Winter can be tough for swimmers in the UK, with chilly waters and unpredictable weather making open-water swimming less appealing. Fortunately, a variety of warm-water swimming destinations are easily accessible from the UK, offering mild temperatures, stunning scenery, and clear, inviting seas for swimming during the winter months. Here are some top warm-water destinations within Europe and nearby to consider this winter.

Top 10 Warm-Water Destinations to Visit.

1. Tenerife, Canary Islands.

Tenerife is one of the most popular swimming destinations for those looking to escape the UK’s cold winter. With year-round warm temperatures and crystal-clear waters, it’s ideal for open-water swimming. The south of the island, especially around Playa de Las Américas and Costa Adeje, is the warmest during winter.

Tenerife’s calm waters and various beaches cater to beginner and experienced swimmers alike. When not swimming, you can explore volcanic landscapes, hike in the beautiful Teide National Park or Anaga Mountains, or relax at one of the many sandy beaches.

Tenerife is also a top spot to try freediving, which has numerous fitness benefits for swimmers. The waters around the island are clear and relatively calm, and Tenerife has well-established dive centres that offer short courses for beginners.

·         Average winter water temperature: 19°C (66°F).

·         Swimming experience: Suitable for all swimming levels.

2. Mallorca, Balearic Islands.

While not as warm as the Canary Islands, Mallorca offers pleasant conditions for swimming throughout winter. Popular open-water swimming spots include Port de Sóller, a picture-perfect coastal village with a large, protected bay, and the bays around Alcúdia. Winter brings fewer tourists, leaving the beaches peaceful and perfect for uninterrupted swims.

Mallorca’s dramatic coastline, charming villages, and stunning mountain views make it more than just a great swimming destination. You can explore Palma’s historic old town and café culture, take scenic drives through the Tramuntana mountains, or indulge in local cuisine at waterfront restaurants.

·         Average winter water temperature: 16°C (61°F).

·         Swimming experience: Best suited for intermediate to advanced swimmers, though there are sheltered spots for beginners as well.

3. Lanzarote, Canary Islands.

Lanzarote’s azure waters and stunning beaches make it an attractive destination for swimmers. The warm Atlantic waters and the island’s natural beauty make places like Playa de Papagayo and Playa Blanca ideal for open-water swimming.

Aside from swimming, Lanzarote offers unique volcanic landscapes to explore, from Timanfaya National Park to the surreal Jameos del Agua cave system. Its villages are charming and filled with local art, thanks to the influence of César Manrique. If you love cacti, don’t miss the Jardin de Cactus. This beautiful garden has over 4,500 cacti specimens and native species.

·         Average winter water temperature: 18°C (64°F).

·         Swimming experience: Suitable for all levels. The beaches are generally calm, with designated areas for open-water training.

4. Crete, Greece.

Although winter is off-season for tourism, Crete’s southern coast remains a haven for open-water swimming. The beaches around Chania and the secluded coves in the south, such as Matala, offer relatively warm waters and breathtaking scenery. 

Crete has a rich history and plenty of things to do off the beach. Explore ancient Minoan ruins, visit local olive oil farms, or wander through charming towns like Rethymno. Crete’s Old Town offers an excellent selection of Mediterranean cuisine and boutique shopping with locally made crafts and leather goods, different kinds of honey, olives, and more.

·         Average winter water temperature: 16-18°C (61-64°F).

·         Swimming experience: Intermediate to advanced swimmers will enjoy Crete’s diverse coastal swims, though beginners will find calm bays as well.

5. Madeira, Portugal.

Madeira, or the Island of Flowers, offers a year-round warm climate and stunning coastal scenery, making it a popular spot for winter swimming. The island’s natural swimming pools at Porto Moniz, as well as its protected coves and bays, provide calm and safe conditions for open-water swimmers.

Madeira is famous for its hiking trails, wine, and beautiful gardens. When you’re not swimming, take a walk along the levadas, explore the Laurisilva forest, or visit the charming capital, Funchal. The island offers a variety of accommodations, from five-star hotels to more budget-friendly options.

