Eagerly awaiting the return of warmer temperatures and sunny days? Why not skip the wait and discover where is hot in March instead?
From far-flung tropical islands and sizzling hot cities to European locales with warm spring climes, there are countless options. But with so much variety, it can be hard to choose. Let’s take a peek at my top ten picks including options for those on a tighter budget.
| Destination | Avg. temp | Avg. hours of sun | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Dominican Republic | 29°C | 9 | ||
| Bali | 29°C | 7 | ||
| Siem Reap | 28°C | 8 | ||
| Palau | 28°C | 8 | ||
| Cartagena | 27°C | 9 | ||
| Miami | 23°C | 9 | ||
| Nelson | 15°C | 6 | ||
| Lagos, Portugal | 15°C | 9 | ||
| Catania | 12°C | 5 | ||
| Crete | 15°C | 6 | ||
Where is hot in March: long-haul
While the Caribbean is a great choice for exotic sunshine, and Australia and Dubai are renowned for their hot weather throughout the year, there are plenty of other options to consider. Central and South America experience very warm weather in March, as does the African continent.
1. The Dominican Republic
- Average temperature in March: 29°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 9
Skipping across the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean region, the Dominican Republic is a dreamlike destination for many. With incredible crystal waters, lush, white sandy beaches and beautiful dense forests to hike through, the Dominican Republic really is a paradise.
Temperatures reach about 29.3°C on average during March, making it one of the warmest islands in the Caribbean. March also sits in the dry season, so it’s one of the most popular times to visit this fascinating country. Despite it being peak time to visit, you shouldn’t be deterred. You can easily escape the cruise ship crowds in Puerto Plata by hiking the island’s many trails or discovering its many secret coves.
Overall, the Dominican Republic is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation destination. It’s the kind of bucket list trip that is perfect for anyone looking to find somewhere hot in March to visit.
Find flights to the Dominican Republic
2. Bali
- Average temperature in March: 29°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 7
When it comes to incredible places to escape to for hot weather in March, Bali has long been on the list. Fly into Denpasar and discover why this island is the perfect spot for rest, relaxation and of course, some scorching-hot temperatures!
Expect plenty of heat during your stay as the temperatures during the day usually stay in the high 20s throughout March. For anyone worried about it being too hot and humid though, March also sits at the very end of the rainy season. This means you can expect the odd cloudy or rainy day. But why visit Bali if the weather isn’t guaranteed to be sunny? For one, March is just before the tourist season starts to kick off properly again. It’s also a great time of year for amateur surfers looking to build their skills by surfing in calmer swells around the island.
A trip to Bali is perfect to get away, relax, and maybe even indulge in a bit of light yoga or meditation, whilst still making the most of some very nice weather in March.
3. Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Average temperature in March: 28°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 8
Siem Reap is incredibly picturesque as is much of the landscape around this magical part of Cambodia. And let’s not forget about the incredible temple complex of Angkor Wat – one of Cambodia’s biggest and most beloved tourist attractions. If like me, you were very taken with a certain film adaptation of a popular video game which was filmed here, you’ll no doubt want to grab your map and explore!
Temples aside, March happens to be one of the warmest and best times of year to visit this corner of Cambodia. Siem Reap is an incredibly interesting and tranquil place, too. The city is the former royal capital of the Hinduist Khmer Empire. While the older ruins of structures like Angkor Wat have a noticeably Hindu character, you’ll find the ruins of several prominent Buddhist temples around Siem Reap which highlight the area’s diverse history.
Another major highlight of any Siem Reap trip is the food. You absolutely must try the local delicacies, with prahok (fermented fish paste) forming a key part of many dishes. The city is awash with affordable restaurants, plus its daily markets are the ideal places to sample some authentic street food.
4. Palau
- Average temperature in March: 28°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 8
Would you like to go somewhere truly a bit out there and off the edge of the map in March? Well, Palau might not quite be off the edge of the map but it’s definitely hard to find. It’s a microstate of 340 islands and islets of varying sizes and just so happens to be one of the best dive spots on the planet.
The iconic Rock Islands of Palau are quintessential Pacific paradises. They’re home to hundreds of different species of marine life and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get up close to them. Snorkel or scuba with the locals of Jellyfish Lake and Dolphin Bay. Visit incredible underwater wrecks. Swim in some of the most incredible crystal-clear waters on the planet. Or, sit back and relax on stunning stretches of coral or white sand beaches, basking in the glorious heat.
March is the perfect time of year to visit for diving as it’s at the tail end of the tourist season and a month before the wet and windy weather sets in. You’ll need to take a connecting flight from Guam to get to the islands but the added travel is well worth it for this tropical gem.
5. Cartagena, Colombia
- Average temperature in March: 27°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 9
Want to know where is it hot in March in South America? Look no further than Cartagena: the jewel in the glorious crown of Colombia. It’s a colourful seaside paradise and, quite frankly, a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Whether you choose to hop on the ferry and explore the beautiful Rosario Islands nearby or park yourself in the sun on Bocagrande and Calistogrande beaches, you’re sure to have an incredible time. And if you do happen to arrive when the city is particularly busy, fear not. There are more than a few ways to enjoy the sun and explore this beautiful city without getting stuck in a crowd.
If your hotel has a pool, plan some poolside relaxation during the hottest part of the day. Or get out and explore the incredible walled city of Puerta del Reloj while other tourists shy away from the heat.
