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Honolulu in December

Honolulu Weather in December

🇺🇸 United States

25°C
High
22°C
Low
7
Rain Days
10h
Sunshine
78%
Humidity

North America › 🇺🇸 United States › Honolulu

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Honolulu?

7/10
Good

December is a good time to visit Honolulu (7/10). With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 7 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 12th sunniest of the year in Honolulu. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak May without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Honolulu's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.

vs November:26°C avg high

Honolulu's December climate peaks at 25°C each afternoon before cooling to 22°C overnight. 10 daily sunshine hours and just 7 wet days mean the odds of a fine day are solidly in your favour. It is a reasonable time to visit, with a backup plan for the occasional shower.

25°C

Avg High

22°C

Avg Low

7 days

Rain Days

10h

Sunshine

78%

Humidity

Temperature in Honolulu in December

The narrow 3°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures, characteristic of coastal cities with maritime moderation, means a single mid-layer works across the whole day. At 78% humidity, the 25°C daytime high feels 2-4°C warmer in practice: quick-dry fabrics and shade-seeking between noon and 3pm are the sensible response. The UV index of 3 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 24 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 77°F average high, 72°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Honolulu in December

Morning22°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon25°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening25°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Honolulu in December means dressing for 25°C days and 22°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 25°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evening temperatures settle at 22°C, a modest 3°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. At 78% average humidity, quick-dry synthetic or bamboo fabrics dry overnight and stay comfortable longer than cotton.

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Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Honolulu. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.

Events in Honolulu in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Honolulu, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Honolulu in December

Based on 25°C average highs and 7 rainy days

  • Light layers for morning and evening
  • Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
  • UV-protective sunglasses
  • SPF 30+ sunscreen
  • Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Small day pack for city exploration
  • Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Honolulu in December

  • Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 25°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
  • Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
  • Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
  • Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)December is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
  • Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
  • Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
  • Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
  • Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
  • Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmDecember seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year

Why is Honolulu warm in December?

In December, Honolulu sits in the dry season corridor, as the ITCZ shifts away from the region and trade winds bring drier, more stable air. This produces reliably sunny days reaching 25°C, with lower humidity than the wet months. Overnight lows of 22°C offer a pleasant reprieve from the midday heat. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Honolulu in December

In December, Honolulu experiences average highs of 25°C (77°F) and lows of 22°C (72°F). Expect around 7 rainy days and 10 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 78%. The 3°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 3.
Honolulu typically sees 7 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 48mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Honolulu typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Honolulu in December. Daytime temperatures of 25°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 22°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 7 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Honolulu. With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 7 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 25°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Honolulu in December is 25°C (77°F), and the average low is 22°C (72°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 24°C (74°F). The day-to-night range of 3°C is narrow, typical of coastal or maritime cities. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Honolulu is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 13 hours per day and only 8 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 26°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Honolulu, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 7 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Honolulu suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 25°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 10 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Honolulu, with an average 10 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are January, February, and August. July is the hottest month (28°C avg high); February is the coolest (24°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 26°C high, 7 rain days), December is cooler and equally dry. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Year-Round Climate

MonthHighLowRain DaysSunDetails
January25°C21°C710hView
February24°C21°C710hView
March25°C21°C911hView
April25°C22°C912hView
May26°C23°C813hView
June27°C24°C813hView
July28°C24°C813hView
August28°C24°C712hView
September28°C24°C812hView
October28°C24°C711hView
November26°C23°C710hView
December25°C22°C710hView

Other Months in Honolulu

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Plan Your Trip to Honolulu

Best Time to Visit Honolulu

Data Sources for Honolulu

Honolulu on WikipediaOpen-Meteo Climate APINOAA National CentersUK Met OfficeWMOGeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.