Sea retreat in December: Destinations that reset your energy before New Year
5 countries you can visit for a warm summer in december (photo: Freepik)
If you're wondering "where to go to the sea in December," the answer is no longer limited to just Egypt. Dozens of destinations with warm seas are open, including the relatively budget-friendly Red Sea and the more exotic Thailand or Zanzibar. Here are five destinations where the sea is truly warm in December, the atmosphere is festive, and it feels like midsummer.
Egypt: Reliable option with warm sea
December in Egypt offers comfortable sun, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 26 degrees, warm water, and stress-free swimming. The sea stays around 22 degrees, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
This is why Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh remain the most popular winter destinations for Ukrainians.
Here, you can easily find all-inclusive resorts, coral reefs, and mid-range prices, along with tours that offer seamless logistics, making it an ideal choice if you want the sea without complicated decisions.
Beach in Naama Bay, Sharm El-Sheikh (photo: Wikipedia)
UAE: Sea combined with a city of the future
In December, Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer a very comfortable climate: daytime temperatures are around 25 degrees, and the sea is consistently about 25 degrees warm.
This is the season without summer heat, when you can combine beaches with huge shopping centers, skyscrapers, shows, desert safaris, and Christmas events.
The Emirates gives a sense of order, service, and technology. It's perfect for those who want both the sea and a beautiful city with a Christmas atmosphere without sacrificing comfort.
Sunset over the Persian Gulf (photo: Wikipedia)
Canary Islands: Soft, endless spring and the ocean
Tenerife in December feels like European spring: air temperatures range from 20 to 24 degrees, and the ocean is about 21 degrees. Swimming is possible, although there is no tropical heat, but it feels incredibly cozy.
The Canaries are ideal for those seeking mild warmth, volcanic landscapes, wineries, trekking, and charming Christmas towns. It's a relaxed western-style vacation without extreme heat, yet with the quality feel of Europe.
Beach in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (photo: Wikipedia)
Thailand (Phuket): Warmest sea in December
Phuket in December is pure tropical therapy. Air temperatures reach 30 degrees, and the sea warms to an incredible 28-29 degrees. This is one of the hottest destinations of the season.
The currents are calm, the monsoon season is over, and the islands are surrounded by warm, clear water. Thailand offers coconuts, fruits, evening markets, bays, island excursions, and a full sense of escape from everyday life. For those seeking a genuine summer experience, this is the ideal choice.
Paradise in Phuket (photo: Wikipedia)
Zanzibar: Dreamlike picture from the Indian Ocean
Zanzibar in December contrasts sharply with the European winter: bright sun, air temperatures around 30-32 degrees, and the sea never drops below 28.
The coasts of Nungwi, Kendwa, or Paje boast the same turquoise water that looks unreal even without filters.
Here, the vibe is one of tropical freedom, white sand, palm trees, and an ocean as warm as tea. Zanzibar is perfect for anyone seeking exotic beaches and the mildest winter.
Zanzibar beach (photo: Wikipedia)
Earlier, we revealed the best resorts for celebrating the New Year.
Sources: SeaTemperature.org, VisitUkraine, Wikipedia, and Timeanddate.