12 Underrated Warm Vacation Spots To Skip the Crowds and Soak Up the Sun

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While people flock to warm places like Miami and Cancun, other fantastic warm-weather destinations are worth flying to. From tropical islands to desert cities, these underrated warm vacation spots are worth the ticket.

Blustery weather is approaching in much of the world, and people are already dreaming of somewhere warm. Whether you dream of bathing in coral seas or partying in a desert, some lesser-known places are worth checking out.

From cheaper accommodation to fewer crowds, there are a lot of benefits to getting off the beaten path for your getaway. Below are 12 underrated warm vacation spots to fly to this winter.

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Underrated Warm Vacation Spots Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Ipanema beach

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Underrated Warm Vacation Spots Taiwan Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

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Underrated Warm Vacation Spots Buenos Aires, Argentina

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Underrated Warm Vacation Spots St Croix, US Virgin Islands

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Underrated Warm Vacation Spots Campeche, Mexico Independence Plaza in the Old Town of San Francisco de Campeche

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Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is often compared to cities like Paris or Milan for its architecture, coffee culture, and European feel. However, the city is very much its own special thing.

During the Northern Hemisphere winter, the city enters summer and enjoys warm weather. Vermouth bars pour into the shady streets, people sunbathe in parks, and the entire city embraces the heat.

Spend the day in the hotel pool before hitting the city at night for live tango and jazz bars. If the heat gets too intense, take a train to the Tigre Delta to relax in waterfront cabin gaucho-style.

St Croix, US Virgin Islands

St Croix gets overlooked by the islands of St Thomas and St John to the north. However, this gem of an island is one of the Carribean’s most underrated destinations.

You won’t find high-rise resorts or crowded beaches on the island. However, you will find friendly locals, secluded white sand beaches, palm trees, and plenty of charming highlights.

When you visit, don’t miss biking around Christiansted before visiting landmarks such as Christiansted National Historic Site. Then, drive around the island to find hidden coves, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Rent a kayak to explore offshore reefs and see incredible wildlife.

Campeche, Mexico

Campeche is far away from the all-inclusive resorts, jet skis, and packed beaches of Cancun. However, you’ll find historical places, laid-back vibes, pirate lore, and Mayan cultural heritage.

Start your stay off in the historical center. Tour the old walls and forts that once protected the city from pirates. Then, walk along the boardwalk before trying the city’s amazing seafood.

The next day, visit the historical Fort San Miguel and Fort San José. Just a short bus ride or drive away is the Mayan archeological site of Edzna. Here, you can see pyramids and ancient temples tucked in the deep jungle.

Taiwan

Taiwan is a beautiful island nation off the coast of China and south of Japan. It has beautiful beaches, tropical forests, and a rich history and cultural heritage.

You’ll get to visit magnificent mountain temples surrounded by tea fields and forests. Hike through narrow gorges to small villages near cascading waterfalls.

Take a brief break from the tropical beaches and nature to experience the city of Taipei. This urban paradise is a foodie’s dream, with endless street food and gourmet restaurants. Grab a bubble tea — a Taiwanese invention — and hang out in the parks for the ultimate Taipei tradition.

Danang, Vietnam

12 Most Beautiful Tree Top Walks — © Hien Phung Thu / Shutterstock

Danang is a city on Vietnam’s central coast. Far from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, it has a beachy vibe and friendly locals.

You’ll get to relax on the beaches or take a boat trip to the offshore islands for epic snorkeling and scuba diving. Back on shore, explore the city’s street food and restaurants. Grab a freshly squeezed cup of sugar cane juice, kick back, and enjoy.

You’ll find historical sights, temples, and massive caves outside the city. Head to the Marble Mountains and visit the famous Tam Thai Pagoda. Then, head to the mountains to visit the Ba Na Hills and one of the world’s best forest canopy walks.

Luzon Island, The Philippines

Luzon Island is where the Philippines’ bustling capital of Manila is located. However, drive north into the Cordillera, and you’ll be in a very different place.

