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THIS week we’re shining a light on the sure-fire winter sun winner of Kololi Beach, one of The Gambia’s most popular and lively stretches of sand.

Temperatures of 32C, six hour TUI flights – what more could you want? Here are some of our top tips.

MUST SEE / DO

Lined with palm trees and beach bars, Kololi Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or trying water sports like jet skiing.

In the evening, head to the nearby Senegambia Strip, the heart of Kololi’s nightlife and dining scene.

Here you’ll find a buzzy mix of restaurants, live music venues, craft markets and street performers, offering a real taste of local culture alongside international flavours.

HIDDEN GEM

Just a short drive away, Bijilo Forest Park (often called the “Monkey Park”) offers a peaceful escape from the beach crowds.

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Wander through shaded walking trails where you’ll spot green vervet and red colobus monkeys, colourful birds, and towering baobab trees.

It’s a calm, refreshing contrast to Kololi’s lively atmosphere and a great way to experience The Gambia’s natural side without venturing far.

BEST VIEW

For sunset views, Kololi Beach itself steals the show.

As the day cools, the sky turns shades of gold, pink, and deep orange over the Atlantic.

Grab a seat at one of the beachfront spots, watch local fishermen pull in their nets, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of the waves as the sun slips below the horizon – simple, beautiful, and unforgettable.

RATED RESTAURANT

Darboe’s Bar & Restaurant is a Kololi favourite for authentic Gambian cuisine served with warmth and character.

The menu features local classics like domoda (peanut stew), benachin (one-pot rice), and freshly grilled fish, all prepared with traditional spices.

The relaxed setting and friendly service make it an ideal place to experience genuine local flavours.

BEST BAR

Senegambia Beach Bar is the go-to spot for laid-back drinks with a view.

Set right on the sand, it’s perfect for cold beers, tropical cocktails and live music sessions as the evening comes alive.

With the sound of the ocean in the background and a lively yet relaxed crowd, it’s an easy place to settle in and let the night unfold.

HOTEL PICK

Seaview Gardens Hotel is a beachfront retreat in Kololi, offering a peaceful escape with a touch of luxury.

Set within lush tropical gardens, the hotel blends contemporary style with relaxed coastal charm.

The onsite restaurant serves fresh dishes inspired by local and international cuisine, all just steps from the Atlantic shoreline.

Seven nights B&B at Seaview Gardens Hotel is from £876pp including flights from Gatwick on select dates in February, 2026.

The UK is getting colder, but elsewhere in Europe the October sun is still shining and a warm weather holiday is not out of the question.

The UK may be getting chillier, but across Europe the sun is still blazing and a beach getaway remains firmly on the cards. If you’re not quite ready to bid farewell to sun and sand, there’s one destination just four and a half hours from the UK where temperatures are still hitting a pleasant 23C.

Better still, it won’t cost you a fortune. That destination is Cyprus, the Mediterranean island paradise. According to research by airport transfer firm hoppa, this gem ranks as the ultimate choice for an autumn escape in the sunshine.

The warmest location is Nissi Beach, nestled on the south-eastern coastline in the resort town of Ayia Napa.

While it’s renowned as a lively party hotspot, there’s far more to discover beyond the buzzing nightlife.

The beach is celebrated for its dazzling turquoise waters and its small offshore island, which visitors can reach by simply wading through the shallow sea.

That island is Nissi itself, the namesake of the beach, and those who venture to its summit are rewarded with spectacular sweeping views across the entire bay.

The beach proudly holds Blue Flag status, with ample sun loungers and parasols available to rent, alongside opportunities to hire jet skis or pedalos for those seeking a dose of adventure.

One holidaymaker took to TripAdvisor to share their thoughts, writing: “Probably one of the most popular beaches in Cyprus-and for good reason.

“Crystal-clear water, beautiful soft sand, and that creamy, turquoise texture that makes you feel like you’re in paradise. Add the amazing atmosphere and beautiful people, and you have the perfect beach experience.”

A second visitor added: “Nissi Beach easily has the most amazing water I have ever swum in!

“Despite being extremely busy, its natural beauty makes it an absolute must-visit.”

While the beach can get extremely crowded during peak summer, visiting during the shoulder season means far fewer tourists to contend with, allowing you to soak up the stunning surroundings in relative peace.

What’s more, according to hoppa, the average nightly rate for a three-star hotel in Ayia Napa comes in at just £79, making it a brilliantly affordable choice for a late burst of October sunshine.