15 Best November Beach Destinations for Sunshine

As November sets in, Europe slips into early darkness, and the crisp chill in the air has us zipping up our coats and dreaming of warmer days. The sun feels like a distant memory, replaced by grey skies and cold winds. But there’s a perfect cure for the seasonal slump: a beach escape to brighter shores.

November is an ideal time to head to destinations where the monsoon has just passed like parts of Asia or where summer is just beginning, such as the southern hemisphere.

With school holidays still weeks away, it's also a quieter, more affordable time to travel, with fewer crowds and better deals before the December rush.

We’ve picked 15 of the best November beach destinations to bring back the sunshine and your sense of adventure.

1. Dubai, UAE

Dubai blends futuristic architecture with stunning stretches of coastline, making it one of the best November beach destinations for sun without the scorch. By November, the desert heat has mellowed into a blissful 25–30°C, perfect for lounging without melting.

Skip the crowded Jumeirah Beach and head to Al Mamzar Beach Park, a hidden gem lined with palm trees, shaded picnic areas, and quiet lagoons. La Mer offers a more modern vibe with boutique shopping, beachfront restaurants, and water sports.

For something secret, Black Palace Beach (also known as Al Sufouh Beach) is a local favorite, a peaceful strip of sand offering unbeatable views of the Burj Al Arab at sunset. Dubai’s winter season also marks the reopening of luxury beach clubs and events, so you will experience the city at its vibrant best.

Why go in November?

Cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and prime beach weather before the peak winter season hits.

2 Barbados

Barbados is the Caribbean at its most vibrant, thick golden beaches, rum punch in hand, and warm Bajan hospitality. November marks the start of the dry season, making it one of the best beach destinations in November for travelers craving sunshine without the peak-season crowds or prices.

Carlisle Bay near Bridgetown offers calm waters ideal for snorkeling around shipwrecks, while Bottom Bay on the island’s east coast serves up dramatic cliffs and palm-lined sands. Cultural events like the Barbados Food and Rum Festival often take place this month, adding extra flavor to your beach holiday.

Luxury seekers should consider staying on the west coast aka the “Platinum Coast” for upscale resorts with oceanfront views.

Why go in November?

Perfect beach weather before the Christmas rush, with warm waters and festive events kicking off the season.

3. Canary Islands, Spain

For a quick escape from Europe’s gloom, the Canary Islands are a no-brainer. With average highs around 24°C in November, these Spanish islands off the coast of Africa offer year-round beach holidays and November might be the best time to go.

Tenerife boasts black-sand beaches like Playa Jardín and family-friendly resorts in Costa Adeje, while Lanzarote and Gran Canaria draw surfers, divers, and sun-worshippers alike. Less crowded than summer, November is ideal for hiking volcanic trails in the morning and sunbathing all afternoon.

Why go in November?

Short flights from Europe, steady sunshine, and fewer crowds make the Canaries one of the top November beach destinations close to home.

4. The Maldives

When the monsoon clouds finally retreat, the Maldives step into its most magical season. November signals the beginning of the dry spell, turning this Indian Ocean paradise into one of the best places for a beach holiday in November.

With mirror-still lagoons and temperatures around 30°C, it's perfect for diving, snorkeling, or simply floating in turquoise bliss. Choose an overwater villa for the full Maldivian dream, or try one of the newer, more budget-friendly guesthouses on local islands like Maafushi.

Night snorkeling, sandbank picnics, and dolphin-watching excursions add to the magic.

Why go in November?

Clear skies and calm seas return, and prices are still lower than in peak December — the perfect tropical escape.

5. Thailand (Phuket & Krabi)

Thailand’s Andaman Coast comes alive in November, just as the rains vanish and the skies turn bright. Whether you’re heading to Phuket for its lively beach clubs or Krabi for its towering limestone cliffs and hidden coves, this is one of the best November beach destinations in Asia.

Visit Railay Beach for postcard views and rock climbing, or hop on a longtail boat to the Phi Phi Islands before the peak-season crowds arrive.

Thai cuisine, warm hospitality, and affordable prices make this a dream escape for both backpackers and luxury travelers.

Why go in November?

The dry season begins in the south, offering perfect beach conditions and warm seas without the December rush.

6. Mauritius

Set in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is more than just beaches though its beaches are nothing short of spectacular.

With November’s temps hovering around 27–30°C and low humidity, it’s an ideal time to unwind on soft sands like Trou aux Biches or the quieter Le Morne. Snorkeling among coral reefs, hiking in Black River Gorges National Park, and tasting Creole cuisine all add to the island’s allure.

Bonus: this shoulder season means competitive hotel rates and fewer tourists.

Why go in November?

One of the best warm beach destinations in November, with calm waters, great visibility for diving, and fewer crowds.

7. Cape Verde

Floating off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) is a laid-back alternative to the Caribbean but without the long flight times from Europe.

In November, this volcanic archipelago basks in steady sunshine and gentle sea breezes, making it a perfect beach holiday destination in November.