The mountainous interior is home to lush tropical jungles and quiet villages. Check out the beautiful town of Sagada to see cultural landmarks and deep caves. You’ll also see centuries-old rice terraces stacked along the hillsides.

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If you love beaches, head to the coast to Vigan City and San Fernando. Then, visit the coral reefs and islands of Bolinao. You’ll find beachside resorts and charming hotels perfect for a relaxing vacation away from the crowds.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is a busy capital city full of excitement, beautiful places, and incredible architecture. It’s also a global capital for gastronomy, with amazing restaurants and cafes.

You can find ornate temples, mosques, and historical buildings in the city. If you love nature, you can spend the day exploring the Perdana Botanical Garden. Then, head north to the Batu Caves to explore hidden temples and climb the giant staircase.

The proximity to beautiful beaches tops off all the reasons to visit the city. Just a short flight away are gorgeous coastal towns, resorts, and the Perhentian Islands. Here, you’ll find some of the clearest tropical waters in the world.

Big Island, Hawaii

24 Most Beautiful Cities in the U.S. to Visit in Your Lifetime — © SCStock / Adobe Stock

Hawaii’s Big Island may not get the tourists that Oahu and Maui do, but it’s definitely not worth missing. The island is home to magnetic places, active volcanoes, a strong cultural heritage, and, of course, beautiful beaches.

Start off in the town of Hilo and visit the town’s museums and art galleries. Then, make your way to the Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden for epic nature and views.

You can also visit the Mauna Kea volcano and tour the famous Gemini telescope grounds. After seeing the awe-inspiring views, head for an outdoor adventure down the mountain to see the island’s west coast. Here, you’ll find tropical beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and some of the best golfing you can imagine.

Azore Islands, Portugal

12 Beautiful Hiking Trails in Portugal Vista do Rei Loop of Sete Cidades Lake, São Miguel — © Nido Huebl / Adobe Stock

The Azore Islands are a beautiful archipelago of subtropical islands off the coast of Portugal. Their landscapes look like Europe’s answer to Hawaii. From striking oceanside cliffs and waterfalls to romantic villages, these islands have it all.

Start on São Miguel Island and visit Ponta Delgada. Drive along the dramatic shoreline through vineyards and dense forests. You’ll pass incredible views and find hidden beaches with cozy resorts and beachfront inns.

If you have time, visit lesser-visited islands like Terceira Island. You’ll enjoy beautiful hiking trails through dense forests and undisturbed beaches where you can forget about time. End your day on the West Coast to see some of the best sunsets in Europe.

Agadir, Morocco

Agadir is a city on the southern coast of Morocco. It’s less visited than famous cities to its north like Marrakesh but has endless beaches and charming sights worth experiencing.

Start off in a resort by the beach and lounge around fountains and pools. Then, take a drive north to the town of Taghazout. Here, you’ll find romantic beaches and see some of the best surfers in the world take on the famous point breaks.

You can visit sights such as Paradise Valley or the historical ruins of Agadir Inoummar near Agadir. Afterward, you can drive north to the popular tourist destination of Essaouira to see the walled city and historic harbor.

Uruguay

Uruguay is far from most people’s travel itineraries, but this hidden gem is worth visiting. The small country is home to a booming wine scene and incredible barbecue cuisine.

In its capital, Montevideo, you’ll find classic architecture and a hub for art and music. At the port town of La Colonia, you can explore cobblestone streets and historic buildings while taking in the sunshine and breezes of the Rio de la Plata River.

On the other side of the capital is Punta del Este. This resort town has gorgeous beaches and exclusive hotels that rival some of the best in Europe.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro may have a rough reputation but it’s truly the most beautiful urban space on the planet. The city weaves between dramatic mountains, lush forests, and clear tropical water.

When you visit, grab a caipirinha on Copacabana Beach before heading to nearby Ipanema Beach for more relaxation. Then, head to Rio’s botanical garden before catching live samba.

The next day, visit its famous sights, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain. End your visit with more beaches, caipirinhas, and samba at some of the best bars in the world, and you won’t want to come home, trust me.