see, and a phenomenal place to visit for the best beaches in December.

This crescent-shaped beach sits along rolling hills and its undeveloped land makes it seem from a fairytale. With plenty of parking and amenities, you’ll want to spend a day – or more – at Flamenco Beach.

Spend some time in with the sea turtles while snorkeling at Tamarindo Beach. Or, for some solitude, visit the lesser-known Zoni Beach. And when you’re hungry, be sure to head downtown to grab a bite.

For couples traveling, consider the cozy cottages with phenomenal views – Aleli Cottages . For more space, try the Oceania Villas .

You’ll fall in love with Culebra. It’s definitely one of the best on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA!

16. Florida Keys

Average temp:  high 75, low 70

The snow is falling, the temperatures keep dropping and you’re ready to escape to a tropical paradise. One of the best warm places to visit in December is the Florida Keys!

Stretching approximately 120 miles from Key Largo to the southernmost point in the continental USA (Key West), the Florida Keys are the perfect getaway if you are looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. With average December temperatures in the high 70’s, you’ll never want to leave! 

Your best and most affordable option would be to fly into Miami and rent a car to make the Miami to Key West road trip . From here, you can take your time exploring each island and all they have to offer. You’ll want to spend at least one night in Key Largo, Islamorada and Key West. 

The list of things to do in the Florida Keys is never-ending. Depending on how much time you have, you will have to decide between scuba diving in John Pennekamp State Park, deep sea fishing at Robbie’s, parasailing over the sparkling blue water or simply relaxing on the beach. 

After your road trip of adventures, you’ll definitely want to stay in Key West at Tiki Suites.  There are 2 suites located in the middle of the ocean! You’ll have nothing but the ocean surrounding you as you relax and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

Best winter sun destinations

Okay – let’s catch a breath here. We’re 1/2 way done. A few of my personal favorites are coming up next!

More winter sunshine ahead…

17. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 84, low 76

The US Virgin Islands are a great place to visit in December for a number of reasons, especially St. Thomas . First, the weather is absolutely beautiful during this time of year.

The average high temperature is about 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low is only about 75 degrees. This makes it the perfect time of year to enjoy all that the islands have to offer, including the beaches, without having to deal with crowds of people.

The beaches on St. Thomas are calm and perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of water sports activities to keep everyone entertained. Magen’s Bay is the most popular beach on the island and is great for families.

Coki Beach and Sapphire Beach are also a lot of fun! Sapphire Beach, especially is a great place to base during your stay because Sapphire Beach Resort offers discounts on snorkeling equipment rental to its guests. There are also several pools and a restaurant there, in case you don’t feel like going elsewhere to eat.

December is also a great time to visit St. Thomas and the US Virgin Islands because it’s one of the quieter times of the year.

While the islands do see a significant number of tourists during the winter months, it’s nothing compared to the summer crowds. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy all that the US Virgin Islands have to offer without having to worry about fighting for space on the beach or in restaurants.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

18. Santa Barbara, California

Average temp:  high 65, low 45

Known for its incredible Spanish architecture, wineries, expansive beaches and moderate temperatures, Santa Barbara is always a good idea. Deserving on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA, Santa Barbara offers sunshine to those wishing to escape grey skies or snow elsewhere.

Dive into culture, history and art in Santa Barbara. See a performance at the Lobero Theater, visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara, get lost in the beauty of Santa Barbara Museum of Art or shop and dine on State Street.

Of course, you’ll want to visit the beach while you’re at the California Coast! Santa Barbara is one of the best stops on a Pacific Coast Highway vacation from San Francisco to San Diego road trip . The area’s best beaches along the way are East Beach, Hendry’s Beach and Goleta Beach Park.

December is a fabulous time to visit Santa Barbara, as the city is full of events and festivities . Watch the boat parade through the harbor at Stearns Wharf. Shop for someone special at the city’s annual Folk and Tribal Arts Marketplace.

And don’t forget about New Year’s Eve in Santa Barbara! For a night to remember, try a champagne cruise, catch a drag show, do a bar crawl or so much more. It’s a great way to celebrate the end of the year!

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

19. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 82, low 65

You gotta go to Kauai! It’s not only one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA, it’s also an incredible destination for adventure and relaxation! Known as ‘the garden isle’ for its lush vegetation and epic waterfalls, it has stunning coastlines unlike any other spot on this list – or in the world.

You’ll want to see the Waimea Canyon, AKA the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Explore it’s epic views from the inside by hiking the Waimea Canyon Trail . Right down the road is the Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park, to see the stunning NaPali Coast.

For sunshine in December, you’ll want to stay in the Poipu area to get the least amount of rain . Popular for awesome beaches like Poipu Beach or Shipwreck Beach, the waves can be the smallest in the winter, which is perfect for a warm getaway to the beach.

Kauai is home to some amazing food too. On the North Shore, try Kalypso Island Bar & Grill in Hanalei. You’ve gotta try the acai bowls at Java Kai in Kapaa, or the famous Hula Pie at Keoki’s Paradise in Koloa. Some of the best places to eat in Kauai won’t break the bank, either, like Da Crack Mexican Grinds.

Early December is a fabulous time to visit Kauai as it’s the shoulder season. The pricing is lower than late December over the holiday, and the crowds are much fewer, meaning you’ll have less waiting at restaurants and attractions.

20. Bisbee, Arizona

The quaint, little town of Bisbee, AZ is attracting winter travelers from all over the world due to its stunning beauty and quirky vibe.

Why visit Bisbee in December? It is truly the best month, boasting highs in the mid-50s and lows in the low-30s. Being an inherently dry climate, you can expect little to no precipitation this time of year. Instead, you’ll find clear skies, colorful sunsets and more stars than you can imagine. 

In visiting Bisbee you can expect a true getaway. The town is small, with just over 5,000 residents. However, what it lacks in population, it makes up for in charm.

A haven for artists and other creative types, the town is full of murals, quirky antique shops, charming cafes and relaxed breweries. Make sure to spend some time shopping in downtown, visiting the nearby ghost town of Lowell and viewing the Lavender Pit, which is an open copper mine located just outside of town.

If you’re lucky enough to spend some time  road tripping in the area , you should also check out Saguaro National Park and Chiricahua National Monument, which are both less than 2 hours away. 

You can’t go wrong with booking a boutique hotel in the main part of town. If you are looking to get close to the action, try the  Copper Queen Hotel . If you would like something a little bit quieter, the  School House Inn Bed & Breakfast  may be more your speed.

Either way, you are sure to enjoy a picturesque and relaxing stay in the heart of the American Southwest, one of the best warm places to visit in December!

Recommended by Michele of Slow Traveling Cat

21. Anna Maria Island, Florida (another one of my favorites for warm places to visit in USA in December)

It’s small-town charm and crisp, white beaches will draw you in. Anna Maria Island is definitely one of the most fabulous (and underrated) warm places to visit in USA in December!

Located just an hour west of Sarasota, this island is the picturesque Florida vacation destination. Lacking chain hotels or restaurants, you’ll find boutique shops, fun places to eat and awesome beaches.

Check out the Anna Maria Pier for unique views of the island and local waters. If you’re lucky, one of the local fevers (groups) of sting rays will be lurking in the waters below! Hunt for seashells at Coquina Beach, hang out the beach at Bean Point or find some adrenaline in a parasailing adventure.

Celebrate the holidays in Anna Maria Island by visiting the cute Bridge Street, covered in twinkling lights . Or catch one of the island’s boat parades, where locals and tour companies decorate their boats with holiday lights and show them off during a water parade.

December is a special time on Anna Maria Island, and with so many unique things to do on Anna Maria Island , you won’t get bored!

22. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

When planning a summer vacation, Myrtle Beach might come to mind, but have you ever considered retreating to beautiful South Carolina in December? This southern beach town is the perfect retreat if you’re trying to escape the cold and enjoy some warmer weather.

In December, Myrtle Beach offers weather in the 60s with mostly sunny days. Visiting this month means very little crowds, cheaper room rates at places like the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes .

One of the  locals’ favorite things to do in Myrtle Beach  is to visit Brookgreen Gardens, located just 30 minutes outside of downtown. The gardens are an amazing destination year round, but from the end of November to the beginning of January, they hold the Nights of a Thousand Candles. The whole property is lit with over a million lights and almost 3,000 hand-lit candles. You can listen to holiday music, admire the lights and drink some hot apple cider, getting in the holiday spirit.

Spend another evening at one of Myrtle Beach’s famous theaters for a holiday themed show! Pirates Voyage, The Alabama Theater and The Carolina Opry all hold special holiday themed shows during December and are so much fun for all ages.

The daytimes will be warm enough to walk on the beach, eat fresh seafood outside on the boardwalk and ride the massive Ferris Wheel. Try the Sea Captain’s House or River City Cafe for some of the best food with ocean views!

Recommended by Tori of Tori Pines Travels

23. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Average temp:  high 61, low 37

Joshua Tree is an incredible place to visit in December for warm weather and sunshine! The desert landscape means that unlike most national parks in the US, summers are too hot for outdoor adventures. 

December brings perfect weather for hiking in Joshua Tree , as daytime temperatures are comfortable , usually in the high 50s or low 60s. It does get chilly at night, so be prepared with some layers – especially if you’re camping, or if you plan to be out in the mornings or evenings!

December is also less crowded than spring or fall, when the park is most popular – but, starting your day early or staying in the park close to sunset will be the best way to avoid crowds. Some of the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park include the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Ryan Mountain and the Lost Palms Oasis Trail.

Some other great things to do in the park include stargazing, off-roading and wildlife viewing. You can see lizards, snakes, tortoises, birds, and if you’re lucky, maybe some big horn sheep, foxes and bobcats!

When you’re in Joshua Tree, you can camp in the park, check out some of the quirky vacation rentals nearby, or stay at the Joshua Tree Inn.

Recommended by Anna of Anna Tee

24. San Antonio, Texas

Average temp:  high 64, low 40

If you’re looking for the best warm places to visit in December, then San Antonio, Texas should be on your radar! With sunshine and temperatures in the 60’s during the day, you’ll be exploring this fun city in warm weather, a nice escape from the cold.

The San Antonio River Walk is the shining star of this destination, but it offers visitors so much more!

Explore The Alamo – the location of the Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution in 1863 (timed ticket entry required). For more history and art, visit the San Antonio Museum of Art, Brisco Western Art Museum or the McNay Art Museum.

If you’re looking for a family getaway during December, you’ll want to hit up Six Flags Fiesta Texas . Rides for kids and adults of all ages, it’s a thrilling way to enjoy your time in San Antonio.

And of course, you can’t go to San Antonio without experiencing the River Walk. There’s so much to do and see in the area. From street vendors and shops to restaurants and cool architecture, you can spend a whole day (or more) exploring the area.

A warm getaway, San Antonio just might be the perfect December getaway!

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to plan your trip to San Antonio to include the best Texas resorts for families .

More warm places to visit in USA in December

From the best beaches in December to adventurous destinations off the beaten path, let’s round out this list with more incredible destinations!

25. Page, Arizona

Average temp:  high 45, low 30

If you’re looking to spend time in the American southwest, Page, Arizona is one of the best places to visit. It’s home to some of the most popular places to visit in Arizona including Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. December is a great time to visit because the weather is beautiful. 

In the month of December, the days are warmer and the night cold so it’s a good idea to make sure you bring layers. There is little to no rain here during the month of December. These are great temperatures for hiking and going on outdoor adventures in the area. 

There are lots of great  places to stay in Page . If you’re looking for a unique experience, try glamping with Under Canvas . For a traditional hotel stay, consider Country Inn & Suites by Radisson or the Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell .

One of the best things to do in Page is tour Antelope Canyon . This beautiful slot canyon is one of the most famous in the country, and it’s an amazing experience to walk through. It’s gorgeous!

December is a popular time to tour Antelope Canyon, so you’ll want to make your reservations well in advance. After your tour of Antelope Canyon, be sure to leave some time to walk out to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook.

There are lots of other fun destinations in this area, including Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Sedona. Page, AZ is a great destination to include if you’re going on a road trip through this area, and one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

26. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Average temp:  high 70, low 60

Clearwater Beach is one of the best winter sun destinations! Located just 25 miles west of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast, it’s one of the most popular beaches in the country.

Temperatures consistently stay between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter, but the crowds are significantly less during this time of year. This makes it the perfect time to be able to relax in comfort without having to fight for a free spot on the sand or get overheated by the scorching summer sun. 

Unlike the majority of beaches on mainland USA, Clearwater Beach has powder white sand and turquoise blue water. It’s absolutely beautiful, and the sunsets on this beach are even prettier!

There’s even an entire nightly festival that was created just to celebrate the sunsets! It’s called the Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival, and it starts 2 hours before sunset every evening. When deciding  where to stay in Clearwater Beach , a hotel right by the pier is your best pick to keep you close to the action. Opal Sands is a top-rated choice!

Boat tours are another popular activity during December. There are dolphin-spotting cruises and even pirate cruises for kids.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium also celebrates the holiday season. W hen you visit during December, you can see Christmas lights, festive habitats and even tank divers dressed up as Santa and his helpers.

Definitely consider Clearwater Beach for your next warm weather vacation in the US in December!

Recommended by Jillian of Adventure Dragon

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 60, low 27

You know what’s awesome? Las Vegas in winter, as opposed to summertime. 🤣 Las Vegas deserves a spot on this list because of its entertainment and food scene. Not to mention the outdoor adventures that are perfect during December!

Perfect for a long weekend away in December, Las Vegas is home to countless entertainment opportunities. Get concert or show tickets and you’ll be sure to see top-notch performances!

Of course there’s gambling and clubs, but also plenty of things to do that don’t include being on The Strip your entire trip. For some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city lights, check out Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . A timed entry reservation is required in December. Bring your hiking shoes and hit the trails!

Or enjoy one of the many day trips from Las Vegas. Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam are cool to see in person. And if you’re really up for some cool sights, be sure to do a Las Vegas to Zion National Park day trip for incredible canyon views!

Las Vegas is an excellent destination for December, and also one of the top warm winter vacations in the US !

28. Gulf Shores, Alabama (must-see for warm places to visit in USA in December)

Average temp:  high 66, low 47

Okay, if you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway to a warm winter sun destination, then Gulf Shores, Alabama is for you! Offering mild temperatures year-round and some of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast , you’ll fall in love with Gulf Shores and its sister city, Orange Beach.

One of the most fun things to do in December in Gulf Shores is a day at The Track. With go karts, mini golf, roller coaster and kiddie rides and an arcade, you could literally get lost here!

Head over to The Wharf at Orange Beach for some serious entertainment and dining. Take a Ferris wheel ride, enjoy some laser tag, grab ice cream or enjoy some water-front dining.

In December, The Wharf hosts a variety of winter and holiday festivities including an ice skating rink, horse-drawn carriage rides under twinkling lights and shopping events.

Don’t forget to enjoy some activities on the Gulf! Go for a dolphin cruise, build a sand castle, rent jet skis or go sand crab hunting at Gulf State Park .

29. Big Island, Hawaii (one of the best winter sun destinations)

One of the best warm US destinations in December is the Big Island of Hawaii. People can escape the chilly weather on the Mainland and enjoy a tropical island without needing a passport.

If you’re visiting the Big Island during the holidays, you can enjoy many island-style decorations and community events.

