8 Best Tropical Islands to Spend Christmas

Jingle All the Way to the Tropics: Best Christmas Island Getaways

As the cold winds and wintery snow settle in over much of the world, many travelers seek out a tropical escape for the holiday season. Swapping out scarves and gloves for swimsuits and sandals, spending Christmas on an island is a unique way to enjoy the holiday magic. From white-sand beaches to festive parades, each island offers its own blend of tropical bliss and Christmas cheer. Whether you're after a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or simply some sunshine, these eight tropical islands make the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Christmas.

1. Barbados: Christmas Cheer in the Caribbean

Barbados is one of the best Caribbean destinations for a tropical Christmas, combining traditional island vibes with festive charm. The island’s warm hospitality and idyllic scenery set the stage for a Christmas celebration that is both exotic and familiar, making it perfect for travelers looking to experience something new while holding onto classic holiday traditions.

What's Special About Christmas in Barbados

Barbados, known for its powdery white beaches and turquoise waters, comes alive during the Christmas season. The island’s Bajan culture is steeped in British traditions, reflected in the way locals celebrate. Expect plenty of Christmas carols, elaborate church services, and, of course, a hearty Christmas meal—Barbadian-style. One of the island's most famous events during the season is the "Great Cake" preparation, a traditional fruitcake soaked in rum and port.

Special Christmas Activities on Barbados

• Festive Foodie Experiences: Indulge in a tropical twist on Christmas dinner. Bajans enjoy savory dishes like ham glazed with pineapple, along with the signature Great Cake. Head to one of the many seaside restaurants that serve traditional Christmas meals with a view of the ocean.
• Carols by Candlelight: This beloved annual event takes place in the capital, Bridgetown, where locals gather to sing traditional Christmas carols in Queen’s Park. The warm, candlelit atmosphere adds a special touch of holiday magic.
• Christmas Markets: Barbados' Christmas markets are filled with local artisans offering handcrafted goods, perfect for picking up last-minute gifts or souvenirs.

‍Local Tips for Christmas in Barbados

• Book Early: Christmas is a busy time in Barbados, so it’s important to book accommodations and activities in advance. The island's many beachfront resorts and boutique hotels tend to fill up fast.
• Beach Day Tradition: Many locals celebrate Christmas Day with a trip to the beach. Join them at Carlisle Bay or Paynes Bay, where the crystal-clear waters make for a perfect post-lunch swim.

‍Swap snow for sand this Christmas in Barbados? Find out everything you need to know for the perfect holiday at Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide.

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2. Fiji: A South Pacific Christmas Adventure

Fiji is a dream destination for anyone looking to escape to the South Pacific for Christmas. This island nation offers a perfect blend of tropical paradise, welcoming locals, and rich traditions, making it an unforgettable place to celebrate the holiday season.

What's Special About Christmas in Fiji

Fiji’s stunning islands are world-renowned for their breathtaking scenery, but Christmas adds an extra layer of cultural warmth to the experience. While the islands are predominantly Christian, many Fijians celebrate Christmas with a unique mix of Western traditions and Fijian customs. Expect islanders to greet you with a warm "Merry Christmas" (or "Ni sa Moce") everywhere you go. The islands are also decorated with vibrant tropical flowers and lights, creating a festive yet relaxed ambiance.

Special Christmas Activities on Fiji

• Lovo Feast: A Fijian Christmas is incomplete without a Lovo feast. The Lovo is a traditional underground oven where meats, seafood, and vegetables are slow-cooked to perfection. Many resorts and local communities host Lovo feasts for visitors on Christmas Day, often accompanied by music and dance.
• Fijian Meke Performance: Experience the vibrant culture of Fiji with a Meke performance—a traditional dance and storytelling ritual performed during the holiday season. Resorts often organize special Christmas Meke shows for guests.
• Island Hopping: Spend Christmas exploring the Yasawa or Mamanuca islands, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons or relax on remote, untouched beaches.

Local Tips for Christmas in Fiji

• Attend a Church Service: Fijians are deeply spiritual, and attending a local church service is a great way to experience the island’s heartfelt Christmas celebrations. Services are often filled with lively hymns and traditional music.
• Bring Gifts for Locals: Fijians have a tradition of gift-giving during Christmas, and bringing small gifts or toys for children in local villages is a thoughtful way to immerse yourself in the community spirit.

Need help planning the perfect holiday escape to Fiji? Let Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide inspire your next adventure.‍

3. Maui, Hawaii: A Hawaiian Christmas Under the Sun

If you're dreaming of a Hawaiian Christmas, Maui offers the perfect combination of laid-back island vibes, lush landscapes, and festive holiday cheer. With palm trees strung with lights and Santa arriving on a surfboard, Christmas on Maui is as unique as it gets.

What's Special About Christmas in Maui

Maui’s tropical beauty is well-known, but what makes it special during Christmas is the blend of Hawaiian culture with Western holiday traditions. You'll find that Christmas in Maui retains a relaxed, aloha spirit, even amidst the holiday bustle. Visitors can enjoy everything from festive luaus to Christmas concerts with a ukulele twist. The island’s balmy December weather, averaging around 75°F, makes it ideal for outdoor celebrations, whether you’re hiking through Haleakalā or lounging on a beach.

