Sick of the cold and rain? Our pick of sun-drenched destinations will give you a much needed dose of Vitamin D and sea.
The best winter sun destinations this March
- Algarve, Portugal
- Lanzarote, Spain
- Malaga, Spain
- New Orleans, USA
- The Maldives
- Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- Goa, India
Algarve, Portugal
The maximum temperatures in March average out at a balmy 19°C on Portugal‘s southernmost coast. This makes Spring on the Algarve feel more like summer when compared to the frigid temperatures of Ireland.
When it comes to winter sun in March, you can also expect plenty of it in the Algarve. There’s on average more than seven hours of sunshine per day. This is more than most parts of north-western Europe experience during the summer months.
This weather is perfect for sunbathing, strolling and also stuffing your face with delicious food al fresco. Speaking of which, if you are cheese lover, book your winter sun getaway during the Festival of Hot Bread and Fresh Cheese (Feira do Pão Quente e Queijo Fresco). This cheese-fest takes place in Vaqueiros- Alcoutim. The festival has a fun and friendly atmosphere which makes it great for children too.
Plan your beach days: beautiful beaches to visit near Faro city in the Algarve.
Lanzarote, Spain
For warm places in March that don’t involve a long haul flight, the Canary Islands are a perennial favourite. In March, the temperatures in Lanzarote top out at around 19°C with 10 hours of sunshine a day. Plenty of time for you to work on your tan or explore the wonderful villages situated outside of the main resorts.
March is also one of the best months to visit the Timanfaya National Park. This park is made up of hundreds of volcanoes and mini geysers but it has hardly any natural shade. Therefore, it can be too hot to explore in the summer months, but ideal in the milder Spring weather.
Start planning your holiday now with our list of the top things to do in Lanzarote.
Malaga, Spain
Winter sun holiday destinations don’t have to involve a long fight. One of the nearest places to Ireland for some winter sun in March is Malaga in southern Spain. With direct flights from Ireland, you can be basking in 20°C temperatures within 3 hours of take-off.
Malaga has an abundance of sunshine in March, which gives you plenty of time to explore the city and take in the sights. Castles, citadels, museums, Arabic baths and, of course, sandy beaches are just some of the things to keep you occupied. Best of all, you’ll beat the stifling heat of summer and also the crowds.
Need some more inspiration? Here are the 10 best things to do in Malaga: a local’s guide.
New Orleans, USA
One of the best sun holiday destinations in March is New Orleans. Not only is the weather warm but Mardi Gras is in full swing. With highs of around 19°C, you’ll be dancing down Bourbon Street in your summer clothes. So leave the hats and scarfs back in cold Ireland and pack your dancing shoes.
The spectacular celebrations get underway from the end of February and continue into the first week of March. This is peak season for tourists so make sure you book your flights and accommodation well in advance. The crowds are worth it, though, as not only will you get some much-needed winter sun in March, you’ll also experience one of the best parties in the world.
The Maldives
Paradise awaits you on the tropical islands that make up the Maldives. If you are looking for warm places in March, The Maldives is one of the hottest. The average daily temperature this time of year is 29°C and nighttime lows rarely dip below 27°C.
Winter sun in March is abundant in the Maldives with nine hours of daily sunshine and relatively little rain. No wonder it is such a popular destination this time of year.
If you are in The Maldives for Commonwealth Day (11th March), then you’ll be able to join in the celebrations. There will be colourful parades, traditional music and dancing and plenty of activities throughout the day too.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is situated on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean. It is known for its crystal clear waves that lap its 32km of coastline. It is a popular spot for zip-lining, windsurfing, kayaking and sailing too. But if all of those sound a bit too energetic, it is also famous for its luxurious all-inclusive resorts where relaxing is the most popular sport.
March is an excellent time to visit Punta Cana as it is one of the driest months of the year and temperatures can climb to highs of 30°C. Not only that, but the sea is a pleasant 26°C, which is more than warm enough to enjoy all sorts of water activities.
Travel inspiration: 10 best things to do in the Dominican Republic.
Goa, India
If you want guaranteed winter sun in March, then you should add Goa to your destination list. The mercury soars here during the daytime to an average of 32°C with virtually no rainfall.
Goa is a heady mix of sun, sea, sand and spirituality with plenty of history and culture too. Because of this, it is a hugely popular spot with tourists. There is such of variety of things to do too. You can party all day and night and then chill out in a yoga retreat. You can spend your cash in casinos and at then save money by shopping at the flea markets. Goa caters for all types of holidaymakers, which makes it one of the best winter sun holiday destinations for this March.
Read more: When is the best time to visit India
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