Top Winter Beach Destinations Around the Globe

It is not necessary to have sunshine to enjoy the beach. These winter beaches are equally awe-inspiring.

While beaches are often associated with sun, sea, and sand, they thrive even in the absence of sunlight.

There is no reason to allow cold weather to deter you from exploring the coastline. Embrace the stunning dunes, impressive waves, and rugged shores of these remarkable beaches that thrive even when the clouds dominate the sky. Below are nine beaches from around the world that are delightful during winter and in colder weather.

1. Charmouth Beach, Dorset, United Kingdom

Though it may not be the warmest beach to explore in winter, fossil enthusiasts will happily forgo swimming in favor of shoreline activities. Situated along England’s Jurassic Coast, Charmouth Beach is renowned for its rich fossil deposits. For those eager to partake in fossil hunting, the area west of the river is the prime location for uncovering prehistoric specimens. However, please adhere to guidelines by limiting your search to the stones and rocks along the foreshore, avoiding any disturbance to the cliff face.

2. Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Iceland

With traditional white sand beaches losing their charm, the striking black basalt landscape at Reynisfjara stands out as a top destination. The beach is accessible on foot from Iceland’s southernmost town, Vik, which is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Reykjavík. Once at the beach, visitors can explore some of the most remarkable and awe-inspiring natural rock formations set against the dramatic backdrop of black sand.

Adding to the beach’s mystique, a local legend recounts that trolls once dragged a ship onto the shore here, only to be transformed into stone by sunlight, forever standing as towering sea stacks.

In a more cheerful aspect, the beach also hosts a puffin colony. While there are viewing platforms available, visitors can spot these charming birds as they nest, take flight, or float upon the waves.

3. Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Île de Ré, France

This beautiful and small island located off France’s Atlantic coast offers a quintessential southern France experience, characterized by its whitewashed structures, terracotta roofs, and a laid-back ambiance. During the peak months of July and August, the area can become overcrowded, making accommodations hard to find.

Nonetheless, searching for seashells along the coastline remains as enchanting in winter as in summer, but with significantly fewer crowds. The villages provide rental bicycles, allowing visitors to navigate through serene cycling paths near the sandy shores. Most importantly, the breathtaking sunsets are an extraordinary sight year-round.

4. Inchydoney Beach, West Cork, Ireland

The coastline of Ireland is marked by rugged rock formations, where relentless waves pound against the jagged cliffs and stony outcroppings, creating the dramatic landscape for renowned sites like Skellig Michael and the Giant’s Causeway. However, consider exploring the equally captivating, and arguably more picturesque, sandy beaches instead.

Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Inchydoney is a beach that Cork takes pride in. Its smooth and expansive sandy curve on Inchydoney Island is linked to the mainland via two grassy paths. Visit during autumn or winter for a memorable outing with family, whether it’s exploring the rock pools or, for the adventurous, surfing.

And if you find yourself drenched, retreat to one of the well-stocked pubs in neighboring Clonakilty, such as the famed De Barra’s Folk Club, known for its hearty pints and traditional music sessions to warm up.

5. Kvalvika Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway

Upon your arrival at Kvalvika Beach in the Lofoten Islands, you may feel as though you have reached the world’s edge. However, reaching this remote locale requires effort; the area is accessible only via a 2.5-mile (4km) hike over Ryten Mountain, which stands at 543 meters. The striking contrast between the steep cliffs and the turquoise waters is truly breathtaking. After traversing the trail, the sight of the ocean may be so enticing that you could believe you’ve arrived in a tropical paradise.

Numerous trails surround the mountain and its summit, and the effort of climbing is justified by the views alone. During your trek, you may encounter sheep grazing against a scenic backdrop of cliffs seemingly plunging into the icy Norwegian Sea. The path can be slippery and wet at times, so be sure to equip yourself appropriately. Choose any spot along the verdant ridges for camping, wait for sunset, and if fortune favors you, you may witness the aurora borealis illuminating the night sky.

6. Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

This destination may be an unexpected choice, yet Hot Water Beach, positioned on the far reaches of New Zealand’s enchanting Coromandel Peninsula, is one of the select locations where visitors can enjoy natural hot springs beneath the sand, regardless of the chill in the air. Geothermal activity ensures that the water beneath remains warm even when temperatures drop below 59°F (15°C). Although this unique thermal experience may not remain a secret for long, those seeking cold-weather enjoyment will find that the cooler conditions tend to attract fewer visitors.

Dress in swimwear, bring a spade, and excavate your own hot pool in the sand. The water can attain temperatures of around 140°F (60°C), so it is essential to be aware that winter temperatures will feel considerably cooler. Additionally, be sure to consult tide charts to avoid being caught off guard by the ocean’s advance; although a refreshing rush of cold air and ocean spray at a safe distance can be invigorating. Sink into your soothing hot tub while admiring the formidable surf from a distance.

7. Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA

For those seeking a moody and atmospheric escape, this beach is ideal. Positioned along the US’s Pacific Coast, Cannon Beach defies traditional notions of sun-drenched, palm-lined shores. This part of Oregon features Haystack Rock, a prominent formation that juts out along a characteristically misty coastline. It offers a perfect setting for dog walking and reflective strolls, as the area can become chilly, requiring visitors to keep moving.

If you desire a hint of Wild West adventure with your coastal experience, consider horseback riding. Exploring the Oregon coastline from horseback is an unparalleled experience, and various riding schools in close proximity provide both daytime and sunset rides. The town of Cannon Beach itself is also exceptionally charming, having avoided the establishment of large chains to maintain its quaint atmosphere.

8. Cox Bay Beach, Tofino, Canada

Locating an exceptional cold-weather beach in Tofino, a small coastal town on Vancouver Island, is quite simple. The area’s stormy weather is a true tourist attraction; storm watching is a favored pastime. Which beach caters best to those who crave nature’s fury? While Chesterman Beach might be Tofino’s most frequented, Cox Bay is designed for those desiring a tumultuous seaside experience.

Offering sweeping views of the temperamental Pacific Ocean with driftwood scattered along the sandy shore, a stroll down Cox Bay is accompanied by a scenic boardwalk adjacent to the forest. It also attracts experienced surfers, as the waves swell significantly at Cox Bay compared to other spots around Tofino.

During a “storm watch period,” find comfort in one of the storm-resilient establishments, such as Long Beach Lodge or Cox Bay Beach Resort, which line the coastal area. Relax indoors while enjoying the lightning displays from your window, or observe surfers tackling the massive swells from a hot tub that overlooks the beach.

9. Haeundae Beach, Busan, South Korea

Busan’s Haeundae Beach gathers throngs of visitors on warm summer days and continues to attract visitors during the colder winter months. There are also numerous attractions in the vicinity. In winter, a variety of restaurants remain operational, offering an array of dishes ranging from sashimi to Korean fried chicken.

Be sure to explore the vibrant food markets as well; at Haeundae Market, you can indulge in delectable mandu (Korean dumplings) and gimbap (seaweed-wrapped sushi), or savor a warming bowl of spicy red chili soup.

This article was first published Oct 1, 2019 and updated Nov 22, 2023.