A winter team-building retreat is a no-brainer if you’re looking for fewer crowds, cheaper prices and maximum availability.
When you organise a company offsite retreat during the off-season months, not only do you save money, but you also receive better service from your chosen venue. With fewer guests to care for, your host can focus all of their attention on you and your employees.
So don’t wait for the best hotels to fill up with summer crowds.
Start planning your winter offsite retreat today with this list of the 20 best winter retreat destinations in the world.
1. Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria is one of eight islands that comprise the Canary Islands, an autonomous Spanish archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just off the northwest African mainland. In 2021, approximately 1.8 million tourists visited Gran Canaria to soak up the year-round sunshine and explore the island’s stunning beaches.
The topography of the island consists of a centralised mountain peak that descends in ravines towards the coast. In the north, you’ll discover rugged coves and a striking coastline which are havens for cyclists and hikers. In the south, meanwhile, manicured golden sands and turquoise waters lay the foundation for adventurous activities like scuba diving, surfing, sailing and windsurfing.
The island enjoys a privileged climate throughout the seasons, making it an excellent location for an off-season team-building retreat. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures sitting around 16°C (61°F), while the shoulder season months boast average daytime temperatures between 17°C (63°F) and 19°C (66°F).
Average off-season temperatures in Gran Canaria
2. Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is the third largest Hawaiian Islands, an archipelago of eight main islands located in the Central Pacific. It supports the largest population in Hawaii and attracts one of the highest volumes of tourists. The island is famous for its soothing island vibe, stunning tropical landscape, sandy beaches, turquoise waters and lively nightlife.
The great thing about Oahu is there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. The rugged volcanic landscape and its network of breathtaking hiking trails offer a playground for outdoor adventurers, while the impressive culinary scene caters to the ‘foodies’ in your team. There’s also an overwhelming choice of group activities if you want to inject some adrenaline into your company retreat. A surf lesson in Waikiki, for example, is a must when visiting this tropical surfing mecca.
The island’s tropical climate means you can travel to Oahu during any month of the year and expect pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. March and December are the wettest months, but with the mountains pocketing most of the rain, you won’t have a problem finding a sunny cove to lie on.
Average off-season temperatures in Oahu
3. Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, an archipelago of eight main islands situated off the northwestern coast of Africa. It’s dominated by Mount Teide, a volcanic peak that rises in the centre of the island. Historic volcanic activity has helped sculpt this luscious landscape of exotic foliage and black and white sandy beaches.
A typical team-building retreat to Tenerife will see your team gather on the outer slopes of the island within a short distance of the ocean, just like the majority of Tenerife residents. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s only major city, is a major transportation hub with a lively nightlife scene. From here, your team can embark on a variety of team-building activities like surfing, sailing charters, wine-tasting experiences and more.
The island enjoys a subtropical climate, resulting in dry and sunny conditions for most of the year. The northeastern slopes of the mountain receive the highest quantities of rain, resulting in a vibrant green covering of tropical vegetation. The rest of the island is dry, with Santa Cruz de Tenerife receiving less than 1 inch of rain during December, the island’s wettest month.
Average off-season temperatures in Tenerife
4. Miami, Florida
Miami is an affluent, contemporary port city at the southeastern tip of Florida. Its proximity to Latin America has seen it evolve into a vibrant cultural hub, with over 150 different ethnicities now residing in the city. This cultural amalgamation has produced a lively nightlife and a diverse gastronomic experience. Here, mouthwatering flavours and musical influences emerge from Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean.
But it’s not just the food and music in Miami that makes you feel like you’re in the Caribbean. Here, your employees will encounter glistening turquoise waters and palm-tree-lined beaches buzzing with activity. Miami is about creating unforgettable shared experiences with your team, whether that’s cruising down the river in a speedboat or feasting on local delicacies on a guided food tour.
Another reason we love to host company retreats in Miami is the comfortable year-round climate. Even during the coldest months, temperatures rarely drop below 20°C (68°F) during the day. Miami is considered to have a “tropical monsoon climate” which means its seasons are broken up into just two: the wet season and the dry season. The official dry season in Miami starts in December and ends in March.
Average off-season temperatures in Miami
5. Madeira, Portugal
Madeira is a Portuguese island cluster located in the North Atlantic Ocean. A flight from Lisbon to Funchal, Madeira’s capital city, is just one hour and 45 minutes, making it easy to assemble your team for an unforgettable offsite retreat.
