December combines some of the year's best tropical travel weather with the festive season. Many long-haul beach destinations enter their drier season, while Christmas and New Year bring very high demand. If your dates are flexible, early December can offer a better balance of weather, crowds and price.

Red Sea resorts are among the most dependable December choices for sunshine, swimming, snorkeling and diving. The extreme summer heat has passed, while the sea remains comfortably warm.

Egypt Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 23–25°C by day and 14–17°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 24–25°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Egypt

Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh and Marsa Alam combine resort beaches with coral reefs. Add a desert excursion or, from Hurghada, consider a longer cultural trip toward Luxor.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Egypt

Egypt can offer strong value for resort holidays in December. Transfers and organized excursions are widely available in the main Red Sea resort areas.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Egypt

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Egypt eSIM page.

The Canary Islands are one of the most reliable European options for December sun. Conditions vary by island and coast, with southern resort areas often favored for beach holidays.

Canary Islands Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 22–24°C by day and 16–18°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 20–22°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Canary Islands

Choose Tenerife for Teide and varied scenery, Gran Canaria for Maspalomas and a broad resort choice, Lanzarote for volcanic landscapes, or Fuerteventura for long beaches and water sports.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Canary Islands

Prices vary strongly by island, resort and flight dates. Rental cars are useful for exploring beyond the main resort zones.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Canary Islands

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Canary Islands eSIM page.

Cape Verde combines warm air, warm Atlantic water and very little December rainfall, making it a strong mid-haul beach destination.

Cape Verde Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 25–27°C by day and 20–22°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 24–25°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Cape Verde

Sal is known for Santa Maria, salt landscapes and water sports. Boa Vista is attractive for expansive beaches, dunes and a quieter resort atmosphere.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Cape Verde

Package holidays are common. Outside resort areas, transport choices are more limited than in large European destinations, so plan island excursions in advance.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Cape Verde

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Cape Verde eSIM page.

December is one of the most comfortable months for the UAE: still hot enough for beaches, but much easier for outdoor sightseeing than midsummer.

United Arab Emirates Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 25–27°C by day and 17–20°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 24–26°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in United Arab Emirates

Combine Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai and the historic creek area with Abu Dhabi attractions such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Yas Island.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for United Arab Emirates

The UAE is not a low-cost destination, but public transport in Dubai can reduce taxi costs. Abu Dhabi and Dubai can be combined in one trip.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in United Arab Emirates

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our United Arab Emirates eSIM page.

December is excellent for combining Jordan's major archaeological and desert sights with warmer conditions on the Red Sea coast at Aqaba.

Jordan Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 20–23°C by day and 9–13°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 23–25°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Jordan

Petra and Wadi Rum are far more comfortable to explore than in midsummer. Aqaba adds snorkeling, diving and beach time to a cultural itinerary.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Jordan

A road trip or organized transfer makes it easier to combine Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Aqaba. Desert nights can be much cooler than daytime conditions.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Jordan

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Jordan eSIM page.

December brings hot but increasingly comfortable conditions to Oman, with warm sea temperatures and excellent opportunities for a road trip.

Oman Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 26–28°C by day and 18–21°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 25–27°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Oman

Explore Muscat, wadis, mountain scenery, desert landscapes and the coastline. Oman works especially well for travelers who want nature and culture rather than a conventional resort-only holiday.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Oman

A rental car is particularly useful because many of Oman's best natural attractions are spread out. Budget for fuel, accommodation and longer driving distances.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Oman

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Oman eSIM page.

December marks an important seasonal transition in much of Thailand. Conditions on the Andaman coast generally improve as the southwest monsoon retreats, although tropical showers remain possible.

Thailand Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 30–32°C by day and 22–25°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 28–29°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Thailand

Phuket and Krabi are popular for beaches and islands, while Bangkok adds food, temples, markets and nightlife. Weather can differ substantially between Thai regions.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Thailand

Thailand covers every budget level. Domestic flights, trains, ferries and ride-hailing make multi-stop itineraries relatively straightforward.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Thailand

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Thailand eSIM page.

