Weather in Florida in December

How December compares

December is the 11th warmest month of the year in Florida. Within United States it is 3rd of 6 (United States in December). Against London's average high of 7.7°C in December, Florida is 15.3°C warmer by day and 13.5°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in December

The typical December day in Florida peaks at 23.0°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 26.6°C or more. Roughly 1 in 3 days top 25°C and 1 in 1000 pass 30°C. Nights average 16.2°C; one night in ten drops to 9.8°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest December day here reached 30.1°C (2019-12-02) and the coldest night -2.3°C (2010-12-28).

Rain in December

Some rain (4-8 rainy days): about 7 days with 1 mm or more, 48 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest December was 1997 with 219 mm, the driest 2011 with 3 mm. Humidity averages 74%.

Sea temperature in December

The sea averages 24.9°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 24.3°C to 25.6°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (29.9°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 5.1 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 10.3 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 07:11 and sets about 17:31 local time in mid-December. Average cloud cover is 50%.

Is December a good time to visit Florida?

It is a reasonable choice: warm days. The best months for Florida on our scoring are March, April, November; months averaging 25°C or more: Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov.

Warm afternoons, but not reliable heat

Florida in December suits travellers who prefer being outdoors without planning everything around strong midday heat. Days reach 25°C on 38% of occasions, so there is scope for warmer afternoons, but you should not expect consistently hot weather. At the cooler end, nights can fall to around 10°C or below, making a jumper and a light jacket sensible additions to your luggage. Light clothing works for warmer daytime conditions; layers give you flexibility when temperatures drop. If your main aim is dependable heat from morning to evening, December is a compromise rather than the strongest choice. For gentler warmth, that same limitation can be an advantage.

Swimming is realistic, with daylight to manage

The sea averages 24.9°C, warm enough for swimming, so December does not rule out spending time in the water. The bigger consideration is how comfortable you feel once you get out, particularly on a cooler or breezier day. Keep a dry layer handy rather than assuming swimwear will be enough all afternoon. There are about 5.1 hours of sunshine within 10.3 hours of daylight, which leaves useful time outdoors but does not promise clear skies throughout the day. Put swimming and other weather-dependent plans into the warmer part of the day, and avoid leaving everything until late afternoon when daylight is running out.

Allow for rain without planning around it

With about 7 rainy days, December calls for some flexibility rather than an expectation of constant wet weather. A light waterproof is useful, and it helps to have an indoor alternative for plans that depend on staying dry. The averages cannot tell you how rain will fall during your particular stay, so do not assume it will always pass quickly or arrive at a convenient time. Humidity averages 74%, meaning the air can still feel damp despite the relatively gentle temperatures. Pack breathable daytime clothes alongside warmer layers, and leave room to move outdoor plans around according to the forecast.