Another fun Big Island activity is stargazing at Mauna Kea. Winter is a great time to do this because the sun sets a bit earlier than in the other seasons, so you won’t have to stay up as late to see the dazzling stars.

December is also whale watching season in Hawaii. It’s best to see them on a whale watching tour .

One of the unique  things to do on the Big Island  is swimming with manta rays. Luckily, these manta ray tours run throughout the winter so you can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The top attraction on the Big Island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is the only place to see lava in Hawaii. It’s important to check conditions before your trip to see if and where the lava is flowing.

The weather on Kona in December is typically in the low 80s during the day and the upper 60s at night. The Hilo side of the island is usually rainier than the Kona side.

And you should pack warm layers if visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea. There is often snow at the summit of Mauna Kea!

A few great places to stay on the Big Island are the Royal Kona Resort in Kona and the Grand Naniloa Hotel in Hilo.

Recommended by Marcie of Hawaii Travel Spot

30. Catalina Island, California

Average temp:  high 59, low 43

Off the coast of Southern California is Santa Catalina Island, and it definitely deserves a spot on this list of warm places to visit in December in the US. Just an hour ferry ride from Long Beach, getting to Catalina Island is convenient from the LA area.

Visit Catalina Island in early December to enjoy off-season pricing and fewer crowds than later in the month. With temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s, pack layers and enjoy the sunshine on the island!

Find adventure on the water with kayaking, parasailing or a submarine tour. Enjoy the island views by soaring through the air on a zipline or hiking. Try the Avalon Bay Trail with water views, or for more of a challenge, hike the Hermit Gulch Trail.

Downtown Avalon is such a charming harbor town. It’s as cute as ever with brightly colored shops and homes, which reminds me more of Europe than California! Enjoy strolling the Green Pleasure Pier and grabbing some delicious food from a variety of locally-owned restaurants.

31. Phoenix, Arizona

Average temp:  high 68, low 44

One of the best warm US destinations in December is Phoenix! With sunshine and only a few days of rain, it’s perfect weather for indoor and outdoor activities.

Phoenix is a great destination for families, couples and solo travelers of all ages. One of the best places to include on your Phoenix itinerary is Papago Park. Stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can see over 50,000 plants!

Have a picnic at the Papago Ponds or hike the short 0.3 miles to Hole in the Rock. Animal lovers will enjoy spending time at the Phoenix Zoo, also located at Papago Park.

The city of Phoenix and neighboring Scottsdale really celebrate the holidays big, too. Enjoy pop-up ice skating events, various festivals and multiple light shows throughout the area, including 2 drive-through animated light shows.

And of course, you can’t come to Phoenix without eating delicious food! For the best Mexican food in town, try Taco Guild or Barrio Cafe. Or enjoy a variety of local restaurants in downtown Phoenix on 7th Street.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or longer vacation, Phoenix is one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

32. Destin, Florida (warm places to visit in December in USA – a must-see destination)

Average temp:  high 64, low 48

Destin, Florida is a beautiful place to visit during December. The weather is perfect for spending time on the beaches, and there are plenty of great activities and attractions to enjoy. 

Destin Harbor is especially festive during this time of year, with decorated boats and lights everywhere.  Every year in December, HarborWalk Village has the Destin Boat Parade with fireworks and activities for everyone. 

The city of Destin also has an annual Christmas Parade which covers most of the town. This parade is a must-see for anyone in town in December and features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself. 

Destin Commons and The Village of Baytowne Wharf both have events going on throughout the month of December. Destin Commons has pictures with Santa and Baytowne Wharf has a holiday concert series in December and even an ice skating rink!  

Other places to visit in December in the Destin area include Crab Island, James Lee Beach and Norriego Point.  If you’re looking for state parks, Henderson Beach State Park is great and offers a beautiful beach, walking trails and camping. Topsail Hill State Park is in nearby Santa Rosa Beach and offers many amenities, as well. 

A great place to stay in Destin is The Palms of Destin , which is right in the heart of the city, near Henderson Beach State Park and The Track (go-karts and mini-golf). 

If you’re looking for a fun, festive and warm place to visit in December, be sure to visit Destin, Florida!

Recommended by Wayne of Always on the Shore

Whew! What a list!

Warm places to visit in USA in December

• St. Croix, USVI
• Monterey, CA
• San Juan, PR
• St. George, UT
• Siesta Key, FL
• Temecula, CA
• South Padre Island, TX
• New Orleans, LA
• Disney World, Orlando, FL
• Augusta, GA
• San Diego, CA
• Culebra, PR
• Florida Keys
• St. Thomas, USVI
• Santa Barbara, CA
• Anna Maria Island, FL
• Myrtle Beach, SC
• Joshua Tree National Park, CA
• San Antonio, TX
• Clearwater Beach, FL
• Las Vegas, NV
• Gulf Shores, AL
• Big Island, HI
• Catalina Island, CA
• Phoenix, AZ

Related content you might like: 30 FUN Warm Winter Vacations in the US (You’ll Absolutely Love) 32 Awe-inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

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Saturday 2nd of December 2023

So many good ideas! I need a getaway this winter and these are all good options. Now it's just about choosing! HA

Sunday 3rd of December 2023

Haha that's the truth! So glad you found some inspiration here :)

A great list! So many warm winter sun places in the USA, you are really lucky! I have been to Hawaii and would go back there in an instant! LAst time I visited was early December and it was wonderful weather

Friday 1st of December 2023

There's quite a few places on your list that my husband and I would enjoy. We are always on the lookout for someplace to escape the winter snow.

Oh yay Jolayne! Sounds like it's time for a getaway😎

Saturday 3rd of September 2022

What a great list! So many beautiful places to access with a US Passport. We've visited 7 of these in the off season and St. Croix is probably our fave so far!

Wednesday 7th of September 2022

Oh awesome Kathryn! St. Croix is certainly dreamy💛

It's always good to find a comprehensive list like this, especially to escape the cold! I'm off to Puerto Rico for the first time next year & this has really whetted my appetite too!

Ah thanks so much for the compliment, Sue. I hope you love Puerto Rico, it's one of my favorites!!

14 Amazing Places to Visit in December in the USA

Whether you are looking for beautiful warm winter sunshine, snowy mountain adventures, or just oodles of Christmas magic, there is the perfect place to discover.

To help you choose and from my time traveling around in the holiday season, here are my favorite spots to explore…

1. Leavenworth, Washington 

Nestled in the snowy peaks of The Cascade Mountains, just over a hundred miles north of Seattle , is the stunning little town of Leavenworth. 

I love that it’s a perfect replica of a Bavarian town, complete with German beer, Bavarian cuisine, reindeer, Christmas markets , and a unique Nutcracker Museum . I personally think it’s super cute, especially this time of year!

The town offers many activities all year round, but this month, it turns into a magical wonderland with snowmobiling and skiing. If you love kitsch, I think you’ll love this picturesque little town, especially during the snowy winter months of this month, January and February . 

• Average temperatures in December – from 1°C to -6°C
• Visitor’s center address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826

My favorite highlights…

• Gong for fun beginner snowboarding lessons!
• Dining on a vegan hot dog and sauerkraut at München Haus.

2. Avila Beach, California

If you’re craving a dose of Vitamin D during the winter months, look no further than the charming beach resort town of Avila Beach in California!

It offers some of the warmest temperatures this month, averaging around a pleasant 18 degrees, and I love coming here to soak up the warm sun and unwind. It’s too cool to swim, but I watch the surfers, explore the scenic hiking trails, take leisurely bike rides, and go paddleboarding.  

I recommend visiting the iconic lighthouse or indulging in a wine-tasting adventure at nearby vineyards for those seeking a more relaxed pace.

• Average temperature  – 18 degrees
• Location: San Luis Obispo Bay, 160 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

My highlights…

• Staying in a suite at the super cute boutique inn Avila La Fonda Hotel , complete with a large hot tub and a microwave with popcorn.
• Shopping for unique seasonal gifts and local produce at Avila Valley Barn.

3. Durango, Colorado

Durango, steeped in Wild West charm and framed by the rugged San Juan Mountains, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst breathtaking scenery.

This month, it’s a snowy haven that caters to skiers of all levels and abilities. After a day on the slopes, I love soaking up picturesque views and sampling craft brews from one of Durango’s six esteemed brewing companies.

In my opinion, the biggest draw is the magical historic steam train that passes stunning snow-clad landscapes! 

• Average temperatures – 5 to -10 degrees
• Visitor Center Address: 802 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, United States

My personal highlights…

• Dining on hearty local cuisine at the fabulous Seasons of Durango.
• Going on a scenic round-trip journey on a restored steam train that offered scenic and dining on homemade black bean burgers along the way.

4. Waikiki, Hawaii

Waikiki is a beautiful option for those seeking a warm and enchanting winter getaway. With daytime temperatures averaging a balmy 28 degrees, affordable prices and fewer crowds (until the holiday rush starts), it’s a great time to visit, particularly at the beginning of this month.

Alternatively, spend the seasonal holidays here and enjoy a beautiful, warm Christmas vacation surrounded by paradise-like scenery.

I love its pristine beaches, excellent surfing, dreamy resorts, boutique-dotted vibrant neighborhoods, and chic waterfront areas with cocktail bars and upscale dining experiences. I also recommend visiting a captivating hula show, an experience that genuinely encapsulates the islands’ spirit! 

• The average temperature – 28 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 159 Kaʻiulani Ave # 102, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Going snorkelling at Sans Souci Beach and spotting a super-cute sea turtle.
• Going for a dip in the hot tub and sipping on cocktails at the rooftop Na Lani Sky Lounge at Hokulani Waikiki.

5. New York

There’s an undeniable magic in New York City during the Christmas season, beginning in November and extending through this month. One of my favorite seasonal rituals is indulging in hot apple cider at Bryant Park, followed by a nostalgic twirl on the city’s free ice rink, and then embarking on a serene snowy stroll through the enchanting pathways of Central Park.

I also make sure to fit in a visit to the iconic Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center, take a pilgrimage to Santaland at Macy’s, venture into the historic Meatpacking District for eclectic shopping experiences, and then explore cozy bars and cafes in the vibrant East Village. Christmas perfection! 

• Average temperature – 7 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 810 Seventh Avenue,between 52nd & 53rd Streets, New York City, NY 10019. 
• Trying the incredible plant burgers at   Superiority Burger.
• Going ice skating at the iconic Rockefeller Center and then warming up with an eggnog oat milk latte at Cafe Grumpy. 

6. Siesta Key, Florida

For a delightful winter escape filled with warmth and sunshine, Siesta Key, Florida, is an excellent choice within the US.

This picturesque barrier island, nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, exudes a unique charm and boasts a stunning public beach that has earned the prestigious title of the best in America—not once, but twice!

Ideal for a family vacation, I’m a huge fan of its charming ambience, a fine array of shops and cafes in Siesta Key Village and family-friendly amenities such as shallow waters perfect for paddling, playgrounds, and tennis courts. 

While the water may be swimmable for those brave enough to take a dip, the occasional hot day will bring more comfortable temperatures.

• Average temperature – 23 degrees
• Tourist Office Address: 5223 Avenida Navarra, Siesta Key, FL 34242
• Going for happy hour cocktails at the fun Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.
• Snorkeling at the Point of Rocks, an incredible series of unique limestone rock formations.

7. Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg holds immense historical significance. In 1776, George Wythe affixed his signature to the American Declaration of Independence.  

What truly captivates me about Williamsburg is its transformation into a living history museum within its historic center. Here, old colonial buildings stand proudly restored, costumed interpreters bring the past to life in shops and cafes, and I feel immersed in a journey into America’s colonial era.

During the Christmas season, Williamsburg emerges as a picture-perfect town adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, casting a magical spell over its streets. Blanketed in a layer of powdery snow, I personally think it resembles a scene from a fairytale!  

• The average temperature – 12 degrees
• Tourist Office Address: 421 N Boundary Street | Williamsburg, VA 23185
• Dining on hearty Uruguayan cuisine at the rustic chic Tabaré Williamsburg Uruguayan.
• Going on a fun pub crawl combined with a ghost tour! 

8. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

If you’re seeking a festive Christmas extravaganza that goes all out, look no further than Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee—it’s an absolute gem!

During Christmas, the resort undergoes a breathtaking transformation, adorned with over 3 million twinkling lights, enchanting ice tunnels, an indoor ice skating rink, whimsical grottos, and even festive scavenger hunts.  

I also love venturing into Nashville to soak up the vibrant energy of the legendary ‘Music City’. At this time of year,  its streets are adorned with twinkling lights and an array of festive activities to suit every taste.

• The average temperature – 11 degrees
• Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
• Going for a hearty buffet breakfast at Cascades American Cafe compete with waffles and home fries.
• Going for a hot stone massage at the European-inspired Relâche Spa. 

9. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen shines as one of the most prestigious winter resorts in the country, captivating celebrities and travelers alike with its snowy allure.  

I adore the cozy log cabins adorned with twinkling lights, where the air is infused with the aroma of hot toddies, and the streets are filled with festive trimmings and the sound of Christmas carols.

With skiing opportunities catering to all abilities, along with options for snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and enchanting outdoor ice skating rinks, Aspen offers a range of snowy delights.  

Don’t miss the chance to embark on a snowplough tour, indulge in culinary delights at esteemed restaurants and bars, and discover the chic boutiques that line the streets. 

• The average temperature  – 2 to -12 degrees
• Aspen Chamber Resort Association Address: 425 Rio Grande Place 81611 Aspen
• Having a fun evening out at the lively Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar.  
• Trying tubing at The Meadows at Elk Camp on Snowmass.

10. Crystal Beach, Texas

For a low-key, warm getaway, Crystal Beach is an excellent choice! With temperatures averaging a comfortable 18 degrees during the day this month, it offers pleasant warmth without the scorching heat, and it’s notably less crowded than some of Texas’s more popular beach resorts.

Known for its strong commitment to eco-friendliness, Crystal Beach appeals to the discerning traveler seeking sustainability alongside relaxation. Here, expansive open spaces, breathtaking views, a great range of accommodation options, and sightings of seagulls and dolphins await.

My favorite highlights include the pristine sandy coastline, indulging in delectable dining experiences at local restaurants and soaking up the laid-back coastal vibes!

While the water may not be warm enough for comfortable swimming this time of year, I recommend soaking up the sun’s rays on the beach and enjoying a leisurely paddle along the shoreline. With a ferry departing from Galveston to Crystal Beach around the clock, accessibility to this idyllic destination is effortless year-round.

• The average temperature – 18 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 2275 TX-87 Suite 10 #2621, Crystal Beach, TX 77650
• Watching live country music at Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe.  
• Playing a round of miniature golf at The Gulf Range.

11. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

The first Christmas celebrations at the breathtaking Biltmore Estate in historic Asheville occurred on Christmas Eve in 1895, and today , the festivities kick off in early November with the grand raising of a massive Christmas tree. This marks the beginning of a spectacular display throughout the house and grounds, and over 100 hand-decorated trees and twinkling lights transform the estate into a magical wonderland.

I love that thousands of poinsettias and fresh evergreen garlands adorn the grand hallways, creating a cozy vibe accompanied by live musicians singing festive carols.

