12 destinations where you can swim in February and March

Writer: Helena Bergström

Are you tired of snow and freezing temperatures? Winter has firmly arrived in Sweden this year, and today we offer dreamy inspiration for those of you who prefer to rest in the shade under a palm tree… Here are 12 destinations where you can swim in February and March – and we’re not talking about cold dives on ice floes!

Short travel time (4–7 hours)

We’ll start with some destinations that aren’t located at far away. With a travel time of approximately 4-7 hours you will find both sandy beaches and warming sun.

1. The Canary Islands

Travel time: approx. 5–6 hours (direct flight)
Air: 21–25°
Water: approx. 19–20°

The Canary Islands are a safe winter classic with stable weather and plenty of hours of sunshine. The sea is cooler than in the tropics, but completely swimmable for those who long for salt water and beach life in the middle of winter. We visited Gran Canaria and Tenerife, but there are also several other interesting islands.

2. Egypt

Travel time: approx. 5–6 hours (direct flight)
Air: 22–28°
Water: approx 22–24°

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Egypt is one of the closest travel destinations with really warm bathing water. The Red Sea has very pleasant temperatures in February and the visibility for snorkeling is often fantastic. For example, discover the popular seaside resort of Hurghada or the slightly smaller El Gouna.

3. Agadir, Morocco

Travel time: approx. 5-7 hours (direct or 1 stopover)
Air: 20–26°
Water: approx 17–18°

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The Moroccan seaside resort of Agadir offers a sunny and pleasant climate with long beaches overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The water is fresh, but the climate is perfect for combining beach time with adventure and cultural experiences. In March temperatures are slightly higher than in February…

4. Dubai/Abu Dhabi

Travel time: approx. 6–7 hours (direct flight)
Air: 25–32°
Water: approx 22–24°

We haven’t been to the UAE ourselves, but if you go to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, February and March seem like really good months: warm, but not extremely hot. Simply perfect for a combination of city, beach and pool life.

Medium trip (7-14 hours)

Are you ready to travel a little further (or dream away)? Here are some sunny destinations you can reach with a travel time of about 7-14 hours.

5. Cape Verde

Travel time: approx. 7-10 hours (direct or 1 stopover)
Air: 24–26°
Water: approx 22–23°

We haven’t been to Cape Verde yet, but it does sound a bit dreamy! Cape Verde is a sunny alternative with long fine sandy beaches. The climate is dry and pleasant – simply ideal for a week focused on bathing and rest.

6. Oman

Travel time: approx. 9-11 hours (1 stop)
Air: 25–32°
Water: approx 23–24°

We have considered Oman as a destination a few times, but have not gone there (yet). However, Jonathan’s report on Oman is inspiring! We like it when there is interesting history to discover. February and March should be good months to visit, with perfect warmth for both beach life and excursions.

7. Zanzibar

Travel time: approx. 11-14 hours (1 stopover, sometimes 2)
Air: 30°
Water: approx 27–28°

Zanzibar is a dream destination that we visited many years ago. Palm trees, paradisiacal beaches, snorkeling and exotic culture await you here. February and the first half of March are perfect, with tropical heat. The rainy season starts later in March, with a greater chance of showers.

8.Thailand

Travel time: approx. 11-14 hours (direct or 1 stopover)
Air: 30–35°
Water: approx 27–28°

Thailand is indeed far away, but since there are direct flights from Sweden, the travel time can still be affordable. February is the high season with calm seas, tropical bathing temperatures and many hours of sunshine. March is still a good month, but now it can be warmer.

The dream trip (12 -24 hours)

Do you have enough time and are you planning to stay away a little longer? Then it may also be a good idea to make the journey last a little longer. Here are some dreamy destinations that require a slightly longer journey.

9. Yucatan, Mexico

Travel time: approx. 12-15 hours (direct or 1 stopover)
Air: 27–32°
Water: approx 26–27°

We’ve never been to Mexico, but it sure sounds exciting! Caribbean beaches and warm, clear water make both February and March excellent months. In Mexico you can enjoy beach life and alternate with excursions to interesting Mayan ruins.

10. Mauritius

Travel time: approx. 13-16 hours (1 stopover
Air: 27–30°
Water: approx 26–27°

No, we haven’t visited Mauritius… But it sounds exotic and exciting! This is a tropical destination that offers warmth as well as beaches, lagoons and walkable nature. You can visit Mauritius all year round, and at this time it is hot and humid.

11. Vietnam

Travel time: approx. 15-20 hours (1-2 stops)
Air: 30°
Water: approx 27–28°

Vietnam is an exciting alternative to Thailand, although the travel time may be a little longer. In February and March it may be appropriate to visit southern Vietnam, where you will find places like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang. The charming Hoi An can also be visited with advantage during this period.

12. Palawan, Philippines

Travel time: approx. 18-24 hours (2 stops)
Air: 28–32°
Water: 27–29°

Last but not least, we must recommend the magically beautiful Palawan in the Philippines. The island world here offers spectacular cliffs and fantastic little beaches. It may take a while to get here, but it might be worth it! Not least because of the incredible boat trips at El Nido.

More destinations where you can swim in February and March

Of course there are even more destinations where you can swim in February and March. Do you have any tips or experiences to share?