Where to Go in December for Vacation: 4 Places to Escape the Cold

Last updated on August 10th, 2024 at 10:15 am

As winter sets in and temperatures drop, our thoughts turn to questions like where to go in December for vacation. Think warm sandy beaches and turquoise waters, far away from the winter chill. While popular beach destinations are often overrun with tourists during the holiday season, there are hidden gems in Asia that offer tranquility, natural beauty, and an escape from the crowds. If you’re yearning for a winter getaway that takes you off the beaten path, consider exploring destinations like Koh Rong Samloem in Cambodia, Palawan in the Philippines, Koh Lipe in Thailand, and Havelock Island in India.

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These lesser-known beach paradises offer the perfect blend of serenity, adventure, and stunning landscapes. Koh Rong Samloem entices with its pristine shores and lush forests, Palawan mesmerizes with its dramatic cliffs and underwater wonders, Koh Lipe captivates with its resemblance to the Maldives, and Havelock Island delights with its palm-fringed beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Each destination has its own unique charm and promises an unforgettable experience all of which make them such wonderful places to go in December for vacation.

Paradise Lost (or Hidden From Many)

In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into these hidden beach gems, exploring their attractions, activities, and why they are especially great for December vacation. Get ready to discover off-the-beaten-path beach destinations in Asia that offer tranquility and natural beauty away from the crowds.

1. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia: The Castaway’s Paradise

If you’re longing for a true Robinson Crusoe experience, look no further than Koh Rong Samloem. This untouched gem in Cambodia boasts powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush green forests. Located just off the coast of Sihanoukville, this island paradise is a haven for those seeking solitude and serenity.

Koh Rong Samloem offers a handful of rustic bungalows and eco-resorts that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. From the moment you step foot on the island, you’ll be captivated by its untouched beauty. As you stroll along the beach, feeling the warm sand between your toes and being serenaded by the gentle sound of waves, you’ll find yourself immersed in a tranquil paradise.

For adventure seekers, the island offers a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Dive into the vibrant coral reefs, teeming with colorful marine life, or explore the dense jungles that offer hiking trails and hidden waterfalls. In the evening, be mesmerized by the bioluminescent plankton that illuminates the night waters, creating a magical experience.

Winter may be a season of frosty mornings and icy winds in many parts of the world, but Koh Rong Samloem remains a tropical paradise. With its warm temperatures and calm seas, this Cambodian gem is the perfect antidote to winter blues. Swap snow boots for flip-flops and trade hot cocoa for refreshing coconut water as you bask in the sun’s embrace. The winter months offer a more peaceful and intimate experience on the island, as there are fewer visitors compared to the peak tourist season. You can have the beach all to yourself, relishing in the tranquility and rejuvenating your soul.

The Best Tours in Cambodia

2. Palawan, Philippines: Nature’s Masterpiece

Palawan, often hailed as the last frontier of the Philippines, is an archipelago blessed with stunning natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring limestone cliffs of El Nido to the enchanting turquoise lagoons of Coron, Palawan is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The journey to reach these remote island destinations is an adventure in itself, as you navigate through towering limestone formations and crystal-clear waters.

El Nido, located on the northern tip of Palawan, is a tropical paradise with its dramatic karst landscape. It boasts hidden beaches, secret lagoons, and awe-inspiring viewpoints. Island hopping in El Nido allows you to discover hidden gems such as the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, where you can kayak through turquoise waters surrounded by towering cliffs.

Coron, situated further to the north, is renowned for its underwater wonders. Divers flock to Coron to explore the famous WWII Japanese shipwrecks, which have become vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkelers can also enjoy the pristine coral gardens and swim alongside colorful fish in the clear, inviting waters.

Away from the more popular destinations, Palawan also offers tranquil hideaways like Port Barton and Taytay. These lesser-known spots provide a quieter and more intimate experience, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature without the crowds. Port Barton, with its palm-fringed beaches and relaxed atmosphere, is perfect for lazy beach days and exploring nearby waterfalls. Taytay, a historic town, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Palawan, with its well-preserved Spanish-era structures and a charming beachfront promenade.