Special Christmas Activities on Maui

• Christmas Luau: Hawaiian luaus are a year-round staple, but during Christmas, they take on a special flair. Enjoy a feast of kalua pig, poke, and other Hawaiian delicacies while watching traditional hula dancers and fire knife performances with a festive twist.
• Santa's Hawaiian Arrival: On Christmas Eve, head to Lahaina or Wailea Beach, where Santa arrives not by sleigh, but on an outrigger canoe or surfboard. It’s a must-see for kids and families!
• Holiday Tree Lighting and Festivities: Upcountry Maui, in the town of Makawao, hosts charming Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and holiday parades, offering a quaint, small-town feel amidst the tropical backdrop.

Local Tips for Christmas in Maui

• Attend a Hawaiian Church Service: Many local churches offer Christmas services that blend traditional Christian hymns with Hawaiian music, making for a unique and soulful experience.
• Book a Whale Watching Tour: December marks the start of whale-watching season in Maui. Christmas Day is the perfect time to set sail and spot humpback whales as they migrate through the warm Pacific waters.

4. St. Lucia: A Caribbean Christmas Paradise

St. Lucia, with its dramatic pitons, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, offers a Christmas experience that is as vibrant as it is relaxing. This island is perfect for those looking to celebrate the holiday in a serene and luxurious setting, surrounded by natural beauty.

What's Special About Christmas in St. Lucia

St. Lucia takes Christmas seriously, blending its rich Caribbean traditions with a festive spirit that’s contagious. The island is adorned with twinkling lights and decorations, and Christmas carols fill the air from early December. St. Lucians celebrate with gusto, and you’ll find everything from grand church services to street parties happening during the holiday season. The highlight of the festive season is the Festival of Lights, where locals illuminate their homes and streets with beautifully crafted lanterns.

Special Christmas Activities on St. Lucia

• Festival of Lights: Held on December 13th in honor of St. Lucia’s patron saint, this event is a stunning visual spectacle. Lanterns made by local artisans light up the streets, and the festival ends with fireworks over Castries Harbor.
• Christmas Beach Party: St. Lucians love to gather on the beaches during Christmas, with many resorts and local restaurants hosting beach parties that feature live music, bonfires, and festive buffets.
• Luxury Resort Christmas: Many of St. Lucia’s luxury resorts, such as Jade Mountain and Sugar Beach, offer all-inclusive Christmas packages, complete with private dinners, spa treatments, and festive activities.

Local Tips for Christmas in St. Lucia

• Join a Midnight Mass: St. Lucians are deeply religious, and attending a midnight mass is a great way to experience the island’s spiritual side. The service is often followed by caroling and community gatherings.
• Try Black Cake: This Christmas dessert, made with dried fruits soaked in rum, is a local favorite. Be sure to sample it at a local bakery or during a holiday meal.

Make this Christmas unforgettable by exploring St. Lucia. Head to Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide for all the insider tips!

5. The Maldives: Christmas in a Luxurious Island Hideaway

For a Christmas that’s all about luxury, relaxation, and unspoiled natural beauty, the Maldives is the ultimate destination. This tropical paradise, with its private overwater villas and turquoise lagoons, offers a Christmas experience like no other.

What's Special About Christmas in the Maldives

While the Maldives is a predominantly Muslim country, the holiday spirit is alive and well in the many luxury resorts that dot the islands. Christmas in the Maldives is all about indulgence, with lavish dinners, spa treatments, and private excursions. Resorts go all out with festive decorations, tree lightings, and special holiday events, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an exotic yet festive escape.

Special Christmas Activities in the Maldives

• Overwater Christmas Dinner: Many resorts offer private overwater dining experiences for Christmas, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal with your loved ones while watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
• Private Yacht Cruise: Charter a private yacht for a Christmas Day cruise around the atolls. You can snorkel, dive, or simply relax on the deck as you sail through the crystal-clear waters.
• Underwater Christmas: At select resorts like Anantara Kihavah, you can enjoy an underwater dining experience in an exclusive glass-walled restaurant, surrounded by marine life while enjoying your Christmas feast.

Local Tips for Christmas in the Maldives

• Book Spa Treatments in Advance: Christmas is a busy time in the Maldives, and spa appointments fill up fast. Be sure to book your holiday massage or wellness treatment ahead of time to secure your spot.
• Plan Excursions Early: Whether it’s a diving trip, snorkeling tour, or dolphin-watching cruise, Christmas is peak season, so planning your activities in advance is key to ensuring you don’t miss out.

6. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: A Christmas in Paradise

Bora Bora, often hailed as the jewel of the South Pacific, offers a luxurious and tranquil Christmas experience. With its pristine lagoons, overwater bungalows, and dramatic volcanic peaks, it’s a destination that feels like heaven on earth.

