Best holiday destinations in March
Fancy a late winter sun escape but not sure where to go? We've got just the places for you, whatever your budget, however far you wish to travel.
March can be a tricky one: known as a shoulder season, it's sandwiched between peak and off-peak times when the weather is equally as awkward: you can feel spring waiting in the wings but not quite ready to make its debut and open up options closer to home. That said, there's still a variety of places within easy reach that offer great holiday weather.
Top five destinations to visit in March
As the last real opportunity for a winter sun break, it's a great time to get away before the crowds escalate over the coming months, however, seasonal shifts in conditions can confuse things. For example, the Algarve is technically the sunniest destination in Europe at this time; however, it's really still too chilly for a beach break.
Then there's Thailand, a winter sun staple that happens to be on the turn in March, descending into seriously sweaty territory with uncomfortable levels of heat and humidity. But fear not! We have some excellent suggestion below to help you on your way to a wonderful holiday.
1. The Maldives
- Flight time from London: 10.5 hours
- Daily high: 31°C
- Hours of sunshine: 9
- Sea temperature: 29°C
This one's for heat-seekers after somewhere truly hot and tropical in March. With temperatures in the low thirties, very high heat and humidity, and extreme UV levels, the Maldives is as stunning as it is ferocious in March, so it's all about playing safe with the SPF here.
Days are largely sunny and long although, as it's coming to the end of the dry season, you may well encounter the odd shower, nothing that's likely to ruin your fun. You'll find some respite at night, when temperatures cool marginally, dipping to around 25°C, and sea breezes keep the air flowing.
March is a great time to visit the Maldives as you get the best of both worlds: the heat from the impending wet season without the torrential rain, which starts in earnest from May.
Recommended for the Maldives
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2. Marrakech, Morocco
- Flight time from London: 4 hours
- Daily high: 22°C
- Hours of sunshine: 8
Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit Morocco, especially if you love getting outdoors and exploring. Benefiting from the rains of winter but before the heat of summer, the land comes alive with new shoots and wildflowers aplenty, particularly in and around the Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech is a fabulous base for getting under the skin of this enchanting country. Make the most of the comfortable daytime temperatures with visits to historical sites such as the Ben Youssef Madrasa and the landscaped grounds of Jardin Majorelle and the new YSL Museum, before taking a trip into the foothills to see the Ouzoud Falls or the picturesque village of Imlil in the High Atlas.
Just remember your layers as the temperature drops to as low as 9°C in Marrakech by night, and even lower in the mountains.
Recommended for Morocco
More about Morocco
3. Miami, Florida, USA
- Flight time from London: 10 hours
- Daily high: 25°C
- Hours of sunshine: 9
- Sea temperature: 24°C
Miami in the Sunshine State of Florida is truly superb in springtime. Days are long and largely clear, while daytime temperatures are comfortable and warm. There's low heat and humidity, so it doesn't get sticky, and nights remain pleasant at 18°C.
There's a slim chance of encountering a shower or two but nothing that should put you off. The sea, which benefits from the passing Gulf Stream is also lovely and warm.
Go for the retro-chic of this diverse city, where you'll find the art deco attractions of Ocean Drive rubbing shoulders with the bars and cafés of Little Havana, not to mention countless ways to have fun in the sun from swimming and surfing at Miami Beach to exploring the Everglades National Park.
Recommended for Florida
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4. Grenada
- Flight time from London: 9 hours
- Daily high: 29°C
- Hours of sunshine: 8
- Sea temperature: 27°C
This is an easy win if you're after that idyllic beach break. Days are long and mainly sunny with just a small chance of seeing some light rain, even though March is still in the dry season.
Temperatures are delightful, and the sea is perfect for snorkelling and swimming. The only danger comes with the UV, which is extreme at this time, so just remember to slap on the SPF.
Crucially, Grenada is less developed than some other Caribbean islands, so you won't find as many big resorts or bustling beaches - it's more about laid back guest houses and quiet bays.
Then there's the rich rainforest which covers the majority of the island that's ripe for hikers and nature lovers. Grenada ticks so many boxes at this time of year, making it a strong contender in March.
Recommended for Grenada
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5. La Palma, Canary Islands
- Flight time from London: 4.5 hours
- Daily high: 16°C
- Hours of sunshine: 6
- Sea temperature: 19°C
La Palma is the fifth largest Canary Island, and much less popular in terms of the number of people who visit, offering something a little different in this archipelago. Weatherwise, there's a hint of the tropical about La Palma, which is by far one of the cooler and greener islands.
Days in March may not be hot but they do promise sunshine and are free from heat and humidity. You could catch a shower or two so it's definitely worth packing a waterproof, especially if you plan on exploring the island by bike or on foot.
The sea is arguably too cold to enjoy, so if the quieter, less developed shores of La Palma have your interest, go for the rainforest trails that crisscross the island and dramatic scenery.
Recommended for La Palma
More about Spain
Additional destinations for March 2025/2026
When it comes to winter sun, some people simply want to know they can count on great weather for a proper beach holiday. If this sounds like you, then you must give Oman a thought. This beautiful, friendly country has all sorts to offer holidaymakers.
Go in March before the serious heat builds when you can bask in nine hours of unbroken sunshine and temperatures that head up to 29°C. There's only moderate heat and humidity, and evenings remain warm at around 20°C. The sea is also pleasant at 24°C - ideal for splashing about or cruising to seek out the region's usually obliging dolphins.
Alternatively, the Indian Ocean offers some real gems in March. From the beaches of Goa on India's west coast to the backwaters of Kerala, Sri Lanka and the Seychelles, you can expect some truly delightful weather with a touch of the exotic.
As a general rule, it's hotter and drier in the northern areas, moving down from Goa to the Seychelles, where it's about two degrees cooler with slightly less heat and humidity, and noticeably more rain. Sea temperatures remain consistently high, however, between 28°C and 29°C.
The real difference between the destinations is financial: if you're on a budget, head to Goa, Kerala or Sri Lanka, but if you're in the mood for some luxury make for the Seychelles.
You can only really decide where to go in March once you know what it is you want to do and how far you're prepared to travel.
If you need a beach fix, your options are limited across Europe and the Med, but for those who just want to get outdoors, there are loads of destinations closer to home, such as Morocco, the Canaries, and southern Europe, just waiting to be explored.
If you're still unsure about where to go, you can read more about the weather in March worldwide or visit our travel deals and discounts sections for the very latest offers to help you escape for less.
Destination ideas for March 2025
Metric (°C / mm) | Imperial (°F / inches)
Where to go on holiday for the best weather
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