Sal and Boa Vista are the go-to islands for soft sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts, while more adventurous travelers can explore hiking trails, local music scenes, and water sports. Kite surfers will love the consistent winds in the latter half of the month.

Why go in November?

With a subtropical climate, Cape Verde offers warm beach days, budget-friendly resorts, and fewer crowds before the winter rush.

8. Sri Lanka (South Coast)

Sri Lanka’s southern coastline transforms in November as the rains fade and sunny skies take over. This shift marks the start of the dry season, especially in beach havens like Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Tangalle making it one of the best places for a November beach escape.

Picture palm-fringed bays, stilt fishermen on the horizon, and beachfront cafés serving up fresh seafood and mango lassis. Whether you are here to surf, sunbathe, or go whale-watching, the vibe is unhurried and authentic.

Why go in November?

Dry season returns to the south, offering prime beach conditions and warm ocean temperatures, ideal for relaxing or adventure.

9. Mexico (Riviera Maya)

November in Mexico’s Riviera Maya means the end of hurricane season and the beginning of beach bliss. The region including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum boasts powdery white beaches, clear turquoise waters, and an electric nightlife.

It’s also one of the best November beach destinations for culture lovers, with nearby Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza and Tulum ruins adding depth to your trip. Swim in cenotes (natural sinkholes), snorkel in coral reefs, or just unwind in a hammock with a cold margarita.

Why go in November?

Reliable sunshine, post-monsoon freshness, and great travel deals make the Riviera Maya a top pick for a November beach getaway.

10. Hawaii (Maui or Oahu)

While much of the U.S. braces for winter, Hawaii is still glowing. November is a sweet spot: before peak season crowds and just as the waves start to roll in.

Maui offers a more tranquil, nature-focused escape, while Oahu delivers vibrant city beaches like Waikiki, alongside historic sites and surf culture.

The sea remains warm for snorkeling and swimming, and humpback whale season begins in late November.

Why go in November?

Hawaii in November gives you tropical weather, lower rates than December, and the chance to see the islands in a more relaxed state.

11. Australia (Byron Bay & Noosa)

As spring gives way to summer, Australia’s east coast beaches begin to buzz. November is a shoulder month, making it one of the best times for a beach holiday in Australia without the peak-season prices.

Byron Bay offers boho vibes, dolphin sightings, and surf-perfect waves, while Noosa on the Sunshine Coast charms with golden sands, calm waters, and stylish boutiques.

With long daylight hours and temperatures in the high 20s, it’s perfect for beach hopping and coastal hikes.

Why go in November?

Warm weather, fewer domestic tourists, and great surf make it a top choice for a laid-back November beach vacation.

12. Zanzibar, Tanzania

For those dreaming of palm trees and spice-scented breezes, Zanzibar is pure magic. By November, this Indian Ocean archipelago is shifting from its short rainy season into sun-soaked days, making it a hidden gem among the best November beach destinations.

The beaches are postcard-worthy, think sugar-white sand and turquoise waters, especially in Nungwi and Paje, both perfect for swimming or kitesurfing. Explore Stone Town’s Swahili-Arabic architecture or take a dhow cruise at sunset. The vibe is relaxed, the seafood is fresh, and the sea is warm.

Why go in November?

A quiet shoulder season, with ideal beach weather and fewer crowds plus a cultural twist that sets it apart from typical island getaways.

13. Florida Keys, USA

Just a short drive from Miami, the Florida Keys offer a tropical escape without leaving the U.S. November is prime time here: hurricane season is over, humidity is low, and the breezes are warm.

Key West blends beach relaxation with quirky charm and vibrant nightlife, while Islamorada and Marathon cater to fishing fans and snorkelers.

Hit the beach by day and enjoy fresh seafood as the sun goes down all without the winter chaos of December.

Why go in November?

The ideal mix of sunshine, lower hotel rates, and comfortable weather it’s one of the best beach getaways in November for U.S. travelers.

14. Vietnam (Phu Quoc Island)

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, emerges from monsoon season just in time for a beachy November escape. With palm-lined shores, lush jungle interiors, and resorts ranging from budget to ultra-luxe, it’s a rising star among best November beach destinations in Southeast Asia.

Relax on Sao Beach or catch the sunset at Long Beach. Seafood lovers will find paradise at the local night markets, while snorkelers can explore the vibrant coral reefs just offshore.

Why go in November?

The dry season begins, offering sunny skies and warm water and it’s still under the radar compared to Thai or Bali hotspots.

15. Costa Rica (Nicoya Peninsula)

November marks a beautiful transition in Costa Rica: the rain is easing, and everything is still lush and green. It’s a great time to visit the Nicoya Peninsula, home to beach towns like Santa Teresa, Tamarindo, and Nosara.

These Pacific Coast gems mix surf culture with wellness retreats and boutique stays. Wildlife lovers can spot monkeys in the trees or sea turtles nesting on the beach.

It’s a more adventurous pick among the best November beach destinations, perfect for those who like nature with their sunshine.

Why go in November?

The “green season” ends, but prices haven’t soared yet enjoy tropical beaches and eco-friendly charm with fewer tourists.