Top 9 Warmest Vacation Spots to Beat the Cold
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, February can be the worst place unless you have a snowbird escape lined up. Don’t worry: we have you covered with nine nice ideas.
Okay, so the first snow is a novelty. So is dusting off your favorite coat, boots, hat, and gloves. But as the weeks go by, characterized by polar blasts, lack of light, and dreary vistas, your body starts to crave sunshine and warmth. But where should you go this year?
A recent study by Arka ranked the top warmest destinations for winter vacations based on a range of key metrics. These included average winter temperatures, average sunshine hours, and average sea temperatures, which highlight the climate appeal of each destination. To assess popularity and affordability, the study incorporated the number of annual international visitors, average hotel costs for 4–5-star accommodations, and the number of Instagram hashtags associated with each location. A composite score was calculated by standardizing and weighting these metrics, providing an overall ranking of the most attractive warm winter destinations.


The Maldives claims the top spot with a score of 91, thanks to its consistently warm average winter temperature of 27°C (81°F) and luxury offerings. With comparatively high hotel costs at $726.3 per night, it remains a haven for high-end travelers. Additionally, with 11.8 million Instagram hashtags, it remains a favorite for capturing beautiful landscapes.


Coming in second with a score of 90.6, Phuket draws the largest number of annual international visitors at 36 million. Its warm sea temperatures of 82°F and relatively affordable luxury accommodations ($343.8 per night) make it a top choice. With 12.4 million Instagram hashtags, Phuket is widely shared by visitors online.


Ranked third with a score of 90.4, Bali sets itself apart as the most Instagrammed destination on the list, with 74.3 million hashtags. Its affordable 4–5-star hotels, averaging $130.1 per night, make it a practical option for those seeking both serenity and shareable experiences.


Ranked fourth with a score of 90, Goa is well-known for its warm sea temperatures of 82°F and its budget-friendly luxury, with 4–5-star hotel costs averaging just $162.4 per night. It also attracts a significant social media following, with 16.7 million Instagram hashtags highlighting its popularity among travelers.


With a score of 89, the Seychelles offers travelers consistent warmth at 27°C (81°F) and a sea temperature of 80°F. This island nation draws attention for its relatively low hotel costs ($210.2) compared to other luxury destinations on the list. Its natural beauty is also a draw, reflected in its 2 million Instagram hashtags.


Boracay ranks sixth with a score of 87, standing out for its warm sea temperatures of 81°F and its strong social media presence, with 3.4 million Instagram hashtags. It also offers an affordable luxury experience, with average hotel costs at $140.3 per night, making it a great choice for travelers looking for value in a tropical setting.


The Bahamas lands in seventh place with a score of 85, offering mild winter temperatures of 26°C (81°F) and a sea temperature of 75°F. It draws 9.65 million annual visitors and has 6.6 million Instagram hashtags, which proves that it is a well-loved winter destination.

Cape Town takes eighth place with a score of 84 and stands out for having the highest average winter sunshine hours at 10 per day. It is also quite an affordable and beautiful place, with hotel costs averaging $244.2 and Instagram hashtags reaching up to 14.6 million.


Ranked ninth with a score of 83, San Pedro in Ambergris Caye Belize is particularly attractive for its warm average temperatures of 28°C (82°F) and sea temperatures of 78°F. Its relatively small visitor numbers (1.24 million) give it a quieter, more relaxed vibe.
A spokesperson from Arka commented on the study: “Winter travelers tend to prioritize destinations with warm weather, affordability, and unique experiences. Sometimes, all you need is to get away from the cold and soak up some sunshine. A winter escape doesn’t have to be complicated—just finding a warm, relaxing spot can do wonders for your mood and energy during the darker months.”