Posted By
Planmytour Team
July 24, 2024
With the new year already rung in, and winter chill still setting in deep into your bones, it's time to seek the topmost holiday destinations that are hot in January. As Christmas markets come to a close and folks slowly get back to routines, January can be a hard time for holidaymakers still in the mood for travelling, wondering if there are any cheap hot holidays in January.
Fortunately, there are a ton of fantastic warm places January serves up worldwide, helping Brits beat those winter blues. Additionally, with the average temperature for January hovering around a comfortable average range of 18°C to 30°C, you can pick a place that suits your travel style right down to the details.
So, where's hot in January for warm weather? Lots of places, from temple-scattered landscapes in Southeast Asia to white-sand beaches in the Caribbean! You can also take your pick of the topmost hot countries in February for an extended getaway, with family, as a couple, or on a solo adventure.
• High Temperatures: Hot winter sun destinations like Jamaica, Aruba, Cancun, and Phuket can see average daily highs of approximately 33°C or more in January, making it the best month for a sunny retreat.
• Excellent Sunshine and Daylight Hours: Scores of hot places in January boast an average of up to 9 hours of sunshine daily. As such, the daylight hours can easily extend up to 11 or 14 hours (could be more), depending on the region.
• Warm Sea Temperatures: Pleasantly warm sea temperatures ensure the water is perfect for adults and kids alike to enjoy swimming, snorkelling, deep sea diving, and other fun water sports.
• Low Rainfall: Typically, January is among the driest months in these hot holiday destinations, ensuring travellers have a fabulous stay with minimal to no rainfall.
• Diverse Activities: Depending on which of the top warm places to visit in UK winter you pick for your escape, you can indulge in water sports, historical tours, cultural attractions, culinary adventures, and much more.
Egypt, Red Sea Riviera, Marsa Alam
Portugal, Madeira, Sao Vicente
Portugal, Lisbon, Lisboa (Lisbon)
| Destinations | Avg. January Temperature | Avg. Sunshine Hours | Avg. Rainfall | Avg. Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuerteventura | 18°C | 6 Hours | 10 to 18 mm | 4 Hrs 10 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Egypt | 8°C to 24°C (Depending on the region) | 8 to 11 Hours | 0 mm | 4 Hrs and 50 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Madeira | 18°C | 5 Hours | 92 mm | 3 Hrs 50 Min Non-Stop from London |
| St. Lucia | 24°C to 28°C | 8 Hours | 29 to 60 mm | 8 Hrs and 45 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Jamaica | 27°C to 31°C | 7 to 9 Hours | 7 mm | 12 Hrs and 25+ Min Non-Stop from London |
| Maui | 21°C | 7 Hours | 73 mm | 19 Hrs and 28+ Min with Stop-Overs from London |
| The Galapagos Islands | 29°C | 5 Hours | 50 mm | 23 Hrs and 15 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Aruba | 30°C | 8 Hours | 48 mm | 12 Hrs and 55+ Min with One-Stop from London |
| Tenerife | 20°C | 6 Hours | 41 mm | 4 Hrs and 25 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Chile | 24°C | 11 Hours | 3 to 43 mm (Depending on the region) | 14 Hrs and 35 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Cancun | 30.5°C | 6 Hours | 55 mm | 11 Hrs and 5 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Barbados | 26°C | 8 to 9 Hours | 45 mm | 8 Hrs and 55 Min Non-Stop from London |
| Gran Canaria | 18°C | 6 Hours | 19 mm | 4 Hrs and 30 Min Non-Stop from London |
| The Algarve | 16°C | 5 Hours | 56 mm | 2 Hrs and 50 Min Non-Stop from London to Faro International Airport (FAO) |
Where is hot in January short-haul from UK for a well-rounded escape with family and friends? The fantastic Gran Canaria, of course! Among the most sought-after of the Canary Islands after Tenerife, the stunning Gran Canaria is famed for its picturesque beaches, ethereal landscapes strewn with untouched emerald greenery, striking volcanic mountains, and charming traditional Spanish villages. With January being one of the driest months on the island, it's the perfect month to explore as much of this spectacular Spain island as you can.
