An endlessly popular month for a holiday, December conjures up visions of snow-clad mountains and roaring fires for many travellers. But what if you're seeking sunshine? Our Gurus have put together a terrific list of ideas for those who would prefer to soak up sunshine, verdant jungles and warm seas solo, as a couple or with friends and family in December. Mexico's marvellous Riviera Maya and the unspoilt coastline of Panama are fabulous for adventurers, surfers and keen yogis. If it's an island escape that you're after, look to the boutique hotels of Mauritius, or the far-flung retreats of the Andaman Islands. For a lively Christmas in the sunshine? The Florida Keys promise a festive season to remember. 

Panama

Still far less crowded than much of Central America, Panama is an enchanting destination for nature lovers as well as seekers of seclusion. The climate is at its best from late November through to early April, when the temperatures rise until the onset of the next monsoon. December is particularly lovely, with afternoon showers leading to cool, fresh evenings — ideal for sundowners with your toes in the sand, or on a trendy rooftop in Panama City. Lush rainforests are home to intriguing wildlife, surf and yoga opportunities abound, and the country’s artwork, cuisine and history reflect a fascinating fusion of cultural influences. If you haven’t already been to Panama, it should go right to the top of your Christmas list!

• The Resort at Isla Palenque offers an untouched tropical island experience in the Gulf of Chiriqui, towards Costa Rica. Thatched bungalows sit between towering palm trees, rustic exteriors belying beautifully appointed interiors. The hiking, snorkelling and diving are exceptional — as is the fresh fare in the restaurant. An off-the-beaten-track favourite. 
• Las Clementinas, a chic little hotel in Panama City, is the ideal base from which to explore the UNESCO-listed old town. Vintage furnishings and colourful modern artwork sit under high ceilings in inviting guest rooms, plus there's a buzzy rooftop terrace and a great bistro. 
• El Otro Lado Private Retreat, tucked away in Portobelo National Park, is the ultimate hideaway for groups of friends or families. Bookable solely on an exclusive basis, this characterful spot can host up to 20 adults — ideal for a celebration! Life centres around the swimming pool, bar and Caribbean-inspired eatery, and you're within easy reach of white sands, colonial-era Portobelo, and the rainforest. 
• Sansara Resort, on the other hand, is a 13-room wellness retreat on Panama’s spectacular Azuero Peninsula. The thatched yoga shala, rejuvenating massages and nourishing food aim to restore, and the Pacific Ocean views from earthy-toned bedrooms are dazzling. Surfers can ride epic waves at Cambutal, either solo or with expert instructors on hand. 

The Andaman Islands

The Andaman Islands remain a little-visited gem in the Bay of Bengal. Many of the archipelago's 200 islands are officially part of India, but retain their own distinctive — and fascinating — history and culture. The retreat of the northeastern monsoon makes December a particularly special time to discover the region, with its deep blue skies, verdant jungles and calm emerald seas. Keen divers and snorkellers will be rewarded with particularly clear underwater visibility and active marine life at this time of year. Larger hotels host Christmas celebrations, but the Andaman Islands also offer a rare chance to get away from it all, and to simply soak up the wonders of the natural world. 

• Jalakara is a stunning seven-bedroom boutique hideaway on beautiful Havelock Island. Set amidst lush jungle, the hotel mixes cool, contemporary style with classic Indian architecture and Andaman Island crafts. Think patterned robes and bedspreads, big outdoor showers, roof terraces for laid-back lounging, and a superb seafood restaurant.  Fabulous. 
• Barefoot at Havelock is the ultimate island haven for fans of off-the-beaten-track eco escapes. The 19 wooden cottages feature shaded balconies, polished four-posters and views towards the jungle or the mile-long stretch of private beach. An Ayurvedic spa, yoga pavilion and friendly eatery complete the picture. Some of the Andaman Islands' best diving is right on your doorstep.  
• Taj Exotica Andaman Islands offers the very first luxury resort in the Andaman Islands, with 72 lavish villas, a floating spa and sensational dining. Honeymooners will adore the sense of private luxury, whilst families can gather in the games room after days of snorkelling and diving. Brilliant.  

Mauritius

© Newmark Hotels

Mauritius is wonderful in December: it's the start of the island's summer season, so the Indian Ocean is warm and welcoming, the skies bright blue, and the evenings balmy. The island has long been famed for its top-notch seaside resorts, and we've highlighted one family-friendly favourite in this list. We've also included two beautiful boutique hotels and a very special farm stay in the hills; ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience. You'll find that many of the best places to stay in Mauritius fill up fast at this time of year, with families travelling for Christmas and honeymooners eager to kickstart the new year in style — so book your room well in advance! 

