Dreaming of sunshine this winter? Explore 5 stunning Asian beach destinations to warm your days and lift your mood.
Winter is coming. Traveling to Southeast Asia in December and January might be a great way to escape the gloomy, chilly days and head somewhere pleasant. Although some regions of Asia do suffer a rainy season around this time, the majority of Southern Asia is blessed with hot, dry, and sunny weather. Thus, if you prefer to spend this winter basking in the sun rather than bundling up in the weather, continue reading for a list of our preferred paradise beaches in Southeast Asia where you can enjoy yourself.
Phu Quoc's weather in December makes it an ideal time to visit this island paradise. A mild climate characterized by temperatures between 22°C and 30°C and an average of 104 millimeters of precipitation ensures that there are seven hours of sunshine per day. The average water temperature of the sea is 28°C, which is ideal for swimming and other water-based activities. Furthermore, the relative humidity for this month is approximately 72%.
Here, you can indulge in fantastic water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Additionally, fishing excursions are available at Vung Ong Doi, Hon Dam, and Gieng Tien. For kids, you can take them to Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc to explore the wildlife conservation area, witness rare animal species, and take in some unusual shows. Or take part in more than 100 exciting and distinctive entertainment events at VinWonders Phu Quoc. Remember to ride the Cable Car to experience the distinct charm of the island from above.
Travel Tips
December marks the start of the dry season (Nov–Apr). Ideal travel conditions with calm seas for boat trips and snorkeling.
Book accommodations early; December is peak season.
Ideal for couples, families, and nature lovers.
Try night squid fishing tours or island-hopping boat trips.
Explore Ham Ninh Fishing Village to experience local life and try fresh crab.
Visit Suoi Tranh Waterfall or Phu Quoc National Park for light hiking and nature.
Place to stay: Cassia Cottage Resort and Spa
Cassia Cottage began as a family retreat for spice traders. As a result, it has become a boutique beach resort that is unique to Phu Quoc Island. In the resort, you will enjoy home-cooked meals infused with spices from their plantations and local ingredients. Dive into our diverse range of rejuvenating wellness activities and relaxing spa treatments at Cassia Cottage Phu Quoc. Airy rooms in tranquil corners, surrounded by fresh greenery and soothing sounds of the sea, are featured in the massage pavilions and yoga pavilions at the resort.
Place to stay: Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island
You will be captivated by a soulful luxury experience and the distinctive character of a boutique resort with charm, comfort, and authentic Vietnamese service. There are 121 luxury rooms, suites, and villas designed in contemporary style with a hint of local flavor that creates a seamless transition from inside to out. Wall art in each room category showcases the beauty of Vietnam and harmoniously blends luxury amenities with natural wonders.
The dry season in Langkawi begins in December with mild breezes and beautiful sunshine. Following the period of heavy precipitation from late September to the end of November, the comparatively clear skies of December in Langkawi are a welcome respite. As the month advances, there is a significant decline in both the frequency and duration of showers and thunderstorms. Temperatures increase to an average of 28°C. The amount of sunshine increases as the month draws to a close.
At the shore, squander the day with sand between your toes and sunbathe. When escaping to the tropical Langkawi Island, beaches are part of the daily routine. Explore the mangroves in the vicinity of Pantai Cenang Beach. Experience the rush of excitement when jet skiing and parasailing at Pantai Tengah Beach. Observe the delightful avian vocalizations emanating from Pantai Pasir Tengkorak. Or, pay a visit to Black Sand Beach to observe the convergence of black, golden, and dazzling white sands.
Travel Tips
December is part of Langkawi's dry season (November–April). Ideal for swimming and diving. Rainfall is relatively low (~80–100 mm), mostly short tropical showers.
Best areas to stay: Pantai Cenang (lively), Pantai Tengah (quiet), Kuah Town (convenient).
Duty-free shopping. Langkawi is a duty-free island, ideal for chocolates, alcohol, and perfumes.
December is high season; book early for better rates.
Respect local customs; Malaysia is a Muslim-majority region (modest dress outside resorts).
Place to stay: Datai Langkawi Resort
As you can see from the picture, this is the Eco-friendly 5-star resort. Set against a wilderness backdrop of primordial mountains, the pristine 10-million-year-old rainforest is home to a wealth of flora and fauna: you may well spot Dusky langurs, Tokay geckos, and Sunda colugos during your stay. Activities like water sports, guided tour, SPA and WELL-BEING, and nearby Golf experience are an unmissable relaxation.
Winter is the best time to visit Krabi. Following the heavy monsoon rainfall, the months of November through March are the coolest, making this the height of the tourist season in the area. The agreeable ambiance, low humidity, and warm temperatures, coupled with the absence of precipitation, ensure that the climate remains optimal for a vacation.
Thailand's Krabi is a picture-perfect location, with limestone karsts towering from the pristine waters and sandy white beaches bordering lush green woods. Make longer visits to the well-known islands Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, or spend your days island hopping in a long-tail boat. Krabi has more than just beaches, though. Explore its magnificent temples, delectable cuisine, and other natural gems.
Travel Tips
Sea temperature is about 28°C, great for swimming and diving.
Nopparat Thara Beach is a quieter and family-friendly beach near Ao Nang.
Rock climbing at Railay is world-renowned limestone cliffs for all levels.
Enjoy beachfront dining or sunset cocktails at Ao Nang or Railay.
Best areas to stay: Ao Nang (convenient), Railay (romantic/nature), Krabi Town (budget/local).
Bring cash for small shops or boat rides.
Great destination for couples, families, and adventure seekers.
