Where is hot in November? Our editors' top destinations for a sunny getaway
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When considering where is hot in November, it’s easy to get lost in a confusing flurry of exotic destinations across the southern hemisphere, bouncing between tropical islands and bustling metropolises that could offer the dose of vitamin D we crave. For those of us starting to feel the chill in Europe and eager to keep the winter coats vacuum-packed for a bit longer, indeed, heading south is often a safe bet. Many of Thailand’s islands are basking in the sun, where beach clubs and seaside restaurants on infinite stretches of talcum-powder sand take on a buzzy atmosphere. There’s Cape Town, in South Africa, where it’s possible to flit between cultural attractions, rolling vineyards and incredible beaches within the space of a few hours, or the Dominican Republic, ideal for dreamy fly-and-flops that’ll have buddies back home trembling with envy. However, there are a handful of toasty hideouts closer to home, if you know where to look. Our advice? Opt for a city break and approach your destination with optimism, manifesting the clouds disperse and temperatures are perky enough to lie down a towel on a nearby sunlounger. Things are most certain in Marrakech, still on the short-haul side, but Malta, Crete, Lanzarote and Cyprus can often be deliciously toasty. Here, we bring you our favourite destinations that are warm in November, from splash-the-cash honeymoon destinations to surprisingly close spots you could easily cram into a long weekend.
Kris Hoobaer1. Marrakech
Average high November temperature: 23°C
Morocco is the short-haul sunseeker’s playground, with balmy days that dip into nippier nights throughout the winter months. As much of Europe dusts off their bulkier winter coats, Moroccans smugly stick to their rooftop vantage points, looking over the hustle and bustle of the city while soaking up the rays. The centre of the city, around the heart of the historic medina, can scream tourist chaos at times, but there are plenty of spots for respite away from the hotel plunge pool. The bold and bright Jardin Majorelle, a resplendent botanical garden spanning one hectare, is one such hideaway, as are the desert camps and the peaks of the Atlas Mountains beyond the cityscape.
Where to stay: Izza Marrakech is the go-to bolthole for creative spirits, with fourteen bedrooms and a panoramic rooftop set across three courtyards. Alternatively, turn a balmy city break into a Moroccan adventure with Inclusive Morocco, the country’s first LGBTQ+ founded and led luxury travel company, which curated itineraries incorporating authentic local experiences and stays in the glitziest hotels.
Getty Images2. Cape Town, South Africa
Average high November temperature: 25°C
November marks the start of South Africa’s summer, offering perfect temperatures for sightseeing and vineyard-hopping without breaking too much of a sweat – but topping up the vitamin D levels as the mercury drops in the northern hemisphere. Towards the end of the month, as temperatures occasionally hit the 30s during the afternoon, seek refuge beside the water. Local favourites include Clifton Beaches, four coves just ten minutes from the city centre, and the family-friendly Muizenberg. Inland, it’s an oenophile’s paradise. Babylonstoren Wine Estate sits atop many a bucket list for good reason – roam the lush gardens before rosé-swirling in the sleek winery.
Where to stay: Cape Grace holds prime real estate on the Cape Town Waterfront, and it’s all the more appealing since reopening in early 2024 following an extensive renovation and modernisation. If exceptional food and wine are on the agenda, Babylonstoren’s grounds house some of the prettiest hotel rooms and cottages in all the land.
Getty Images3. Malta
Average high November temperature: 21°C
Malta is considered the balmiest of Europe’s islands, with temperatures staying in the 20s throughout November’s sunny afternoons. While visits between June and September are often characterised by lazy beach days, the seven hours of sunshine that grace the island that sits between Sicily, Libya and Tunisia are best used for attraction-hopping through storied streets. History buffs should feel right at home thanks to the countless architectural styles and the tales they tell across the island. Proceed chronologically, starting with the original fortresses created by the Knights of Malta and concluding at MICAS – Malta International Contemporary Arts Space.
Where to stay: Iniala Harbour House is a no-brainer for foodies thanks to its two-Michelin-starred restaurant, ION Harbour by Simon Rogan. It’s the perfect launchpad for exploring the charming streets of Valetta, facing the majestic Grand Harbour.
Getty Images4. Crete, Greece
Average high November temperature: 20℃
One of the southernmost Greek islands, Crete enjoys a warm climate well into winter. And with peak-season crowds all firmly stuck in term-time, this is an excellent chance to explore an underrated charmer in all-too-rare repose. Admittedly, Crete’s not a secret, but you needn’t travel far from the well-worn track to find unspoiled villages with locals happy to invite you to the party (an evening in a taverna always feels like one). By day, hike the monumental Samaria Gorge, where soaring cliffs shade a rugged, chamomile-scented trail. Or find Elafonisi, the pristine pink beach.