Discover the mesmerising sand dunes of Maspalomas, making your way past on a dune buggy. Be awe-struck by the imposing Roque Nublo rock formation. Unwind and soak in unhindered Mediterranean sun during the day and revel in beach parties at night in lively places like Playa del Inglés. Wander coastal areas like Puerto de Mogán for a deeper understanding and appreciation for traditional island life, all the while enjoying the warmth of the winter sun.
Where to Stay: Ranked among Gran Canaria's topmost 4-star hotels, Silken Saaj Las Palmas is an excellent accommodation found at the entrance to the resort. It's a boutique hotel featuring over 60 well-furnished rooms, its futuristic design and elegant décor with glass panels making it a paradise for the modern traveller. Pick the LIVVO Fataga Hotel - also rated 4 stars, for a more conventional stay, located about 800 metres from the beach and a kilometre away from a supermarket. Top offerings include a Jacuzzi, Wi-Fi, parking, meeting rooms, a sun terrace, and all inclusive service covering meals, drinks, and snacks, etc.
Spain, Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Spain, Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Spain, Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, Playa Del Ingles
Where is hot in January short haul from UK for the quickest journey? With an average direct flight time of around 2 hours and 50 minutes from London to Faro, the Algarve is the topmost choice for a quickest weekend getaway. You can also take long breaks here, exploring as much of the region's unspoiled beauty as you can at a relaxed pace. Embellishing southern Portugal, the Algarve is a highly popular hot destination renowned for its postcard-worthy coastline with endless beaches, hidden coves, imposing cliffs, adorable fishing villages, and a sunny, warm climate.
While the Algarve is loved for its beaches, there's something here for everyone seeking more than another seaside escape for warmth in January. There are top-class golf courses, culturally-rich towns like Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimão home to historic architecture, and quality seafood restaurants serving fresh catch of the day. For one-of-a-kind experiences, discover the mystery of the Benagil Cave accessible via boat, visit the Ponta da Piedade rock formation in Lagos, and explore the rich flora and fauna at Ria Formosa Natural Park, also home to lush sand dunes and beautiful lagoons.
Where to Stay: Book rooms at the 5-star Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve for a smashing hot January holiday, staying in swish suites with sea views and enjoying all inclusive service. Also, there's a spa with a Jacuzzi, a Turkish bar, a pool, a sauna, a gym, restaurants, and sports facilities. If you're in Albufeira, the 4-star Albufeira Sol Hotel & Spa is a delightful choice, situated near the lively city centre and offering quality services and facilities, including pools, video games, entertainment, a snack/coffee shop, themed events, a bar, and a restaurant.
If you're wondering where is warm in January for an all-out tropical escape, look no further than the stunning Cancun in Mexico! Located on the southeast coast, the popular region is loved for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant nightlife, and year-round warmth. With cosy sea temperatures promising warm waters for a quick dip or leisurely swims, untamed natural beauty galore, and sporadic showers offering respite from the midday heat, Cancun is a dreamy escape for romantics seeking hot places in January.
Try your hand at snorkelling and deep sea diving for a closer look at the rich marine life, take a boat ride to spot dolphins, and zip line through thick forests for an adventurous getaway. Cancun has much to offer to tourists passionate about history, too, such as the ancient Mayan site of Chichén Itzá, the Xcaret park home to Mayan temples, the archaic walled city of Tulum, and the Yamil Lu'um coastal ruins. You can also visit the Museo Maya Cancún (museum) for a peek at priceless historical artefacts from across Mexico.
Where to Stay: The Acanto Playa del Carmen, Trademark Collection by Wyndham is a spectacular 4-star hotel in Mexico's Cancun Area, conveniently placed near a soft-sand beach. Top highlights include a breathtaking outdoor pool, free parking, concierge service, a spacious lobby, and delicious breakfast. For a more lavish break, stay at the 5-star Barcelo Maya Palace Hotel nestled in the very heart of the Riviera Maya. In addition to luxurious rooms, the hotel boasts 6 restaurants, a modern fitness studio, 3 beautiful pools, a kids' water park, bars, a spectacular shopping centre, and a U-Spa.