The four volcanic peaks rise from an abyssal ocean floor, penetrating the water’s surface in a flurry of black sand and tropical rainforest. Discovering the island’s natural beauty is a priority for most travellers, a feat easily accomplished thanks to the variety of group activities on offer. Here, your team can embark on a guided hike, explore the coastline in canoes, spot whales and dolphins, learn to surf, and much more.
Madeira is well known for its pleasant year-round climate. The southern regions are the warmest, particularly around the bay of Funchal where the majority of mainstream hotels are located. Daytime temperatures in the winter/autumn are comfortable, hovering around 20°C (66°F) from November to April.
Average off-season temperatures in Madeira
6. Málaga, Spain
Málaga is a cosmopolitan city located in the Andalusian region of southern Spain. It is the heart of the Costa del Sol region, an area renowned for brilliant sunshine, sandy beaches and lively nightlife. It’s also home to an international airport, making it easy to fly in your team for a company retreat.
The historic centre of Málaga is totally pedestrianised, which means you can explore it in peace, without having to dodge cars and bicycles. Segway tours are popular, where you can follow a knowledgeable local guide to all the must-see areas like Calle Larios and Gibralfaro Castle. The nearby beaches and surrounding countryside supply a number of high-octane activities such as surfing and canyoneering to the thrill seekers in your team.
One of the main draws for tourists is Málaga’s beautiful climate. Sandwiched between the Mediterranean Sea and the expansive Montes de Málaga, the city is blessed by warm year-round temperatures. The majority of precipitation arrives during the winter, with the wettest months bringing approximately 5 days of rain.
Average off-season temperatures in Málaga
7. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is an outdoor adventure playground set within the Sonoran Desert on the western edge of the Coachella Valley. It’s popular with second-home owners and high-profile celebrities for its abundance of leisure activities and exuberant lifestyle.
This is where people come to enjoy life, making it the ideal place to treat your team during an offsite retreat. There are many activities in Palm Springs for your employees to enjoy, from high-octane ATV rides through the desert to a relaxing tram car ride to the summit of Mount San Jacinto.
Palm Springs is an especially popular winter destination on account of its sunny year-round climate. The summer is scorching, with temperatures often reaching above 40°C (104°C), but the winters are cool and dry.
Average off-season temperatures in Palm Springs
8. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a country in Central America characterised by immense mountain ranges, volcanic peaks, colourful wildlife and sandy beaches. It has become hugely popular with holidaymakers—particularly those travelling from Canada and the United States—for its beautiful nature, fair climate and active lifestyle.
In recent years, a wave of young entrepreneurs has swept the country, resulting in the establishment of trendy cafés, restaurants and accommodations. This, combined with the variety of adventurous activities on offer, makes Costa Rica a prime team-building retreat location.
The climate in Costa Rica is hot all year round. There are two seasons: the dry season, which lasts from December to April; and the west season, which lasts from May to November. The Pacific coast to the west is the most dependable, whereas the eastern coast is wet for most of the year.
Average off-season temperatures in Costa Rica
9. Sicily, Italy
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, located just off the “toe” of Italy’s “boot”. It’s home to one of the world’s most active volcanos, Mount Etna, the presence of which has significantly influenced the island’s dramatic landscape. Sicily is a year-round tourist destination, popular for its subtropical-Mediterranean climate, rich culture, warm waters and stunning beaches.
A company retreat to Sicily allows your employees to unwind and reset. Once your group starts sampling the local wines and soaking up the Mediterranean sun, they’ll have no problem leaving the stresses of the office behind them. To make the most of your visit, we recommend you try the incredible group activities on offer such as a guided food tour or a stand-up paddleboarding lesson.
Sicily is an indisputable winter getaway destination, blessed by 2,500 hours of yearly sunshine. Naturally, summer delivers the warmest temperatures, but with that come crowds. Winter, on the other hand, produces a pleasant climate without the hordes.
Average off-season temperatures in Sicily
10. Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, a scenic archipelago positioned off the coast of eastern Spain. The island is beautiful and a popular year-round tourist destination, characterised by precipitous cliffs, enchanting coves, pine forests and fertile valleys.
The island's capital city, Palma, is easy to get to from anywhere in Europe and provides a comfortable urban hub to base your offsite retreat. Within a one-hour drive, your team can discover the local island attractions and group activities such as bicycle tours, treetop adventures, stand-up paddleboarding lessons and more.