Where to stay: Daios Cove, an olive-tree-covered resort to the island’s east, is a popular spot for good reason. Bag a private plunge pool suite and you’ll be inclined to wander no further than in and out of your chic seafront sanctuary – yet wander you must, at least between the exceptional restaurants and sprawling beach. Acro Wellness Suites, on the northern coast, is best for complete adults-only R&R, with dome-roofed caves dotted along a thyme-scented hillside.
Getty Images5. Bangkok, Thailand
Average high November temperature: 33℃
A quick Google search for the best time to visit Bangkok turns up a clear answer; late November through to early December is ideal. The city has seen the back of monsoon season, and temperatures are comfortably toasty without being scorching. Explore the Thai capital's epic food scene, from hole-in-the-wall street food to Michelin-starred fine-dining such as 80/20 or southern Thai hotspot Sorn. Spend days exploring flower markets such as Pak Klong Talad or the weekend-only Chatuchak market. Top tip: if you're planning to combine a visit to Bangkok with some Thai island hopping, time your holiday at the end of the month – December to March is the best time for a slice of island living here.
Where to stay: Hotels don’t come much glitzier or grander than Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. It houses Thailand’s first hotel spa, so expect to hop on the plane home with a spring in your step, feeling brand-new thanks to more than three decades of expertise. For a younger, buzzier crowd, check into The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, situated within a skyscraper that towers 314 metres above the city’s business district.
Getty Images6. Singapore
Average high November temperature: 31°C
This tropical island is one of our favourite places to visit when the temperature starts dropping at home. Singapore is always humming with activity; the country is home to some of the world's top hotels (including the recently opened Grand Hyatt and Raffles), has plenty of epic places to feast on local delicacies, and also happens to be one of Asia's greenest cities. It's a glamorous escape where the November temperature sits comfortably around 30°C – the perfect spot for some pre-winter sunshine.
Where to stay: The Singapore Edition is the definition of contemporary cool. Book for a slick, sophisticated stay in the middle of Singapore's buzzy shopping and restaurant neighbourhood. Recover from shopping sprees at the rooftop pool, and don't forget to visit the hotel restaurant Fysh, where dishes are served on decadent marble tables. For more inspiration, see our guide to the best hotels in Singapore.
Getty Images7. Madeira
Average high November temperature: 21°C
This quiet archipelago sits just off the north coast of Africa – a dreamy spot to catch the last of Europe's warmer weather before the cold kicks in. In November, Madeira is relatively warm (with rainy spells), but this renders it the perfect time for exploring the islands. Spend days going on long hikes across the verdant hills and rocky landscapes, or sipping sweet wine with epic cliffside vistas.
Where to stay: Reid’s Palace in Funchal is the place to be for a stay of pure elegance. The hotel is surrounded by 10 acres of tropical gardens, and inside, guests will find interiors oozing old-world glamour. There's a whimsical feel to the Palace, with soft pinks, yellow and pastel tones throughout, and the heated outdoor swimming pool is where to spend evenings while the sun goes down.
Getty Images8. Dominican Republic
Average high November temperature: 31°C
This Caribbean island is a surefire way to soak up some serious pre-winter Vitamin D. Perfectly pink, sandy shores abound here, with little fishing villages, surf towns, and a vibrant UNESCO World Heritage city to boot. Plus, the island is home to a seriously impressive selection of all-inclusive resorts, so once you arrive, you don't need to worry about anything but nabbing the best sun lounger. It's the ultimate romantic escape before the festive madness ensues, or a solo travel break if you're in need of some sunny peace and quiet.
Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara is a sprawling paradise on the island. Located in Cap Cana, think infinity pool, swim-up bars, a whole host of restaurants to choose from, and epic horizon views. There's also a water park for those travelling with kids and looking to burn off some energy.
Getty Images9. Lanzarote
Average high November temperature: 23°
Dubbed the ‘islands of eternal spring’, the Canaries offer a year-round subtropical climate, making them all great options for November. However, as the closest to the Sahara Desert, Lanzarote is the place to find the hottest, driest weather in this archipelago. Known for its volcanoes, Lanzarote’s red rocky scenery is the backdrop to the golden sand and turquoise waters of its beaches, forming a natural landscape like no other. The season’s milder temperatures combined with Lanzarote’s minimal rainfall make November the ideal time to explore all the offerings of this colourful island.
Where to stay: As the first hotel to be built in Lanzarote, Hotel Fariones is experienced in offering idyllic escapes, immersing guests in its secluded beachfront resort lined with palm trees. For big family gatherings, there are also several tranquil villas in Lanzarote to choose from. Our favourite is Villa Alcade, a smart country house which sleeps up to sixteen.
