Maldives
Maldives
A natural candidate for reef-focused diving and couples’ escapes.
- Surf
- 8 out of 10
- Dive
- 10 out of 10
- Freedive
- 8 out of 10
- Best months
- Jan to Dec
February · Winter sun + romance
Valentine’s and half-term winter ocean escapes.
If February means grey skies and a wetsuit at home, there is another option: build the month around warm water. February is particularly attractive for diving and for couples, with Indian Ocean islands typically settled and Central America in its dry season.
The Indian Ocean’s north-east monsoon generally continues; Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is in its dry season. Atlantic islands remain mild with winter swell.
Half-term holidays in many European countries make February busy for families. Book early. Valentine’s trips suit the Maldives, Seychelles and Mauritius.
Maldives
A natural candidate for reef-focused diving and couples’ escapes.
Sri Lanka
South-coast surf season generally continues, with safari add-ons.
Seychelles
Warm, humid north-west monsoon months; calm days suit snorkelling.
Mauritius
Warm summer lagoons and five-star resorts; monitor cyclone forecasts.
Costa Rica
Dry season, for surf, rainforest and wellness.
Spain
Short-haul winter sun and consistent swell.
Leave winter behind and build the month around warm water, then let your dive priorities shorten the list.
One of you wants to surf at sunrise. The other wants coffee and a slow morning. You do not need separate holidays.
When Europe is cold, different coastlines come into season. How to match the month to the coast, short-haul or long.
Shortlisted a destination for February? Read its destination page for surf, diving, freediving, luxury and planning notes.