How hot is the Caribbean at Christmas?

December's Caribbean weather is usually warm and sunny, with occasional showers. The average temperature is in the mid-80s for most islands and the mainland.



The Caribbean at Christmas is widely considered to have "perfect" weather, characterized by warm, tropical temperatures and lower humidity. In 2026, typical daytime highs across popular islands like Jamaica, the Bahamas, and the Virgin Islands range from 27°C to 29°C (81°F to 84°F). The evenings are pleasant and slightly cooler, with temperatures dipping to around 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 74°F), which may occasionally require a light sweater. This period falls during the "dry season," meaning you will likely experience plenty of sunshine with only brief, passing tropical showers. The sea temperature remains a balmy 26°C (79°F), making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. Because the fierce "Harmattan" winds haven't yet reached their peak, the water is generally calm. While it is "winter" by the calendar, the climate feels like a perpetual summer, which is why the Christmas holidays are the most expensive and high-demand period for Caribbean tourism, as travelers from the north flock to the islands to escape the snow and freezing temperatures.

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Because of the Caribbean conditions, the weather in Bahamas in December sees very warm temperatures and lots of sunshine. The average daytime high's around 26°C, with seven hours of sunshine from 11 hours of daylight. The temperature dips to only 20°C on occasional milder days.

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The best time for a Caribbean cruise is from December to April when the weather is dry, sunny, and clear skies on most days. The ideal cruising conditions of mild temperatures and calm waters typically last throughout winter and spring, making it the prime Caribbean sailing season and very traveler-friendly.

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Caribbean Seasons
Rain is more frequent in the wet season, but the temperatures are warmer. Wet season and dry season are both good times to cruise the Caribbean. The worst time for a Caribbean cruise weather-wise is August to September, as it is peak hurricane season.

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Most days are warm enough to swim and snorkel. The first week in December is usually the nicest weather of the year -- not too hot and mostly sunny skies. Once in a while, a cold front reaches us that early, but not too often.

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By June, the hottest islands average 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 32 Celsius. They again include Aruba, Cancun, Cozumel, Curacao and Grand Cayman.

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With 28 island nations, the Caribbean is a diverse and beautiful region of the world with a consistent, tropical climate. Although January is the coldest month in the Caribbean, you'll still experience beautifully warm temperatures, with hot days and slightly cooler nights.

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Hurricane season in the Caribbean typically runs from June 1 to November 30. However, it's important to know that hurricanes can occur outside of this time period. If you're planning a trip to the Caribbean, it's a good idea to check the latest weather forecast and hurricane warnings before you travel.

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Become a Jetsetter
  • 1 Trunk Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands.
  • 2 Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos.
  • 3 Laguna Beach, California.
  • 4 The Baths, Virgin Gorda.
  • 5 Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas.
  • 6 Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda.
  • 7 Smathers Beach, Key West.
  • 8 Grand Anse Beach, Grenada.


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From December through February, temperatures range from high 70s during the day to lows in the mid 60s at night. March starts a slight warm up, and the months of April to November bring high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s with nighttime temperatures in the low to mid 70s. You have options for your Bahamas cruise.

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“The Bahamas boasts tropical warm temperatures 365 days a year. Casual summer wear is perfect for your days in the sun but be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings from December to February which can dip to 72 degrees,” Duncombe advises.

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Shark diving in the Bahamas is a thrilling experience that allows you to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures. While some tours feature safety cages, the Bahamas offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim safely in open waters with lots of different shark species.

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December. From mid-December it's peak season (and peak prices) in the Caribbean although you might find some deals at the start of the month. Some resorts try to tempt vacationers with deals ahead of the busy Christmas rush. Weather-wise it's warm and dry with little chance of any thunderstorms.

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If you're out on deck at night in Alaska, it's likely to be cold. In the Caribbean, it can be chilly after the sun goes down, thanks to the ocean breezes, but chances are good that you won't ever need a down parka to stay warm.

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