There are stunning places across the globe where the sun shines for more than 300 days a year, offering bright, warm weather nearly year-round. Whether you’re seeking serene beaches, vast deserts, or bustling cities drenched in light, these sun-drenched countries are sure to inspire your next adventure. From the Mediterranean to the deserts of Africa and the Americas, here’s our roundup of the top 10 countries that promise a golden escape no matter the season.
1. United States (Arizona and Nevada)
With their vast desert landscapes, Arizona and Nevada are havens for sunshine lovers. Phoenix, Arizona, boasts over 300 sunny days annually and is known for its warm winters and hot, dry summers. The dry desert air keeps rain at bay, and even winter days are bright and inviting. Las Vegas, Nevada, offers similar sunshine stats, making it an ideal destination for those who love outdoor adventures or poolside lounging with minimal interruptions from the weather.
- Sunny Cities: Phoenix and Las Vegas are among the sunniest places in the world.
- Average Sunny Days: Over 300 sunny days per year.
- Climate: Dry, desert climates with mild winters and very hot summers.
2. Australia
Perth, on Australia’s western coast, is celebrated for its Mediterranean climate, offering long, sunny summers and mild winters. The city receives more hours of sunshine than any other Australian capital—over 3,200 annually. Whether exploring white-sand beaches, sipping wine in nearby Margaret River, or strolling Kings Park, sunshine is nearly guaranteed year-round, making it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Sunny Regions: Perth, Western Australia.
- Average Sunny Days: Perth averages 8 hours of sunshine per day and over 3,200 hours annually.
- Climate: Mediterranean climate in Perth; tropical climates in Northern Australia.
3. Spain
Spain’s southern regions, like Costa del Sol and Almería, are renowned for their endless sunshine. The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, enjoy subtropical climates with over 300 sunny days per year. These regions offer warm winters, mild breezes, and abundant daylight, perfect for beach escapes or exploring historic towns. It’s no surprise these sunny locales are favorite European holiday destinations.
- Sunny Regions: Costa del Sol, Almería, and the Canary Islands.
- Average Sunny Days: Over 300 sunny days annually, especially in southern Spain.
- Climate: Warm Mediterranean or subtropical climates.
4. Namibia
Namibia is one of the sunniest countries in the world, with its vast deserts and open skies. The Namib Desert, one of the planet’s oldest, enjoys bright blue skies nearly every day of the year. The dry, semi-arid climate ensures little rainfall and makes Namibia a paradise for stargazing, desert safaris, and photography. It’s a destination where the sun shines almost relentlessly.
- Sunny Regions: Entire country.
- Average Sunny Days: Over 300 sunny days annually.
- Climate: Semi-arid desert climate with warm days and cool nights.
5. Egypt
With its rich history and near-constant sunshine, Egypt offers a warm, dry climate perfect for exploring ancient wonders. Luxor and Aswan, in the southern part of the country, experience some of the highest levels of sunshine globally, with nearly 4,000 hours annually. Winter days are mild and pleasant, while summer is intensely hot. Visitors can bask in the sunshine as they explore the Nile, temples, and ancient ruins.
- Sunny Regions: Luxor and Aswan.
- Average Sunny Days: Nearly year-round sunshine, averaging 4,000 hours annually.
- Climate: Arid desert climate with mild winters.
6. Chile
The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is one of the driest and sunniest places on Earth. Its otherworldly landscapes, clear skies, and high-altitude plains make it a dream destination for astronomers and adventurers alike. Sunshine bathes this region year-round, providing ideal conditions for hiking, exploring salt flats, and marvelling at unique geological formations.
- Sunny Regions: Atacama Desert.
- Average Sunny Days: Among the driest and sunniest places on Earth.
- Climate: Arid desert climate.
7. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE is synonymous with sunshine, with nearly year-round bright skies. Dubai and Abu Dhabi enjoy a hot desert climate, where even the cooler winter months are warm and sunny. The consistent sunshine makes it perfect for luxury beach resorts, desert safaris, or exploring the iconic skyscrapers. With cutting-edge attractions and guaranteed good weather, it’s a prime destination for sun-seekers.
- Sunny Regions: Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Average Sunny Days: Nearly 365 sunny days annually.
- Climate: Hot desert climate with mild winters.
8. Botswana
Known for its vast savannas and incredible wildlife, Botswana experiences clear, sunny days almost every day of the year. The dry season, from May to October, is particularly ideal for safaris, offering golden light and little to no rain. Visitors can soak up the sun while exploring the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, and other stunning natural landscapes.
- Sunny Regions: Throughout the country.
- Average Sunny Days: Around 300 sunny days annually.
- Climate: Semi-arid climate with warm and sunny days year-round.
9. Mexico
Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula is a sunny paradise, with regions like Cabo San Lucas enjoying over 320 sunny days annually. The warm desert-meets-ocean climate creates ideal conditions for beach lovers and adventurers alike. Whether lounging on pristine beaches, snorkelling in the Sea of Cortez, or hiking rugged landscapes, sunshine is a constant companion.
- Sunny Regions: Baja California, Cabo San Lucas.
- Average Sunny Days: Around 320 sunny days annually.
- Climate: Warm and dry in the north; tropical in the south.
10. Greece
Greece’s islands of Rhodes and Crete are famed for their sun-drenched days and rich history. With over 300 sunny days annually, these Mediterranean gems are perfect for year-round visits. Warm summers and mild winters make them ideal for exploring ancient ruins, sampling local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the azure waters of the Aegean Sea.
- Sunny Regions: Rhodes and Crete.
- Average Sunny Days: Over 300 sunny days per year in many islands.
- Climate: Mediterranean with warm summers and mild winters.
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. And, be excellent to each other.
Happy responsible travels!