Rainfall in Mallorca amounts to just 400 millimeters per year, and the sun is almost always shining. In the winter, temperatures drop slightly and the summer crowds disperse. This allows your team to focus on work and enjoy this Mediterranean gem in peace.
Average off-season temperatures in Mallorca
11. San Diego, California
San Diego is a scenic coastal city in southern California, renowned for its natural beauty, comfortable year-round weather and fascinating history. It’s a thriving urban area located just north of the Mexican border, home to a cosmopolitan population of European, Hispanic, Asian and African descent.
The city is well-accustomed to visitors, welcoming an average of 35+ million tourists per year. Many come to embrace the area’s natural beauty or to learn to surf, while others arrive in search of world-class shopping districts, cultural attractions and tasty cuisine. San Diego’s fair weather, impressive geography and lively urban lifestyle make it an ideal destination for an offsite retreat filled with exciting team experiences.
The climate in San Diego is remarkably consistent, making it a great year-round company retreat destination. July, August and September are the hottest months, producing warm temperatures and clear blue skies, while the rest of the year is slightly cooler, dry and often cloudy.
Average off-season temperatures in San Diego
12. Tampa, Florida
Tampa is situated on the northern shore of Tampa Bay in west-central Florida. It’s a major tourism hub offering an overwhelming variety of things to do. Here, you’ll find theme parks, museums, restaurants and a bar on every corner.
If you’re planning an offsite retreat, you must consider Tampa. The variety of activities and experiences ensures there’s something here to keep every employee entertained. Those looking to unwind can take a relaxing stroll along the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk, while those looking for an adrenaline boost can ride the rollercoasters at Busch Gardens Tampa.
Another reason to visit Tampa is the excellent year-round weather. The climate is considered subtropical-tropical. This results in hot (sometimes wet) conditions in the summer and cooler, dryer conditions in the winter.
Average off-season temperatures in Tampa
13. Alicante, Spain
Alicante is a Mediterranean port city located on Alicante Bay, southeastern Spain. With the ocean on your doorstep and an ancient city centre to explore, this humble coastal city promises an offsite experience like no other.
The most remarkable thing about Alicante is its long history and cultural heritage. Since it was founded by the Phocaean Greeks in 325 BC, It has been occupied by various forces including the Romans, the Moors and the French. A walking tour through the city is the best way to discover the many ancient structures and artefacts such as the Baroque Town Hall, the Church of Santa Maria and the citadel of Santa Bárbara.
Alicante is blessed with hot and dry summers and short, mild winters. The reliable year-round weather allows your team to enjoy team-building activities like catamaran cruises, wine-tasting experiences and canyoneering at any time of year.
Average off-season temperatures in Alicante
14. Baja California, Mexico
Baja California (Lower California in English) is a Mexican state peninsula, bounded by the state of California on the northern side and Baja California Sur to the south. It’s home to a compelling desert landscape intersected by dazzling oases and sandy coves.
The booming resort of Los Cabos is perhaps one of the straightforward locations for a company offsite retreat. This modernised resort puts your team within striking distance of boutique hotels, stunning beaches, top-rated restaurants and a variety of outdoor and urban activities like surfing and diving.
Winter is an excellent time to visit Baja California. Temperatures are cooler at this time of year and rainfall is scarce. Perhaps the best reason to visit during the winter is to observe the annual whale migration, which occurs from December to April.
Average off-season temperatures in Baja California
15. Nice, France
Nice is a popular Mediterranean city break destination located in the venerated Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France. The site is nestled between beautiful green hills and the warm turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The central location and busy international airport make it easy for distributed teams to congregate in Nice for an offsite retreat. Once your employees have landed and checked into their accommodation, they’ll spend relaxing afternoons absorbing the sunshine, sipping local wines and strolling along the charming Promenade des Anglais. Other essential activities in Nice include a guided walking tour, a glamorous yacht cruise and an adrenaline-fuelled whitewater rafting experience in the Gorges du Verdon.
The mild Mediterranean climate in Nice allows your team to enjoy these activities throughout the year. Autumn delivers the most rain, with some 135 millimetres arriving in October, while the spring and winter months are comparatively dry and mild.
Average off-season temperatures in Nice
16. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is the second most populous city in the United States, often described as the quintessential American city. People emigrate here from every corner of the globe to improve their quality of life and pursue their dreams.