Southern Vietnam remains tropical in December, while weather varies considerably across the long north-south geography of the country.

Vietnam Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 28–31°C by day and 21–24°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 26–28°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta and southern beach areas can form a varied itinerary. Central Vietnam may experience a different rainfall pattern, so route planning matters.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Vietnam

Vietnam is generally good value for food, accommodation and local transport. Domestic flights are useful when covering long distances.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Vietnam

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Vietnam eSIM page.

Bali stays hot throughout December, but the wet season is developing, so sunshine can alternate with heavy tropical showers.

Indonesia Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 29–31°C by day and 24–25°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 28–29°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Indonesia

Ubud, Uluwatu, Seminyak, Canggu, temples, rice terraces and nearby islands offer a mix of culture, beaches and nature.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Indonesia

Accommodation ranges from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury villas. Traffic can be slow, so allow extra time when moving between different parts of the island.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Indonesia

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Indonesia eSIM page.

The Maldives remains hot with exceptionally warm ocean water in December. The month is transitional, so conditions can improve toward the drier season but showers are still possible.

Maldives Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 29–30°C by day and 25–26°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 28–29°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Maldives

Snorkeling, diving, sandbanks and resort-island relaxation are the main attractions. Choosing the right atoll and transfer method can have a major effect on total trip cost.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Maldives

Resort prices vary enormously. Always include speedboat or seaplane transfers, meals and taxes when comparing the real cost of accommodation.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Maldives

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Maldives eSIM page.

December becomes warmer as Mauritius approaches summer, with pleasant ocean temperatures and good conditions for beaches and island exploration.

Mauritius Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 28–30°C by day and 22–24°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 26–27°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Mauritius

Le Morne, Black River Gorges, Chamarel and the northern beaches offer a mix of scenery, hiking and swimming.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Mauritius

A rental car can make exploration easier. Resort prices vary widely, while guesthouses and apartments can provide more economical alternatives.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Mauritius

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Mauritius eSIM page.

Mexico's Caribbean coast remains hot in December, with warm sea temperatures. The Atlantic hurricane season officially continues through December 30, so weather awareness and suitable insurance remain important.

Mexico Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 28–30°C by day and 20–23°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 26–28°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Mexico

Combine Cancún or Playa del Carmen with Tulum, cenotes, Isla Mujeres and Mayan archaeological sites such as Chichén Itzá.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Mexico

Resort prices can vary sharply. Local buses and coaches can be economical, while private transfers offer more convenience for airport and hotel journeys.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Mexico

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Mexico eSIM page.

The Dominican Republic offers tropical beach weather in December, although showers and late-season tropical systems remain possible.

Dominican Republic Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 28–30°C by day and 21–24°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 27–28°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is resort-focused, while Bayahibe is a popular base for Caribbean beaches and excursions such as Saona Island.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Dominican Republic

All-inclusive packages are common. Check what transfers, meals and activities are actually included before comparing headline prices.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Dominican Republic

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Dominican Republic eSIM page.

Barbados remains hot in December with very warm Caribbean water. Rainfall can still occur as the wetter part of the year winds down.

Barbados Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 28–30°C by day and 23–25°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 27–28°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Barbados

The west and south coasts offer beaches, restaurants and water sports, while inland attractions add gardens, caves and historic sites.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Barbados

Barbados is generally more expensive than many Asian destinations. Public buses can reduce transport costs compared with relying entirely on taxis.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Barbados

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Barbados eSIM page.

Sri Lanka's weather is strongly regional. December can be transitional, so the best coast depends on current monsoon patterns and exact travel dates.

Sri Lanka Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 29–31°C by day and 23–25°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 27–29°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Combine beaches with cultural sites, tea country, wildlife parks and rail journeys. A multi-stop itinerary reveals much more than a resort-only stay.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Sri Lanka

Trains and buses are inexpensive, while private drivers offer greater flexibility. Allow generous travel time because road journeys can be slow.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Sri Lanka

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Sri Lanka eSIM page.

