By: Heather Keys
Want to find a November beach escape without the winter crowds?
Picture this: nine blissful islands, warm waters, and miles of sand practically to yourself. From the volcanic shores of the Canaries to secret coves in Belize, these spots are perfect for anyone craving sun, sea, and solitude.
So go ahead—ditch the parka, grab your swimsuit, and get ready to say “I had the beach to myself!”
Lanzarote, Canary Islands (Spain)
Lanzarote in November means warm days around 70–75°F, volcanic landscapes, and empty beaches. Known for its surreal, moon-like scenery, Lanzarote offers the quiet charm of the Canaries without the same crowds you’d find in Tenerife or Gran Canaria. The area has a distinctive art and architectural scene, thanks to the legacy of César Manrique. His works are embedded across the island in places like the Jameos del Agua, which combines volcanic caves with an open-air pool and café, making for a unique artistic experience.
Top Spots: Papagayo Beach is a must for its secluded coves and soft sands, perfect for lounging without the crowds. For an extra dose of solitude, Caletón Blanco features natural tidal pools formed by lava rocks, creating private little “bathtubs” for soaking.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
Photo by Kelsey Curtis on Unsplash
Off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, Isla Holbox is a car-free island with a low-key vibe and November temps around the mid-80s. Known for its sandy streets and laid-back attitude, Holbox is the perfect antidote to the busier beaches of Cancún or Playa del Carmen. November is just past the hurricane season, so you’ll enjoy beautiful weather with fewer visitors. Be sure to bring cash, as ATMs can be limited on the island!
Top Spots: Punta Mosquito is a secluded beach with miles of shallow waters, ideal for long, peaceful walks. Another can’t-miss spot is the Holbox Sandbar, where you can wade into beautiful water that stretches as far as the eye can see, practically all to yourself!
Salina, Italy (Aeolian Islands)
Photo by maia crimew on Unsplash
While most European beach spots are chilly in November, Salina stays mild with temps in the 60s–70s. It’s a quiet island with volcanic mountains, rocky shores, and natural pools, making it perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape with stunning natural views. Salina is slower-paced, so don’t expect wild nightlife or busy beaches. It’s more of a “sip wine, eat fresh seafood, and enjoy the view” kind of spot—perfect for a quiet November getaway.
Top Spots: Pollara Beach, famous for its stunning cliffside views, offers natural pools that are ideal for a refreshing dip. Lingua Beach, with its rocky shores and vibrant blue waters, is another must-visit, offering a saltwater lagoon nearby.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Photo by Meritt Thomas on Unsplash
Ambergris Caye in Belize is laid-back with tropical temperatures in the low 80s during November, ideal for beach bums and underwater adventurers alike. This Caribbean island is home to the Belize Barrier Reef, giving you access to world-class snorkeling and diving. November sits just before Belize’s dry season, so you might get an occasional rain shower, but it usually clears quickly, leaving more sunshine for your beach days.
Top Spots: Secret Beach, despite the name, is well-known but still relatively peaceful in November, with white sands and a few beach bars. Nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve is perfect for snorkeling; here, you can swim with turtles, rays, and other colorful sea life.
Isla de Vieques, Puerto Rico
Photo by Ethan Jameson on Unsplash
A short hop from the mainland, Vieques is known for its wild horses, secluded beaches, and the famous bioluminescent Mosquito Bay. With warm temps around 80°F, November offers beautiful weather without the crowds. For U.S. citizens, Vieques is an easy getaway—no passport required! Just be aware that transportation can be limited, so book ahead if you plan to take the ferry from the mainland.
Top Spots: Playa Negra, a rare black sand beach, is a scenic and peaceful spot for a swim. Another must-do is a night kayak tour at Mosquito Bay, where the water lights up in an otherworldly glow thanks to bioluminescent plankton.
La Gomera, Canary Islands (Spain)
Photo by Johannes Óvegur on Unsplash
Known for its rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and charming coastal villages, La Gomera is perfect in November with temperatures in the low 70s. It’s quieter than its neighboring islands, ideal for hikers and nature lovers looking for solitude. This island is best explored on foot or by bus, as it’s small but hilly. Bring your hiking boots to make the most of La Gomera’s dramatic landscape!
Top Spots: Playa de la Caleta, a hidden beach on the north coast, offers peace and calm waters. Charco del Conde is another beautiful spot with a lagoon-like natural pool that’s protected from ocean currents, making it perfect for a gentle swim.
Caye Caulker, Belize
Photo by Meritt Thomas on Unsplash
Small and easy-going, Caye Caulker in Belize is all about the simple life with no cars and warm November weather around 80°F. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a Caribbean escape with a slower pace. The island’s motto is “Go Slow,” and they mean it! Bring sandals, swimsuits, and a relaxed attitude—Caye Caulker is all about unwinding, with no rush or fuss.
Top Spots: The Split is a famous sandy area where the island was split in two by a hurricane, offering calm, clear water and a couple of beach bars. Shark Ray Alley, located just offshore, is a thrilling snorkeling spot where you can swim with friendly nurse sharks and rays.
- Want to spend more time in Caye Caulker? Read our guide to expat life on this little island!
São Vicente, Cape Verde
Photo by Datingscout on Unsplash
With warm November days averaging 80°F, São Vicente in Cape Verde is perfect for travelers looking for a unique island experience off the coast of Africa. Cape Verde is a melting pot of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences, and São Vicente feels vibrant yet wonderfully untouched. The area is famous for its music scene, especially morna music (imagine Cape Verde’s answer to the blues). November is ideal for finding live shows in Mindelo’s bars, giving you a taste of the island’s unique cultural vibe.
Top Spots: Laginha Beach in the town of Mindelo offers white sands, calm water, and local cafés along the shore. For something more secluded, head to Calhau Beach with its black volcanic sands and rugged surroundings—perfect for a peaceful escape.
Koh Yao Noi, Thailand
Photo by Peter Borter on Unsplash
Sandwiched between Phuket and Krabi in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Noi is a hidden Thai island with November temps around 85°F. It’s quieter and less touristy than its famous neighbors, with peaceful beaches and a distinctly local feel. Koh Yao Noi is small and easy to explore by scooter, which you can rent locally. You’ll find charming fishing villages and local restaurants, giving you a real taste of traditional Thai island life.
Top Spots: Pasai Beach, the main stretch of sand, is great for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. For an even more secluded experience, head to Tha Khao Bay, where limestone cliffs create a dramatic backdrop to calm, clear waters.
Over to you: what are your favorite islands to escape to? Share your stories and advice with the Frayed Passport community!
About the Author
Heather is a freelance writer who loves exploring the intersection of travel and history. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.
Featured image by Meritt Thomas on Unsplash
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