Top 10 warm places to visit in February for a sunny escape

Tired of winter’s cold? February doesn’t have to mean gray skies and frigid temperatures. Sandy beaches, warm sunny breezes, and balmy sunny days aren’t a fantasy, there are quite a few excellent destinations where you can bid winter’s chill goodbye.

From sunnier locations in Europe to tropical paradises farther afield, February is a great time to travel. There are fewer people, better prices, and ideal conditions to explore outdoors. Whether you like to relax on a beach, explore vibrant cities, or drive in the sun, here is our compilation of the best destinations to travel to in February.

Canary Islands, Spain

📍 Latitude: 28.2916° N | Longitude: -16.6291° W
🌡 Average temperature: 20-24°C (68-75°F)

Seeking warmth without going too far? The Canary Islands are a perfect winter escape. Just a short flight from the European mainland, the islands off the coast of Africa offer eternal sunshine, mild temperatures, and stunning landscapes.

Each island has its character. Tenerife is perfect for a mix of beaches, volcanic scenery, and old towns. Gran Canaria has golden dunes, vibrant resorts, and secluded mountain villages. For nature lovers, Lanzarote’s dramatic volcanic landscape is a must, and Fuerteventura is a paradise for surfers and beachcombers.

With short flights from the principal European cities and excellent road trip possibilities, renting a car with Europcar enables you to go at your speed. Drive along the shores, discover secluded beaches, and chase the most beautiful sunsets across the islands.

Madeira, Portugal

📍 Latitude: 32.7607° N | Longitude: -16.9595° W
🌡 Average temperature: 18-22°C (64-72°F)

Welcome to the “Island of Eternal Spring.” Madeira, a Portuguese island in the Atlantic, is a nature lover’s and hiker’s paradise and a haven for anyone who enjoys a relaxed island lifestyle. February weather is beautifully mild, with plenty of sunshine and fresh sea air.

Madeira is famous for its steep cliffs, emerald forests, and colorful botanical gardens. The best way to experience the island may be to walk along the Levadas, old irrigation canals that are now picturesque walking trails. The capital, Funchal, boasts historic streets, fresh seafood, and ocean views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

For adventure seekers, a visit to Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, is unforgettable. And if you are a whale and dolphin lover, February is the best time to spot these beautiful creatures in their natural environment. A rental car is the perfect vehicle to tour the island, from the scenic coastline to the village nestled on the mountains.

Marrakech, Morocco

📍 Latitude: 31.6295° N | Longitude: -7.9811° W
🌡 Average temperature: 22-26°C (72-79°F)

Searching for a place that has an attractive climate alongside rich cultural energy? Marrakech has some attractive sights full of colorful places, foods, and some lively activities to try. February is the best time to visit to avoid the crowds as the temperature range is also comparatively nice.

Starting from Medina, you can go to spice markets and some ancient palaces turned into shops known as souks. Food trucks alongside street performers come out in the evenings which is known as the Jemaa el-Fna square, people from all walks of life join together to relish their day over delicious Moroccan food. If you are looking for some peace, relax in Majorelle Garden. It is a spectacular garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.

With a short drive, you can explore the Mediterranean style Agafay Desert. It is known for its breathtaking views and traditional villages. If you want to experience even more, you can spend the night in a lavish tent and try a ride on a camelback. Rent a car and check out hidden treasures around Morocco.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

📍 Latitude: 25.2769° N | Longitude: 55.2962° E
🌡 Average temperature: 24-28°C (75-82°F)

For a mix of sunshine, luxury, beaches, and adventure, Dubai is the place to be. Its warmly pleasant February offers outdoor activities along with awe-inspiring sightseeing opportunities. 

A good starting step would be taking a tour of the majestic Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world, to appreciate its unparalleled views. Afterwards, enjoy beachside relaxing walks at Jumeirah Beach which has the breathtaking view of the Burj Al Arab. Dubai mall has it all from lavish brands to an indoor ice rink, so if you ever have the desire to skate and shop under one roof, this is the place to go. 

If you want a little more thrill, try dune bashing, camel rides, or catching a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars in the desert. Dubai also has two of the world’s best waterparks: IMG Worlds of Adventure and Dubai’s Aquaventure Waterpark, both boasting astonishingly thrilling rides. 

A good option to explore so much is to get a rental car which is great for roadtrippers and makes the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque the perfect stop, as it is located in Abu Dhabi. For those who enjoy the calmer side of things, the peaceful desert beyond the dazzling city lights is also a great spot to explore.

Cape Verde

📍 Latitude: 16.5388° N | Longitude: -23.0418° W
🌡 Average temperature: 23-27°C (73-81°F)

From sandy beaches and rich culture to capes teeming with diverse wildlife, Cape Verde island is perfect for a winter getaway. Located off the west coast of Africa, this idyllic island is renowned for its warm climate, turquoise water, and year-round indolence.

A true paradise for beach enthusiasts, Sal has everything ranging from stunning white sand beaches to pristine calm waters. This island also happens to be a top kitesurfing destination because of the constant trade winds. Santo Antao is the place to go if you enjoy hiking and dramatic scenery, with rolling green hills and impenetrable mountain ranges providing the perfect backdrop.