Mexico, Cancun Area, Playa Del Carmen - Mexico
Mexico, Cancun Area, Playa Del Carmen - Mexico
Mexico, Cancun Area, Playa Del Carmen - Mexico
Where are warm places to travel in January that resemble paradise? Pack away and head to the exotic island retreat of Barbados! Parked on the eastern Caribbean side, it boasts shimmering white-sand beaches, star-rated resorts by the shore, and a whopping 9 hours of sunshine a day. With the trade winds blowing consistently through the day, the warmth is perfectly complimented by a cool breeze, making the heat bearable for those who dislike too much sun.
The island of Barbados is among the top hot destinations in January for scuba diving, its crystal-clear waters home to a wide range of colour coral and fish. It also has lively nightlife and a vibrant food scene, making it a great spot for night owls, party lovers, and die-hard foodies. St. Lawrence Gap is where most of the liveliest clubs are found, while delicious Barbados dishes like macaroni pie and flying fish are served almost everywhere. For history, explore the UNESCO-stamped capital Bridgetown, home to the Barbados Museum and Parliament Buildings.
Where to Stay: The 5-star Cobblers Cove hotel located amidst exotic gardens in Saint Peter guarantees authentic Caribbean getaways with charming rooms, a freshwater pool, a spa and wellness centre, award-winning restaurants, and water sports activities. The 4-star Accra Beach Hotel & Spa is a wonderful spot for beach escapes, surrounded by blooming gardens. It offers panoramic nature views, professional spa experts, wedding and meeting venues, themed dinners at onsite restaurants with live entertainment, and delicious snacks and drinks at the beach bar.
Are you wondering where is hot in January Europe? The better question is, “where is hot in January in the world.” This way, you don't limit yourself to just one region, enjoying broader options. So, run through the carefully-compiled list below of the best warm places to visit in January from UK, making your winter sun holidaysunforgettable.
The second largest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is fantastically hot in January and surprisingly less-trodden. As such, it's the resounding answer to those wondering where's warm in January for quiet beach escapes with unhindered winter sun. Boasting over 144 kilometres of gold-hued sandy coastline, Fuerteventura is a paradise for water lovers and kitesurfing enthusiasts. The buzzing Sotavento Beach is best for water sports, the remote Playa de Cofete is ideal for romantic breaks, and Caleta de Fuste Beach is perfect for families.
But Fuerteventura offers more than just beaches to make your January hot holidays worth every penny. The breathtakingly beautiful Jandia Natural Park is a haven for hikers and nature fans, while the Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura Zoo is excellent for wildlife enthusiasts. Attractions like the 18th-century defensive tower El Castillo and Casa Winter tick off the historical and cultural aspects of Fuerteventura holidays.
Where to Stay: The family-friendly 4-star Allsun Hotel Esquinzo Beach is best for a seaside retreat, located only a 1-hour drive from Fuerteventura Airport and offering various room styles, including bungalows, suites, and apartments to cater to discerning tastes, besides sports activities and entertainment. Alternatively, Alua Village Fuerteventura, also rated 4-star, is another great choice, ideal for families, couples, and adult-only groups alike. It has pools, sun terraces, kids' facilities, a spa area for adults, and buffet-style onsite dining.
Where's hot in January for unspoilt desert adventures? Look no further than the pyramid-strewn enchanting country of Egypt. But is Egypt hot in January? Yes! While it may not be the hottest place worldwide, Egypt is still warmer than most places in the winter, with average daytime highs of around 19°C - perfect to head to Hurghada for scuba diving in the Red Sea! Linking the Middle East with northeast Africa, Egypt boasts a rich history that dates back to the time of the Pharaohs.
Invariably, Egypt is among the best places hot in January for ancient sites, with millennia-old monuments sitting pretty along the fertile Nile River Valley. Holidays in Egypt also offer colourful souks, beaches (yes, in Egypt!), and cultural festivals, like the Winter Festival in Cairo's Zed Park, featuring an ice rink, parades, musical performances, plays, a Ferris Wheel, and more.