• La Maison d'Eté is a gorgeous boutique bolthole on the island's east coast. Expect 17 attractive guest rooms done in dusky pinks and soft green tones, with woven crafts and black-and-white photography. There are two swimming pools, two eateries, a bar with cocktails mixed to your tastes, and a lovely stretch of beach for refreshing dips. Very romantic.
• La Vieille Cheminée has become a firm favourite with families and outdoorsy types. An organic farm in the hills of Chamarel, this spot is dotted with rustic lodges — each inspired by traditional Creole design — boasting covered terraces with cosy fireplaces, simple kitchenettes and garden views. There are horses to ride, ducks and chickens for little ones to feed, hiking trails and a hilltop plunge pool. Wonderfully laid-back.
• Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort sits in Bel Ombre, on Mauritius' wild southwestern coast. White-on-white guest rooms with draped four-posters and sea views feel appealingly elegant. There's cracking cuisine at the multiple restaurants, and a fun beach club with kayaking, kite surfing and paddle boarding for the whole family. There's a golf course, too, and the nearby World of Seashells Museum is well worth a visit.
• 20° Sud will delight honeymooners with its 28 thatched bedrooms and six suites, some of which have their own plunge pools. Think four-poster beds, indulgent bathrooms and views over lovely Grand Baie, in the north of the island. A small private beach, gourmet restaurant and classic boat for candlelit dinners on the bay complete the picture. 

Riviera Maya

A striking stretch of coastline on Mexico's expansive Yucatán Peninsula, Riviera Maya has welcomed sun-seekers, romantics and wellness enthusiasts for decades. The buzzy beach hubs of Tulum — also famed for its Mayan ruins — and Playa del Carmen still have a reputation for late-night parties and top-notch music, but step a little further afield, and you'll also find gorgeous retreats, design-led boutique hotels, fabulous cuisine and a real sense of tranquility. December visitors can expect dazzling sunshine and calm waters for cooling swims — ideal for a rejuvenating Mexican escape. 

• Chablé Maroma is a chic wellness retreat close to Playa del Carmen. The 70 rooms and suites are cool and contemporary, with pale cream and blue linens, polished wood and full-length windows — some revealing private plunge pools and jungle vistas. Inspired by Mayan tradition, the holistic spa is the highlight of the resort. 
• Villa Las Estrellas offers just 14 thatched cabins with exposed wooden beams, colourful woven textiles and draped four-posters. Set right on Tulum's white sands, this is a brilliant choice for relaxed romantics dreaming of tranquility. Borrow bicycles to explore, and return for rejuvenating massages. Charming.
• Mahekal Beach Resort has a playful feel, with bright textiles in thatched cabanas set under swaying palm trees. Kick back in your hammock, splash around in one of four swimming pools, or hone your water sports skills. Great for families as well as couples, this Playa del Carmen resort is also close to great bars for evenings out. 
• Jashita is another seaside spot, with indulgent suites facing crystal-clear waters on a quiet stretch of coast near Tulum. White-on-white interiors have a grown-up feel; the honeymoon suites are a real treat. Savour superb Italian-Mexican fusion fare after days of diving, snorkelling and swimming. Boutique bliss.

The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys fuse festive spirit with warm seas and sunshine, perfect for a December holiday to remember! Located in the very south of the United States, this string of small islands has gained well-deserved acclaim for its luxury hotels and resorts — some of which are appealingly family-friendly. Come Christmas, you'll find Key West's historic seaport studded with lights, with many of the marina's boats brightly decorated for the annual Lighted Boat Parade. Key Largo's French Reef, on the other hand, is home to the aptly-named Christmas Tree Cave; a diving and snorkelling site known for its colourful Christmas tree worms. The resorts host lively celebrations, too, making this a sure-fire hit with families and groups of friends eager to mark Christmas even whilst travelling. 

• Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a Key West classic. Recently refreshed rooms have pale wooden furnishings, white linens with striped charcoal accent cushions, and pretty ocean-facing verandas. Stroll between palm trees to the sea for swims and water sports, lounge in a shaded hammock, or savour fabulous food at the restaurant. The three-bedroom villas are ideal for families or groups. 
• Playa Largo Resort & Spa is an expansive Autograph resort in buzzy Key Largo. The 178 rooms and suites are decorated in nautical tones, and many boast sea views. A blissful spa, multiple dining options and water sports galore — snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, fishing and more — will delight guests of all ages.
• Cheeca Lodge promises a gorgeous seaside holiday on Islamorada. The 27 acres of leafy coastal grounds include six tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, a soothing spa, and a plethora of water sports ranging from sailing to kayaking. The environmental programme for kids is wonderful. Chic and luxurious.
• Ocean's Edge Hotel & Marina, in trendy Key West, has crisp dark blue and white interiors. Sleek and elegant, the resort offers six swimming pools, an array of water sports, and views towards the luxury marina. A fantastic choice for couples, friends and families. Kayaking around the nearby sandbars is not to be missed. 
• Tranquility Bay Resort has long been a family favourite. A collection of comfortable two- or three-bedroom beach houses in Marathon, the villas share three pools, plus water sports access. Kitchens are well-equipped, but the resort also has a great restaurant. 

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include Where's Hot in November.
• Alternatively, check out our list of 20 Top Florida Resorts.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.