Amidst the festive atmosphere, Asheville’s cafes and restaurants offer delectable seasonal fare that perfectly complements the holiday spirit. I highly recommend a visit to Antler Village Winery. Here, as it unveils its annual sparkling white, the winery transforms into a dazzling festival of illumination.

For those seeking a hands-on experience, workshops offer the chance to craft your decorations. At the same time, candlelit evening tours provide a magical opportunity to wander freely through the house, aglow with the warm light of candles and crackling log fires. 

• The average temperature  – 10 degrees
• Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
• Seeing the beautiful twinkling Christmas tree display adorned with hundreds of lights.
• Going for a hearty English-style meal at cozy Cedric’s Tavern with a side dish of warm homemade pretzel rolls.

12. Vermont

I mmortalized by films like ‘White Christmas,’ Vermont rightfully earns its fame for its stunning winter landscapes. This month, Vermont’s quaint villages and historic towns are adorned with wreaths, trees and homes are illuminated, town squares swish with ice skaters, and The Polar Express sounds its horn! 

To me, Vermont resembles a scene straight out of a Christmas card, with picturesque towns nestled amidst snow-laden spruces. I love that the state buzzes in the joyous spirit of the season through shared meals, festive drinks, and merry gatherings.

The charming town of Woodstock hosts the Annual Wassail Weekend, an enchanting celebration with carol singers, craft workshops, and open houses. There are also plenty of skiing opportunities, and I love the exhilarating Ice Skating Trail at Lake Moray.

If you feel like you’ve lost the Christmas Magic, I recommend a trip to Vermont as the perfect antidote!  

• Average temperature  – 3.5 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 680 North Main St., Route 2. Alburgh, VT 05440
• Trying Fat Biking at The Stowe Recreation Path.
• Hunting for artisan seasonal gifs at Vermont Holiday Market.

13. Solvang, California

Founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, Solvang offers a charming glimpse of Nordic life in the heart of Santa Barbara County, California.

From its modest origins, this themed town has blossomed into a beloved destination, drawing visitors far and wide. In my view, the Julefest celebrations, spanning November to December, exude a warmth that can thaw even the iciest of hearts! 

I love the quaint Danish-style buildings that drip with festive decorations, the cute bakeries, the cosy cafes that give off ‘hygge’ vibes, and the charming boutique shops. 

My favorite seasonal highlights include the Christmas markets, candlelight tours, and enchanting caroling sessions that infuse the streets with joy. Don’t miss the magical tree lighting ceremony and the grand Julefest Parade, where Christmas floats glide through the town.  

• Average temperature – 20 degrees
• Visitor Center Address: 1637-1639 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
• Paying a visit to the super-cute Christmas store Jule Hus, the blown glass ornaments were gorgeous.
• Having an organic, gluten-free lunch at the quaint Actor’s Corner Cafe.’

14. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 

What could be more fitting than spending this month in Bethlehem?

This charming town is aglow with twinkling lights and festive decorations each year, casting a magical spell over its historic snowy streets. I’m particularly fond of the Christmas huts lining the streets, offering artisanal treasures, and the renowned Christkindlmarkt—a sprawling indoor market brimming with unique gifts.

One of Bethlehem’s most charming traditions is The Living Advent Calendar, a daily event held at 5:30 pm at The Goundie House. I suggest experiencing this enchanting tradition firsthand!

Beyond the holiday splendor, Bethlehem is home to The Moravian Bookstore, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the country. Founded in 1745, this literary haven is nestled in the heart of Bethlehem’s historic district, and when I visit, it’s hard to tear myself away! 

• Average temperature  – 5 degrees
• Visitors Center Address: 505 Main St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.
• Warming up with an authentic German Glühwein at the local Christkindlmarkt.
• Searching for unique Christmas presents at the trendy Domaci shop.

Beth Pinches - writer and photographer Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or  Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey , Visit Sweden , and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist . Portland Reviewing Experience - Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.

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11 Best Places to Travel in December

These are the best places to visit in December in the U.S. and around the world.

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The end of the year is incredibly busy with gift shopping, decorating for the holidays, and family gatherings. So before you run out of open days, take some time to book that winter vacation — even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape to end the year or a festive destination brimming with holiday cheer, we’ve got you covered. From ski towns to beach resorts, here are 11 of the best places to travel in December.

Lake Tahoe, California

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Snowfall usually begins in late November in Lake Tahoe, so you can be one of the first to hit the slopes when you visit in December. The destination’s sapphire blue lake, pine forests, and snow-covered peaks are gorgeous this time of year. Stay on the south shore at Edgewood Lake Tahoe , which hosts holiday festivities throughout the month; the resort’s new multi-bedroom Villa Suites are perfect for families or groups. On the north shore, Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe features ski-in/ski-out access and a mountainside concierge. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Lake Tahoe were both among Travel + Leisure’s Best Resorts in the Western United States in 2022. Nearby Reno Tahoe offers a wide range of winter activities and a convenient airport with flights from many major cities.

Palm Springs, California

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’re looking for mild weather, superb restaurants, golf, plush hotels, spas, and great shopping, put Palm Springs on your December must-visit list. And at just two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the Greater Palm Springs area is easy to reach. Check the concert and sports events schedule at the new Acrisure Arena , which hosted Cirque du Soleil’s new Corteo this summer — a first for the desert venue. Lodging ranges from expansive resorts like the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort to boutique and adult-only properties. Stay just steps from downtown Palm Springs in a quiet and historic neighborhood at Auric House ; you’ll feel like a local as you stroll to restaurants, shops, and breakfast at nearby Korakia Pensione .

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston topped the T+L World’s Best Awards list this year for favorite cities in the United States, and it’s a perfect destination for the holidays, with gorgeous decorations adorning historic buildings, streets, and neighborhoods. Christmas markets, tree lightings, parades, and seasonal events inspire the holiday spirit during December. The Charleston Place gets decked out for the season, and other popular Charleston hotels include the Emeline , Planters Inn (a Relais & Châteaux property), and The Vendue , Charleston’s art hotel.

Newport Beach, California

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

With weather in the 60s and lots of Southern California sunshine, Newport Beach is a great December destination for hiking, cruising the harbor in a Duffy boat, whale watching, visiting Balboa Island, or strolling along the beach. The city celebrates the holiday season with the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade each night from Dec. 13-17, when more than 100 decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes cruise the waterfront, along with music, fireworks, and glittering lights. Stay near the action at Lido House , an Autograph Collection hotel, or be among the first to stay at the new Pendry Newport Beach . For five-star luxury, two oceanfront golf courses, and stunning views, choose The Resort at Pelican Hill . Accommodation options here include bungalow rooms and suites with fireplaces and private terraces, as well as Mediterranean-style villas with two, three, or four bedrooms.

Branson, Missouri

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In Branson, the two-month-long Ozark Mountain Christmas celebration kicks off in early November, and it’s an incredible way to get into the holiday spirit. Known as “America’s Christmas Tree City” for good reason, Branson features more than 1,500 decorated trees, shows, parades, 6.5 million lights, drive-through displays , and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Throughout December, there’s caroling by the fire, story times, and a candy village displayed in the lobby of the Chateau on the Lake . At Big Cedar Lodge , guests can sip hot cocoa, see twinkling holiday lights, skate at the Winter Wonderland ice rink, make wreaths, and bake gingerbread — and that’s just a few of the property’s annual Home for the Holidays activities.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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December is considered one of the best months to visit Dubai thanks to moderate weather that’s ideal for being outdoors exploring the city. Visitors will find a festive atmosphere and myriad seasonal events , from elaborately decorated Christmas trees and holiday markets to shopping malls decked out for the season. See public art in the Dubai Design District, lounge at the beachfront in La Mer, or visit the historic Al Fahidi District. Stay at the elegant Habtoor Palace , LXR Hotels & Resorts, or the plush Burj Al Arab Jumeirah . Welcoming guests starting Dec. 1, One&Only One Za’abeel is located in the heart of the city near the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Lana , Dorchester Collection, Dubai, will also open in December beside the Dubai Canal.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean, Riviera Maya is 30 minutes south of Cancun and offers calm seas, sandy beaches, sunny weather, and lodging for all tastes, from boutique hotels to lavish resorts. Maya archaeological sites are fascinating to explore, and cenotes — caves or underground holes filled with cool water — are another intriguing feature of the Yucatan. Mayakoba , a private community with nearly 600 acres of lagoons, jungles, and beaches, includes El Camaleón Golf Club , luxury residences, and four resorts: Fairmont Mayakoba , Andaz Mayakoba , Banyan Tree Mayakoba , and Rosewood Mayakoba . Celebrate the new year with legendary Mexican musician Luis Miguel in concert on Dec. 31 at the nearby golf course. Also in Riviera Maya is Maroma , A Belmond Hotel, now open after an extensive renovation and redesign led by Tara Bernerd & Partners . 

Vienna, Austria

Ambika Verma/Travel + Leisure

While Vienna is lovely year-round, it is dazzling in December, with holiday decorations, lights, markets, and Christmas trees galore. Delicious Austrian food is part of the celebration, and mugs of Christmas punch (made with rum and/or brandy) keep shoppers warm as they browse or sample wiener schnitzel, sausage, apple strudel, or traditional roasted chestnuts. Or, stop into a café for coffee and Sachertorte, a famous Austrian chocolate cake. T+L readers recently voted for their favorite Vienna hotels , and The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna took the top spot. The Rosewood Vienna , which just opened last year, and The Amauris Vienna , a Relais & Châteaux property, are also fine options. Note that river cruises are a great way to see Europe’s many Christmas markets, and itineraries are offered through several companies, including AmaWaterways , Viking River Cruises , and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises .

Fort Worth, Texas

Think about this lively Texas city for an end-of-year vacation or weekend getaway, when the weather is in the comfortable high 50s and there’s so much to do. The Fort Worth Zoo features holiday decorations, lights, falling snow, and visits from Santa in December. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District , where ranchers once traded cattle and cowboys drove the animals to market, is still in action with a daily longhorn cattle drive, restaurants, rodeo shows, bars, and tours of the original wooden corrals. Stay at Hotel Drover , in the heart of the District, where holiday decor and activities add to the fun. Near the downtown Sundance Square entertainment area, Kimpton Harper Hotel is set in a historic building that was once the tallest in Fort Worth. The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth opens this autumn and features a Canyon Ranch Wellness Club with a full menu of fitness classes and spa treatments.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you travel to the Caribbean for the beaches, water sports, outdoor adventures, shopping, or nightlife, these islands have myriad options. Join the fun at St. Croix’s Crucian Christmas Festival, which begins Dec. 10 and combines Caribbean, African, Spanish, and Dutch influences in traditional carnival events. The closing parade happens on Jan. 6, when thousands of masqueraders fill the streets. Among accommodation options are the waterfront King Christian Hotel in downtown Christiansted, St. Croix and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas , which hosts holiday activities throughout December. Passports are not required for travel to this United States territory.

This sunny island in the eastern Caribbean is a perfect December escape, whether you’re traveling with friends or family or looking for a romantic getaway. From relaxing on the beach or by the pool to active adventures like kitesurfing, diving, or playing golf, there are lots of fun things to do on Anguilla. Places to stay include boutique hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments at a range of prices. Consider the family-friendly Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla , Malliouhana Resort , and Frangipani Beach Resort , where there’s fun for everyone. Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel and Altamer offer private villas. Zemi Beach House on Shoal Bay Beach features a spa set in a 306-year-old Thai house.

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E-Pass may be implemented to prevent overcrowding - Ooty (Udhagamandalam) Forum

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This system may come into force from May 7 and will be in place till June 30. Further details awaited.

MOHAMED IMRANULLAH S. CHENNAI

All motor vehicles seeking to enter the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal between May 7 and June 30 must obtain electronic passes (e-passes) to help the district administrations collect data on the number and types of vehicles entering the two hill stations, the number of tourists visiting them during summer and so on, the Madras High Court has ordered.

A special Division Bench of Justices N. Sathish Kumar and D. Bharatha Chakravarthy, however, made it clear that there shall be no cap on the issuance of e-passes by the Nilgiris and Dindigul Collectorates, and that residents should be exempted from obtaining them.

Directing the Collectors to obtain as much information as possible, such as the category of the vehicle, the number of persons travelling in it, whether they are on day travel or intend to stay overnight, etc., the judges said that the suggestions of amici curiae Chevanan Mohan, Rahul Balaji and M. Santhanaraman could also be taken into account.

The judges also said that the two Collectors, with the assistance of the Information Technology Department, could explore the possibility of linking a payment gateway to the e-pass system so that the applicants could pay the toll charges, too, online. This would help avoid the piling-up of vehicles for hours together near the check posts, save fuel and prevent carbon emissions.

Advocate-General P.S. Raman said that the data to be collected would be of immense help to Professor Amar Sapra of the Indian Institute of Management-Bangalore (IIM-B) and Professor Sachin Gunte of the Indian Institute of Technology -Madras (IIT-M), who had been assigned the task of carrying out scientific studies to fix the carrying capacity of the ghat roads.

The idea of an e-pass came from Justice Kumar, who cited a similar system that was enforced across the State during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The judges were shocked to read a status report filed by the State government which said that approximately 20,000 vehicles (11,500 cars , 1,300 vans, 600 buses and 6,500 two-wheelers) enter the Nilgiris every day. They wondered how elephants would be able to cross the road with such heavy traffic.

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The 12 Best Places to Travel in December

By Caitlin Morton

When thinking about the best places to travel in December, you may be tempted to view the month through the lens of Christmas—which is understandable, given the wealth of cities that go all out for the holidays . And while we’re always down for a European Christmas market or dazzling lights display, there are plenty of reasons to travel this month outside of the holly and the jolly.

Whether you want to get a jumpstart on ski season or escape the winter doldrums in the Caribbean, here are the 12 best places to travel in December.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Miami, Florida

Many people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach , a glittering, four-day confab (scheduled for December 8–10 in 2023) that lures both the fashion and art worlds. The lineup of artists includes 24 first-time participants (out of 277 total) hailing everywhere from New York to Seoul, plus several guest lectures and dining experiences.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Miami beyond the final moments of Art Basel, of course—namely a booming high-end hotel scene. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an art destination in and of itself, with geometric metal walls and massive sculptures hanging from the lobby ceiling. Other luxurious amenities, like private butlers and a gourmet burger bar, make this the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. For a beachier (but just as luxurious) stay, head to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne , located about 15 miles from South Beach. Its ocean views and tequila-stocked restaurant are great any time of year, but this December welcomes a slew of holiday-themed perks, like eggnog in the lobby and peppermint pedicures in the spa.

Yellowstone National Park

If you haven’t visited Yellowstone in the dead of winter, you are missing out on one of the most incredible travel experiences out there. Not only will you escape the typical summer hoards that make it nearly impossible to see wildlife and popular sites like Old Faithful—starting in December, the park is closed to cars and will only allow snowcoaches and snowmobiles to enter—but the relative quiet and icy chills of winter make our oldest national park feel even more like a mystical wonderland. Just imagine: sleepy bison with snow-dusted beards, bright blue pools set against a blanket of white, and boardwalks billowing with steam from the surrounding thermal features.