Aside from breathtaking scenic beauty, Cape Verde is a cultural gem, with deep rooted African and South American influences. Cape Verde has a rich mixture of Portuguese, African and Brazilian culture which is essential in their music, food and festivities. Enjoy the local dish cachupa and let the morna music of these islands sweep you off your feet.

Tenerife, Spain

📍 Latitude: 28.2916° N | Longitude: -16.6291° W
🌡 Average temperature: 20-25°C (68-77°F)

Tenerife which is a part of Spain’s Canary Islands has outdoor activities, a stunning landscape and enjoys sunshine throughout the year

If you are in love with nature, then Mount Teide National Park will be a great choice for you. Ride a cable car to the highest peak in Spain; the views from the top are stunning. If you enjoy the beach then you can also visit the golden sand oasis known as Playa de las Teresitas, or the black volcanic sand unique beach called Playa Jardín.

Masca Valley, the charming mountain villages nearby, and the coastal scenic route, are all part of the Los Gigantes cliffs drive. Tenerife offers all these views which make road trips a fun pastime.

The food scene in the island is something you cannot miss. Make sure to try their seafood and papas arrugadas, potatoes seasoned with mojo sauce. No matter the type of vacation you want whether it be adventurous, relaxing or overly cultural, Tenerife has it all.

Barbados

📍 Latitude: 13.1939° N | Longitude: -59.5432° W
🌡 Average temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F)

If your February escape encompasses the dream of ‘chilling at the beach,’ Barbados will set your daydreams ablaze. Nicknamed ‘Caribbean Pearl,’ December will mark the start of their winter vacation where you can enjoy the warmth, gaze at the sun, feel the breeze, and visit the Caribbean. Barbados is hands down the perfect vacation spot.

If the beach is more your scene, Crane Beach and Carlisle Bay offer picture-perfect settings for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Head over to the legendary wave surfing point at Bathsheba if you are up for some surfing. Apart from the beaches, don’t forget to visit Harrison’s Cave, a breathtaking underground wonder filled with crystal clear pools and gorgeous rock formations.

Barbados is best known for its music, food, and vibrant culture. Savor their flagship dish, flying fish with cou-cou, and wash it down with a pioneering Bajan rum at a beachside cafe. If you ever wondered where you chill while being in the middle of festivities with pampering locals, adventure, and luxurious services, Barbados is your warm, ocean-adjacent winter hiding spot.

Oman

📍 Latitude: 23.5880° N | Longitude: 58.3829° E
🌡 Average temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)

Oman is a spectacular hidden destination for a winter sun getaway. Its golden deserts, rugged mountains, and pristine beaches make it an exceptionally picturesque spot in the Middle East. Oman has warm weather in February making it perfect for exploration.

Start off in Muscat, which is the old capital bosom of Oman,filled with terracotta castles, palaces, and golden souks. Here, you can check out Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which happens to be one of the world’s largest mosques.

A road trip to Wadi Shab completes the experience, taking you through an oasis with turquoise pools surrounded by rocky cliffs. In addition, the Sharqiya Sands desert offers peaceful nights at luxury desert camps, along with sandboarding and camel rides.

Oman’s coast is no lesser treat. At Ras al Jinz , view colossal sea turtles nesting which is nothing short of mind blowing. The Daymaniyat Islands are also nearby which are known as one of the best spots for snorkelling. With all the splondas, Oman is best explored on the go, and using a rental car from Europcar enables you to travel freely and take in the landscapes at your own pace.

Phuket, Thailand

📍 Latitude: 7.8804° N | Longitude: 98.3923° E
🌡 Average temperature: 26-33°C (79-91°F)

Thailand is a wonderful place to visit, though Phuket is particularly spectacular in February because of the almost endless golden sunshine, warm waters, and willing activities from dawn until dusk. The island goes beyond diving into Thai culture and offers opportunities for jungle explorations, beach relaxation or simply a good time at the beach, which caters to every tourist’s need.

As for beaches, Kata and Karon Beach boast soft yellow sand and clear water. If you’re in a more adventurous mood, you could check out Phang Nga Bay, where emerald waters surround towering limestone cliffs, or take a boat to the Phi Phi Islands.

Phuket is known for more than its sparkling coastline, colorful night markets, street food, temple and the monumental Big Buddha. Street food lovers will also appreciate Old Phuket Town and Patong Beach. Touring triumphs recommended by Europcar further enhance Phuket’s charm as one has full freedom of traveling to islands with undiscovered reefs and marine life, escaping the capricious crowded tourist spots.

The Maldives

📍 Latitude: 3.2028° N | Longitude: 73.2207° E
🌡 Average temperature: 27-31°C (81-88°F)

The Maldives has to be my first pick when it comes to luxurious getaways. It is an astounding experience at this time of year with warm weather, low rainfall, and calm, clear, turquoise waters.

The Maldives is ideal for underwater activities like snorkeling and diving. Sea turtles, manta rays, and coral reefs filled with brilliant colors are all easily accessible. If you would rather keep your head above water, leisurely activities like relaxing in an overwater villa, sunset cruises, or paddleboarding are also offered.

When in The Maldives, make sure to take advantage of exclusive resorts, private beaches, as well as unmatched service. Whether it’s a spa treatment overlooking the ocean or dining at an underwater restaurant while relishing the stunning view of the sea, this tropical island is perfect for skipping the hustle and bustle of life and enjoying an exquisite cocktail while basking on a sandy beach.