Getty Images10. Seville, Spain
Average high November temperature: 20℃
An easy city destination rich in sunshine, shady courtyards and napkin-strewn tapas bars, Sevirlle has the ability to transport visitors to an instant summer. For old-world kicks, explore the Alcázar, the opulent Mudéjar palace, or flag down a horse-drawn carriage outside the Gothic cathedral. But carve out time, too, for the city’s flipside: to be uncovered at Un Gato en Bicicleta, an unapologetically cool bookshop/café/ceramics studio; or at Delimbo, a gallery that’s home to graffiti and graphic design. Come nightfall, the pavements are busy with people picking at small plates and sipping sherry outdoors. November? Could’ve fooled us.
Where to stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII, the benchmark for grand stays in Seville since 1929 – a neo-Moorish mansion newly refurbished with modern design and an Art Deco American Bar. For something more contemporary, Plácido y Grata has a pared-back, minimalist aesthetic plus a trendy café, a relaxed drinks bar and – across the street – its restaurant serves fresh, modern Spanish cuisine. See our guide to the best hotels in Seville for more.
Getty Images11. Cyprus
Average high November temperature: 21℃
Cyprus is so far south into the Mediterranean it feels more Middle Eastern than its EU membership might suggest – and the same goes for its climate. And so, with the sun still warming sand and sea at this time of year, it’s tempting to flop onto a Paphos beach and be done with it. But those who let their gaze wander inland, to the Troodos Mountains, will find grand, painted churches; vineyards sown into flinty hillsides; and boutique suites sprawling through honey-hued stone houses – as at Apokryfo, an elegant, Cyprus-meets-Cotswolds set-up in sleepy Lofou village.
Where to stay: Anassa made our list of the best hotels in Europe for 2022. While it's an hour from Paphos airport in Latchi, it's well worth the drive, especially for families – the kids' club is slicker than most London nurseries and the adult-only spaces are effortlessly chic. For couples, we like Amavi, a glossy adult's only hotel where lounges enjoy a direct view of the sea and the beach is just a couple steps away. See our guide to the best Cyprus hotels for more.
Getty Images12. Seychelles
Average high November temperature: 30℃
When we say this is ‘the most beautiful archipelago in the Indian Ocean’, we don’t say it lightly – the Seychelles is desert-island gorgeous. But these islands are not flat, or two-tone – they’re perfection, but they’re wild. Alongside the brilliant white beaches and neon-blue waters, great black-granite outcrops rise against pounding surf, fringed by Coco de Mer palms. The private islands are immaculate Edens sought by oligarchs and royals. North Island: hand-picked for the honeymoon of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge; Six Senses Zil Pasyon, spread over Félicité, a jungly stunner with 30 immense villas, all hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings and deep, ocean-facing tubs. It’s not cheap to get here. But paradise always did come at a cost.
Where to stay: In addition to North Island and Six Senses Zil Pasyon, we also love Four Seasons Resort at Desroches Island, where 40 guest villas are set in big, lawned gardens with private pools, from which secret walkways lead to wide beaches where turtles nest. See the best hotels in the Seychelles for more recommendations.
Getty Images13. Adelaide and South Australia
Average high November temperature: 24℃
Australia rarely seems a particularly harried sort of place, but its SA region is downright horizontal. For this is the land of wide-open cellar doors (Barossa and Clare Valleys, Coonawarra, McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills), Limestone Coast beaches (Glen Point is dazzling) and houseboat cruises meandering along the Murray River. If you need a unique foodie fix, Adelaide has Restaurant Botanic, where Jamie Musgrave showcases artisan producers from across Australia against the background of the 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden.
Where to stay: Barossa Valley has accommodation on-site including cute cottages and cabins.
Getty Images14. Palm Springs, USA
Average high November temperature: 26℃
Without the Coachella crowds, Palm Springs is a laid-back desert stopover and the antithesis of a gloomy British November with its scorching sunshine and abundance of mid-century modernist cool. Take some time, too, to explore bordering dusty desert towns that are being newly transformed by outpriced LA hipsters: Pioneertown saloon Pappy & Harriet’s has hosted impromptu gigs by Paul McCartney and Arctic Monkeys; in Flamingo Heights, those queueing at La Copine wait patiently for spicy melon gazpacho and loaded lavash. Tie on hiking boots and scramble over nearby Joshua Tree’s jumbly boulders – or, better yet, perfect your stroke at the peerlessly on-trend Ace Hotel & Swim Club.
