The cold weather of winter is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to start planning an escape to the best beaches to visit in December. With a wide array of stunning locations to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect sun-soaked destination. From the Caribbean to the Pacific, we’ve compiled a list of ten must-visit beaches to help you plan your dream vacation.
Best Beaches to Visit in December
1. Grand Anse, Grenada
Situated in the Caribbean Sea, Grenada is a picturesque island with a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from. The crown jewel among them is the 2-mile long, palm and almond tree-lined Grand Anse. Located on the southwestern coast, this idyllic beach is known for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Activities at Grand Anse
Despite its popularity among both locals and cruise ship passengers, the expansive shoreline of Grand Anse is large enough to accommodate everyone without feeling overcrowded. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely swim in the calm waters, or indulge in various water sports, such as water-skiing, parasailing, or sea kayaking.
2. Tulum, Mexico
Located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is a charming beach destination that combines stunning natural beauty with fascinating historical sites. The ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea make for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Activities in Tulum
In addition to exploring the Mayan ruins, visitors to Tulum can enjoy a variety of beach-related activities. These include snorkeling in the nearby cenotes, indulging in a beachside yoga session, or simply relaxing on the pristine sands and soaking up the sun.
3. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Whitehaven Beach, located in the Whitsunday Islands of Queensland, Australia, is renowned for its stunning, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. This 4.3-mile stretch of beach is accessible only by boat, ensuring a tranquil and secluded experience for those who make the journey.
Activities at Whitehaven Beach
Visitors to Whitehaven Beach can enjoy swimming in the warm, clear waters, beachcombing for unique shells, or even taking a scenic helicopter tour for a breathtaking aerial view of the beach and its surroundings.
4. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands known for their postcard-perfect beaches. Among them, Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue Island stands out as one of the most stunning. With its unique granite rock formations, powdery white sand, and azure waters, this beach is a true paradise.
Activities at Anse Source d’Argent
The calm, shallow waters of Anse Source d’Argent make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the lush, surrounding vegetation or rent a bicycle to discover the island’s other beautiful beaches.
5. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
No list of the best beaches to visit in December would be complete without mentioning Hawaii’s iconic Waikiki Beach. Located on the island of Oahu, this bustling beach is a hub of activity and offers stunning views of the iconic Diamond Head crater.
Activities at Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is a mecca for surfers, with a variety of surf schools and rental shops catering to both beginners and experienced wave riders. In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy a wide array of water sports, such as paddleboarding, canoeing, and snorkeling.
6. Railay Beach, Thailand
Accessible only by boat, Railay Beach in Krabi, Thailand, offers a secluded and serene atmosphere that is perfect for a December beach getaway. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, this pristine beach boasts soft, white sand and warm, emerald waters.
Activities at Railay Beach
Rock climbing enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunities available at Railay Beach, as the surrounding cliffs offer world-class climbing routes. For those who prefer a more relaxing experience, the calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, or simply floating on a raft.
7. Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico
Located on the remote island of Culebra, Puerto Rico’s Flamenco Beach is a stunning stretch of sand that is frequently ranked among the world’s best beaches. With its powdery, white sand and vibrant blue waters, this beach is the perfect destination for a December escape.
Activities at Flamenco Beach
Flamenco Beach offers a variety of activities to suit every traveler’s interests. Visitors can snorkel among the vibrant coral reefs, explore the nearby nature trails, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun.
8. Camps Bay, South Africa
Situated at the foot of the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range, Camps Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, is a breathtaking beach destination. With its soft, white sand and azure waters, this beach offers a stunning contrast to the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Activities at Camps Bay
Camps Bay is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The nearby promenade is lined with trendy cafés, bars, and restaurants, making it an ideal location for a leisurely beachside meal or sundowner.
9. Nusa Dua Beach, Bali
Bali, the famed Indonesian island, is known for its lush landscapes and stunning beaches. Among them, Nusa Dua Beach stands out for its pristine, golden sands and calm, crystal-clear waters. This upscale beach destination is perfect for those seeking a luxurious beach getaway in December.
Activities at Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The surrounding area also boasts a range of luxury resorts, spas, and golf courses, providing a variety of options for relaxation and leisure.
10. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas
Last but not least on our list of the best beaches to visit in December is the unique Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island in the Bahamas. This 3-mile stretch of beach is famous for its soft, pink-tinged sand, which gets its hue from the crushed coral in the area.
Activities at Pink Sands Beach
Visitors to Pink Sands Beach can enjoy swimming in the warm, turquoise waters, horseback riding along the shoreline, or simply relaxing on the blushing sand and admiring the stunning views.
Final Words
With so many beautiful beach destinations to choose from, planning your perfect December escape has never been easier. Whether you prefer a secluded, tranquil experience or a bustling, activity-filled beach getaway, there’s a destination on this list to suit every traveler’s preferences. So pack your sunscreen and swimsuit, and get ready to soak up the sun on one of these stunning beaches this December.
