December marks the return of the dry season with warm, sunny days and comfortable evenings - a major holiday travel month. Resorts and beach towns are busy and rates are at their peak around Christmas and New Year. Book ahead if traveling in mid-to-late December.
Jacques Descloitres, MODIS Land Rapid Response Team, NASA/GSFC CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Jamaica in December.
December brings the return of steady trade winds and consistently sunny days-prime time for beach holidays along Negril and Montego Bay. Resorts fill up for the holidays, so book early if you want beachfront rooms; evening temperatures are comfortable. Expect clear seas for boat trips, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light layer for breezy nights.
Trade winds reassert in December, producing clear, breezy days on the north coast and cooler nights that are comfortable for walking Ocho Rios’ promenade. Cruise season ramps up toward Christmas and New Year, bringing busy harbor scenes but lively cultural events. Pack for sunny days and an occasional cool evening; morning excursions avoid peak crowds.
December returns to drier, breezy weather with clear mornings perfect for boat trips and coastal hikes; the East End is festive but far less crowded than main resort hubs. Pack light layers for cooler nights and insect repellent for evenings near mangroves. Reserve any popular raft or waterfall guides for mornings to avoid later-day showers.
December ushers in drier trade winds and more stable weather; Kingston becomes vibrant with cultural events and holiday markets while evenings along the coast are refreshing. If visiting around the holidays, reserve accommodation early as local and international visitors arrive. A light jacket for nights and comfortable walking shoes for the city are all most travelers need.
December returns clear skies and steady trade winds, making it a popular time for visiting the south coast’s relaxed seaside communities and for birdwatching in wetlands. Expect pleasant mornings and warm afternoons, with the region busier over the holidays. A light jacket for windy evenings and comfortable footwear for rocky beaches will round out your packing.
December cools and dries further with stable, brisk mornings perfect for trekking and camping; summit attempts are more reliable and the mountain air feels invigorating. Expect chilly nights-pack a warm sleeping bag and insulated layers-and very different conditions from the coastal heat. Popular routes book out in holiday periods, so reserve permits and guides early.
There are no major festivals or events in Jamaica during December to be aware of.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.