Where to Stay: The 5-star Baron Resort in Sharm El Sheikh promises unparalleled luxury with first-class service and modern accommodations with panoramic Red Sea views that exceed all expectations. They have an all inclusive option, too. If you're seeking hotels in Hurghada, the 4-star Alf Leila We Leila is a fantastic place, located by the beach and featuring multiple pools, around 5 dining outlets, spacious rooms, and an impressive tennis court, among other incredible things.
Where's hot in January for warm weather and a subtropical climate? Also, where is hot in January short-haul from the UK? Madeira, Portugal fits the bill perfectly. With average highs of around 19°C during the day interspersed with pleasant rains, it's the ideal of all warm travel destinations January offers discerning travellers. Outdoor enthusiasts can participate in the Funchal Marathon held every January in Funchal, while nature lovers will enjoy embarking on scenic trails or conquering Cape Girão - Europe's highest cliff skywalk!
Don't miss the São Vicente Caves, formed by a volcanic eruption over 890,000 years ago! Sampling the local cuisine is another must on holidays to Madeira, pairing delicious Bacalhau (salted cod) or Francesinha (meat sandwich) with the world-renowned Madeira wine. So, while Portugal might not be among the countries hot in January by the extreme, it is still a wonderfully warm place to spend your winter.
Where to Stay: The uniquely designed 4-star Aqua Natura Madeira Hotel is parked right next to the beach, offering remarkable comforts like a shuttle service between the airport and hotel, 24-hour reception, wheelchair-accessible rooms and areas, and an impressive sun terrace. Couples and honeymooners can pick the 4-star 1905 Zino's Palace, also by the beach and quite near Funchal town, boasting swanky rooms, a freshwater pool with loungers and umbrellas for free, and buffet-style meals.
Where is it hot in January for a nature-centric escape? Among the greenest of the Caribbean Islands, St. Lucia is the idyllic getaway. As much as 80 per cent of the island is pure rainforest, making St. Lucia one of the best destinations for nature lovers. It offers the best weather in January, right before February kicks off the wet season, offering a spectacular blast of winter sunshine amid breathtaking surroundings.
Those wondering what places are hot in January for adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures will fall in love with St. Lucia, boasting hikes to the great Piton Mountain - among the tallest in the Caribbean. You can also take an aerial tram tour on your long haul holidays to St. Lucia, basking in breathtaking sights of the endemic flora and fauna from a bird's eye view. Pigeon Island National Park, Marigot Bay, and Soufrière Drive in Volcano are other unmissable warm places to be in January.
Where to Stay: Boasting 4 stars, the stunning Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa offers magnificent suites and quick access to the beach, located only 350 metres away. Bonuses include 2 restaurants, free parking and Wi-Fi, chic bars, an outdoor pool, a mini club for kids, and a spa area. The adults-only Calabash Cove Resort & Spa rated 4 star is best for couples, newlyweds, and adult-only groups visiting St. Lucia. Situated on a sandy beach, it provides cosy rooms with air conditioning, 2 restaurants, room service, porter/concierge, currency exchange, and 10 freshwater pools.
Unsurprisingly, another Caribbean Island nation makes the list of the best places hot in January for cheap holidays, boasting a flourishing topography of reef-lined beaches, flourishing rainforests, and impressive mountains. Jamaica is also among the hottest places in January for a getaway, with average temperature for January easily hitting 31°C in the daytime quite often. Unwind on white-sand beaches with a refreshing cocktail in hand while Bob Marley tracks play on in the background.
Away from the beaches, waterfront hotels, and lush mountains is a world of gastronomy waiting to be explored. Jamaican food is fantastic, to say the least, the region being the birthplace of one of the most celebrated cuisines worldwide. So, on your holidays to Jamaica, one of the best warm places to visit in January from UK, tuck into popular delights like Ackee and Codfish, Jerk Chicken, Fried Breadfruit, and Jamaican Beef Patty, perfectly accompanied by Red Stripe Beer or Jamaican Rum.
