Montego Bay Weather in December

🇯🇲 Jamaica

27°C

High

23°C

Low

Rain Days

10h

Sunshine

78%

Humidity

North America › 🇯🇲 Jamaica › Montego Bay

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Montego Bay?

6/10

Good

December is a good time to visit Montego Bay (6/10). With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 12 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 12th sunniest of the year in Montego Bay. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak April without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Montego Bay'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:28°C avg high

December weather in Montego Bay is defined by a daily temperature swing from 23°C at night to 27°C during the afternoon. Humidity averages 78%, and you can count on around 10 sunshine hours each day. That combination makes December warm and lush, though dressing in breathable fabrics keeps things manageable.

27°C

Avg High

23°C

Avg Low

12 days

Rain Days

10h

Sunshine

78%

Humidity

Temperature in Montego Bay in December

The narrow 4°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 27°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 18 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 81°F average high, 73°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Montego Bay in December

Morning23°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon27°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening26°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Montego Bay in December means dressing for 27°C days and 23°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 27°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evening temperatures settle at 23°C, a modest 4°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. A compact foldable umbrella weighs almost nothing and earns its keep across 12 potential rainy days. 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 Montego Bay. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.

Events in Montego Bay in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Montego Bay, 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 Montego Bay in December

Based on 27°C average highs and 12 rainy days

Light layers for morning and evening
Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
UV-protective sunglasses
Quick-dry travel towel
Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
Compact folding umbrella
Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
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 Montego Bay in December

Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 27°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
Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in December, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings

Why is Montego Bay warm in December?

In December, Montego Bay 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 27°C, with lower humidity than the wet months. Overnight lows of 23°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: Montego Bay in December

In December, Montego Bay experiences average highs of 27°C (81°F) and lows of 23°C (73°F). Expect around 12 rainy days and 10 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 78%. The 4°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.

Montego Bay typically sees 12 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 54mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Montego Bay typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.

Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Montego Bay in December. Daytime temperatures of 27°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 23°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. With 12 rainy days, bring a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket for unexpected showers. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.

December is a reasonable time to visit Montego Bay. Expect 12 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 27°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 10 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.

The average high temperature in Montego Bay in December is 27°C (81°F), and the average low is 23°C (73°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 25°C (77°F). The day-to-night range of 4°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 Montego Bay is generally February. February offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 11 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 28°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around February gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

December is shoulder or low season in Montego Bay, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 12 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, Montego Bay suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 27°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. 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 Montego Bay, with an average 10 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are January, February, and March. July is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (27°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 28°C high, 17 rain days), December is cooler and drier. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Year-Round Climate

Month	High	Low	Rain Days	Sun	Details
January	27°C	22°C	11	10h	View
February	28°C	22°C	11	11h	View
March	28°C	22°C	12	11h	View
April	29°C	23°C	17	12h	View
May	30°C	24°C	24	11h	View
June	30°C	25°C	22	11h	View
July	31°C	25°C	23	12h	View
August	31°C	25°C	26	11h	View
September	30°C	25°C	26	11h	View
October	29°C	24°C	25	10h	View
November	28°C	23°C	17	10h	View
December	27°C	23°C	12	10h	View

Other Months in Montego Bay

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Montego Bay

Best Time to Visit Montego Bay

Data Sources for Montego Bay

Montego Bay on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

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