Where to find the sun in September

If you’re not ready to let summer go, September is one of the best months to escape for a sunny holiday. With fewer crowds, lower prices, and warm weather still going strong in many parts of the world, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some late-season sunshine.

Whether you’re after a short European break or dreaming of something further afield, here’s where to find the sun in September.

Why travel in September?

Travelling in September has plenty of perks. Schools are back, so beaches and resorts are quieter. Flights and hotels often cost less than in peak summer. And the weather in many destinations is still sunny and warm, without being unbearably hot.

It’s the sweet spot for holidaymakers who want sunshine, relaxation, and good value.

7 Top sunny destinations in September

Looking for the best places to keep summer alive a little longer? From Europe’s golden beaches to tropical escapes further afield, these destinations guarantee sunshine, warm seas, and plenty of reasons to pack your bags. Here are seven of the best spots to find the sun in September.

1. Greek Islands

The Greek islands feel like summer was made for them, but September is when they really shine. The crowds thin, yet the sun still warms golden beaches and turquoise seas. 

Imagine strolling through whitewashed villages in Santorini, sipping wine as the sun sets over Oia’s cliffs. Or wandering Crete’s ancient ruins in comfort, before cooling off with a swim in crystal-clear waters. 

With average highs of 24°C, it’s still hot enough for lazy beach days, but cool enough to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Greece in September is laid-back, beautiful, and unforgettable.

2. Southern Spain

Spain’s south is a September treasure – golden light, warm evenings, and streets alive with flamenco music. The Costa del Sol offers endless sandy beaches, while inland Andalusia invites you to explore Moorish palaces like the Alhambra in Granada. In Seville, orange-scented squares and riverside tapas bars give you the perfect blend of culture and relaxation. 

At 22°C on average, the weather is ideal for sipping sangria on a shaded terrace or stretching out on a beach lounger. September also marks the grape harvest – making it a great time for wine lovers to explore vineyards.

3. Portugal’s Algarve

The Algarve in September is picture-perfect: dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and fishing villages where fresh seafood is served straight from the grill. With highs of 29°C, the sun is warm but not stifling, and the sea stays invitingly clear. 

You can kayak through sea caves, hike coastal trails, or simply sink into the sand with a good book. Towns like Lagos bring charm and nightlife, while quieter resorts like Tavira are perfect for peaceful escapes. Add in world-class golf courses and family-friendly waterparks, and the Algarve ticks every box for a sunny getaway.

4. Turkish Riviera

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is a mix of dazzling blue seas, pine-covered hills, and ancient history. In September, the weather is perfect – around 31°C, with long sunny days and warm evenings. Resorts like Antalya and Bodrum buzz with energy, offering beach clubs, bazaars, and fresh mezze. 

For explorers, ruins like Ephesus or the Lycian rock tombs give a window into the past. And if you want something different, you can sail the coastline on a traditional wooden gulet, stopping to swim in hidden bays. It’s a destination that blends culture, relaxation, and a touch of adventure.

5. Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a sun-lover’s dream all year round, but September is especially rewarding. Highs of 27°C mean you can soak up the sunshine without the peak-season rush. 

Each island has its own character: Tenerife offers black-sand beaches and Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. Lanzarote is strikingly volcanic, with Mars-like landscapes and stylish art from César Manrique. Gran Canaria mixes golden beaches with lush green mountains, perfect for hiking. 

Wherever you go, you’ll find friendly locals, warm seas, and plenty of sunshine to stretch out summer just a little longer.

6. Bali

For those ready to travel further, Bali in September feels like paradise. The rainy season hasn’t arrived yet, so you’ll find clear skies, calm seas, and daytime highs of 31°C. 

Picture yourself on a beach in Seminyak, cocktail in hand, watching surfers catch waves at sunset. Or wandering through emerald rice terraces in Ubud, where temples and jungle waterfalls invite exploration. 

Bali also offers world-class diving, yoga retreats, and a food scene that blends Indonesian flavours with international creativity. With fewer crowds than in July or August, September is one of the best times to discover the island’s magic.

7. Cyprus

Cyprus offers a perfect mix of sunshine, history, and relaxation. With highs around 29°C in September, you can stretch out on beaches like Coral Bay or Nissi Beach, where the water is warm and calm. If you prefer exploring, ancient ruins in Paphos and the mountain villages of Troodos show another side of the island. 

September is also a foodie’s dream – expect platters of halloumi, meze, and local wines from family-run vineyards. With its blend of Greek and Middle Eastern influences, Cyprus offers culture and relaxation in equal measure – and the sunshine feels endless.

Your sunny September adventure awaits

September is the perfect time to chase the sun. Whether it’s the island charm of Greece, the dramatic cliffs of Portugal’s Algarve, or the exotic beaches of Bali, you’ll find destinations still glowing with summer warmth and ready to welcome you.

With smaller crowds, better prices, and reliable sunshine, there’s every reason to book your September getaway now. And when you do, remember that the right travel insurance makes all the difference. Wherever your September sun takes you, make it a trip to remember for all the right reasons.