Where’s hot in March?

Travel to somewhere hot in March and escape the last of the winter chill. From sun-soaked cities to brilliant beach destinations, these places are all blissfully hot in March, too.

March is the official beginning of shoulder season and travelling this month is ideal for holidaymakers looking to avoid crowds and high prices. Those looking for a beach break will find plenty of tropical sunshine in destinations like Mexico, Thailand and South Africa. Meanwhile, city breakers can enjoy pleasantly warm sunny days in European cities like Rome, Athens and Madrid.

There are so many great places to get winter sun this month, it can be hard to narrow it down. We’ve hand-picked three favourite destinations that are hot in March, and have plenty to keep you occupied.

1. Cancún, Mexico

Cancún is a popular spring break destination for American college students, and it’s easy to see why.

With daytime temperatures of 24-27°C in March – and not much cooler by night – it’s the perfect place for a late-winter beach holiday.

There are plenty of all-inclusive hotels and luxurious resorts all along this stretch of coastline, perfect for zoning out and enjoying a relaxing break. And when you’re not sipping fruity drinks on a sun lounger, the place to be is Avenida Kukulkán. This strip is loaded with souvenir shops, restaurants and clubs and it thrums with life in the evening. And, while Cancún is famous for its nightlife, there’s more to this buzzing beachside city than its bars. You can try out watersports like snorkelling, fly boarding and jet skiing. Or, hire a car and visit the nearby cenotes. These freshwater swimming holes can be found all along the Yucatan peninsula, and the crystal clear waters are perfect for a plunge.

Feeling cultural? Head to Chichén Itzá, the ruins of an ancient Mayan city.

 Flights to Cancun

2. Hurghada, Egypt

Long, dry and sunny days are the norm in Hurghada – a Red Sea resort famous for its excellent diving.

Hurghada is consistently hot in March, with temperatures of 28°C during the day and 17°C by night.

The main draw of this Egyptian city is its long, golden beach – which stretches for 25 miles along the coast. Hurghada is very much a holiday destination, so you’ll find a wide array of buzzing bars and restaurants along the seafront – as well as excellent resort hotels.

If lounging by the pool isn’t for you, pop into the dive shops in Sekalla to earn your PADI license. Get under the crystal clear waters and you’ll be in a world of colourful marine life like parrotfish, pufferfish, sea turtles and clownfish. You might even be lucky enough to spot some dolphins. For local culture, the old town – El Dahar – is the place to go. Haggle for souvenirs in the bustling souk, or settle into a cosy café for a traditional Egyptian coffee.

 Flights to Hurghada

3. Las Vegas, USA

Known for its glittering lights and all-out excess, there’s nowhere in the world quite like Las Vegas.

March is one of the best times to visit, as temperatures are hot but not oppressive. It’s perfect for enjoying days by your hotel swimming pool after living it up all night in the world’s party capital.

As well as channelling your inner James Bond in the casinos, you can also take in shows from some of the world’s biggest stars. March 2025 residencies include Shania Twain, Maria Carey and Janet Jackson. When you’re not indulging in the best entertainment that Sin City has to offer, it’s worth hiring a car and taking a road trip into the desert. The Grand Canyon is just over two hours’ drive from the city, while you can reach the famous Hoover Dam in roughly 40 minutes.

 Flights to Las Vegas

Where else is hot in March?

Country

City

Average temperature in March

Mexico

Cancún

34°C / 93°F

Egypt

Hurghada

26°C / 79°F

USA

Las Vegas

22°C / 72°F

South Africa

Cape Town

29°C / 84°F

Spain

Madrid

16°C / 61°F

Cape Verde

Praia

26°C / 79°F

Madeira

Funchal

20°C / 68°F

Canary Islands

Tenerife

25°C / 77°F

Indonesia

Bali

27°C / 81°F

Malta

Gozo

17°C / 63°F

Can’t wait until March?

If you’re hoping for some winter sun sooner than March, you can check out our latest deals. Be sure to double-check all entry requirements, as well as local government regulations before booking your flights.

Hot in March: destination FAQs

The south of Europe starts to get hot in March, especially in the islands. Madeira is lovely in March. It’s not scorching hot, so you can enjoy hiking up lush mountain levadas and swimming in volcanic rockpools. Nearby, in the Canary Islands, Tenerife is starting to warm up. Expect seven hours of bright sunshine a day and pleasant sea temperatures of 19°C. Another popular March destination is Malta, with temperatures of 18°C – perfect for lazing on the beach and exploring Gozo’s intricate old town.

How does lounging around on a Thai beach sound? Phuket and its surrounding islands are super hot in March, resting at a balmy 33°C. Off the coast of Africa, the Cape Verde islands are also heating up at this time of year. Expect white sandy beaches with excellent surfing waves. And, for a city break, head to Madrid. There are fewer crowds, it’s not too hot, and the almond and cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Spain is great for sunshine and affordable prices in March, and the flight from the UK isn’t too long. If you’re happy going long haul, Bali in Indonesia is extraordinary. Plus, prices are lower as it’s just emerging from the rainy season. Cape Town in South Africa is another very affordable destination, and scorching in March with average temperatures of 27°C – perfect for exploring nearby beaches and wineries.

Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels, and car hire deals for your next trip.

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