Where to Stay: The 3-star Altamont West Hotel allows travellers to enjoy an affordable stay without compromising on quality. Featuring comfortable air-conditioned rooms, the hotel is a 1-minute drive away from the popular Doctor's Cave Beach. Honeymooners and couples can stay at the 5-star Bahia Principe Luxury Runaway Bay AI Adults Only hotel for a cosy and luxurious holiday. Besides elegant rooms, the beachfront adults-only hotel has a clubhouse, a lake-style pool, tropical gardens, a spa, and 5 restaurants.
Where's hot in January for all-out beach escapes? Hawaii's Maui comes first, boasting a smashing coastline teeming with shimmering waters, soft sands, and lush palm trees. Maui is also the answer to where is hot in Jan other than the quintessential USA holidays, offering fabulous attractions like surfing at the Ho’okipa Beach Park, whale-watching at Maui Nui Basin, and a day out at Ka'anapali Beach. Invariably, it’s among the most scenic warm places to go in January.
Additionally, Maui is the ideal hot destination January offers avid hikers. Located within the Haleakalā National Park, the 6-kilometre-long Pipiwai Trail is among the most scenic hiking routes to embark on, leading to the stunning Waimoku Falls and Makahiku Falls. You can also amble trails across the tranquil 4,000-acre Iao Valley State Park, home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Maui, including the 1,200-foot Iao Needle. Don't forget to shop for souvenirs at the Maui Swap Meet!
Where to Stay: If you're looking for a 5-star stay, the Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu in Waikiki is a dream escape. Located 10 minutes away from popular attractions, the hotel offers over 340 guestrooms, onsite dining, pool and poolside bar, 24-hour front desk services, parking, and meeting rooms. The 4-star OHANA Waikiki East by OUTRIGGER is another great choice, particularly loved by couples on a honeymoon. Situated only 3 kilometres from the airport, it offers spectacular accommodations, parking, concierge service, sports amenities, entertainment, and lots more.
An enchanting volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are among the most beautiful hot places to go in January to beat the winter blues. The hottest place in January for holiday amid fantastic weather, it boasts clear skies in the mornings, humid afternoons, and sharp, short showers in the evening. It’s the perfect time to spot sea turtles beginning to nest on pristine beaches, birds performing captivating courtship rituals, and penguins in large numbers bustling about.
Since it's hot in January in the Galapagos Islands, panoramic stretches like Playa El Garrapatero offer unmatched beach holidays, with over 3 kilometres of soft golden sands. Scuba diving in Darwin Island and snorkelling around Kicker Rock are must-dos on your holidays to the Galapagos Islands, one of the best warm travel destinations January serves up to beat the winter chill. For a hit of history, visit the 65-foot-tall Wall of Tears, purportedly the cause of thousands of deaths while it was being built.
Where to Stay: Located on top of imposing volcanic craters, the stunning Pikaia Lodge offers unmatched 5-star stays on the island, promising striking views, a spa, free breakfast, lavish pools, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The 4-star Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is a sustainable-friendly choice for eco-conscious travellers, set along the picturesque Los Alemanes Beach and offering the best-quality onsite amenities.
Wondering where's warm in January for a classic island escape? Flaunting Caribbean-esque features, the spectacular Country of Aruba is teeming with swaying palm trees on white-sand shores with warm turquoise waters. Since it's part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, you'll find that Aruba holidays have ample Dutch influence, such as the De Olde Mollen - a renowned, classic Dutch windmill on the panoramic Palm Beach. The 17-foot-deep Conchi Natural Pool is another must-see, located within the breathtaking Arikok National Park.
Beautiful beaches like Arashi Beach, Eagle Beach, and Baby Beach with calm waters and powdery soft sands make Aruba one of the best hot destinations in January for family holidays. Affordable accommodations and free attractions like the Alto Vista Chapel and Donkey Sanctuary rank Aruba among the topmost cheap hot holidays in January for budget travellers.
