10 Best Islands to Visit in December

There’s something about islands that conjures up images of swaying palm trees, endless ocean views and a feeling that time stands still. Whether it’s checking out the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, learning about a new culture in Koh Rong or living it up in the Cayman Islands.

Somewhere in the world, there’s an island waiting for you in December. Escape the mainland rat race and trade it for laid-back island time. Just pack a swimsuit and some sunscreen because you won’t find snow or cold temperatures on these islands!

Boracay, Philippines

It’s small by land but Boracay is big on fun. This is especially true in December when the weather is hot and sunny. The first part of the month is also less crowded.

Hit the white-sand beaches to enjoy swimming, kite-surfing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. Go snorkeling off Puka Beach and see diverse sea life. Enjoy stunning views from atop Mount Luho or head out into the horizon on a sunset cruise.

The Christmas season is alive and well with lighted palm trees and holiday-themed sand castles. When hunger strikes, enjoy a traditional holiday feast of roast pig and local delicacies.

Big Island, Hawaii, USA

The Big Island is the place to be in Hawaii in December. Temperatures soar, the ocean water is warm and Christmas is everywhere!

Enjoy a tropical landscape set to incredible scenery that includes the world’s biggest volcano. Relaxing on a black-sand beach is a favorite pastime. Adventurous souls might prefer to go on a whale-watching tour.

Join the holiday fun at Waimea Christmas Twilight Parade and search for last-minute gifts at the Hawaiian Holiday Crafts Festival.

Dreaming of sipping hot chocolate under a clear, night sky? Go Stargazing at the top of Mauna Kea. Hula shows are common around the holidays and are a great way to immerse in Hawaiian culture.

Jamaica

Amazing weather, reggae music, festive cheer and long, sandy beaches – what more could one ask for in an island vacation in December?

Enter the world of Jamaica’s legendary reggae artist at the Smile Jamaica Concert or at the Bob Marley Museum. Celebrate Christmas like a local at the Grand Market.

Enjoy the great outdoors? Explore natural wonders like Dunn’s River Falls and Cool Blue Hole Ochos Rios. Or, opt for something more relaxing like Bamboo rafting on the Martha Brae River.

Jamaicans take their Christmas feasts seriously so don’t leave the island without enjoying one. Ham topped with pineapple, rice, goat soap and black cake…sounds delicious to me!

The Maldives

Perfect is how you could describe the weather in the Maldives in December. Unforgettable is how you describe everything else!

Spectacular beaches, indigenous-inspired spas and overwater bungalows are just a few things the Maldives are known for. Go diving or snorkeling at Banana Reef and see incredible marine life or sink beneath the waves on the Whale Submarine.

Local History and culture are on display at the National Museum in the capital and just before the sun goes down, enjoy a candlelit dinner on the beach. After the sun slips beneath the horizon, stick around for some stargazing over the Indian Ocean.

Key West, Florida, USA

While much of the U.S. is under snow, Key West is a tropical paradise. Beaches are popular but did you know you can dive at one of the world’s largest coral reefs? Or that Duval Street transforms into party central every night?

Admire unique conch houses and historic lighthouses while exploring the island. Enjoy hiking? Head to Dry Tortugas National Park. Be sure to stop at Key West Aquarium and Butterfly and Nature Conservatory along the way.

Christmas comes alive at the Lighted Boat Parade or at a classic performance of the Nutcracker. A ride on the Conch Train to see the holiday light displays is sure to awaken the holiday spirit in anyone!

Koh Rong, Cambodia

If Cambodia isn’t the first place you think of when it comes to tropical islands, think again! Koh Rong Island is a tropical paradise complete with sandy beaches and palm trees.

Swimming and snorkeling with tropical fish in clear offshore waters is popular. If you prefer to stay dry, you can kayak through a mangrove forest or sail around the island.

Immerse in lush natural surroundings with a hike to Saracen Bay Waterfall. A trip to the traditional fishing community of M’Pai Bay is a nice afternoon excursion. If you’re lucky on a dark, moonless night, you may see glowing bioluminescent plankton.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

When it comes to far-flung and unique island vacations, the Galapagos Islands offer visitors many once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Expect warm temperatures and sunny skies while exploring the diverse landscape of volcanic structures, sandy beaches and lush greenery. Expect warm, clear water while snorkeling with giant sea turtles and swimming with sea lions.

In December, villages are lit up with Christmas lights and this is also the time to see giant tortoises lay their eggs.

Sierra Negra region is a must-see for its landscape that’s unique from the rest of the islands and you can more about the islands at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora.

Cape Verde

In Cape Verde, nights are just as hot as the days and the sun always shines. Of course, there are beautiful beaches. It’s an archipelago after all! But, there’s so much more to these 10 islands than scenery and coastline.

Watch humpback whales breach offshore and immerse in a mix of African, South American and European cultures. Seeking some thrills? Try kitesurfing in Boa Vista.

At Pedra Lume Salt Crater, the water is so salty, you’ll float to your heart’s content with little effort. In Viana Desert, dune surfing is popular. In December, village festivals are held all over the islands including São Filipe District Festival.

Aruba, Caribbean

There are many Caribbean islands to choose from but if you’re seeking one with hot, sunny weather and Christmas cheer, Aruba is among the best to visit in December.

White-sand beaches, lively culture, beautiful landscapes and a vibrant capital city are just some things Aruba is known for. It’s also known for its rum production which is on display at several distilleries around the island.

In December enjoy a tropical Christmas atmosphere with holiday-themed drinks by the sea, festive markets and the legendary light displays of Sero Preto. Get a taste of authentic local cuisine at the Fusion of the World Food Tour.

Cayman Islands, Caribbean

Don’t let peak season crowds scare you away from Cayman Islands in December. You’ll miss out on fantastic weather and holiday fun!

National Parade of Lights can’t be missed and A Playhouse Family Christmas produced by the Cayman Drama Society is a must-see.

Browse a cheerful holiday market under the stars at Christmas Evening Market. Embark on a high-seas adventure on Holiday Lights Boat Tour. Take a step back in time with caroling and tree lightings at Pedro St. James Castle.

The islands are also home to the best coral diving around and you can swim with stingrays at Stingray City.