When the days shorten and autumn chills creep in across much of the world, there are still corners of the globe basking in glorious sunshine. October is the perfect time to seek out destinations that are warm but not sweltering, lively but not overcrowded. If you’re dreaming of an autumn escape, here are three hot destinations that truly shine in October: Abu Dhabi, San Diego, and Tunisia.

1. Abu Dhabi, UAE – Desert Luxury and Arabian Culture

October in Abu Dhabi is the sweet spot. The punishing summer heat fades, leaving warm, golden days averaging 30–32°C. It’s finally comfortable enough to enjoy everything the capital of the UAE has to offer.

What to do:
- Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a dazzling piece of modern Islamic architecture with intricate marble and soaring domes.
- Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi’s palm-lined waterfront with pristine beaches and city views.
- Head to Yas Island for theme parks like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld, or simply indulge in some high-end shopping.
- For a taste of the desert, book a dune safari complete with camel rides, sandboarding, and stargazing under the Arabian night sky.
Why October? The weather is warm but manageable, hotels often have good seasonal offers, and outdoor dining comes alive again after the intense summer.
Vibe: Abu Dhabi blends futuristic skyscrapers with deep-rooted tradition. Expect both luxury and authenticity.

2. San Diego, USA - Endless Summer on the Pacific

San Diego is California’s ultimate beach city, and October may be one of its best-kept secrets. With daily highs around 24–26°C and blue skies nearly guaranteed, the city’s laid-back lifestyle really shines.

What to do:
- Spend your mornings surfing or relaxing at La Jolla or Pacific Beach.
- Explore Balboa Park, home to lush gardens, art museums, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
- Hop aboard a harbour cruise or go whale watching - October often marks the start of the grey whale migration.
- Dive into San Diego’s buzzing food scene.
Why October? It’s shoulder season - fewer crowds, warm weather, and lower prices compared to summer. Plus, families will love Kids Free San Diego, where children get free admission to top attractions throughout the month.
Vibe: Relaxed, sun-soaked, and quintessentially Californian, San Diego makes it easy to slow down and enjoy the outdoors.

3. Tunisia – Mediterranean Warmth Meets North African Charm

Tunisia offers one of the most fascinating blends of Mediterranean leisure and ancient heritage - and in October, with temperatures averaging 26–28°C, it’s at its most inviting.

What to do:
- Unwind on the sandy shores of Djerba, a laid-back island with turquoise waters.
- Explore the medina of Tunis, a maze of markets, mosques, and spice-scented alleyways.
- Step back in time at the El Jem Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved Roman coliseums in the world.
- For something more adventurous, take a trip into the Sahara Desert, where you can ride camels, visit Berber villages, and experience unforgettable starry nights.
Why October? The summer crowds have thinned, meaning quieter beaches, more affordable resorts, and ideal weather for both sightseeing and desert excursions.
Vibe: Tunisia is where Mediterranean holiday bliss meets North African adventure, making it a unique and affordable destination for October sun.

October is a month of transition - but that doesn’t mean you need to give up on sunshine. Whether you’re drawn to Abu Dhabi’s glamorous skyline and desert safaris, San Diego’s casual surf-and-sand lifestyle, or Tunisia’s mix of Roman history and Mediterranean charm, you’ll find warm days, cultural richness, and plenty of experiences to make your autumn unforgettable.

These three destinations prove that chasing the sun in October doesn’t mean crowds or unbearable heat - it means adventure, relaxation, and a little bit of magic.

Top 3 destinations for October