There are only a couple of in-park lodges open in the winter, but luckily they are incredibly cozy and convenient. Located in the heart of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Snow Lodge will get an extra dose of holiday magic this December, with trees set up throughout the hotel, in-room Christmas sweets, cookie decorating stations, and visits from Santa. Guests can also book several outdoor excursions from the lodge, ranging from guided snowshoe tours to wildlife photo safaris.

The Azores, Portugal

This once-overlooked archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is tailor-made for adventurers—think whale watching, hiking calderas, and rappelling down waterfalls. (The island of Terceira is home to the only volcano in the world where visitors can explore a chimney and secondary magma chamber, sitting side by side.) And while tourism has caught up to the Azores within the past decade, visiting during the winter gives you a glimpse of what Eden once looked like.

December isn’t chilly here, despite the archipelago’s Atlantic location—the Gulf Stream keeps the year-round temperatures surprisingly balmy, with the mercury rarely dropping below 60 degrees or so. The island of Santa Maria generally boasts the warmest climate, though swimming may be off the table in the winter. If you’re craving water time, pay a visit to a geothermally heated hot spring instead.

Salzburg, Austria

Germany tends to get most of the attention when it comes to Christmas markets (for good reason), but neighboring Austria can be just as festive and charming—especially in the city of Salzburg. It’s not a surprise that the UNESCO World Heritage -listed Old City, which served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music, also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song.

With roots dating back to the 15th century, the market’s sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and stands selling ornaments and fluffy socks. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either. The market earns extra points for being just steps away from Hotel Goldener Hirsch , one of the world’s oldest luxury hotels and a perfect spot to warm up between outdoor shopping sprees.

CNT Editors

Caitlin Morton

Jesse Ashlock

Alex Erdekian

Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatán with a fraction of the tourism, Belize has transformed from a backpacker haven into a luxury destination over the past few years. (Bonus: It’s only a five-hour flight from New York.) Along with world-class reefs for diving and Mayan ruins for exploring, the country is known for its conservation efforts, particularly when it comes to protecting ocean life. Many hotels and resorts have jumped on the eco-friendly bandwagon, including Turneffe Island Resort , which goes to great lengths to support the population of Antillean Manatees in the nearby Turneffe Atoll. Guests may get a chance to spot the gentle giants while staying on the resort’s 14-acre private island, while gift shop purchases go straight to the Belize Manatee Conservation Program.

Aside from offering an indulgent, adults-only stay on a true white-sand beach, Matachica Resort & Spa provides interactive workshops to learn about the Belize Barrier Reef, including guided scuba diving trips and helicopter tours. Given that December 4 marks World Wildlife Conservation Day, we say there’s no better time to pay these forward-thinking hotels a visit.

Switzerland

Switzerland is always one of the world’s most beautiful countries, but it becomes downright magical come winter: city squares dusted with snow and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet. It can be hard to pick just one Swiss destination to visit in December, which is why hopping on the Glacier Express is the perfect introduction to this wintery wonderland.

The Glacier Express is an eight-hour train ride that connects two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts—Zermatt and St. Moritz—but it’s really more about the journey than the destination here. The train passes over 290 bridges, delivering panoramic views of landmarks like the Oberalp Pass and Matterhorn, and it even includes three-course meals to really help you enjoy every second of the ride.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you want an immersive Christmas experience but aren’t a fan of cold weather, Charleston is the perfect destination for you. In fact, we’d argue that winter is one of the best times to visit, when temperatures hover around the 50s and 60s. Holiday attractions this year include the 34th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights (November 10–December 31, 2023), featuring an estimated 2 million twinkling lights, and Holiday Swing (December 2, 2023), a concert of reimagined Christmas carols courtesy of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra.

The city has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but some notable properties go all out for the holidays. The French Quarter Inn , voted one of the best hotels in Charleston by our readers, will be fully decked out with a Christmas tree and free gingerbread cookies in the rotunda, while the Sleigh Bell Suite comes with even more festive amenities: an in-room eggnog bar, freshly-baked cookies served by the fireplace, holiday movie screenings, and a special reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas from Santa himself. Over at The Spectator Hotel , personal butlers assigned to each guest can transform your room with personalized Christmas decorations, plus bring you any treats and drinks you request.

Whistler, Canada

If you’re desperately seeking slopes, you can’t do much better than the largest ski area in North America. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and hills ranging in difficulty from green to double-black, the twin peaks of Whistler Blackcomb truly have something for every winter sports enthusiast. Both the Big Red Express lift and Creekside Gondola were reworked a couple of years ago to hold more people, meaning the mountains will feel far less congested and visitors can enjoy even more rounds of powder.

Once you pack up your poles for the day, soak up all the après glory at Whistler Village. Here you’ll find the resort area’s largest concentration of bars and restaurants, ranging from the buzzy high-end seafood restaurant Wild Blue to the upscale yet relaxed Braidwood Tavern . In terms of hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler looks (and feels) like a true fairy tale castle, nestled at the base of Blackcomb.

Santiago, Chile

​​Travelers often overlook Chile’s capital city in favor of splashier South American destinations like Rio or Buenos Aires—but we encourage you not to make that same mistake. Santiago is not only a superb base for outdoor adventure, thanks to its location between the Andes and the Pacific, but it’s an excellent standalone destination for anyone who loves great food, great wine, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

After exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods, tack on a side trip to Valparaíso—the former seaport home of Pablo Neruda and current headquarters for the Chilean Navy. It’s just a two-hour drive here from Santiago, but you’ll want to plan to stay overnight (and not just because you’ll be drinking a lot of wine). With its colorful hillside houses and abundance of museum-worthy street art, Valparaíso is not an easy place to say goodbye to.

If you’re anything like us, emerging from two years of lockdowns and closed borders has inspired you to finally book that once-in-a-lifetime trip you’ve always dreamed about—like an expedition to Antarctica , for example. The white continent is at its best from December to March, when wildlife is active and the sun shines for nearly 24 hours a day. And while trips like these typically require a lot of advance planning, there’s still time to book a spot on an expedition cruise ship before 2023 wraps up (although you may want to use this time to start researching for next year).

Ponant has about a dozen sailings available through the end of December, with trips ranging from 10 to 15 nights and including stops in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Another great option is Quark Expedition’s “Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent” voyage, an 11-day trip with six departure dates within the month of December (plus many in 2024). Each sailing includes the typical stops, but Quark also started offering a majorly cool add-on a few years ago: alpine heli-trekking, in which guests board a helicopter (just imagine those views) and fly to typically inaccessible terrain to enjoy hiking or snowshoeing.

British Virgin Islands

Made up of more than 60 tropical isles, the British Virgin Islands are easily one of the best places to travel in December. The archipelago is the epitome of Caribbean relaxation with white-sand beaches and lush rainforests—not to mention some of the best hotels in the entire region. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous resort, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability. New wind turbines join the existing solar farm so that the resort runs on 90 percent renewable energy. Even the staff uniforms are made from recycled plastic.

Recent years saw the arrival of two new private island resorts, both of which appeared on our 2022 Hot List . Off the northern end of Virgin Gorda, Saba Rock ’s nine-bedroom boutique hotel boasts a bustling rooftop bar, spacious guest rooms, and a seemingly endless supply of water sports. Meanwhile, Branson struck gold again with Moskito Island , located just two miles away from Necker Island. Guests with deep pockets can choose from three private estate rentals, each with its own distinct style. Amenities like private chefs and house managers available to help 24/7—plus the chance of running into Branson himself on the tennis courts—offer a true taste of a billionaire’s vacation.

Paris shines extra bright during the holiday season, from the lights along the Champs-Élysées to store window displays that rival museum art installations. This year is a particularly great time to plan a trip, with inexpensive nonstop flights with French Bee (France’s first low-cost carrier ) and a crop of new hotel openings. Be one of the first to stay at Bulgari Hotel Paris or Hôtel Madame Rêve , housed in a former 24-hour post office—or choose from one of the many established hotels in the city.

For an extra-special holiday experience, book a spot on the “ Paris at the Holidays ” group trip (November 30–December 7) from specialty planning company French Affaires. Curated by France travel expert Elizabeth New Seitz, the trip includes an evening tour of the city’s Christmas lights, a private tour of the Louvre, a Buche de Noel (yule log) cooking class, and French afternoon teas at some of the city’s top palace hotels.

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The best places to visit in December 2023

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Head to Freiburg in the Black Forest for a taste of Germany in winter © picture alliance / Getty Images

December may mean the year is coming to an end – but that doesn’t mean your travel plans have to. If you’re looking for the best place to visit in December, here are some of Lonely Planet’s top picks, whether you want stunning northern lights, epic beach adventures or cozy Christmas markets. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for relaxation?

Palawan, Philippines

Why now? Dry skies for wet adventures.

Dubbed “ the Philippines ’ last ecological frontier,” pristine Palawan – the country’s westernmost province – is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve and a haven of biodiversity above and below the water line. There are over 1700 islands here, covered by virgin forest, edged by limestone cliffs and fringed by coral reefs. The diving is varied and spectacular. At El Nido , in the north, there are 20-plus dive sites where exciting sightings range from nudibranchs and seahorses to turtles and huge shoals of snapper. Around Coron Island , there’s thrilling wreck diving, with numerous WWII remnants to explore. There’s also decent diving in easy reach of the capital, Puerto Princesa – sites include walls and pinnacles, a variety of corals, plenty of unusual macro species, colorful reef fish, crustaceans, schooling barracuda and jacks, rays and reef sharks. Puerto Princesa is also the gateway to the Subterranean River National Park , a navigable underground waterway through incredible karst formations.

San Diego, California 

Why now? For city life, winter sun, Santa and cetaceans.

Winter is relative in southern California . In San Diego rain is more likely but days remain mild (average highs: 66°F/19°C). It’s certainly still warm enough to wander the city’s village-like neighborhoods – fancy La Jolla , surfy Encinitas, alternative Ocean Beach , foodie Little Italy, the lively, bar-packed Gaslamp Quarter – and to lose yourself in enormous Balboa Park , with its museums (Air & Space, Art, Natural History) and world-famous zoo . For further wildlife encounters, book a boat tour or head to the cliff-top trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in the hope of spotting dolphins and migrating gray whales, which pass along the coast here between December and March. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for wildlife and nature?

Central Kalahari, Botswana

Why now? For cheaper prices and greater game.

In this immense wildlife reserve, covering 50,000 sq km (19,305 sq miles) and one of the largest in the world, rain does not stop play. Indeed, it positively encourages it. While December marks the start of the rainy season in Botswana , it’s the best time to visit the semi-arid Central Kalahari . In the northernmost areas, around Northern Deception Valley in particular, the flush of wildflowers and grasses attracts great gatherings of grazers, which in turn attract predators – large numbers of hyena, leopard and the reserve’s famed black-maned lions are all found here. This is also the best time for birding, as many species are wearing their breeding plumage and migrants are around. Roads may become trickier to navigate but the payoff is excellent wildlife viewing and, at times, soul-stirringly stormy skies. There are opportunities to engage with the San people too.

Arctic Sweden

Why now? Sleep on ice beneath the Northern Lights.

At the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, one degree of latitude north of the Arctic Circle, the sun never rises in the last three weeks of the year. In December, darkness is the dominant state – perfect for watching the Aurora Borealis . Jukkasjärvi is the home of the original Icehotel, where you can spend a night in a bed made of ice. The area is also a base for cross-country skiing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, meeting reindeer and learning about traditional Sámi culture – magical for kids and grown-ups alike. Some 100km (62 miles) to the northwest, Abisko National Park is even further removed from the light, an otherworldly landscape offering arguably the world’s best aurora-watching. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for culture?

Martinique 

Why now? To sing carols with a Creole twist.

December doesn’t just mean Christmas in the French Caribbean. It means Chanté-Nwel. One of Martinique ’s biggest annual festivities, held across the island from November to Christmas Day, it sees people gather to sing carols to Creole rhythms (a practice dating back to the days of slavery) and feast on local favorites including yams, pâtés, boudin créole (blood sausage), yule logs and potent shrubb – a Christmas cocktail crafted from dried orange peel, sugarcane syrup and white rum. Very festive. All that’s missing is the snow: with sunny skies and average highs of 82.4°F (28°C), this is perfect beach weather; chill out on the vast sweep of white sand at Les Salines or the black sand of Anse Noire . 

Chhattisgarh & Odisha, India 

Why now? For cultural encounters in milder weather.

The neighboring states of Odisha ( Orissa ) and Chhattisgarh (a breakaway chunk of Madhya Pradesh) offer perhaps the most authentic insight into rural India . These regions are largely neglected by tourists, perhaps due to their lack of “big” sights. But the appeal here is in getting away from the cities and meeting the people, such as the majority Gond (famed for their vibrant art), the tattooed Kutia Kondh, the Indigenous groups of the jungles around Jeypore, the bead-wearing Bonda or the cultural melee of a haat bazaar (weekly market), where many tribal groups gather to haggle over everything from butter and salt to clothes and jewelry. The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is a good place to start – visit markets, hike between village homestays and witness tribal festivals: the Madai Festival, which moves around the communities of Bastar, Kanker and Dantewada, is celebrated from December to March (when temperatures are mild, too).

Where are the best places to travel to in December for food and drink? 

Black Forest, Germany 

Why now? For a touch of Teutonic magic.

The Black Forest is Germany ’s most romantic, fairy-tale-laced region. And never more so than in December, when its rolling hills and dense-packed evergreens might be sprinkled with snow and when everywhere is sprinkled with Christmas. The lively university town of Freiburg is a fine festive choice.

Its medieval center of cobbled lanes and gabled houses is lovely to wander at any time, but now smells of Glühwein  (mulled wine) and gingerbread; browse the Christmas market, where you can make your own candles and cookies, ride the Ferris wheel and feast on raclette and wurst. Further afield, take the train or bus to nearby Hinterzarten for the striking Ravennaschlucht market, where traditional stalls cluster in a gorge beneath the Devil’s Valley Railway viaduct. 

Puerto Rico 

Why now? For a never-ending Noel.

Twelve days of Christmas? Pah! Sunny and spirited Puerto Rico stretches it to 60 days, starting with Thanksgiving (this is a US “unincorporated territory,” after all) and not finishing until mid-January. Visit in December and you’ll likely come across shops stacked with festive trinkets, late-night parrandas (carol singing in the streets), church Masses filled with aguinaldos (Christmas songs) and the hearty consumption of festive feasts: lechón (suckling pig), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pork-and-potato pasteles (steamed plantain tamales) and coquet (sweet spiced coconut drink). The Día de los Inocentes (28 December) is particularly fun, akin to April Fool’s Day, when people play tricks on each other – head to Hatillo for the best high-jinks.

Season’s greetings aside, the weather is wonderful right now for exploring this proudly Latino Caribbean idyll. Wander the bright alleys of Old San Juan (founded 1521) and lively second-city Ponce ; venture into El Yunque for rainforest hikes; check out the surf at Rincón ; and consider sailing over to the islands of Vieques and Culebra for quieter sands and dazzling after-dark kayaking in Bioluminescent Bay.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for adventure?

Why now? Crowd-lite, multi-sport, fairytale snow fun.

While snug-sized Slovenia  can’t compete with Europe’s winter-sports big boys, the country is still splendid when the snow starts to fall. There is good skiing, albeit on a smaller scale.

