The trend towards ‘coolcations’ is gaining popularity, with beaches becoming increasingly popular for winter trips. In response to record-hot summers in 2024, holidaymakers are now opting for shoulder season and winter breaks in cooler months or countries. This shift has brought a renewed appreciation for beaches as cold weather attractions. From black sand beaches in Iceland to rugged beaches in Norway, there are numerous stretches of sand around the world that look truly glorious in winter.
Stokksnes beach in Iceland is known for its surreal black landscape, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and bright white glacier ice. Kvalvika beach in Norway is a rugged beach ideal for wild camping, providing a crowd-free experience with stunning views. For those looking to try cold water immersion therapy, Downings beach in Ireland offers clear water and breathtaking views of the Derryveagh Mountains. Vinterplayan in Norway, located by Lake Storsjön, offers deck chairs, saunas, and wood-fired hot tubs by the lakeside for families to enjoy during the colder months.
Langeoog Island in Germany features a 14-kilometer stretch of sandy beach that is perfect for winter beach walks, offering views of ancient dunes and wildlife-filled salt marshes. Praia do Guincho in Portugal is a surfing paradise with huge Atlantic waves, wind-sculpted sand dunes, and minimal crowds in the winter months. Hiddensee Beach in Germany, located on a tiny island off the coast of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, offers Baltic beauty and nature spotting opportunities, including ancient forests and salt marshes.
Nogales beach on La Palma in the Canary Islands provides a unique volcanic landscape for visitors to explore, with black sand and frothing white waves. Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight is a popular spot for fossil hunting during the winter months, with ancient fossils revealed by erosion along the cliffs. Praia do Pego beach in Portugal, near the village of Comporta, offers a golden sand beach lined with pine trees and opportunities for dolphin sightings in the surf. Praia de Vilamoura in Portugal’s Algarve region provides a warmer winter beach option, with temperatures around 20°C and a marina filled with super yachts to explore.