Goa enters a much drier and sunnier period in December, making it one of India's most attractive months for a beach holiday.

India Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 31–33°C by day and 20–23°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 27–29°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in India

North Goa offers busier beaches and nightlife, while South Goa generally feels quieter. Portuguese-influenced architecture, markets and local cuisine add variety beyond the beach.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for India

Goa can be relatively affordable, but prices rise as the main winter season develops. Scooters, taxis and hired drivers are common ways to get around.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in India

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our India eSIM page.

Morocco is mild rather than truly hot in December. Marrakech is excellent for sightseeing, while Agadir offers the possibility of sunny Atlantic beach days, though the ocean is considerably cooler than the Red Sea or tropics.

Morocco Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 20–23°C by day and 8–12°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 18–20°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Morocco

Explore Marrakech's medina and gardens, the Atlas region, Agadir and Essaouira. Evenings can be cool, especially inland.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Morocco

Morocco can offer good value for food and accommodation. Trains connect several major cities, while buses and private transfers cover many tourist routes.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Morocco

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Morocco eSIM page.

December is late spring in Cape Town, bringing longer days and increasingly warm conditions. It is better for sightseeing, wine country and road trips than for warm-ocean swimming.

South Africa Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 24–27°C by day and 15–17°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 16–19°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in South Africa

Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and the Garden Route are major highlights.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for South Africa

A rental car is useful for the Winelands and Garden Route. Accommodation ranges widely, and booking ahead becomes more important as the southern summer approaches.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in South Africa

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our South Africa eSIM page.

Japan is not a December beach destination, but it is one of the strongest cultural choices thanks to cool sightseeing weather and autumn foliage in many regions.

Japan Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 10–14°C by day and 3–7°C at night. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in Japan

Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka can be combined efficiently by rail. Temples, gardens and mountain areas are particularly attractive during autumn-color season.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for Japan

Rail travel is efficient but can be expensive. Compare individual tickets and regional passes against your actual itinerary rather than assuming a nationwide pass is cheapest.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in Japan

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our Japan eSIM page.

Florida remains warm in December and is a useful combination of beaches, theme parks and road-trip destinations. The Atlantic hurricane season officially lasts until December 30.

United States Weather and Sea Temperature in December

Typical December conditions are around 24–27°C by day and 16–20°C at night. Typical sea temperatures are around 23–26°C. Conditions vary by resort, coast and year, so treat these as historical planning averages rather than a 2026 forecast.

Best Places and Things to Do in United States

Miami and the Keys suit a beach-focused trip, while Orlando is ideal for theme parks. The Everglades add a very different natural experience.

Costs, Transport and Travel Tips for United States

Distances are large and a rental car is useful outside some city areas. Theme parks and resort fees can substantially increase the total trip budget.

Mobile Internet and eSIM in United States

Mobile data is useful for maps, bookings, messaging and transport while travelling. Check current packages, validity, coverage and plan conditions before purchase on our United States eSIM page.

For maximum tropical heat, consider Thailand, Sri Lanka, Goa, Maldives, Mexico or the Caribbean. For shorter winter-sun trips from Europe, Egypt, Canary Islands, Cape Verde, UAE and Oman stand out. Cape Town offers southern-hemisphere summer, while Japan is better for winter city travel than beach weather.

The warmest seas in this guide are generally around Thailand, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Goa, Indonesia and the Caribbean, often in the upper-20s Celsius. Egypt, Oman, UAE, Cape Verde, Mexico and Florida can still offer comfortable swimming, while the Canary Islands and Cape Town are cooler.

For travellers starting in Europe, Egypt and the Canary Islands are among the most practical winter-sun choices, with Cape Verde, UAE, Jordan and Oman as longer alternatives. Long-haul destinations deliver more tropical heat but require substantially more travel time.