Resorts such as lively Kranjska Gora, reliable Krvavec and family-friendly Vogel aren’t huge but also aren’t as busy as other Alpine hubs. But where the country really excels is in multi-activity winter breaks, combining downhilling and snowboarding with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow-hiking, ice-climbing or even igloo-building and night tobogganing. The landscapes are thrilling, too, with most resorts located in and around handsome Triglav National Park . Photographers will love the high peaks, frozen waterfalls, snowy forests, beautiful Lake Bohinj and magical Lake Bled , with its lake isle and castle shimmering in the frost. 

Vancouver Island, Canada 

Why now? For really wild times.

As winter arrives, the restive region where Arctic and subtropical air collides shifts south, and low-pressure systems build in the Gulf of Alaska. This equals stupendous storms, which thwack the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island , stirring up gigantic swells, roaring winds and epic skies. It’s Mother Nature at her most marvelously unhinged and cinematic – and it’s worth braving a bit of weather for front-row seats. On the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, the little town of Ucluelet (meaning “people of the safe harbor”) is a great place to watch the action unfold. 

Want more expert recommendations for every month of the year? Check out the brand-new edition of  Where to Go When . 

This article was first published Sep 29, 2019 and updated Oct 20, 2023.

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The 10 best places to visit in December

In December, the world transforms. The Northern Hemisphere sees winter's touch with snow and chill, while the Southern Hemisphere basks in summer's warmth.

Travelers can choose anything from snow-capped landscapes ideal for winter sports to sunlit beaches for relaxation. As the year-end approaches, many places come alive with holiday preparations, each offering unique cultural experiences.

Whether it's the allure of festive markets , the thrill of outdoor adventures, or simply exploring new terrains, December provides something for every traveler.

But where should you go? Here are the 10 best destinations to visit in December.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Imagine a place where the winter comes alive — that's Breckenridge in December. Picture world-class ski slopes, cozy family sleigh rides and thrilling snowmobile adventures. Not to mention, the history here is captivating. December's Ullr Fest is also a special treat for travelers. The festival is a local favorite held in honor of Ullr, the Norse god of snow. (We're hoping he blesses us with plenty of powder.)

There's also plenty to explore in nearby towns like Frisco and Leadville; less than an hour away, you can take a rejuvenating dip at Indian Hot Springs. Or, weather permitting, head to Rocky Mountain National Park to marvel at its natural beauty.

Related: The best ski resorts in the US for your next trip to the slopes

If you're still in Breckenridge come January, you're in for a spectacle. During the International Snow Sculpture Championships, artists carve massive snow blocks into stunning creations.

TPG tip : Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan offers a spectacular Rocky Mountain retreat with premium skiing, winter escapades, boating, mountain biking and year-round family-friendly outdoor activities. It's available for about $205 in December, or 21,000 World of Hyatt Points per night.

Truckee, California

Of all the best places to visit in December in the USA, Truckee is one that tops our list. Come wintertime, the destination transforms into a snow-draped haven. From peaceful snowshoe treks to exciting family sledding spots, there's something for everyone here. For skiing enthusiasts, some of the region's best slopes await. Beyond winter sports, the stunning beauty of nearby Lake Tahoe is a must-see.

After a day in the snow, explore downtown Truckee. It offers museums full of rich local history, and its numerous breweries and eateries provide a taste of the town's culture. You can even opt for a guided tour of the town.

Related: From hidden gems to big names: Here are 11 of California's best ski resorts

TPG tip : Book a stay at SpringHill Suites Truckee for about 37,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $282 per night.

Dorado, Puerto Rico

Seeking a warm winter getaway? Dorado sits on Puerto Rico 's stunning Caribbean coastline, and it boasts white-sand beaches perfect for surfing, swimming and many family-friendly adventures.

A short drive away, San Juan immerses you in a vibrant blend of culture, music and culinary delights. Here, you can experience cultural festivities throughout the year, savor delicious local dishes and sway to the rhythms of salsa, bomba and plena echoing from the city's picturesque squares.

Beyond that, the region offers thrilling activities like hang gliding and paragliding. For those keen to explore, guided tours can lead you to hidden beaches and lush tropical paths. Don't miss out on the YuYu Cave — a captivating and educational spot for young adventurers who love nature.

TPG tip : Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a great home base for exploring the area and is available from $1,645 or 215,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

During the holidays, Zurich becomes a festive paradise. Streets shimmer with lights, and Christmas markets spring to life. Highlights include Burkliplatz's candle dipping, the enchanting "Marlitram" fairy tale tram and the singing choirs at Werdmuhleplatz, accompanied by its famed "Singing Christmas Tree."

Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station, one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets, boasts a radiant tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. The nostalgic Dorfli market in Old Town offers a vintage charm with fondue and artisanal goods.

For a warm treat, stop by Cafe Felix and choose from a medley of hot chocolate iterations. Or, savor history at the luxury confectioner Sprungli, which has been in operation since 1836. For elevated dining, Restaurant Felsenegg provides fondue with a stunning city view.

Beyond these, visitors can skate, toboggan or take a scenic fondue eTukTuk ride. Zurich's thermal baths and saunas overlooking Lake Zurich promise relaxation. For artsy souls, the "Herzebaracke" floating theater offers diverse performances by the lake from Nov. 1, 2023, to March 10, 2024.

TPG tip : Stay near the heart of town at Crowne Plaza Zurich for around $146 or 30,000 IHG rewards points per night.

In December, Japan lights up in celebration, offering visitors a magical experience. From Tokyo's Omotesando Illuminations, aglow with around 900,000 lights, to Ashikaga Flower Park's radiant 5-million-light display, the country is a spectacle. Mie Prefecture's Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination lets guests immerse themselves in LED light fields and explore captivating light tunnels.

Meanwhile, Kobe's touching Luminarie shines in remembrance of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake victims. December also welcomes ski enthusiasts as Japan's winter sports season begins.

From the breathtaking views at Shiga Kogen Ski Area in Nagano — with its Olympic-endorsed slopes — to the sought-after resorts in Niigata — easily accessible from Tokyo — skiing here is a dream. But there's more to Niigata than just skiing: Indulge in its renowned hot springs and savor its exquisite seafood, rice and sake.

TPG tip : Book a room at the Conrad Tokyo for $389 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Dubai in December is a whole different vibe. The scorching heat takes a backseat, making way for cooler days. This means beach picnics, outdoor adventures and late-night strolls become even more inviting. And then there's the festive buzz. Everywhere you look, from the towering skyscrapers to the cozy lanes, Dubai sparkles with holiday decorations.

It's not just about twinkling lights, though. The city pulses with events — think bustling markets, lively performances and the aroma of seasonal treats filling the air. Against the backdrop of the vast desert and the iconic skyline, the festive cheer feels even more special. So, if you're dreaming of a mix of relaxation, retail therapy and rich culture, Dubai is your go-to.

TPG tip : Book a room at La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk for $586 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, or stay at the lavish Atlantis The Royal .

The Bahamas

Traveling to the Bahamas becomes a breeze this December, thanks to several new flight routes. Delta Air Lines is launching a direct flight from New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Nassau. For travelers on the West Coast, there's good news, too: American Airlines is rolling out direct flights from Los Angeles and Seattle to Nassau.

Not to be left out, JetBlue is introducing a weekly nonstop service from LA. Once you touch down, the Bahamas offers a plethora of experiences. Dive into the clear waters, explore the world's third-largest coral reef or swim with the wild pigs.

And if you're into sailing, December is the prime time to visit. Events like The National Family Island Regatta showcase the region's rich maritime heritage.

TPG tip : Book a room at the French Leave Resort for $749 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Or, for sheer indulgence, opt for the luxurious Rosewood Baha Mar , where rates start from $715 per night.

Morristown, Arizona

Just a quick 50-minute drive from Phoenix, Morristown is the perfect desert escape in December. The weather's a treat with comfy temperatures in the 60s and 70s — a lovely switch from Arizona's intense summer and the cold weather of other destinations.

If you love the outdoors, you'll be in your element. Morristown's desert beauty is a big draw, with opportunities to go hiking or 4x4 riding.

At night, the town's clear December skies, away from bright city glows, offer some top-notch stargazing. Witness the breathtaking Geminids and Ursids Meteor Showers, peaking on Dec. 14-15 and 22-23, respectively. And there's more to the celestial show: Mark your calendar for the New Moon on Dec. 13, the Winter Solstice on Dec. 22, and the Full Moon on Dec. 27.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Castle Hot Springs , which is an American Express Fine Hotels + Resort partner. Platinum cardholders receive 12 p.m. check-in (when available), room upgrade at check-in (when available), daily breakfast for two, $100 property credit to be used during the stay, complimentary Wi-Fi and 4 p.m. checkout guaranteed.

New York City

New York City in December is an enchanting experience. Imagine skating below the gleaming Rockefeller Center tree, surrounded by the city's sparkling skyline. Fifth Avenue transforms into a festive paradise, with its department stores showcasing captivating holiday window displays.

Brooklyn's Dyker Heights is a must-visit for those who admire festive lights. The neighborhood's homes are grandly decorated for the holidays, and dedicated bus tours guide visitors through the most brilliantly lit blocks.

But the magic doesn't stop there. You can also catch a classic holiday show at Radio City Music Hall, wander through the winter markets at Bryant Park or Central Park, and marvel at the giant holiday ornaments scattered throughout the city.

TPG tip : Book a stay at the Park South Hotel for $480 or 23,000 Hyatt World points, or check out TPG's favorite hotels in New York City .

December is the perfect month to explore Uganda. The landscapes are at their greenest, yet the weather stays dry. This combination is ideal for gorilla tracking, an experience you won't forget. Boat safaris also shine in December. As water sources become a focal point in the dry terrain, spotting the Big Five becomes even more thrilling.

While Uganda is gaining attention, it's still a quieter East African destination. Venture beyond the natural wonders, too. The capital, Kampala, is a city full of surprises. From the lively Equator Bar in the Sheraton to the unique crocodile tail delicacy at The Lawns, there's much to savor. And if you're into art, the Afriart Gallery showcases contemporary pieces.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Kampala for $170 or 37,000 Hilton Honors points.

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15 Hot Places To Visit In December That Families Will Love (+ Where To Stay)

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Families looking to escape the cold will love these warm places to visit in December with kids! Whether you’re traveling abroad or domestically, many families look forward to booking a warm-weather getaway during the December school break, especially those of us already dealing with snow! Soak up the sun on Caribbean islands such as Aruba, Turks & Caicos, or Puerto Rico, where warmth, good food, and family fun are abundant. Or, enjoy a mix of history, culture, and beach days on your December vacation when you visit spots like Cartagena or Costa Rica. Stay within the United States in places like Maui or Key West; or, travel off-the-beaten-path to destinations such as Dubai. We’ve rounded up 15 Hot Places to Visit in December Families Will Love to give you some ideas, including the average temperature in each. Keep in mind that temperatures may vary a bit. Here are our suggestions!

Best Hot Places to Visit in December with Kids in the Caribbean

If your idea of a winter family vacation looks a lot like relaxing by the pool, on the beach, or enjoying hotel amenities, you’ll love the Caribbean. Certainly, the Caribbean offers a variety of options for the best hot places to visit in December for families with kids. Keep reading for suggestions for the best hot places to travel in December for warm weather in the Caribbean!

READ NEXT : Best 7-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary for a Family Vacation

Puerto Rico

Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Enjoy a mix of fun beach days and historical attractions when you visit Puerto Rico ! Since it doesn’t require a passport (and reaches around the mid to high 80s in December ), it’s a popular hot-weather vacation for families in the United States. 

Sprawl out on beaches like Pinones (for street food), Rincon (perfect for surfers), or Isla Verde. Puerto Rico also has outlying islands accessible by boat, like Cayo Icacos, ideal for snorkeling. Of course, families can’t miss one of Puerto Rico’s famous Bioluminescent Bays. Options for families include La Parguera on the main island, Laguna Grande off Fajardo, or another on Vieques. Adventurous families will love hiking through the El Yunque Rainforest , zip-lining, tubing, or fishing.

Visit the Carolina Children’s Museum to keep kids entertained or stroll the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. If you visit near Christmas time, they may even be illuminated with beautiful decorations!

RELATED ARTICLE : Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico With Kids

GetYourGuide has many Tours and Things to Do in Puerto Rico. Reserve here!

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico with Kids

Puerto Rico has lots of accommodations for families. If you have young babies or toddlers, stay at the Caribe Hilton , set on a beach with very calm waters. Active families who want to stay close to El Yunque could stay at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort . Then, the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel has a pool that kids will love. Other luxury accommodations include El Conquistador Resort and the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort .

Check out our list of The Best Family Resorts in Puerto Rico (Including All-Inclusive Options) to learn more! 

Photo Courtesy (L-R): Phoebe Diamond, Elisa Nicolia Loguercio, Gunjan Prakash

Looking for hot places to visit in December that families will love? Look no further than Cancun ! This tropical paradise is the perfect destination to escape the winter chill and create unforgettable memories with your kids. Plus, with temperatures around 80 degrees in December , it’s ideal for hitting the beach and escaping the cold! 

Stunning shorelines such as Playa Tortugas, Playa Delfines, and Playa Chacmool await! Or, see the Croco Cun Zoo , take a pirate dinner cruise, and shop at La Isla Mall . In nearby Playa Del Carmen, adventurous families can also explore Xel-Ha , Xcaret , and Xplor . Swim in a cenote, descend underground in an Atlantis Submarine , and see the Rio Secreto Caves . You’re in a great position to take day trips around the Riviera Maya , too. See turtles in their natural habitat in Akumal , aka the “place of the turtles” in Maya. From Playa Del Carmen, book a ferry to Cozumel to snorkel. Kids will love all the colorful marine life!

RELATED : Best Restaurants in Cancun with Kids (or Without)

Choose your Tours + Experiences in Cancun with Tripadvisor here!

Where to Stay in Cancun with Kids

Looking for somewhere to stay in Mexico with kids? You have lots of options! Families searching for accommodations in Cancun will love Moon Palace The Grand – All Inclusive Resort , Hyatt Ziva Cancun , or the Nizuc Resort and Spa . In Playa del Carmen, try Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen , Grand Velas Riviera Maya , or Hotel Xcaret Mexico .

READ NEXT : 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Cancun For Families

Los Cabos in December is undoubtedly one of the hot places to visit that families will love! Located at the Baja California Peninsula’s tip, this Mexican paradise boasts a perfect combination of desert landscapes and stunning beaches. Plus, the weather in December is sunny and around 80 degrees – offering an ideal escape from winter chills! 

Médano Beach , known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, offers endless opportunities for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing under the warm sun in Cabo San Lucas. Beyond the glorious coastline, there are plenty more attractions to explore, such as El Arco de Cabo San Lucas—an iconic rock formation—and endless water activities like snorkeling and kayaking. Los Cabos is also renowned for its stunning marine life. It is a fantastic spot for kids to marvel at colorful fish and playful dolphins during boat excursions or even while exploring vibrant coral reefs through glass-bottomed boats.

Art lovers can’t miss exploring San Jose del Cabo’s Art District during “Art Walk” nights held every Thursday from November through June. There’s also The Glass Factory, where kids can watch glassblowers in action! 

