Sun holidays – there’s something magical about the thought of escaping grey skies and daily routines to bask in the warmth of the sun. Whether it’s a beach getaway in Spain, a villa retreat in the Greek Islands, or a tropical escape to the Caribbean, sun holidays are a cherished tradition for many British travellers. With a growing desire to recharge, explore, and unwind, these holidays are no longer just seasonal luxuries but year-round lifestyle choices. This guide explores what’s trending in the world of sun holidays, what travellers are searching for, and how social media is influencing holiday decisions like never before.
Why Sun Holidays Are More Popular Than Ever
The appeal of sun holidays has never really faded, but in recent years, their popularity has skyrocketed for a number of reasons. Firstly, post-pandemic travel saw an enormous boom in demand, especially for warmer destinations with open skies and clear waters. People were seeking simplicity – sunshine, beaches, good food, and a place to unplug.
Secondly, remote working has created a new breed of holidaymaker – digital nomads and hybrid workers who combine leisure with work. This trend has expanded the definition of a holiday, turning places like Portugal, Bali, and Tenerife into extended-stay hotspots. Thanks to budget airlines, flexible bookings, and a wealth of online travel content, sun holidays are more accessible and customisable than ever before.
Most Searched Sun Holiday Destinations Right Now
A deep dive into what people are searching for across YouTube, Google, and Quora shows clear patterns in destination trends. Some old favourites continue to dominate while new, emerging spots are gaining attention due to influencers and travel vloggers.
Spain remains a top pick – especially the Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza) and Canary Islands (Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria). With year-round sun and budget-friendly options, it’s easy to see why.
Greece is making a strong comeback. Islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu are constantly searched for their mix of stunning beaches, mythology, and Mediterranean food. Santorini, though pricier, remains popular for couples and honeymooners.
Turkey has grown in popularity due to its affordability and luxury resort offerings, especially along the Turquoise Coast in places like Antalya and Bodrum.
Portugal’s Algarve region is a hit for both families and retirees thanks to its safe environment, scenic coastline, and English-speaking locals.
Egypt and Morocco are drawing attention for winter sun holidays, providing heat, exotic culture, and short flight times from the UK.
On Google Trends, the keyword “best cheap sun holidays” spikes around January and again in late summer, indicating when Brits are most actively planning their escapes. On YouTube, searches such as “sun holiday deals 2025” and “what to pack for a beach holiday” continue to attract millions of views.
The Rise of Influencer Travel and Sun Holiday Trends on X and Meta
Travel influencers and bloggers have transformed the way people plan sun holidays. On X, trending hashtags like #BeachVibes, #SunChaser, and #TravelGoals often showcase curated travel moments, making specific destinations trend based on aesthetics and experiences rather than traditional tourism advertising.
Instagram and Facebook (Meta platforms) are flooded with reels and posts from influencers enjoying luxurious beachfront resorts or hidden coves. This has pushed lesser-known sun destinations like Albania’s Riviera or Montenegro’s Budva into the limelight. Locations once overlooked are now booming thanks to a single viral video or post.
Meta’s Groups and Marketplace features also offer a hub for travellers looking to swap tips or buy last-minute deals, especially for package sun holidays or villa rentals. Travel content is often paired with music, packing hacks, and itinerary breakdowns, catering to every type of holidaymaker from solo backpackers to families with toddlers.
Best Times to Book Sun Holidays for Maximum Value
Timing is everything when it comes to getting the best value on sun holidays. Historically, the cheapest months to travel are May, early June, and September, just outside the peak summer holiday window. This is when prices drop, temperatures are still warm, and destinations are less crowded.
The best time to book is typically 8–12 weeks in advance for short-haul travel and up to six months ahead for long-haul destinations. Flash sales and early booking incentives are common in January – often referred to as “Sun Sale Season” in the travel industry.
Last-minute deals still exist but are less common due to the high demand and dynamic pricing used by airlines and resorts. Apps and deal websites such as Travelzoo, Secret Escapes, and even TikTok travel communities often alert users to surprise drops in prices, making it easier for flexible travellers to snap up a bargain.
What Types of Sun Holidays Are Trending Now
The variety of sun holidays available has expanded drastically. It’s no longer just a choice between an all-inclusive resort or a self-catered flat. Here are some of the trending holiday styles that Brits are embracing:
All-Inclusive Resorts: Ideal for stress-free travel, especially with kids. Spain, Turkey, and Tunisia are leading destinations offering full-board options at unbeatable prices.
Boutique Beach Hotels: More intimate and curated, these are for those looking to escape the crowds and find something Instagram-worthy. Think eco-hotels in Bali or coastal spots in the Amalfi Coast.