Place to stay: Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
The Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, which is a short stroll from the golden beach and boasts a design that evokes colonial grandeur. Offers a stunning view of the Andaman Sea and the nearby islands. One of Krabi's best hotels, the Sofitel mixes Western elegance with a cozy and welcoming Thai atmosphere in an excellent location on Klong Muang Beach, close to Ao Nang. This 5-star hotel in Krabi has 276 rooms and suites, all of which have a balcony or patio and are situated close to a tropical forest. The accommodations provide diverse views of the jungle, limestone cliffs, and the sea.
Place to stay: Beyond Krabi
Beyond Krabi blends naturally into its surroundings, the architectural style using freeform curves and low-rise design in a harmonic union with the gentle world of beach and woodland. All luxurious rooms and suites, and the sea and garden views are spectacular. The accommodation includes villas and a villa with its own private pool. Inspirational treatments are available atthe Thai traditional Kanda Spa to keep you happy in body and mind.
With an average year-round temperature of 30°C and an average humidity of 75%, Boracay Island has a tropical climate that makes it a pleasant place to stay at almost any time. However, the best time to visit is from December to May. White Beach is the most popular place to go and lounge in when in Boracay. You can choose any resort and walk along the four-kilometer beachfront to see the different establishments and activities in the main areas of White Beach called Stations 1, 2, and 3.
There are plenty of water activities in the area like parasailing, banana boat, paddle-boarding, and paraw sailing. At night, you can also hang out at the bars by the beach or join Boracay pub crawl tours. If you want to explore beyond White Beach, you can head for Puka Beach, located at the northernmost tip of Boracay Island and named after the puka shells that used to line its shores. There are relatively fewer establishments here, so you can enjoy more peace and quiet.
Travel Tips
December marks the beginning of the dry season (November–May), making it one of the best months to visit Boracay. Ideal conditions for water sports and sailing.
White Beach: Station 1 (luxury), Station 2 (lively), and Station 3 (quiet).
Water activities: island hopping, parasailing, helmet diving, stand-up paddleboarding, scuba diving, and sunset sailing on a paraw (local sailboat).
The Christmas season brings festive lights, music, and beach parties.
New Year's Eve will have spectacular fireworks and celebrations on White Beach.
No single-use plastics allowed on the island (eco-friendly policy).
ATMs are limited; please remember to carry some cash.
Place to stay: Shangri-La Boracay
The waves are close enough for you to hear their music. A variety of sea activities can be enjoyed in the stunning waters, including kayaking, parasailing, and deep sea diving. A sumptuous dinner awaits you at Rima, hidden among the treetops. Spa village complexes are situated on rocky peninsulas overlooking private bays that are truly sanctuaries.
Place to stay: Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay
The Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay is nestled on the northern tip of Boracay Island in Punta Bunga Cove and offers an indulgent paradise in the Philippines. You can enjoy the upscale destination's extensive multi-level pool, serene wellness center and spa, water sports activities and excursions while surrounded by lush tropical landscape and a private beach with turquoise blue waters. This upscale destination offers you the chance to escape into indulgence. With the kids' club and playground area, kids will also enjoy their stay at our resort.
The dry season takes place from December to April. During this season, the weather is the driest and the humidity is at its lowest. The islands are a popular destination for vacationers seeking winter sun, as the average temperature is 30 degrees. The Maldives offer exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities worldwide, especially during the dry season, due to their tropical climate and remote location from any major landmass. So, it's a great time to visit if you're keen to see sea life.
Long stretches of white sand beaches bordering the turquoise-blue Indian Ocean, waterside villas on stilts, and a romantic candlelit dinner with a goblet of champagne at a floating gazebo – the Maldives is all about luxury and nature. Often referred to as the Manhattan of the Indian Ocean, Hulhule Island's metropolitan appeal blends perfectly with its tropical charm, making it one of the most popular reasons to visit the Maldives.
Travel Tips
North Malé Atoll: home to luxury resorts and great surfing spots.
South Malé Atoll: quieter and ideal for diving.
Ari Atoll: world-famous for whale shark and manta ray encounters.
Baa Atoll (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve): rich in marine biodiversity and coral reefs.
Vaavu Atoll: known for its "underwater glowing plankton" experiences.
Malé International Airport (Velana International Airport) serves as the main entry point.
Christmas and New Year celebrations at resorts with gala dinners, beach parties, and fireworks.
Place to stay: JOY ISLAND MALDIVES
This is a brand-new resort that will open on September 1, 2023. Joy Island is located in North Malé Atoll and features 151 villas on the beach and in the lagoon. Velana International Airport is only 40 minutes distant by speedboat. This beautiful island's broad white sand beach resembles a butterfly, and it is surrounded by a breathtaking turquoise lagoon. On this island, there are 91 beachfront rooms and 60 overwater accommodations. Designed in a manner that complements the vibrant colours of the Maldives with its use of fresh tones and a relaxing atmosphere.
Place to stay: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
This property has 176 rooms in a variety of styles, ranging from exquisite deluxe rooms to quaint cottages and luxurious water bungalows and villas, as well as a spacious two-bedroom water suite. In 2019, all rooms and suites were renovated. On the island are cottages and oceanfront villas with private swimming pools. The Ocean Pool Residences at East Point offer an elevated level of discretion with a private entrance gate. While cottages are ideal for families due to their proximity to resort amenities, water bungalows offer the option of a private plunge pool.
Haven't decided yet where to travel this winter? For personalized travel ideas and expert guidance on the best winter destinations in Asia, contact us at email: [email protected] or send a message via WeChat ID: Expatsholiday.
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