READ NEXT : 11 Fun Things To Do In Los Cabos With Kids

Where to Stay in Los Cabos with Kids

Families love Los Cabos because it’s one of the best warm places to visit in December with kids! For somewhere to stay in Los Cabos, consider family-friendly options like Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos , Grand Velas Los Cabos , or Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas . Check out our list of the best hotels in Los Cabos for more options . Families will surely be impressed no matter where they stay while enjoying one of the best hot places to visit in December with kids!

RELATED : 15 Best Resorts In Mexico With A Water Park For Families

Turks & Caicos 

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Wein

Searching for one of the best warm places to visit in December? Try Turks & Caicos , home to white-sand beaches, amazing water sports, plus all-inclusive, luxury resorts. It reaches around the mid-70s to low 80s during December , ideal for a hot weather vacation for families! 

Kitesurf or relax on the beach – the island has enough to keep everyone entertained. Visit Grace Bay Beach for snorkeling or collecting seashells. Or, head to Sapodilla Bay for the opportunity to spot turtles or enjoy the local cuisine. Both are fairly crowded, so if you want to escape tourists, visit Taylor Bay Beach near Chalk Sound on the island’s south coast. Animal lovers will also appreciate the local wildlife, like at the Flamingo Pond Overlook . Experience the charm and grace of West Indian Flamingos in a scenic setting! Or, head to Little Water Cay to spot endangered rock iguanas.

READ NEXT : 14 Fun Things To Do In Turks & Caicos With Kids

Where to Stay in Turks & Caicos with Kids

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive hotel in Turks & Caicos, you’ll love Beaches Turks & Caicos , known for its expansive property, Kids’ Club, and extensive activity roster. Families also love the Grace Bay Club Resort , located on Grace Bay Beach, which has its own children’s pool, among other perks. Other popular resorts for families in Turks & Caicos include Seven Stars Resort & Spa , The Palms Turks and Caicos , and The Somerset On Grace Bay . Read our list of the best family resorts in Turks & Caicos to find out more! 

Aruba 

Photo Courtesy (L-R): Robin Glantz Steinberger, Stephanie, Feingold, Megan Tucker

When searching for hot places to visit in December that families will love, look no further than the beautiful island of Aruba . It’s surely one of the best beach vacations in December, with temperatures reaching the high 80s or low 90s . Though it can get a bit touristy and expensive, the clear, calm waters, good weather, and friendly locals make it worthwhile! 

Spend your vacation relaxing on Baby Beach , known for its soft sand. Families also love Eagle Beach for snorkeling, swimming, or relaxing, since it’s the widest in Aruba. For more water fun, visit De Palm Island , accessible via a short ferry ride. Kids will love the waterslides, banana boat rides, and snorkeling excursions! Toddlers, young kids, or general animal enthusiasts can’t miss the Aruba Butterfly Farm , either. Some of the colorful insects may even land on your child’s arm if they stand still enough! The Donkey Sanctuary is another hit with kids of all ages. For adventure-seeking families, exploring Arikok National Park could be an unforgettable experience. Marvel at unique flora and fauna while hiking through stunning landscapes! 

Read our list of 12 Things To Do In Aruba With Kids for more fun activities! 

Look for Tours and Things to Do in Aruba with GetYourGuide here!

Where to Stay in Aruba with Kids

If you want to stay at the best family resorts in Aruba, try either Playa Linda Beach Resort or Marriott’s Aruba Ocean Club . Both are located within a short walk of the famous Hadicurari Beach and Palm Beach. We also suggest Barcelo Aruba , Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club , and The Ritz-Carlton Aruba . Since it’s one of the best hot places to visit in December for families with kids, there are more options on our list of 7 Best Family Resorts In Aruba (Includes All-Inclusive) !

Grand Cayman

Photo Courtesy (L-R): Tara Nechev, Steph Ortiz, Jen Grzenia

Grand Cayman offers the perfect getaway, combining warm temperatures with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With an average temperature of around 70 to 80 degrees , it’s undoubtedly one of the best warm places to visit in December. Between gorgeous beaches, safe tourist areas, and lots of things to do with kids, this just might be the perfect winter getaway! 

Take in amazing views from Seven Mile Beach , a popular strip for water sports, sandcastle-building, and everything in between. Or, visit the quieter Starfish Point to spot vibrant sea life! Then, interact with live rays at Stingray City . Kids can also take an Atlantis Submarine Ride or visit the Cayman Turtle Center . Here, there’s the Turtle Lagoon , a shallow wading pool, featuring lots of other fish too. Grab snorkeling gear from the front desk and go wild!

Or, visit Boatswain’s Beach, home to giant sea turtles. If your kids are old enough for a snorkeling adventure, take a day trip to Little Cayman! For thrills on land, head over to Camana Bay – a waterfront town that hosts various events during December, including Christmas markets and holiday-themed parades guaranteed to delight everyone in the family. 

Read our article on the Best Things To Do In Grand Cayman With Kids to learn more! 

Where to Stay in Grand Cayman with Kids

It won’t be hard to find family-friendly resorts in Grand Cayman. While enjoying one of the best hot places to visit in December for families with kids, parents recommend hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman or Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa . We also suggest the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort , Regal Beach Club , and the Caribbean Club Hotel . Read our article on the 6 Best Family Resorts In Grand Cayman (All Parent-Recommended) to learn more! 

Best Warm Places to Visit in December with Kids in the United States

If you’re searching for the best warm places to visit in December with kids in the United States, you’ve come to the right place! Check out these winter vacation ideas, including the best beach vacations in December!

Maui, Hawaii 

Photo Courtesy (L-R): Patience Byers, Michele Han, Marzena Poniatowska

For a tropical family vacation in the United States, head to Maui . This enchanting paradise offers a myriad of activities and attractions for kids of all ages. Reaching around 70 to 80 degrees in December , families can also enjoy warm weather, slow island life, and many things to do!

From the tranquil shores of Kaanapali Beach , where little ones can splash around in calm waters and build sandcastles, to the breathtaking beauty of Napili Bay, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming, you’ll find beach options suited for every member of your family. Adventurous kids will love unique experiences such as helicopter rides, biking down a volcano, or parasailing. Whale watching is also popular, though it usually peaks around mid-January.

Families can even explore Maui on foot with a gorgeous hike. Try the Kapalua Coastal Trail , the Waikamoi Trail , or any hike in Haleakalā National Park ! Then, consider booking a guided bus tour to experience the Road to Hana , a famous stretch of highway. Alternatively, families love exploring Pāʻia, Maui’s coolest little town. Originally founded as a sugarcane enclave, it is now world-famous for windsurfing!

RELATED : Choosing The Perfect Hawaiian Island For Your Family Vacation With Kids

Choose your Tours + Experiences in Maui with Tripadvisor here!

Where to Stay in Maui with Kids

Need somewhere to stay in Maui with kids? Try the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa , which has six on-site pools and even a mermaid experience for kids. Or, try the Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort , the Fairmont Kea Lani , or The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali . Regardless of where you stay, you’ll find Maui to be one of the best hot places to visit in December with kids! Read our list of the Best Family Hotels in Maui for an Enchanting Vacation for more choices! 

READ NEXT : Enjoy Endless Mother-Daughter Fun: 15 Best Places To Travel With Your Mom

Key West, Florida

Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

Key West is one of the best warm places to visit during December in the United States! With its picturesque beaches and numerous family-friendly activities, this charming island destination is ideal for a memorable vacation with your children. Enjoy Florida Keys scenery with temperatures in the low to high 70s , perfect for families who can’t stand the heat or humidity. 

Of course, take advantage of Key West’s many shorelines, such as Fort Zachary Taylor State Beach Park or Dry Tortugas National Park . Water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, and snorkeling are abundant! In December, Key West also puts a twist on typical tourist attractions like the Old Town Trolley . Families can also hop on the Conch Tour Train , visit the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum , or see the Key West Lighthouse .

Starting December 6th, guests can enjoy a Holiday Lights Tour , showcasing some of the best, biggest, and brightest Christmas decorations! Keep an eye out for Santa at the Shops at Mallory Square , since he’ll be visiting throughout the month.

READ NEXT : A Fun 5-Day Key West Itinerary For Families With Kids

GetYourGuide has many tours and things to do in Key West! Book your tours here!

Where to Stay in Key West with Kids

If you’re searching for somewhere to stay in Key West with kids, we suggest Key West Marriott Beachside . It offers families an outdoor pool, weekly activities, and access to various water sports. Or, enjoy four pools, a nearby beach, and discounted tours available to guests at The Parrot Key Hotel & Villas , another great option for families. Families also like the Hyatt Centric Resort & Spa , among other options. No matter which option you choose, your family will love making memories in one of the best hot places to visit in December for families with kids!

Read our article on the Best Family Hotels in Key West and the Florida Keys!

Tampa Bay, Florida

Tampa Bay is a fantastic destination to consider when planning a wintertime getaway with kids. With temperatures around 80 degrees , the mild and inviting weather during this time of year, coupled with the vast array of family-friendly activities, makes it an ideal spot for endless fun and relaxation. 

As December rolls around, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay transforms into a magical wonderland during its annual Christmas Town event. The event features dazzling Christmas light displays, thrilling roller coasters adorned in holiday decor, as well as joyous shows. Another great park to check out is ZooTampa at Lowry Park . ZooTampa offers magical encounters with adorable creatures like koalas, manatees, and even feeding opportunities within lush habitats. While exploring The Florida Aquarium , it will transport you into an underwater world with amazing creatures such as sharks, stingrays, and turtles. Families can also explore the historic Ybor City , experience the Tampa Riverwalk with the Tampa Riverwalk Attraction Pass, or visit the Glazer Children’s Museum !

Finally, families can find some of the best beaches in Florida nearby. Just 20 away from Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg offer pristine stretches of golden sand where little ones can build towering sandcastles or simply frolic in the calm waters. Clearwater Beach stands out as a highlight due to its powdery sands and shallow shores that are perfect for young swimmers. Discover more beach options by reading about our Florida Beaches For Families: A Guide To The Sunshine State’s Best Coastal Spots By Region .

RELATED : 22+ Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay with Kids

Where to Stay in Tampa Bay with Kids

Families seeking waterfront accommodations can consider Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay , Tampa Marriott Water Street , or Sailport Waterfront Suites . Each hotel offers a pool and other select amenities like on-site dining or fitness centers. Then, the downtown area has more fantastic Tampa Bay hotels for families, including Hilton Tampa Downtown , JW Marriott Tampa Water Street , and The Westin Tampa Waterside . For more suggestions, read our article featuring the 14 Best Hotels In Tampa Bay For Families ! 

Best Hot Places to Visit in December with Kids in Central America

If you live in a cold destination, your first thought may be: where is it warm in December? To escape the United States or the typical tourist path in the Caribbean, we suggest you visit Central America. Keep reading to find out the best hot places to visit in December for families with kids!

READ NEXT : Creating Memories: 9 Best Places To Visit With Your Young Daughter In America

Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

Cartagena is definitely one of the best December hot weather vacations for families! Famous for its vibrant dining scene, interesting culture, and colonial-era architecture, this family-friendly city reaches the mid to high 80s in December . 

This is ideal for families who want to experience summer weather at local beaches such as Boca Grande or Playa de La Boquilla, slightly north of the city. Afterward, learn more about Cartagena’s history at the Castillo San Felipe Fortress . Explore the Old City by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage; pass street performers in Plaza Bolivar or souvenir stores at Las Bovedas . Explore colorful colonial streets lined with charming houses with picturesque balconies adorned with bright flowers; Plaza de Santo Domingo also offers a lovely place for families to relax and enjoy some ice cream while taking pictures against beautiful street art backdrops.

Finally, you can also visit the Colombia Aviary to see local wildlife or feed the pigeons in front of San Pedro Claver Church . Don’t forget to catch the sunset from Cafe Del Mar restaurant!

RELATED ARTICLE : Cartagena With Kids – 20 Amazing Things To Do

Choose your Tours + Experiences in Cartagena with Tripadvisor here!

Where to Stay in Cartagena with Kids

Families will find plenty of hotel options in Cartagena while enjoying one of the best hot places to visit in December with kids. If kids love a pool, the Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa has a rooftop one for them to splash in. Meanwhile, the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena is located in a converted 17th-century convent and has a pool too. Other family-friendly options include Casa San Agustin and the Casa Claver Boutique Hotel . For a different kind of Cartagena vacation, book a stay at Hotel Punta Faro outside of the city. 

READ NEXT : Where To Stay In Cartagena That Kids Will Love

Photo Courtesy (L-R): Gunjan Prakash, Jill Rippy Worden, Allie Reed

One of the most sought-after destinations for families looking to escape the winter chill is Costa Rica , and December is the perfect time to visit this tropical paradise. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and warm weather (high 70s to low 80s) , Costa Rica offers a plethora of activities that are sure to delight both parents and children alike.

The heavenly Guanacaste province greets families with its incredible coastline adorned with picturesque white sandy shores like Playa Conchal and Tamarindo Beach – ideal spots for sandcastle competitions or simply basking under the warm sun on beach towels. Another must-visit spot in Costa Rica during December is Manuel Antonio National Park . This incredible park boasts some of the country’s best beaches. For an amazing view, soar through the treetops at Arenal Ecoglide Park .

Or, walk across the signature suspension bridge at Mistico Hanging Bridges Park ! Costa Rica has lots of waterfalls, too, like La Paz Waterfall Gardens or the La Fortuna Waterfall . Hike through Arenal Volcano National Park or Tortuguero National Park to spot turtles. Wildlife enthusiasts can also visit the Butterfly Conservatory or make friends with the cuddly creatures at the Sloth Sanctuary .

RELATED ARTICLE: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Costa Rica with Kids!

Where to Stay in Costa Rica with Kids

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Costa Rica with kids, try these family-friendly hotels. We suggest The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa if you want an all-inclusive option with many amenities. W Hotel Reserva Conchal is close to the airport, plus it has a pool and Kids’ Club. Other great Costa Rica resorts for families include the Rafiki Safari Lodge , Tortuga Lodge & Gardens , and Peace Lodge, La Paz Waterfall Gardens .

RELATED ARTICLE: Best Costa Rica Resorts & Lodges For A Family Vacation (All-Inclusive Included)

Best Hot Places to Visit in December with Kids in Europe

Europe, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, showcases destinations that are not only soaked in glorious sunshine, but also packed with thrilling activities that will leave you wanting more. Keep reading to plan a trip to one of the best hot places to visit in December for families! 

RELATED : 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe

The Canary Islands

Families who want mild weather all year round (especially in the winter!) will love a trip to one of Spain’s Canary Islands . Consisting of eight in total, each boasts its own unique character and charm, from historic landmarks to stunning shorelines and outdoor adventures. They’re especially fantastic to escape the cold weather, since temperatures in December reach around 70-75 degrees . Here’s a quick overview of the best Canary Islands to visit with kids! 

• Tenerife, which we mention later in this article, is the largest of the Canary Islands. From the soaring peaks of Mount Teide to the white sand beaches of Las Teresitas, there’s so much to explore throughout the island and its capital city, Santa Cruz. And don’t forget to check out Loro Parque , one of the best animal parks in Europe!
• Gran Canaria has something for everyone too, from beautiful sandy beaches to mountains and volcanoes. Highlights for families include visiting Palmitos Park , which is home to over 1,500 animals, and Las Canteras Beach , where you can rent pedal boats and kayaks.
• Lanzarote is an ideal destination for active families who love spending time outdoors. From hiking through volcanoes and exploring lava caves to snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, don’t miss attractions like Timanfaya National Park . There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the capital, Arrecife , as well as a charming old town area full of traditional Canarian architecture.
• Fuerteventura is a more laid-back island that is perfect for families who want to relax and enjoy some quality time together. With its beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque fishing villages, some consider this a true slice of paradise! And for those who want a little more adventure, there’s windsurfing and kitesurfing on offer, too.

