Weather in Barbados in December

How December compares

December is the 10th warmest month of the year in Barbados and ranks 25th of 134 destinations we compare for December - see where else is hot in December. Against London's average high of 7.7°C in December, Barbados is 19.6°C warmer by day and 22.4°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in December

The typical December day in Barbados peaks at 27.3°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 28.1°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C. Nights average 25.1°C; one night in ten drops to 24.1°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest December day here reached 29.9°C (2019-12-27) and the coldest night 21.1°C (2017-12-12).

Rain in December

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 13 days with 1 mm or more, 51 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest December was 2001 with 135 mm, the driest 2009 with 9 mm. Humidity averages 77%.

Sea temperature in December

The sea averages 27.8°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 27.3°C to 28.1°C. For the warmest sea here, come in September (29.0°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 6.5 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 11.2 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:13 and sets about 17:34 local time in mid-December. Average cloud cover is 42%.

Is December a good time to visit Barbados?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Barbados on our scoring are February, March, April; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Hot days, warm nights and comfortable swimming

December suits travellers who enjoy steady warmth without needing extreme heat. Average daytime highs are 27.3°C, but humidity of 77% can make the air feel close, so loose, breathable clothing is a better choice than heavy fabrics. Keep strenuous outdoor plans away from midday and leave room for shade breaks. Nights average 25.1°C, so do not expect much cooling after sunset; lightweight evening clothes and accommodation with effective cooling make sense. The sea averages 27.8°C, making swimming an appealing part of the trip rather than something to brace yourself for. If you dislike warm nights or humid conditions, the evening temperature is as important to your decision as the daytime high.

Enough sunshine to enjoy, with rain to plan around

Rain is the main compromise in December. About 13 rainy days means it is sensible to carry a light waterproof and have an indoor alternative when the weather turns. That does not mean writing off outdoor time: December averages about 6.5 hours of sunshine within 11.2 hours of daylight. There is scope for swimming and spending time outside, but sunshine is not continuous and a fixed outdoor schedule could be frustrating. Keep weather-sensitive plans movable and make use of brighter periods rather than saving everything for later. December works best if warmth matters more to you than staying completely dry; it is less suitable if rain would spoil the holiday.