6. Miami, USA
- Average temperature in March: 23°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 9
Where better to take a break from the cold of winter in March than Miami? This incredible port city at the tip of Florida offers a heavenly mix of sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, richly diverse local communities and, above all else, a lot of fun in the sun. March happens to be when things start to heat up again (although even in January temperatures are still normally around 20°C). Even if you’re not here to watch the Heat (the city’s basketball team), you can still expect plenty of it!
No trip to Miami would be complete without visiting the iconic South Beach. It’s home to the rich, famous and everyone else who wants to make the most of the glorious weather. For anyone looking to go somewhere a bit less popular, head to the quieter spots of Homestead, Bayfront Park or Key Biscayne.
You should also plan a trip out to the wild and wonderful Everglades National Park for a chance to encounter alligators, panthers and manatees. And don’t forget to try the iconic Cuban sandwich (Pan Cubano): a staple of Miami’s Cuban community.
7. Nelson, New Zealand
- Average temperature in March: 15°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 6
Throw the book, the map and the calendar all out of the window. If you’re looking for somewhere amazing, incredible and yes, quite hot to get away to in March, head to New Zealand. Or more specifically, the astonishingly beautiful and peaceful paradise of Nelson in the South Island. Nelson is easily one of the most incredible places to visit in a country which is not short of stunning beaches. Plus, March just so happens to be one of the warmest months.
With a breathtaking coastline, a beautiful historic city centre and stunning panoramas from nearly every vantage point, the bay area of Nelson is a tropical paradise. It even comes with its own tropical rainforest: the nearby Abel Tasman National Park. Make the drive there and hike through miles of incredible rainforest. Or get your adventure on and kayak between the park’s islands. You might even spot whales, dolphins and manta rays swimming alongside, and possibly underneath, you!
Where is hot in March in Europe
Europe starts to get noticeably warmer in March, especially on the islands of the Mediterranean, many of which are bucket list-worthy travel destinations. If you’re looking to for somewhere hot in March that’s short-haul, here are my top three picks.
8. Lagos, Portugal
- Average temperature in March: 15°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 9
If you’re looking for a destination with stunning beaches that also ticks the box for somewhere hot in Europe in March, look no further than lovely Lagos. The temperatures may not reach the lofty heights of summer but you will definitely be able to walk around comfortably in a T-shirt and shorts during the day. Swimming in the sea may require a little bit more bravery but there are plenty of sandy stretches to stroll along, such as Meia Praia and Porto de Mós.
Lagos has incredible nightlife and a vibrant party atmosphere during summer. However, visiting in March is great if you’d rather enjoy the quiet beauty of the old town without the crowds. Lagos is also easily reached from many airports across the UK with flights to Faro. From there, it’s just a simple transfer either by car or train up the Algarve coast.
All in all, Lagos might not have the scorching temperatures of destinations in the Southern Hemisphere. Nevertheless, it’s a great alternative that’s a lot closer to home and a lot cheaper to visit out of season.
9. Catania, Sicily
- Average temperature in March: 12°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 5
The island of Sicily is hands-down one of the greatest destinations in the Mediterranean. Dripping in rich history, luxurious food and wine and some exceptional weather, it is an ideal getaway during summer. But how does it compare in March? Well, in Catania, the weather is warm enough to comfortably explore the picture-perfect old city, with the temperatures pushing up to a very welcome high of 19°C.
Catania sits near the coast and has some amazing local history. Naturally, with this still being Italy, you can also expect to enjoy exceptional food during your stay. Needless to say, the island’s wine is also worth the trip. With its location at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania has some incredible geological and geographical features. There are two rivers that run under the city (the Amenano and the Longane), which help to fertilise the mineral-rich volcanic soil that enriches the incredible grapes grown in this part of Sicily.
Speaking of Sicily’s famous volcano, you can ski on Mount Etna in the winter and into spring. Anyone looking for a bit of adrenaline on their holiday should definitely consider hitting the slopes of this still-active volcano (and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean while you’re at it).
10. Crete, Greece
- Average temperature in March: 15°C
- Average hours of daily sun: 6
The largest Greek island is also one of the most southerly spots in Europe, making it a brilliant hot place to visit in February. Temperatures typically sit comfortably in the mid to high teens or low 20s, while the sea temperature is a pleasant 16°C – perfect for a refreshing dip.
Planning a Crete getaway in March will not only be cheaper and quieter, but it’s also a wonderful time of year to tick off the island’s hiking trails. Meander your way through Samaria Gorge or follow the Grand River down to Preveli Beach: one of south Crete’s most breathtaking beaches complete with swaying palm trees.
You’ll also have heaps of historic gems to tick off. Visit the Palace of Knossos without the usual summer crowds. Or spend an afternoon getting lost in Rethymno’s charming cobbled streets before sitting down to dine alfresco with a view of its ancient Venetian harbour.
Where is hot and cheap in March?
Hoping to get away somewhere hot in March but haven’t got much cash to splash? Your best bet will be somewhere in Europe such as Greece or Portugal. March sits within both countries’ low seasons, meaning flights and accommodation are also at their lowest prices. Check out KAYAK Explore for cheap flights for your preferred dates. They’re also some of the hottest locations in the region, making it a win-win for your wallet and your inner sun-seeker.
Find more destinations from the UK
Not sure you’ll get the chance to go away in March? Take a look at the best places to travel in April. Failing that, it’s never too early to start booking a summer holiday.
For more inspiration check out KAYAK’s travel guides. And for great value bookings, KAYAK is where you’ll find flights, hotels and car hire.