Where to Stay on the Canary Islands with Kids

Planning a trip to the Canary Islands with kids and need somewhere to stay? In Gran Canaria, we recommend H10 Playa Meloneras Palace or Hotel Riu Gran Canaria . In Tenerife, families can stay at Iberostar Selection Anthelia , which includes a kids’ club, a playground, and an outdoor pool with a water slide. 

Best Hot Places to Visit in December with Kids in the UAE & Asia

Looking for the best warm places to spend Christmas as a family? For a unique December vacation filled with history and culture, families can visit the United Arab Emirates or Asia, which boast a ton of family-friendly locations. Keep reading to learn our favorite options for the best hot places to visit in December for families with kids in the UAE and Asia.

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is the ultimate destination that guarantees an unforgettable vacation filled with sunshine and adventure! This stunning island in Thailand boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a dreamy paradise for kids and adults alike. With temperatures in the low 70s to mid-80s , it’s definitely one of the best December hot weather vacations for families. Not only will you be able to enjoy the warmth and the beach, but you will also immerse yourself in Thai culture. 

Patong Beach is the most famous (and crowded!) on the island. For a low-key experience, try Freedom Beach, Kata Beach, or Karon Beach . Each offers sunshine, water sports, and more fun! Then, venture into Phuket Old Town to marvel at enchanting traditional architecture adorned with vibrant street art. You’ll also find shopping carnivals, live music, seafood festivals, and open-air performances throughout different parts of Phuket during December, culminating with a huge celebration on New Year’s Eve. If you don’t want to party, enjoy the ambiance! Other things to do in Phuket with kids include visiting the Big Buddha atop Nakkerd Hill or the Phuket Night Market!

Thailand Vacation Rentals: villa rentals & more | Vrbo

Reserve your Phuket Tours here with GetYourGuide!

Photo Courtesy (L-R): Piotr Chrobot, The Lazy Artist Gallery, Sarah Boyd

Christmas kicks off early in Dubai , so consider the whole month of December a celebration! Though this may not be the winter wonderland you expect, it’s great for a milder, warm-weather vacation. Temperatures reach around 70 degrees in December , and the entire city overflows with spectacular decorations. 

Where else can you spot a super tall Christmas tree alongside soaring skyscrapers and palm trees? Only in Dubai! See classic attractions like the Burj Khalifa , the tallest building in the world, in new surroundings. Kids will be wowed by the magical Burj Khalifa Fountain Show! Adventurous families can even travel to the desert to ride a camel or sand surf with companies such as Platinum Heritage , Desert Safari Dubai , or Arabian Adventures . Kids will also love the Dubai Dolphinarium , Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo , and LEGOLAND . If you miss the cold weather back home, you can always check out Dubai’s indoor ski resort!

RELATED ARTICLE: Best Things To Do In Dubai With Kids

Choose your Tours + Experiences in Dubai with Tripadvisor here!

Where to Stay in Dubai with Kids

If you need somewhere to stay in Dubai with kids, we have some suggestions for your upcoming vacation to one of the best hot places to visit in December with kids! Try the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Residences Dubai , which has a Kids’ Club and spacious suites. For a secluded stay on the incredible Palm Jumeirah, book a room at Rixos The Palm Hotel and Suites Dubai . Other options for families include The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina , Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina , and Jumeirah Beach Hotel . For more options, read our list of The 12 Best Family Hotels in Dubai ! 

The Maldives

The Maldives offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and family-friendly experiences, making it the perfect destination to create unforgettable memories! This splendid archipelago offers a magical getaway like no other, between pristine white sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, crystal clear turquoise waters inviting you to take a dip, and an abundance of thrilling outdoor activities for children. Weather in early December can be a bit rainy and unpredictable, but late December usually boasts warmer temperatures of around 85 degrees . 

The Maldives is known as one of the best spots in the world for water sports, especially snorkeling. Banana Reef and HP Reef offer kids a chance to see sea life up close. For a more relaxed day out, take a family snorkeling excursion in Baa Atoll, where children can marvel at colorful coral reefs and swim alongside gentle sea turtles. Or, dive into an underwater adventure at the Maafushi Dive Center , where kids can learn the basics of scuba diving on a guided excursion.

If you want to keep their adrenaline pumping, head over to Kuda Bandos Island and let them experience the thrill of other water sports, such as jet skiing and banana boat rides. When it comes to exploring the land, don’t miss out on visiting Male’s National Museum , which showcases captivating exhibits highlighting Maldivian history and culture. 

Where to Stay in The Maldives with Kids

Need somewhere to stay in the Maldives with kids? Anantara Dhigu , Dusit Thani Maldives , and Kuda Huraa Four Seasons Resort are all great options with kids’ clubs. For an all-inclusive option, check out The Fairmont Sirru Fen Fushi or Constance Moofushi Maldives . Click here to read more about the Best Family Hotels In The Maldives !

READ NEXT : The Best Maldives Hotels With Slides Your Kids Will Love

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this list of 15 Hot Places to Visit in December that Families Will Love! This list is sure to answer that nagging question of “Where to vacation in December with kids “? With so many great options to choose from, you never have to worry about where to go during the December holiday break! Enjoy vacationing with your kids!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Last Updated on 7 months by Antonia Grant

Elizabeth Atkin | 20 November 2019

The 20 best places to visit in december.

Whether you're after winter sun or the full Christmas experience, or simply have the month to yourself and want to explore somewhere far-flung, these peak December destinations are for you...

December is a great month to travel, whether you're after some sub-zero temperatures and pristine snowy landscapes, or want to get away from the cold at home and sun it up on a beach somewhere far, far away. There are plenty of unusual cultural festivals and Christmas markets to visit, too. 

So, whether you’re looking for planning a longer-term trip around the globe, or are on the market for a long weekend somewhere festive, we’ve got recommendations for you.

Skip ahead to your chosen travel type by clicking on one of the below, or keep scrolling for the full list:

• The best December destinations for snow and Christmas cheer
• The best longer-term travel experiences for December
• Where to go in December for cultural experiences
• The best places to visit for winter sun in December

Here are the 20 best places to visit in December…

Where to go in december for snow, 1. dresden, germany.

Dresden's Christmas market (Shutterstock)

Known for being mercilessly bombed towards the end World War II, and for being somewhat gloomy on a cloudy day, it's a real delight to see the centre of the Saxon city Dresden come alive with colour, Christmas cheer and twinkly lights throughout the month of December.

Dresden's Christmas market, Striezelmarkt, is the oldest of its kind in Germany, so it's well worth visiting for the history alone. Not to forget the mulled wine, funfair-style carousels and classic, fruity German stollenloaf –  or the fact you can actually try baking the fruit bread yourself.

You won't quite freeze your socks off on this wintry getaway, as the average temperature for the month comes in at  2°C, but it will still be chilly. So, wrap up warm and admire the Old Town's Baroque architecture, feel really, really cool in quirky Neustadt (Dresden's arty district) and embark on a World War II walking tour. 

Find more German cities and towns with awesome Christmas markets

2. rovaniemi & levi, finnish lapland.

Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland (Shutterstock)

What better place to visit in December than the official home of Santa Claus himself? Rovaniemi is the capital of Finnish Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, and is the very definition of a winter wonderland. With temperatures typically ranging between -4 °C  and -11 °C, you're guaranteed piles of snow.

Expect family-friendly travel experiences, as well as those best-suited for nature lovers. You can do everything from meeting old St Nick to experiencing the full majesty of the Northern Lights, deep in the forest. Cuisine is another highlight of Rovaniemi, where you'll be able to eat rustic feasts of reindeer, lingonberries and  leipäjuusto (a delightfully gooey 'bread cheese' dessert).

If you're keen to explore more of what Lapland has to offer, consider a trip to Levi . It boasts the 'purest air in the inhabited world', and over 20km worth of hiking trails. Get out your snow boots, and prepare for a snowscape unlike any you've seen before.

3. Hokkaido, Japan

Goryokaku, Hokkaido, Japan (Shutterstock)

Glorious snow! Steaming hot springs! And plenty of ski slopes to swoop, swoop, swoop down... it's officially the best month to visit the northern island of Hokkaido, Japan. Peak season is typically December to February. 

The snow sport-friendly region is hotly-tipped for travel glory in 2020, but has yet to reach the dizzying tourism highs of Tokyo and co, so don't worry too much about crowds.

Once you've skied yourself out – and followed up with a dip in a warm, steamy onsen – take yourself to Hokkaido's breathtaking and remote national parks:  Daisetsuzan National Park in Higashikawa houses the volcanic Mount Asahi, Hokkaido's tallest mountain, and the hot spring-rich Shikotsu-Tōya National Park, which is perhaps best known for encompassing its namesake lakes.

Read more: Wanderlust spends winter in Hokkaido

4. bath, united kingdom.

The Roman Baths steaming during winter, Bath, UK (Shutterstock)

Speaking of hot springs, we can't think of a better UK city to visit than Bath during the f-f-f-freezing month of December. The Roman Baths, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be particularly atmospheric, with steam rising from the naturally warm, once-public bathing pools.

Sadly, you can't take a dip yourself. The water in the Roman Baths is managed through the same pipes as created by the Romans, which means it hasn't been treated to make it safe for swimming. That's not to say you're without a spa opportunity in Bath – there's also a swim-safe Thermal Spa.

Naturally, a city bursting with history and English charm has its own Christmas market, surrounding its towering cathedral and adding a sprinkle of festive magic to its streets. The market usually runs until mid-December, so visit in the first half of the month to experience one of the UK's finest.

Discover Bath's unexpected highlights and  the best walks in Bath

Sweden's capital Stockholm on a December afternoon (Shutterstock)

A touch (and we mean a touch ) warmer than Finnish Lapland, the southern regions of Sweden typically hover around 0 °C, while northern parts of the country tend to drop as low as -10°C. 

Fortunately, if you bundle up and keep yourself busy, you'll be able to battle the cold and experience what wintry Sweden has to offer. Frozen Stockholm, pictured here in late December, is impossibly pretty, and the fluttering snowfall as you stroll through Gamla Stan, the Old Town, indulge in a shopping session in trendy Sodermalm or explore the museum district, just adds to the magic.

For something a bit different, keep cool with an overnight stay in an ice hotel, or for wildlife experiences, head to Kiruna in the north, and take a moose and reindeer safari. As with Finland, the early and deeply dark skies will allow for prime Northern Lights city the country over – so make sure to include a trip to somewhere with low light pollution during your visit. 

6. Brno, Czech Republic

Brno, Czech Republic (Dreamstime)

With an average temperature of  -0.6°C, Brno in south Czech Republic makes for a long weekend that won't leave you with agonising frostbite. Brno is also a pleasant reprieve from well-worn city break suggestions like the Czech capital, Prague (which, if you have yet to see for yourself, still comes highly recommended).

Expect a stunning cityscape, perfect for snap-happy travellers who happen to love the snow. For history and culture lovers, Brno offers a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a few medieval castles to spend your time exploring. 13th-century Veveri Castle is a real gem.

Keep out of the cold and enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch at one of Brno's many stylish coffee shops, or warm up in the evening with a traditional bowl of goulash or  česnečka (garlic soup).

Where to go in December for winter sun

7. teide national park, tenerife.

Teide National Park, Tenerife (Shutterstock)

If you're after December sun, you usually can't go wrong with Tenerife, the most populous of the seven Canary Islands. Temperatures hover around 20°C, if not a little higher.  Perhaps best known for being a 'fly and flop' hot spot, there's more to Tenerife than meets the eye.

Yes, the beaches are brilliant, and if you're after sun, sea and sand then you've come to the right place. But there's also an adventurous side to the island, and the best place to seek it out is Teide National Park. Not only is it the largest national park in all of the Canary Islands, but its also home to Spain's highest peak, the 7,500m-tall stratovolcano  Teide-Pico Viejo.

Trek to Roque Cinchado, the island's beloved rock formation. Hire bikes and follow numerous nature trails. Love to hike? Then  Pico Viejo is a worthwhile challenge. Once you're all worn out, admire killer views of the park from its cable cars.

8. Florida, USA

Manatees in the Crystal River, Florida (Shutterstock)

It's no secret that manatees – particularly West Indian manatees – like to mosey away from the cold and into warmer waters to ensure their survival when the temperature drops. So, in December, they'll make their way to Florida's Crystal River, which is quite literally swimming with marine life.

The best place to see manatees is through the Crystal River Wildlife Refuge, from November to March. It's fairly easy to catch a glimpse of these great, but peaceful, creatures in the water – especially if you're getting your feet wet on the  Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail , or sailing along Pine Island Sound.

For us non-sea creatures, Florida weather on dry land tends to hit average highs of  22°C in December, meaning there's no excuse to explore what else the Sunshine State has to offer...

Why you should visit Fort Myers, Florida

Havana, Cuba (Shutterstock)

December is the very beginning of Cuba's dry season, offering bright, cloudless skies, warm temperatures and a serious lack of rain. Perfect if you're exploring the capital, Havana, on foot or by classic top-down car.

Colourful and retro car-happy Havana seems an obvious choice, already high on many Cuban travel wish lists. So, if you have the time to spare, get out into Cuba's varied regions and explore a side of the country that's far off the well-trodden track.

Baracoa, a traditional sandy beach town, feels a million miles away from Havana's neverending hustle, but it's not just a relaxing jaunt – it's a very poignant place to visit, as one of explorer Christopher Columbus's first ever landing sites in the late 1400s. Trinidad has the colonial, colourful facades of Havana, with less of the noise, and is also an hour away from Sancti Spiritus, another rainbow-hued town well worth a stop.

10. Penang, Malaysia

Kek Lok Si Temple on Penang Island, Malaysia (Shutterstock)

Malaysia can be a bit of a minefield at times, so keep things simple during your stay. Stop by the underrated capital, Kuala Lumpur, and then travel on to Penang: a coastal state offering endless adventure on the island itself, Buddha's largest temple, sumptuous (if spicy) street food dishes available on just about every corner, and the multicultural island capital (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) George Town.

Penang is never short of natural highlights. Penang Hill in particular is a nature haven of protected fauna, which lives high up above the city. A ride in the funicular to reach it is well worth the effort, as the views over George Town are quite special.   

P.S. We're giving away a trip to Pen ang & Kuala Lu mpur right now!

11. goa, india.

Goa, India (Shutterstock)

December is the ultimate peak season in Goa, so you'll have to share the 30 °C  weather with plenty of other sunseekers. Fortunately, even when they're a bit crowded, Goa's beaches are undeniably beautiful.

The northern part of Goa gets the busiest, so for a slightly toned down crowd, head towards southern Goa. Cola and Majorda beaches offer long stretches of golden sand fringed with coconut trees – the postcard-perfect image you've been searching for.