Related Read: Panglao Island – Beautiful Paradise-Like Beaches

While winter winds whistle through the northern hemisphere, Palawan’s tropical climate remains a welcoming embrace for those seeking an escape from the cold. As the sun shines brightly, you can revel in the natural wonders of Palawan, from exploring its underground river, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to snorkeling in the Siete Pecados Marine Park. Winter jackets and scarves are replaced with swimsuits and sarongs, giving you the freedom to soak up the sun and enjoy the serenity of this tropical haven. With the dry season coinciding with winter, you can expect clear skies and calm seas, making it an ideal time to explore Palawan’s breathtaking landscapes.

The Best Tours Around Palawan

3. Koh Lipe, Thailand: The Maldives of Southeast Asia

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe is a small Thai island that is often compared to the Maldives for its breathtaking beauty. With its powdery white sands, clear emerald waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Koh Lipe is a true paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. The island has a laid-back, bohemian vibe, with colorful beach bars and charming beachfront bungalows.

Koh Lipe’s main beach, Pattaya Beach, offers a vibrant atmosphere with beachfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and tropical cocktails. For a more secluded experience, head to Sunrise Beach or Sunset Beach, where you can find your own piece of paradise. The underwater world of Koh Lipe is a haven for marine enthusiasts, with Hin Ngam Bay and Koh Kra providing excellent snorkeling spots.

In addition to its stunning beaches, Koh Lipe offers opportunities for island hopping, where you can explore nearby islands such as Koh Adang and Koh Rawi. These islands offer pristine nature, hiking trails, and stunning viewpoints that provide panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.

Elsewhere, the winter months may be chilly and gray but Koh Lipe offers a tropical sanctuary where you can revel in the warmth of the sun. Ditch the winter blues as you plunge into the crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant marine life beneath. Koh Lipe’s warm, dry season during the winter months ensures that you’ll have the perfect beach weather to unwind, sip on a refreshing cocktail, and revel in the island’s serenity.

The Best Tours in Thailand

4. Havelock Island, India: A Slice of Paradise

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Havelock Island is a hidden gem that forms part of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. With its palm-fringed beaches, pristine coral reefs, and lush tropical forests, Havelock Island offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you want to snorkel alongside colorful fish, go trekking in the jungle, or simply soak up the sun on the beach, Havelock Island has something for everyone which makes it a wonderful place to go in December for vacation.

Radhanagar Beach, often hailed as one of the best beaches in Asia, greets visitors with its turquoise waters and soft, white sand. This slice of paradise is perfect for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or simply admiring the breathtaking sunsets. For those seeking adventure, Elephant Beach offers thrilling snorkeling opportunities, where you can swim amongst vibrant coral reefs and encounter a plethora of marine life.

Away from the beaches, you can explore the lush forests of Havelock Island. Trekking to places like the Elephant Beach or Mount Harriet offers a chance to discover the island’s rich biodiversity, spot exotic bird species, and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.

Winter is the perfect time to visit Havelock Island, as the monsoon season comes to an end, leaving behind clear skies and calm waters. While the cold winds blow elsewhere, you can indulge in a tropical escape on Havelock Island. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, savoring freshly caught seafood, or immersing yourself in the island’s vibrant culture, Havelock Island offers a respite from the winter chill and a chance to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

The Best Tours in Havelock Island

Pack Your Sunscreen and Go

Winter doesn’t have to be a season of hibernation and frosty mornings. By venturing off the well-trodden path and exploring Asia’s hidden beach paradises, you can find solace, rejuvenation, and adventure. Koh Rong Samloem, Palawan, Koh Lipe, and Havelock Island beckon with their unspoiled beauty, warm hospitality, and a chance to escape the winter blues.

These destinations offer the perfect respite from the cold weather, allowing you to swap winter jackets for swimsuits and embrace the warm sun on your skin. Whether you seek secluded beaches, underwater marvels, or lush jungles to explore, these hidden gems deliver in abundance.

Embrace the tranquility of Koh Rong Samloem, be awestruck by the natural wonders of Palawan, discover the Maldives-like beauty of Koh Lipe, and immerse yourself in the tropical paradise of Havelock Island. These off-the-beaten-path destinations invite you to create lasting memories and experience a winter like no other.

So, if you’re asking where to go in December for a vacation that offers tranquility, natural beauty, and a break from the crowds, look no further than these hidden beach paradises in Asia. Leave behind the winter chill, pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, and embark on a journey to discover the secret gems of Koh Rong Samloem, Palawan, Koh Lipe, and Havelock Island. Your winter escape awaits!

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