Melanesia in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Melanesia in December.
Country Weather in December
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Papua New Guinea | 32° | 23° | 150 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Fiji | 29° | 23° | 244 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Solomon Islands | extreme | ||||
| Vanuatu | 30° | 22° | 181 mm | extreme | Warm |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
New Guinea Highlands (Papua New Guinea & Indonesian Papua interior)
Heavy, warm rains increasingly dominate December in the highlands, bringing thick cloud and frequent afternoon storms across places such as Tari and Mount Hagen; landslips on unpaved roads are possible. The landscape turns very green and dramatic, but outdoor activities can be disrupted by washouts and canceled flights. If you travel now, expect wet conditions, pack well for prolonged dampness and check local aviation schedules closely.
New Guinea Lowlands & Southern Coast (Port Moresby, Gulf, Milne Bay, Sepik lowlands)
December shifts into the wettest months for many coastal parts of New Guinea, with frequent heavy showers and thunderstorms that can lead to localized flooding around low-lying villages and coastal strips. Holiday travel is common in larger towns like Port Moresby and Alotau, but access to remote communities can be tricky. Pack for humid, warm conditions, seal luggage against moisture and expect transport delays.
Bismarck Archipelago & New Britain/New Ireland (Rabaul, Kimbe, Kavieng)
Warm, wet conditions with frequent heavy showers typically dominate December in the Bismarck Archipelago, creating lush tropical landscapes but making small-boat travel and diving schedules unpredictable. Holiday travel in larger towns like Kokopo and Kavieng can be busy while remote lodges may close for safety during serious storms. Prepare for high humidity, pack waterproof bags for gear and expect possible transport delays.
Solomon Islands & Bougainville (central-eastern Melanesia)
December is usually warm, humid and storm-prone across the Solomons and Bougainville, with frequent heavy showers, elevated sea states and a higher chance of significant weather events. Holiday travel can make Honiara busier while outer islands may reduce services during severe weather. Travelers should have flexible itineraries, secure their belongings against moisture, and monitor cyclone forecasts during peak season.
Vanuatu (Port Vila, Santo, Tanna and outer islands)
Warm, wet, and storm-prone December brings frequent heavy rain and a heightened chance of cyclonic activity across Vanuatu, making remote excursions riskier and sometimes impossible. Holiday season travel increases traffic to main hubs like Port Vila while some smaller lodges limit services for safety. Be prepared for abrupt weather changes, monitor marine warnings and plan for alternate arrangements.
New Caledonia & the Loyalty Islands (Nouméa, Isle of Pines)
Early summer heat and high humidity dominate December across New Caledonia, with frequent afternoon storms possible on Grande Terre and the Loyalty Islands; beaches are popular and often busy. The lagoon is warm and inviting, but diving and inter-island ferries can be affected by sudden weather. Travelers should pack for hot, wet conditions and make reservations early for holiday-week travel.
Fiji & Western Outliers (Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Mamanuca & Yasawa chains)
December returns to hot, humid conditions with frequent heavy showers and a renewed risk of cyclones; beaches are busy around Fiji’s main tourism centers and some remote lodges reduce services during severe weather. Water-based activities are popular but can be postponed during storms. Travelers should keep emergency contact options ready, secure luggage against moisture and expect occasional transport disruptions.