Another south Goa gem would be Palolem Beach, known for its rainbow-painted huts, pure white sand and as the evening rolls in, its quirky silent discos, ideal for travellers ready to party.

Where to go for long-term travel in December

12. bolivia.

Flamingoes on Laguna Colorada, Bolivia (Shutterstock)

It may seem odd to include Bolivia in our December round-up, given that December to April is rainy season – usually quite relentless rain, too. Indeed, the weather can get a bit precarious, depending on which part of the country you're visiting.

On the plus side, you'll certainly avoid the peak season tourist traffic. And along with the rainfall comes an abundance of birdlife, particularly the multitude of dazzling pink flamingoes flocking to the algae-packed, crimson-tinted Laguna Colorada.

Of course, there's another very good reason to see Bolivia in December: the blindingly white salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. The wet season is the best time to capture the glossy, reflective 'mirror effect' on camera – though as our guide warns , you'll need to time your visit perfectly to avoid torrential downpour.

13. South Australia

Sunset in South Australia (Shutterstock)

For an experience slightly off Australia's beaten track, South Australia is a good place to start – and December is the time to go. December is the beginning of summer, and an almost-guarantee you'll be able to enjoy dry weather, hot sunshine and gorgeous beaches.

Adelaide is South Australia's best-known (and loved) city. Here, you can soak up the art scene, lounge on the beach and enjoy its vibrant nightlife – but most come to South Australia for the state's natural sights: 'Australia's Mississippi' Murray River, the desert town of Coober Pedy, the gorgeously green vineyards of Barossa, and the epic rock formations of  Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park.

Check out the Wanderlust guide to South Australia

14. new zealand.

Pohutukawa blossoms on the north shore of New Zealand (Shutterstock)

Unsurprisingly, it's also summer during December in neighbouring New Zealand. The perfect time to spend some time in the city, hit the surf, or better yet, get up into the mountains. Of course, you won't be the only one with this bright idea, but we think sharing New Zealand with other visitors is a price worth paying.

There's no need to choose between visiting North or South Island, as both have their perks in December. Unless, of course, you're pressed for time, in which case you've got a tricky decision to make...

In the northern corner, Wellington and its surrounds typically reaches 15 °C to 20°C.  Cities all but close down on Christmas day, but in the run up there's a real festive spirit on the streets, plenty of opportunities to shop, eat, drink and be merry. Of course, the North Island's beaches are legendary. And Mount Victoria, near Wellington, is an ideal peak to climb.

South Island counters all of the above with excellent hiking opportunities (Roys Peak and Queenstown Hill), impossibly stunning sights (Te Anu glowworm caves, for example) – plus an extra special whalewatching experience in the summer: the chance to spot orcas (killer whales) swimming around.

Let's hope you don't have to choose between the two.

These are the best things to do in New Zealand

15. myanmar (burma).

Bagan Temple, Myanmar (Shutterstock)

One the biggest draws to Myanmar (Burma) in the month of December is just how blissful the climate is. Expect cool, easygoing weather in the Highlands and warm, dry days everywhere else. Temperatures average at around  31°C, so lovely and toasty compared to Europe's brisk winter weather.

Begin your adventure with the 'obvious' destinations: Bagan Temple in Old Bagan, the picturesque Inle Lake with its pagodas and villages on its fringes, and Yagon, which is perhaps best known as the home of the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, and some of the country's best examples of colonial architecture. 

(P.S. You may want to check out the FCO's official travel advice before planning a visit here.)

16. Sierra Leone

Emerald starling in Sierra Leone (Shutterstock)

Sierra Leone recently landed on our list of little-visited and undiscovered Africa trips , for the chance to see its native chimpanzees and array of multicoloured bird species.

December is the prime month to visit for birders, who should head to Tiwai Island for the best sighting opportunities. The whole island is covered in rainforest, and is protected as a sanctuary for animals of all kinds. It's run by the organisation Environmental Foundation for Africa, and  designed to accommodate visitors from abroad.

You can expect to find up to 135 different species of bird on Tiwai, including the shimmering green emerald starling, hornbills and endangered birds such as the yellow-splashed gola malimbe and the white-necked rockfowl - according to UNESCO, where it sits on the tentative list. 

Overall, Tiwai is remarkably compact at 12 sq km, but packs in even more incredible wildlife opportunities, with a huge number of mammals roaming the island and over 500 species of butterfly and moth.

17. St Helena & Ascension Island

Long beach on Ascension Island (Shutterstock)

November to January is undoubtedly peak season for St Helena: the island off Africa's west coast that was first brought to prominence when French ruler Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled there, over 200 years ago. Indeed, the weather is lovely, and as a British overseas territory, it's the perfect place for Brits to escape the bitter cold of the United Kingdom's mainland.

Visiting Napoleonic points of interest (Napoleon's tomb,  Briars Pavilion, Longwood House) are  a must for history fans. Parts of the island are easy to traverse on foot, so this hit list makes the perfect self-guided trail. One thing you must do in St Helena is embrace the water – just dive straight in. If you're brave enough, you're able to go swimming with whale sharks, with the help of a qualified guide. 

On to Ascension Island, another island in the Atlantic technically classed as a British overseas territory, but one with less obvious appeal than St Helena. There are no citizens of Ascension Island, there's very little to do there, and it's reputation as remarkably difficult to get to proceeds itself. But the beaches remain completely untouched, and the challenge alone makes it worth a punt...

The top 7 things to do in St Helena

Where to go for cultural experiences in december, 18. chawmos festival in kalash valley, pakistan.

Rumbur Valley dwellings in Chitral, Pakistan (Shutterstock)

For two weeks each winter, during the winter solstice (7 to 22 December), the locals living in the villages of Pakistan's Kalash Valley come together to celebrate Chawmos. 

The first part of the festival – so, the first week – is a private celebration for the Kalash. Celebrations in each village – Rumbur and Birir among them – differ slightly. High in the hills a bonfire is lit, after the village Elders declare New Year has begun, and Kalash women have selected their grooms through a series of traditional rituals.

During the following week, the Kalash give thanks to their God, Balimain, and mark harvest's end with music, revelry and according to reports, the sacrifice of many goats. Outsiders are allowed to observe this part of the celebration, so if you'd like to see it for yourself, you'll need to time your visit carefully.. After the festival comes to a close, the Kalash return to their homes, and outsiders are once again forbidden to enter for another week.

19. Whirling Dervishes in Turkey

Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul, Turkey (Shutterstock)

From 7 to 17 December, the city of Konya in central Turkey hosts the yearly Rumi Festival. During the festival, the iconic Whirling Dervishes perform the Semazen dance: a religious performance and somewhat meditative experience, in the form of countless anticlockwise spins, designed to help bring the dancer closer to God.

Visitors are welcome to join over 100,000 Sufi pilgrims to witness this spectacle, though the dance isn't danced for travellers to admire. It's an important tradition in Sufism – and the Mevlevi Order (the true name for the Whirling Dervishes) have been performing it for centuries.

It's also worth nothing that Konya is a conservative city, so you'll need to be respectful in your dress as well as your attitude. 

20. Els Enfarinats in Ibi, Spain

A floury mess for Els Enfarinats in Spain (Shutterstock)

And now for something completely different... Els Enfarinats is Spanish for 'the floured ones', and  on 28 December in the town of Ibi in Alicante goes mad and devolves into what seems, at first glimpse, as a huge, incredibly messy flour fight. 

It isn't just chaos; it's actually a mock coup d'etat, with Ibi residents donning military uniforms and face paint, and (at first, at least) acting out the takeover of the town, or the appointment of one of their residents as mayor.

Then... well, then it does become chaos. Bags and bags of flour are tossed around. Eggs start flying and cracking in every direction, too. If you'd like to experience it for yourself, you'll want something to protect your eyes, and clothes you aren't too fussed about bringing home with you!

Where to go when:

December's best wildlife sightings, the best places to visit in november, the best places to visit in october, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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Top tourist places to visit in Ooty in 2024

How to Reach Ooty?

Weather around the year in ooty, best places for tourists to visit in ooty.

• Botanical Gardens - Floral Paradise
• Ooty Lake - Scenic Boating Spot
• Doddabetta Peak - Panoramic Views
• Rose Garden - Blooming Beauty
• Tea Museum and Factory - Tea Lovers' Delight
• Avalanche Lake - Serene Escape

Botanical Gardens

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Top tourist places to visit in Ooty in 2024

A lso known as Udhagamandalam, Ooty is a popular hill station in South India renowned for its serene landscapes, pleasant weather, and colonial charm. In 2024, Ooty calls tourists to captivate with its lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and tranquil lakes. Here's a list of some of the top places you must visit when visiting Ooty.

How to Reach Ooty?

The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport, located approximately 88 kilometres away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ooty, which takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions.

Ooty is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states. You can drive to Ooty or opt for bus services from cities like Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Mysore. The scenic routes offer a delightful journey through winding roads amidst verdant hills.

The nearest railway station to Ooty is Mettupalayam Railway Station, situated approximately 47 kilometres away. From Mettupalayam, you can board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which takes you on a memorable journey through picturesque landscapes to Ooty.

Weather Around the Year in Ooty

Ooty enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it a popular destination for tourists. Here's a brief overview of the weather in Ooty:

Summer (March to May): The summer months in Ooty are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Monsoon (June to September): Ooty receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, enhancing the greenery and natural beauty of the region. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to rainfall.

Autumn (October to November): Autumn brings clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ranging from 12°C to 20°C, making it perfect for exploring the attractions of Ooty.

Winter (December to February): Winter in Ooty is chilly, with temperatures dropping to as low as 5°C. It's the best time to enjoy the misty mornings, cosy up by a fireplace, and witness the beauty of Ooty adorned in fog and dew.

Best Places for Tourists to Visit in Ooty

• Botanical Gardens - Floral Paradise
• Ooty Lake - Scenic Boating Spot
• Doddabetta Peak - Panoramic Views
• Rose Garden - Blooming Beauty
• Tea Museum and Factory - Tea Lovers' Delight
• Avalanche Lake - Serene Escape

The Botanical Gardens in Ooty are a treat for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts. Spread across 55 acres, the gardens showcase a diverse collection of exotic plants, trees, and flowers, including rare species. Highlights include the fossilised tree trunk, a fossilised tree that is estimated to be over 20 million years old, and the Toda hill, offering panoramic views of the gardens and surrounding hills.

How to Reach: Situated in the heart of Ooty, the Botanical Gardens are easily accessible by foot or local transport.

Key Attractions: The highlight of the Botanical Gardens is its vast collection of exotic plants and trees, including rare species like the fossilised tree trunk. You can explore themed sections such as the fern house, orchid house, and conservatory.

Things to Do: Enjoy walks in the lush greenery, capture stunning photographs of colourful blooms, learn about diverse plant species, and admire the beauty of nature.

Ooty Lake is a must-visit attraction offering scenic beauty and recreational activities. You can enjoy boating in the pristine waters of the lake, surrounded by eucalyptus trees and lush greenery. Horse riding and cycling around the lake are also popular among tourists. The lakefront is dotted with vendors selling snacks and souvenirs, adding to the lively atmosphere.

How to Reach: Located just 2 kilometres from the Ooty bus stand, Ooty Lake is easily reachable by walking or local transport.

Key Attractions: Ooty Lake is known for its serene ambience and scenic beauty. Visitors can indulge in boating activities, with options for paddle boats, rowboats, and motorboats. The lakefront is lined with shops selling snacks, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.

Things to Do: Go boating on the tranquil waters, enjoy horse riding or cycling around the lake, relish local snacks and street food, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Doddabetta Peak

Doddabetta Peak is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A short trek to the peak rewards you with mesmerising vistas of lush green valleys, tea estates, and distant mountains. The peak is also home to a telescope house, allowing visitors to enjoy closer views of the scenic beauty.

How to Reach: Doddabetta Peak is situated approximately 10 kilometres from Ooty town and can be reached by taxi or private vehicle.

Key Attractions: Visit the telescope house at the peak to get a closer look at the scenic landscapes. The area is also home to diverse flora and fauna.

Things to Do: Trek to the summit for breathtaking views, explore the surrounding nature trails, spot wildlife and rare bird species, and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the scenic surroundings.

Rose Garden

The Rose Garden in Ooty is a visual delight with its stunning collection of roses in vibrant colours and varied fragrances. Spread across 10 acres, the garden features thousands of rose plants, including hybrid and rare varieties. Visitors can stroll through beautifully landscaped pathways, admire the blooms, and capture memorable moments between the colourful floral displays.

How to Reach: Located near the Ooty bus stand, the Rose Garden is easily accessible by foot or local transport.

Key Attractions: The Rose Garden boasts thousands of rose plants in various colours and fragrances, making it a visual treat for visitors. The well-manicured pathways and landscaped gardens enhance the charm of the place.

Things to Do: Take strolls among the blooming roses, capture Instagram-worthy photos with the vibrant floral displays, relax in the tranquil ambience, and appreciate the art of gardening.

Tea Museum and Factory

The Tea Museum and Factory offer insight into the fascinating world of tea cultivation and processing in Ooty. You can learn about the history of tea in the region, witness the various stages of tea production, and sample different varieties of freshly brewed tea. The museum also houses vintage tea-making equipment and exhibits related to the tea industry.

How to Reach: Situated on Doddabetta Road, the Tea Museum and Factory can be reached by taxi or local transport.

Key Attractions: The Tea Museum and Factory provide insights into the history and process of tea cultivation and production in Ooty. You can witness tea-making demonstrations, explore vintage tea-making equipment, and sample different varieties of tea.

Things to Do: Learn about the tea-making process, explore the museum exhibits, participate in tea-tasting sessions, purchase fresh tea leaves and souvenirs, and savour the aroma of freshly brewed tea.

Avalanche Lake

Avalanche Lake is a hidden gem located between the dense forests and pristine wilderness, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery, the lake is perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and photography. Adventurous souls can also indulge in activities like camping and trekking in scenic surroundings.

How to Reach: Avalanche Lake is located approximately 28 kilometres from Ooty town and can be reached by taxi or private vehicle.

Key Attractions: The tranquil ambience and scenic beauty make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Things to Do: Enjoy nature walks along the lakeshore, go birdwatching and wildlife spotting, set up camp for an overnight stay, indulge in photography between the picturesque landscape, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Ooty has something for everyone. Explore the charming hill station, soak in the natural beauty, and create unforgettable memories amidst the scenic landscapes of Ooty.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to visit Ooty?

The best time to visit Ooty is during the summer months from March to May and the autumn months from October to November when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall.

2. What are the accommodation options available in Ooty?

Ooty offers a range of accommodation options including hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and homestays catering to different budgets and preferences. From luxury stays to budget-friendly accommodations, there's something for every traveller in Ooty.

3. What are the popular activities to do in Ooty?

Popular activities in Ooty include boating at Ooty Lake, exploring botanical gardens and parks, visiting tea estates and museums, trekking to scenic viewpoints, and enjoying nature walks amidst lush greenery and many other things to do in Ooty .

4. Are there any festivals or events celebrated in Ooty throughout the year?

The Ooty Summer Festival held annually during the month of May, features flower shows, boat races, cultural performances, and various competitions, attracting tourists from all over the world. The Tea and Tourism Festival, celebrated in January, highlights the significance of tea cultivation in the region with exhibitions, tea-tasting sessions, and cultural programs.