Dominican Republic in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Dominican Republic in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santo Domingo | 31° | 20° | 79 mm | high | Warm |
| Santiago de los Caballeros | 29° | 18° | 118 mm | high | Mild |
| Santo Domingo Oeste | 30° | 20° | 80 mm | high | Warm |
| Santo Domingo Este | 30° | 20° | 74 mm | high | Warm |
| San Pedro de Macorís | 30° | 20° | 57 mm | high | Warm |
| La Romana | 30° | 20° | 56 mm | high | Warm |
| San Cristóbal | 30° | 20° | 76 mm | high | Warm |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
East Coast - Punta Cana, Bávaro, La Romana, Saona Island
December returns sunnier mornings and lower humidity as trade winds re-establish, creating classic high-season conditions: bright beach days, busy resorts, and clearer ocean visibility. Holiday crowds build toward year-end, so book excursions and transfers early; local nightlife is lively and ocean temperatures remain inviting. Pack light daytime clothes, something warmer for breezy nights, and sunscreen-this is one of the most dependable months for beach travel on the east coast.
Santo Domingo & South Coast - Zona Colonial, Boca Chica, Juan Dolio
December returns to the drier, sunnier pattern that favors walking tours of the Zona Colonial and beachfront dining in Boca Chica; energy rises as locals and visitors celebrate the holidays. Weekend beach traffic increases and hotels begin to book up for year-end; reserve restaurants and transfers in advance. Light layers for nights, sun protection for daytime, and a comfortable pair of shoes for cobbled streets will keep you prepared.
North Coast & Samaná Peninsula - Puerto Plata, Cabarete, Sosúa, Samaná, Las Terrenas
December returns to steady trade winds, bright skies and comfortable humidity along the north coast; Cabarete buzzes again with wind sports and Puerto Plata’s beachfront promenades fill with visitors. Samaná is greener but pleasant for coastal hikes and late-season whale-spotting tours are gone, leaving fewer crowds. Bring sun protection and a light jacket for breezy mornings-this month offers reliable outdoor conditions for most coastal activities.
Central Highlands - Jarabacoa, Constanza, Pico Duarte
December cools down noticeably in the highlands with crisp mornings and consistently pleasant daytime weather; Constanza is refreshingly cool compared with coastal heat and makes a popular escape. Nighttime lows can feel cold to travelers used to the coast, so a proper jacket is needed, and the dry trails make for reliable trekking and clearer summit attempts. Carry warm layers and good hiking boots and book guides early for peak-season weekend treks.
Southwest & Lake Enriquillo - Barahona, Pedernales, Bahoruco, Lake Enriquillo
December is largely dry and pleasantly warm-one of the better months to sample the region’s rugged beaches and desert-like lake basin without the hassle of muddy roads. Popular natural sites are more accessible and the contrast with green highlands is dramatic, attracting travelers interested in off-the-beaten-path experiences. Pack sun protection and light layers for the warm days and slightly cooler evenings near the coast.