Whether you’re after short-haul escapes within a couple hours of Australia or long-haul adventures, there’s no shortage of sunny destinations for Aussies to visit in June, July and August. From tropical swims at Balinese beaches to late dinners in sizzling Sicily, these are the best places for winter sun overseas.

While winter settles in with heaters on full blast, and thick jumpers out, plenty of the world is still turning up the heat. Here’s where to go.

Bali hits just right during the Australian winter. While things cool off at home, it’s the perfect time to visit the Indonesian isle. It’s all dry-season warmth here, with salty air, early sun, and evenings that linger long past sunset.

June to August brings peak weather for beach swims, rice field wanders, and market snacking in places like Ubud and Canggu. Fancy a sunrise climb up Mount Batur? It’s the season for it. For Aussies chasing heat without the haul, Bali keeps it easy, warm and wonderfully familiar. It’s a classic pick for winter sun holidays from Australia.

Yogyakarta (or ‘Jogja’ as it’s fondly known) slows you right down. As the southern winter makes itself at home, it’s dry here: mornings already warm, streets already moving. Mid-year, the light hits Borobudur and Prambanan just right, and the maze-like alleys of the Taman Sari palace stay cool and quiet. You’ll find batik markets along Jalan Malioboro, gamelan echoing through the Kraton, and spicy gudeg simmering in roadside warungs. For Aussies skipping the usual island loop, this part of Java gives depth and a change of rhythm.

Pro tip: Combine it with a trip to Bali for the ultimate Indonesian adventure!

Koh Samui moves at a relaxed, beach-first pace during Australia’s winter. From June to August, the skies stay clear, the sea stays warm, and days stretch between swims, scooter rides and slow lunches. Start at Chaweng or Lamai, poke around the wooden shopfronts of Fisherman’s Village, then catch the late light near the Big Buddha. It’s great for Aussies craving warmth, salt, and a winter escape that doesn’t take much planning.

Australia’s cooler months line up with Da Nang’s dry season, with long, hot days made for beach swims and rooftop dinners. Base yourself near My Khe for early dips and noodle breakfasts, then head inland to explore caves and shrines tucked into the Marble Mountains. When night falls, grab a riverfront seat for the Dragon Bridge’s fire show or take the 40-minute drive to Hoi An for lantern-lit streets, tailored linen, and market meals under the stars. A great-value spot for warm overseas holidays in July and August.

In its drier season, Langkawi stays hot and lush, making it ideal for beach days that are broken up by the odd afternoon shower. Begin at Pantai Cenang with a swim or a jet ski, then head north to Tanjung Rhu for quiet water and shaded sands. Ride the cable car to the Sky Bridge for views across jungle and sea, or take a boat through Kilim Geoforest Park past limestone cliffs and fishing villages. For Aussies planning a good value winter escape, Langkawi delivers on scenery, price and easy vibes.

As winter sets in back home, Cebu stays hot, with warm mornings, frequent but short tropical downpours, and fewer crowds. Begin with a swim at Moalboal’s White Beach or snorkel alongside sardines off Panagsama Beach. Head inland for a canyoneering trip to Kawasan Falls, or take a boat to Sumilon Island for its shifting sandbar and bright water. Evenings are for lechon feasts and mango shakes in Cebu City. It’s a mix of food, sun, and fun for a mid-year overseas trip.

French Polynesia is all volcanic peaks, turquoise lagoons, and coral-fringed motus. First stop: Tahiti, where black-sand beaches meet waterfalls and bustling markets. From there, it’s a short ferry to Moorea, a favourite for its emerald mountains and snorkel-friendly lagoons. Bora Bora is the showstopper with its overwater bungalows, glassy shallows, and views of Mt. Otemanu. If you're searching for where to go for a winter honeymoon from Australia, this might just be the dream.

Fiji’s dry season brings warm days, low humidity, and calm seas that are ideal for a mid-year reset. Base yourself on the Coral Coast or hop over to the Mamanuca Islands for snorkelling, sailing, or just lazing under a palm. Inland, take a river safari along the Sigatoka or visit the geothermal pools in Savusavu. Evenings are for kokoda, kava, and sunset walks on the sand. It is one of the best tropical destinations in winter for Australians, and it is only a short flight away — for Australians, that is.

Crete feels just right in the northern hemisphere’s summer, with clear skies, late swims and food that’s best with sand still on your feet. Wade into Elafonisi’s pink shallows, hike through the cliffs of Samaria Gorge, then settle in at Chania’s Venetian harbour for grilled octopus and a plate of dakos. The ruins of Knossos bring the ancient world into view. It’s a mid-year Mediterranean escape that’s equal parts sunshine, culture and unfussy charm.

In Europe’s summer, this Mediterranean island is a vision of golden beaches, ancient ruins, and plates of pasta alla Norma or pistachio pizza under the stars. Swim at Cefalù or the Egadi Islands, hike up Mount Etna, and wander the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento. In Catania, the markets buzz with arancini and pistachio gelato, while Palermo’s Mondello Beach offers a laid-back seaside escape near town.

The Algarve rolls out warm weather and big skies just as things shift into winter back home. Wade into Praia da Marinha, kayak into Benagil Cave, or take in the sea cliffs along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. When the sun dips, order cataplana in a backstreet taverna or grilled sardines in Lagos. With more than 150 beaches and easy train connections, it’s a relaxed, sunny stretch for couples' winter sun escapes in Europe.