Villa Holidays: Perfect for families or groups. Locations like the Algarve or southern Spain offer private villas with pools and sea views, often at great value when split among travellers.
Cruise Holidays: Combining sun, sea, and multiple destinations, cruises are making a major comeback. The Mediterranean and Caribbean routes are seeing a surge, particularly among over-50s.
Wellness Retreats: Yoga, detox, and mindfulness escapes are trending across Greece, Thailand, and Morocco. Many are booking these to break away from fast-paced city life and digital overload.
Solo Sun Travel: More people, especially women, are choosing to travel alone. Solo-friendly resorts and travel meetups are now common, and destinations like Costa Rica and Croatia have become popular choices.
Must Pack Essentials for a Perfect Sun Holiday
Packing can make or break a trip. Based on the most-viewed YouTube videos and influencer checklists, here are some items that have become must-haves for sun holidays in 2025:
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Reef-safe sunscreen
Portable power banks and travel adapters
Quick-dry towels and UV-blocking sunglasses
Waterproof phone pouches
Stylish yet practical swimwear
A reliable beach bag or backpack
Lightweight trainers or water shoes for excursions
People are increasingly searching for “minimalist packing for beach holiday” or “packing for one-week sun trip” – highlighting a shift towards smart and efficient travel.
Food and Culture on Sun Holidays
One of the reasons sun holidays remain so beloved is the combination of great weather and amazing cuisine. Eating alfresco with a sea breeze is a top-rated experience for many travellers.
In Greece, people rave about fresh seafood, grilled meats, and meze platters paired with ouzo or local wine. In Spain, beachside tapas and sangria top every list. Turkey delights visitors with grilled kebabs, baklava, and rich, sweet tea served by the sea.
Beyond food, the culture of relaxation is central. Afternoon siestas, sunset beach walks, and impromptu local festivals add layers of richness to the experience. The ability to absorb a different pace of life, even if just for a week, is part of the mental reset that sun holidays offer.
Sustainability and the Future of Sun Holidays
A growing number of travellers are now searching for eco-friendly sun holidays. From carbon offset options when booking flights to staying at solar-powered resorts, sustainability is becoming a decisive factor in where and how people travel.
Destinations like Costa Rica, Mallorca, and Madeira are leading the way in green tourism. Resorts are offering plastic-free stays, sourcing food locally, and encouraging low-impact excursions like cycling or guided nature walks.
As awareness grows, people are also seeking out slow travel – staying in one place longer to reduce emissions and support local economies. Platforms like Workaway and TrustedHousesitters offer unique ways to experience sun-drenched locations for extended periods without the cost of traditional accommodation.
Final thoughts
Sun holidays continue to hold a timeless appeal for UK travellers, offering a blend of rest, adventure, and cultural enrichment under blue skies. From trending destinations fuelled by social media buzz to personalised experiences and sustainable options, the sun holiday has evolved far beyond its traditional definition. Whether you’re chasing a weekend of warmth or a month-long escape, the modern sun holiday is all about flexibility, inspiration, and soaking up the moments that matter. As travel tools and trends shift, one thing remains unchanged – our enduring love for the sunshine.
FAQs
How do I book a Sun Holiday in 2025?
Booking a Sun Holiday is straightforward. Collect five codewords published in The Sun newspaper or via trusted sources. Once you have the codes, visit the official Sun Holidays website to enter them and access the booking page. You’ll need to select your preferred holiday parks and dates, typically choosing from Monday to Friday or Friday to Monday stays. It’s advisable to book promptly, as these budget-friendly holidays are in high demand.
Are Sun Holidays really just £9.50?
While the base price starts at £9.50 per person, additional costs may apply. These can include service charges, entertainment passes, and optional extras like bed linen. The total cost can vary depending on the chosen park, dates, and the number of people in your party. Despite these extras, Sun Holidays remain an affordable option for many families.
What destinations are available through Sun Holidays?
Sun Holidays offer a wide range of destinations across the UK and Europe. Popular UK locations include coastal resorts and countryside retreats, while European options encompass holiday parks in France, Italy, and Spain. Each park offers various amenities and activities, catering to different preferences and budgets.
What are the latest trends for Sun Holidays in 2025?
In 2025, there’s a noticeable shift towards “detour destinations,” where travelers explore less-known areas near popular tourist spots. Additionally, there’s an increasing interest in day trips and longer stays facilitated by remote work flexibility. These trends reflect a desire for unique experiences and more sustainable travel options.
Where can I find the latest Sun Holiday codes?
The latest Sun Holiday codes are published in The Sun newspaper during promotional periods. Additionally, websites like Leeds Mag provide up-to-date code listings and booking information. Staying informed through these sources ensures you don’t miss out on upcoming deals.
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