Where to stay: Pioneertown Motel , a pared-back, Wild West single-storey inn that's dotted with cowhide rugs and woven blankets.
Getty Images15. Baja California, Mexico
Average high November temperature: 28℃
Bordering California has seldom done this northern Mexican state many favours, high-schoolers piling into Tijuana for tequila binges being the least of its problems (Mexico’s legal drinking age is 18 to the USA’s 21). But more refined imbibers are now discovering something beyond the bar strip: Valle de Guadeloupe, aka Mexico’s Napa Valley, has lately sharpened its focus on organic and biodynamic bottles. Finca La Carrodilla serves its crisp Chenin Blanc in a pretty rooftop garden; Finca Altozano, one of the valley’s favourite open-air, farm-to-table restaurants, now features funky flourishes such as an Airstream serving tortas. Its sister B&B, Finca La Divina, is a perfect hybrid, with Mexican-colonial architecture and California-cool interior design. Need a beach break? Cabo San Lucas is just a hop, skip and a two-hour flight away.
Where to stay: One&Only Palmilla, where stone floors, intricate fabrics and heavy doors with wrought-iron studs reference Mexico in the smartest possible way. Another option is Paradero Todos Santos, set in front of a palm-tree oasis about 20 minutes from the beach and made up of a series of brutalist-inspired golden-toned structures designed to blend into the sandy natural surrounds. See our pick of the best hotels in Mexico for more.
Getty Images16. Goa, India
Average high November temperature: 34℃
Think Goa and you might conjure an unholy trinity of tie-dye, trance and tokers’ fug. But southern India’s beachy bohemia has always had a split personality, known for all-night raves in the north and chilled sunset vibes in the south. Today, there are more Goas still. Inland, you’ll find the relics of Portuguese rule in cool, white-painted churches and colonial villas turned into boutique retreats, tucked between palms. There are rickety beach bungalows and sizzling street stalls, but also five-star resorts and Champagne by the pool. What the Goas all have in common: an escape from everyday shackles, a go-slow refuge of endless sands and churning surf. For proper privacy, Elsewhere, in upmarket Mandrem, is the family compound of Mumbai-based fashion photographer Denzil Sequeira, offering four brightly painted beach houses hidden among dunes.
Where to stay: Leela, a glamorous escape surrounded by lush gardens and blue lagoons.
Getty Images17. Cambodia
Average high November temperature: 30℃
Cambodia hasn’t traditionally offered a lazy sunny holiday: its regular circuit – marathon temple-hopping in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh’s brutal history – isn’t quite what you’d call relaxing. But the recent foray of top-tier brands into its untapped coastal beauty is forging something harder to find in its neighbour, Thailand: proper, unplugged peace.
Where to stay: Six Senses Krabey Island is a jungly outcrop scattered with pool villas; Alila’s Koh Russey retreat angles the gaze of Khmer-style pavilions over still emerald waters toward uncharted hills. Over on the mainland, coastal Kep’s barefoot resort, Knai Bang Chatt, serves blue swimmer crabs to tables arranged on a jetty over the sea. And the sunsets are glorious: an unpolluted horizon silhouetted with fishing boats, blushing gold-pink.
Getty Images18. Botswana
Average high November temperature: 35℃
Feeling too hot hot hot? Sure, 35℃ is scorching. But Botswana is known for its dry heat: manageable, not muggy. Better yet, the rates for what is increasingly gaining a rep as Africa’s finest safari destination are rather favourable this time of year. Plus, lower visitor numbers help you explore the Okavango Delta in relative isolation, while the game-viewing is exceptional as animals begin birthing their young. Explore the wetland wilderness by dugout canoe and see swimming lions pursue scrambling buffalo; hippos and elephants cooling off in crystal-clear shallows. Of course, luxury camps are not hard to come by. Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge by &Beyond is cool and contemporary: guests stay in pangolin-shaped pods with remote-controlled mosquito nets, and private plunge pools overlook papyrus fringing the lagoons.
Where to stay: These are six of our favourite safari lodges in Botswana
Getty Images19. Barbados
Average high November temperature: 30℃
November is shoulder season in Barbados, which means a holiday to this Caribbean island this month will come at a much lower price tag. Temperatures are still balmy, and rainfall is comparatively low during November (it's worth noting that officially November is still hurricane season, although the chance of storms in November is far lower than the preceding months). Barbados is just 21 miles from top to bottom, but there's a buzz here that you might not expect thanks to its diminutive size. The capital city, Bridgetown, is UNESCO-listed, and you'll find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world along the shores, too.
Where to stay: Family-owned boutique hangout Cobblers Cove is one of the best hotels in Barbados, while Little Good Harbour is a low-key alternative to some of the island's flashier resorts.