As winter slowly loosens its grip, Easter presents the perfect opportunity to escape the UK in search of warmth, blue skies and indulgent relaxation.
Whether you're planning a romantic break, a family getaway or a long-haul luxury retreat, Easter sun holidays offer the ideal balance of comfort, culture and sunshine before the height of summer. From short-haul European favourites to far-flung tropical islands, these Easter sun destinations combine pleasant spring temperatures with luxury resorts, pristine beaches and exceptional hospitality.
We challenged our Luxury Travel Specialists to come up with a list of the best places to go for Easter Sun, with options carefully selected to suit different travel styles and preferences. Read on to learn more.
When is Easter 2026?
Firstly, let's address the question of when Easter falls in 2026. Western Easter Sunday will fall on April 5th 2026, with Good Friday on April 3rd and Easter Monday on April 6th.
This relatively early date for Easter 2026 will have repercussions on people's travel plans, with those looking for Easter Sun Destinations potentially being forced to opt for destinations slightly further afield. We've taken this into account in our list of destinations you may want to consider if you are wondering where to go for Easter sun in the upcoming year.
Short Haul Easter Sun Destinations From the UK
For travellers seeking Easter sun without a long flight, the Costa del Sol remains one of the most reliable and rewarding options. Located in southern Spain, this sun-drenched coastline lives up to its name with mild temperatures, clear skies and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere which will very much be prevalent in April.
With flight times of just under three hours from the UK, the Costa Del Sol is perfectly suited to a short but restorative spring escape. Indeed, Easter is an especially appealing time to visit the Costa del Sol as it is a time of year where the region comes alive with cultural celebrations. These celebrations include the traditional Semana Santa processions where the streets come alive with religious processions, eyecatching floats and live music.
Another reason to choose the Costa Del Sol as your chosen Easter sun destination is that the beaches and resorts tend to feel much calmer at this time of year when compared to the peak summer months. Days are warm enough for lounging by the pool or dining alfresco, yet cool enough for exploring charming Andalusian towns such as Marbella, Mijas and Estepona.
Luxury resorts along the Costa del Sol offer refined spas, championship golf courses and elegant beachfront dining, making it an excellent choice for couples, friends or families seeking a sophisticated short-haul Easter sun holiday. With outstanding cuisine, rich heritage and dependable sunshine, this region continues to be one of the best Easter sun destinations from the UK.
Where to Go for Easter Sun for Couples
We have two destinations for you to consider if you are part of a couple searching for romance and tranquillity during Easter break. The final choice will ultimately come down to how far you wish to travel.
For a short-haul escape, Portugal's Algarve offers dramatic coastlines, golden beaches and intimate luxury resorts ideal for reconnecting and unwinding together. April brings warm, sunny days without the crowds of summer, creating a peaceful atmosphere which suits couples perfectly.
The Algarve is known for its striking cliffs, hidden coves and charming fishing villages, all of which provide a romantic backdrop for long coastal walks and sunset dinners. Elegant resorts here focus on privacy, fine dining and wellness, making them well suited to couples celebrating anniversaries or simply enjoying quality time away.
For those seeking an Easter sun destination who are more willing to travel further afield, Barbados in the Caribbean offers a long-haul alternative that feels effortlessly glamorous. With its powder-soft beaches, crystal-clear waters and laid-back sophistication, a
Barbados holiday is a timeless choice for couples. Easter temperatures hover in the high twenties here, while luxury resorts deliver world-class customer service, beachfront suites and exceptional dining experiences. Whether short haul or long haul, both of these Easter sun destinations offer couples the chance to have an unforgettable getaway..
Easter Sun Destinations for Families
When it comes to Easter sun holidays for families, Tenerife in the Canary Islands stands out as one of the best destinations. Just a four-hour flight from the UK, Tenerife enjoys year-round sunshine, making it a dependable option for school holiday travel.
Easter temperatures here are warm and comfortable, ideal for beach days and outdoor adventures without the intense summer heat. Tenerife also caters exceptionally well to families, with a wide range of luxury resorts offering spacious family suites, kids' clubs and child friendly pools.
Beyond the resorts, the island offers diverse experiences, from whale watching in the Atlantic to exploring the volcanic landscapes of Mount Teide National Park. The beaches, whether golden or black sand, are clean, safe and well serviced, allowing parents to relax while children enjoy the freedom of island life.
Easter in Tenerife also benefits from a relaxed pace and vibrant local culture, ensuring families enjoy both fun and cultural enrichment. As Easter sun destinations go, Tenerife combines convenience, comfort and variety, making it a firm favourite for family breaks.
Long Haul Easter Sun Destinations
For those dreaming of ultimate escapism, the Maldives is one of the most alluring long-haul Easter sun destinations in the world. Located in the Indian Ocean, this collection of coral islands offers unrivalled luxury, privacy and natural beauty. Easter marks an excellent time to visit, with dry weather, warm temperatures and calm seas perfect for watersports such as snorkelling and diving.
The Maldives is synonymous with overwater villas, turquoise lagoons and exceptional customer service. Easter sun holidays here are about slowing down and indulging in life's finer pleasures, whether that's dining under the stars, enjoying bespoke spa treatments or exploring vibrant marine life just steps from your villa. Many of the luxury resorts here offer tailored experiences for families and couples alike, ensuring a tailor made holiday experience.
While the journey is longer than with some of the other recommended Easter sun destinations, the reward is an unmatched sense of serenity and exclusivity. For travellers seeking a truly special Easter sun holiday, the Maldives delivers a level of refinement and relaxation that is difficult to surpass.
Where to Go for Easter Sun on the Beach
If your ideal Easter escape revolves around pristine beaches and warm Caribbean waters, then Barbados is unquestionably one of the best places to go for Easter sun. This island blends natural beauty with a welcoming atmosphere and refined luxury, making it a standout choice for discerning travellers.
Barbados boasts a diverse coastline, from calm, sheltered bays perfect for swimming to dramatic Atlantic beaches ideal for scenic walks. Easter brings dry, sunny weather and a vibrant yet relaxed energy across the island.
Beachfront holiday resorts offer direct access to soft sands, along with elegant dining, spa facilities and personalised service.
Beyond the beach, Barbados offers rich cultural experiences, from historic plantation houses to vibrant local cuisine and music. This balance of relaxation and discovery makes it one of the most fulfilling Easter sun destinations in the Caribbean. Whether travelling as a couple or with family, Barbados provides an unforgettable beach focused Easter sun holiday that will leave you feeling refreshed and energised.
Discover Your Perfect Easter Sun Holiday
Easter is one of the most rewarding times of year to travel, offering the chance to embrace sunshine, luxury and memorable experiences before the summer rush. From the easy elegance of the Costa del Sol and Algarve to the tropical allure of Barbados and the Maldives, these Easter sun destinations cater to every type of holiday maker.
With carefully selected resorts, personalised service and first hand knowledge, our Luxury Travel Specialists can help you create the perfect Easter sun holiday, tailored entirely to you. Start the exciting process of creating your
tailor made Easter break today with Elegant Resort.