Where to Stay: The classy beachfront 5-star Barcelo Aruba Hotel is 100 metres from the beach, with the lively town of Oranjestad only 8 kilometres away. It boasts 373 rooms, 4 lifts, room service, laundry and ironing, concierge/porter, and free sun loungers in the outdoor pool area. With a quirky name, the 3-star Coconut Inn is an affordable choice for budget travellers, offering quality stays at low prices. Choose from spacious studios, double rooms, one-bedroom apartments, and other comfortable types. It also offers free parking and Wi-Fi, and is located a short drive away from some of Aruba's finest beaches.
Is Tenerife hot in January? Absolutely! Your search for hot countries in January ends with the largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife, beating every possible contender on the list by a long mile. Tenerife weather in January is quite perfect, as it's the end of the rainy season, welcoming warmth and humidity that make outdoor explorations and beach visits a breeze. With a subtropical climate, Tenerife’s Playa de las Américas is the best spot for pristine beaches, surfing, shopping, dining, and a wild, untamed nightlife.
One of the largest volcanoes worldwide, Mount Teide is also among the best sunny places in January for picturesque hikes. You can also kayak or go on whale-watching boat trips during your holidays to Tenerife, with waters at La Gomera teeming with pilot whales and adorable dolphins. Families and couples alike will love the renowned Thai-themed Siam Park, boasting over 15 water-based attractions. The average Tenerife weather January is a pleasant 20°C, so you can stay out all day if you choose to.
Where to Stay: Parked along the enchanting Golf Del Sur resort, the 5-star Bahia Principe Fantasia Tenerife hotel is a dream retreat for families and couples alike. The popular hotel features 4 outdoor pools, a kids' pool with splash parks, a spa, restaurants, a gym, sports activities, bars, and a 24-hour snack service. For a quintessential beachside break, the 5-star Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife is a great option, located on the stunning Playa Paraiso. It offers a world-class spa, pools, a kids' club, live entertainment, and a gym with cutting edge equipment.
If you were wondering where is hot in January for beautiful environmental contrasts, Chile ticks all the boxes. Ranked among the most stunning warm countries in January, Chile all inclusive holidays offer a plethora of attractions catering to diverse tastes, from the arid Atacama Desert and the panoramic hiking routes of the Elqui Valley to the striking blue waterfalls of Lake District.
Marked by balmy mornings and warm, pleasant evenings, Chile boasts the best hot holidays in January to delve into its varied topography. Patagonia is great for wildlife, glaciers, and national parks, while Chiloé Island is a cultural paradise featuring houses standing on stilts in water, vibrant markets, and colourful wooden churches. Don't miss the mind-numbing lunar landscape at the Valley of the Moon within the Los Flamencos National Reserve, strewn with distinctive rock formations, rugged mountains, and gorgeous dunes.
Where to Stay: Located in the upmarket Las Condes District, the classy 5-star Santiago Marriott Hotel features gorgeous rooms with modern comforts. Room upgrades include free breakfast, drinks, and snacks at the club lounge. Additionally, there are 3 restaurants, a gym, an outdoor pool, and business facilities. You can also stay at the 4-star ICON Hotel Santiago, promising upscale accommodation units with mountain views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Other highlights include a sauna and hammam, an indoor pool, rich breakfast, room service, concierge services, a nightclub, and a rooftop terrace with a lounge.
The topmost holiday destinations that are hot in January tend to be long-haul places from the UK, such as Aruba, Maui, or the Galapagos Islands. However, each winter destination is worth the journey, offering balmy mornings, sun-soaked beaches, and some much-needed winter sun to beat those cold blues away.
There are plenty of amazing warm holiday destinations in January short haul from the UK, too, like Tenerife in the Canary Islands and Madeira, Portugal, offering ample sunshine, clear skies, and a strong dose of Vitamin D. You will also find several cheap hot holidays in January, including Chile, Jamaica, and Egypt, ensuring the trip does not take a toll on your wallet.
So, take enough to find the best hot January holiday for your tastes, embarking on your most memorable winter sun getaway yet. Pretty soon you'll be wondering where is hot in February!