What's Special About Christmas in Bora Bora

Bora Bora’s stunning scenery alone is enough to make it an unforgettable Christmas destination, but the island’s luxurious resorts make the holiday even more magical. Many resorts decorate for Christmas with twinkling lights and festive displays, and visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional Polynesian culture and Western holiday traditions. From tropical-themed Christmas trees to feasts of fresh seafood, Bora Bora is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful holiday retreat.

Special Christmas Activities on Bora Bora

• Lagoon Christmas Dinner: Many resorts offer special Christmas dinners on floating platforms or private motus (islets) in the lagoon. Imagine dining on gourmet seafood under the stars, with nothing but the sound of the ocean surrounding you.
• Christmas Eve Fire Dance: Polynesian fire dancing is an ancient tradition, and during Christmas, many resorts put on special performances. This mesmerizing spectacle is paired with live music and festive Polynesian feasts.
• Cultural Island Tours: Get a glimpse of Bora Bora’s rich history and traditions by visiting local villages. Some tours offer insight into the island’s religious customs, including how Christmas is celebrated in a more traditional setting.

Local Tips for Christmas in Bora Bora

• Opt for a Private Bungalow: Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows are some of the most famous in the world. Christmas is the perfect time to splurge on one of these iconic accommodations, offering ultimate privacy and luxury.
• Attend a Local Church Service: Polynesian Christmas church services are filled with singing and joyous celebration. Many churches welcome visitors for their Christmas Eve services, which offer a glimpse into the island’s spiritual side.

Need help planning the perfect holiday escape to Bora Bora? Let Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide inspire your next tropical adventure.

7. Phuket, Thailand: A Festive Tropical Escape

For a vibrant and lively Christmas with a mix of beach fun and local culture, Phuket is an excellent choice. Thailand’s largest island, known for its golden beaches and lively nightlife, brings a unique tropical flair to the Christmas season.

What's Special About Christmas in Phuket

Phuket is predominantly Buddhist, but the island still embraces the holiday spirit with enthusiasm. Christmas lights, beach parties, and festive markets pop up all around the island, especially in popular areas like Patong Beach. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy both traditional Christmas events and the exotic charm of Thailand. The island's famed hospitality, combined with its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, ensures that visitors will have a memorable Christmas celebration.

Special Christmas Activities on Phuket

• Beachfront Christmas Feasts: Many resorts and beachfront restaurants offer elaborate Christmas buffets and dinners, featuring both Western holiday favorites and Thai delicacies like seafood curry and pad Thai.
• Christmas Parties in Patong: If you're looking for nightlife, Patong Beach is the place to be. The bars and clubs host lively Christmas Eve parties with live music, fireworks, and festive cheer.
• Sunset Cruises: Take a sunset cruise around the Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay on Christmas Day. You can sip cocktails and enjoy the breathtaking scenery as the sun sets over the Andaman Sea.

Local Tips for Christmas in Phuket

• Enjoy a Thai Massage: Treat yourself to a Christmas gift by indulging in a traditional Thai massage, available at many spas and resorts across the island.
• Explore Local Markets: Christmas is a great time to explore Phuket's bustling markets. You can pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs, and taste some of Thailand’s best street food.

Ready to pack your bags for a Christmas in Phuket? Get all the festive travel details you need at Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide!

8. Mauritius: A Christmas in the Indian Ocean

Mauritius, an island nation known for its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and multicultural heritage, offers a magical Christmas experience with a touch of Creole charm. Celebrating Christmas on this Indian Ocean gem means enjoying a mix of European traditions and local island culture.

What's Special About Christmas in Mauritius

Mauritius has a diverse population that celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm. From the streets lined with colorful lights to the smell of baked goods wafting through the air, Christmas on this island is a festive affair. Churches are packed on Christmas Eve for midnight mass, and the next day, families gather for feasts that mix traditional Creole flavors with classic Christmas dishes.

Special Christmas Activities on Mauritius

• Christmas Day on the Beach: Mauritians love to spend Christmas on the beach. Join locals at popular spots like Flic-en-Flac or Trou-aux-Biches for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and beachside barbecues.
• Festive Creole Feast: Christmas in Mauritius wouldn’t be complete without a Creole feast. Dishes like chicken curry, octopus salad, and spicy chutneys make for a unique holiday meal.
• Christmas Shopping in Port Louis: The capital city of Port Louis is buzzing with Christmas markets and festive decorations. Visit the Central Market to pick up locally made crafts, spices, and holiday treats.

Local Tips for Christmas in Mauritius

• Try Gateau Patate: This sweet potato cake, often served at Christmas, is a local delicacy you won’t want to miss. It’s available in bakeries across the island during the holiday season.
• Explore the Botanical Gardens: Spend a quiet Christmas afternoon wandering through the Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere.

Need help planning the perfect holiday escape to Mauritius? Let Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide inspire your next adventure.

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Whether you’re lounging on the beaches of Barbados, enjoying a Fijian Lovo feast, or marveling at St. Lucia’s Festival of Lights, spending Christmas on a tropical island offers a unique and magical experience. From cultural festivities to relaxing by the ocean, these islands provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable holiday.