As the Caribbean island enters its dry season in December, maybe you want a warm but refreshing escape — one where you can feel completely free. As the temperatures are still pleasant and the occasional rain showers are becoming less likely, the island has opened its doors to visitors hello hoping to find mild tropical environment during the winter season. It is a popular time for travellers looking to escape the cold weather in other parts of the world, wanting time on the beach, and be outside doing activities.
Quick Weather Overview for December
| Parameter | Average Value |
|---|---|
| Average High Temperature | 28°C (82°F) |
| Average Low Temperature | 22°C (72°F) |
| Rainfall | 35 mm (1.4 inches) |
| Rainy Days | 4 days |
| Sunshine Hours | 7 hours per day |
| Sea Temperature | 26°C (79°F) |
| Humidity Level | 75% |
This summary illustrates a typical pleasant weather pattern of moderate warmth and limited precipitation for Turks and Caicos in December. One of the drier months, making outdoor plans more guaranteed and pleasurable.
Temperature Patterns Throughout December
December: 28°C (82°F) during the day, nice and warm but not too hot. Nighttime temperatures cool down to around 22°C (72°F) which is just enough to be pleasantly cool and sleep like a baby. We could also have a few warmer days at the beginning of the month but the temperatures will drop off over the course of the month.
This provides an enjoyable range of temperatures for visitors and isn’t too hot; ideal for chilling out on the beach and also great for exploring the islands without too much heat. December climate is less extreme and much more pleasant than summer months.
Rainfall and Humidity in December
December heralds the transition from wet season to dry, with only ~35 mm (1.4 inches) of rain, over a period of 4 days or so. The rain appears in terms of short-term showers, not lengthy storms. The humidity is hovering around 75, so you can tell it’s there, but it feels refreshing; an overall enjoyable experience.
The (little) rain that does fall, combined with the mild humidity, makes December the perfect time for outdoor activities—snorkeling, hiking or lounging on the beach without fearing the weather will change at a moment’s notice.
Sunshine and Daylight
December packs an infinite sunshine in the day with a rate of about 7 hours for almost each day. Daylight lasts for around 11 hours for visitors here, as the sun rises at approximately 6:30 AM and sets close to 5:45 PM. Cloud is typically very shallow, resulting in sun for most days.
There’s enough daylight for local sightseeing, water sports, and taking a stroll along the beach at dusk without having to rush.
Sea Temperature and Wind Conditions
Sea temperature reaches an average of 26°C (79°F), still warm enough for swimming, snorkeling and all activities in the water. Light winds are prevalent, allowing for natural evaporation to cool the area yet do not compromise the water quality.
These wind conditions are quite mild, perfect for sailing and other ocean sports making December a fantastic month to my your visit.
A Purchasing Guide For December in Turks and Caicos
- Shorts, t-shirts and dresses for warm days.
- A sweater or jacket for cooler nights.
- Swim suits and patio items like sandals and sun hats.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses – you need these when winter sun turns into the power of strong tropical sun!
- Water resistant poncho or umbrella for small squalls
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
- Reusable water bottle to keep yourself hydrated.
- We have also found it helpful to bring along a sarong or cover-up that can double as beachwear or a casual dinner outfit in the evening.
Events and Festivals in December
While Turks and Caicos does not celebrate the Christmas holiday with the same fervor as many places in North America, several festive events in December inject a dose of local culture into the visit. Local music, food fairs and community events give the island a friendly, inviting feel for its Christmas celebrations. These events tend to attract mid-range crowds; however, they rarely result in accommodation price eruptions.
In December visitors can enjoy the Turks and Caicos Music and Cultural Festival. Part of this festival highlights local artwork, craft, and food to give visitors an urge to come into contact with the island’s lively culture.
The best time to visit Turks and Caicos: Is December a good time to go?
There is a number of advantages for visitors in the months of December. Though it is hot there is still a pleasantness about the climate, rain is scarce and the sea calls one to take a dip and unwind. This means that crowds are considerably bigger than they would be in the off-season but still a lot less crowded and expensive than the peak holiday weeks later in December, which makes November a very popular month.
December suits families, honeymooners or those who want a mild tropical getaway. It is a great mix of nice weather and cultural events. The downside is that the higher humidity, and the odd shower, is a little less than perfect for some travelers than during the driest months.
Natives usually comment about the December bringing a mix of the seasonal festivities with the island feel, resulting in a lively, but laidback atmosphere.
Quick Travel Tips for December
- Schedule outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the sun at midday.
- If you are traveling around Christmas, you will need to book accommodations well in advance.
- In case of unexpected showers, keep an umbrella or rain jacket in your bag.
- Protection of marine life while enjoying beaches using reef-safe sunscreen.
- You might also want to think about local transport such as taxi or rental scooters to travel to other areas on the island.
Here are the climate and responsible travel tips about Turks and Caicos which can make yourtrip easier andeasier. You may also want to look at our other Turks and Caicos guides for the best beaches and water activities.
We hope this guide gives you the confidence to experience December on the islands. If you have any questions or want to let us know about your travel experience, drop a comment below! Your insights enrich the community.