·         Average winter water temperature: 18°C (64°F).

·         Swimming experience: Best suited for intermediate swimmers due to having a rugged coastline in places, though there are sheltered areas for beginners.

6. Cyprus.

Cyprus boasts one of the warmest winter climates in the Mediterranean, making it an excellent destination for winter swimming. The coastal city of Paphos, with its calm bays and clear waters, is perfect for swimmers seeking a winter escape. Limassol and Ayia Napa also offer stunning spots for open-water swimming.

Cyprus has a mix of fascinating ancient history, lively beach resorts, and scenic landscapes. When you’re not in the water, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tombs of the Kings, explore local vineyards, or enjoy traditional Cypriot cuisine in seaside tavernas. 

·         Average winter water temperature: 17°C (63°F).

·         Swimming experience: Suitable for all levels, with calm, clear waters in most coastal areas.

7. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands.

Gran Canaria is another of the Canary Islands that offers warm waters year-round. Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés are popular with open-water swimmers, with stretches of beach and mild conditions throughout winter. Some beaches have lifeguards and designated swimming areas, making it ideal for beginners and families.

Beyond swimming, Gran Canaria offers a vibrant nightlife, extensive hiking trails, and historic villages. The island is also known for its desert-like sand dunes at Maspalomas and offers a great variety of accommodations, from family-friendly resorts to secluded villas.

·         Average winter water temperature: 20°C (68°F).

·         Swimming experience: Suitable for all levels. 

8. Malta.

Malta’s sheltered bays and clear waters make it an ideal winter swimming destination. The island’s most popular swimming spots include Mellieha Bay, St. Peter’s Pool, and the Blue Lagoon in Comino. Malta’s calm, clear waters are perfect for beginners, while more adventurous swimmers can explore caves and underwater rock formations.

Malta is rich in history and culture. Explore the ancient capital of Valletta, visit the beautiful fishing village of Marsaxlokk, or wander through Mdina, the “silent city.” Accommodations range from boutique hotels to waterfront apartments, and the food scene is a fusion of Mediterranean flavors.

·         Average winter water temperature: 17°C (63°F).

·         Swimming experience: Suitable for all levels. 

9. Costa del Sol, Spain.

While it’s not as warm as the Canary Islands, the Costa del Sol offers mild winter weather and great swimming conditions. The beaches at Marbella, Nerja, and Málaga are popular with swimmers who appreciate the combination of sunny skies and calm seas.

The Costa del Sol is a favourite for UK tourists due to its accessibility, pleasant weather, and variety of accommodations. Off the beach, explore the historical sites of Málaga, visit the Alhambra in nearby Granada, or enjoy the lively nightlife in Marbella.

·         Average winter water temperature: 16°C (61°F).

·         Swimming experience: Suitable for all levels, though some areas may have more waves during winter.

10. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.

The Red Sea coast of Egypt, particularly around Sharm El Sheikh, offers some of the warmest winter waters near Europe. Known primarily for its scuba diving and snorkelling, the region also provides great opportunities for open-water swimming. The waters are typically calm with excellent visibility, making it a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

The water remains comfortably warm throughout the winter, and the calm conditions make it ideal for both casual swimmers and those looking to do more extensive open-water swimming. Added to that, the beaches around Sharm El Sheikh have stunning coral reefs just offshore, with an array of tropical fish, colourful corals, rays, and even sea turtles. If you want to try scuba diving, this is one of the best places to do so.

Sharm El Sheikh is a resort town with plenty of activities, from boat trips to coral reefs to desert excursions. When not swimming, explore the local markets, enjoy a luxurious spa day, or indulge in delicious Egyptian cuisine. There are many accommodation options, including beachfront resorts and all-inclusive hotels, catering to all budgets. The area is also a gateway to iconic sites like Mount Sinai and the Ras Mohammed National Park.

·         Average winter water temperature: 22-24°C (72-75°F).

·         Swimming experience: Suitable for all levels. 

Kathryn Curzon, a shark conservationist and dive travel writer for SSI (Scuba Schools International), wrote this article.