When you arrive in Los Angeles, you get the overwhelming impression that anything is possible. There are hotels of every calibre, indoor and outdoor activities, lively bars, relaxing restaurants, busy shopping districts, wineries, breweries and more! The diversity of things to do, combined with the city’s well-designed infrastructure, makes it an attractive company retreat destination.
The weather isn’t bad either. With nearly 300 sunny days per year and an altogether benign climate, Los Angeles is a safe bet if you’re planning a company retreat in the winter. February is the wettest month, producing approximately 5 days of rain.
Average off-season temperatures in Los Angeles
17. Marseille, France
Marseille is a unique port city located in southern France, west of the French Riviera. It's home to a spirited cosmopolitan community with a reputation for being fiercely proud of its heritage. But pride doesn’t equal stubbornness. In fact, Marseille has always embraced change and remains open to new ideas to this day.
The city centre, comprised of winding cobblestone streets and modern street art, reflects this open-minded mentality. During an offsite retreat in Marseille, your team can experience unique group activities such as scavenger hunts and escape rooms, as well as seafront experiences like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and boat tours.
While not the hottest winter destination on this list, the pleasant year-round climate makes Marseille one of our favourite European company retreat destinations. Summers here are hot, tempered by a cooling breeze, while winters are cool and dry with the occasional blanket of early morning frost.
Average off-season temperatures in Marseille
18. Seville, Spain
Seville, the birthplace of Flamenco, is southern Spain’s largest and most important city. It’s a major inland port home to 700,000 inhabitants, famous for its iconic Mudéjar structures such as the Alcázar de Sevilla, Giralda Tower and Torre del Oro.
Well known for having the largest historical centre in Europe, Seville is a paradise for history lovers. Amidst the maze of narrow cobbled streets and enclosed squares, your team will discover a patchwork of Gothic, Moorish and Catholic architectural styles, as well as a myriad of exciting team-building activities.
Despite officially being a Mediterranean city, the weather in Seville more resembles that of a North African settlement than one of Europe. Summers are extremely hot and dry, which, on the hottest days, can make exploring the city sticky and uncomfortable. A winter team-building retreat to Seville, however, offers mild daytime temperatures and chilly nights.
Average off-season temperatures in Seville
19. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a multicultural city in southeastern Louisiana. The Black and African American population greatly influenced the city’s heritage including the musical, architectural, lexical and gastronomic traditions. It’s perhaps best known as the birthplace of Jazz, a musical genre popularised by musical greats such as Louis Armstrong and Ellis Marsalis.
Millions of tourists visit New Orleans each year, drawn by the city's exuberant spirit, colourful carnivals and rich musical history. It’s now a major tourist resort, offering an endless array of unique group activities including axe throwing, glassblowing, kayaking and fishing charters.
The weather, too, makes it an appealing company retreat destination. The summers are very long, with the hottest months lasting from May until October. Winters, meanwhile, are short and cool, with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C (59°F).
Average off-season temperatures in New Orleans
20. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas (commonly known as Vegas) is an iconic American city located in the State of Nevada. It was founded in the 20th century and has grown rapidly to become the country’s fastest-growing metropolis. Today, Las Vegas is a colourful spectacle of neon lights, world-class entertainment and larger-than-life characters.
According to essayist and novelist Joan Didion, Las Vegas is the city of “instant gratification.” As far as we’re concerned, this makes it the perfect place for your employees to let their hair down on an offsite retreat! In this one-of-a-kind city, your team can take part in any number of unforgettable experiences from desert off-roading to indoor rock climbing.
And because you’re in Las Vegas, there’s little chance of a rain shower spoiling your fun. Rainfall in this desert city is scarce, amounting to just 105 millimetres per year. Summer is scorchingly hot, and winters are warm with freezing nights.
Average off-season temperatures in Las Vegas
Don’t let winter get in the way of team building
Team-building isn’t seasonal—It shouldn’t stop when the holiday season is over.
In fact, winter is precisely the time of year when employees need the most support.
The shorter days and limited sunshine can cause employees to feel unhappy and uninspired, resulting in reduced productivity and increased employee absenteeism.
The best way to lift employee spirits during the winter is to organise a sunny offsite retreat.
The vitamin D from the sun, combined with an exciting schedule of group activities, help ignite creativity and boost morale, ensuring your employees remain productive throughout the cruel winter months. When your team returns to the office, they’ll be feeling refreshed and inspired, ready to complete their best work.
To start organising your next winter offsite retreat, reach out to one of our specialist retreat planners today.
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