Christmas in Cape Town brings warm summer days, plenty of sunshine, and just a small chance of rain. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 24°C (75°F), while evenings cool off to about 16°C (61°F), making it one of the most comfortable times of year to explore the city.
Low rainfall and steady breezes make the weather feel pleasant and pretty reliable for outdoor activities.
You’ll see the city’s beaches, hiking trails, and waterfront areas buzzing with life during this season.
The Atlantic Ocean stays on the cooler side at about 18°C (64°F), so swimming feels refreshing.
Sunny skies and dry air create great conditions for sightseeing and day trips.
If you’re planning a holiday visit, knowing the balance of warmth, light winds, and clear skies helps you pack for both relaxed afternoons and more active adventures.
Overview of December Weather in Cape Town
December in Cape Town means warm days, mild nights, and not much rain.
Sunshine is reliable, and the air feels less humid than in tropical places, so you’ll find outdoor activities comfortable.
Seasonal Climate Patterns
December kicks off summer in the Western Cape.
You’ll usually see daytime highs around 24–26°C (75–79°F), with nighttime lows near 15–17°C (59–63°F).
These temperatures make sightseeing, hiking, and beach visits pleasant.
Rain barely shows up, with only 1–3 days of light showers on average.
Monthly rainfall usually stays under 20 mm, so you won’t often need to worry about wet weather.
Skies stay clear, and the city enjoys about 9–10 hours of sunshine per day.
Humidity is usually between 60–70%, which feels comfortable compared to tropical climates.
Winds, especially the Cape Doctor (a strong southeasterly), often pick up in the afternoons.
This breeze keeps the air fresh but sometimes feels strong along the coast.
UV levels get pretty high in summer, so you’ll want sun protection even on cooler or breezier days.
Warmth, long daylight hours, and low rainfall make December one of the most reliable months for outdoor plans.
Comparison to Other Months
Compared to late spring (October–November), December is warmer and drier.
Earlier months bring more rain and cooler evenings, but December offers steadier sunshine.
If you look ahead to January and February, temperatures climb a bit higher, often reaching 26–28°C (79–82°F).
These months are dry too, though they can feel hotter during the day, especially inland.
December sits in a nice middle spot between spring’s mildness and summer’s peak heat.
Winter months like June and July are a different story.
Highs average only 17–18°C (63–65°F), and rainfall jumps up, often exceeding 80 mm per month.
December’s low rainfall and warmth make it much more inviting for outdoor activities.
Cape Town’s Mediterranean climate brings a shift from cool, wet winters to dry, sunny summers, and December really highlights that transition into the most popular travel season.
Temperature Trends and Daily Ranges
In Cape Town during December, you’ll get warm summer weather with mild nights.
Temperatures stay comfortable for most outdoor activities, but you’ll notice a daily swing between warm afternoons and cooler evenings.
Average Highs and Lows
In December, Cape Town’s average high temperature hits 24–26°C (75–79°F).
These highs are common around Christmas, especially on days when the wind is light.
Nighttime lows dip to 16–18°C (61–64°F).
Evenings are cooler than afternoons, but still mild compared to many other places.
You can enjoy outdoor dining or evening walks without piling on heavy clothing.
Here’s a quick look at the usual range:
| Time of Day | Average Temp (°C) | Average Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime High | 24–26 | 75–79 |
| Nighttime Low | 16–18 | 61–64 |
This gives you a reliable idea of what most December days feel like in Cape Town.
Daytime Versus Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime temperatures in Cape Town climb quickly by late morning.
The sun feels strong, and it can seem warmer than the thermometer says, especially if you’re away from the sea breeze.
At night, temperatures drop but stay comfortable.
You’ll notice about a 7–10°C (12–18°F) difference between afternoon highs and overnight lows.
This cooling is enough that you might want a light jacket if you’re out late.
December falls in the dry season, so humidity stays low and the cooler evenings feel crisp, not damp.
This balance between warm days and mild nights makes the climate easy to adjust to during Christmas.
Temperature Fluctuations Around Christmas
Around Christmas Day, temperatures in Cape Town usually stick to the typical December range.
Highs peak near 25°C (77°F), and lows settle close to 17°C (63°F).
Extreme heat doesn’t show up often, but sometimes a hot spell can push daytime temperatures above 30°C (86°F).
Cooler days can happen when cold fronts pass offshore, though they rarely drop daytime highs below 20°C (68°F).
These changes don’t last long, and sunny, warm weather returns quickly.
Pack for both warm afternoons and cooler evenings.
Light layers will keep you comfortable whether you’re at the beach, hiking, or enjoying Christmas dinner outdoors.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
December in Cape Town falls right in the dry summer period.
You’ll get mostly sunny days and very little rain.
Showers do happen, but they’re usually brief and lighter than during the wetter winter months.
Average Rainfall Amounts
Rainfall in December in Cape Town is pretty low.
On average, the city gets about 20–25 mm of rain during the month.
That’s a big difference compared to mid-winter months like June, which can see over 120 mm of rainfall.
The Mediterranean climate shapes this pattern.
Summers are typically dry, and most of the annual rainfall arrives between May and August.
December adds only a small amount to the yearly total of about 650–700 mm.
Rain in December usually comes as short-lived showers, not prolonged storms.
These showers pass quickly, and clear skies follow soon after.
Most visitors won’t have to worry about rain ruining outdoor plans.
Rainy Days and Probability of Showers
December averages 3 to 5 rainy days in Cape Town.
Even then, showers are light and scattered.
The chance of measurable rain on any given day is low, often under 20%.
Unlike winter, when rain can linger, summer showers are short.
You might get a brief drizzle in the morning or evening, but the rest of the day usually stays dry and sunny.
You can plan beach trips, hikes, or wine tours with little worry about weather interruptions.
Sunshine, Daylight Hours, and UV Index
In December, Cape Town gets long, bright days and high UV levels.
Outdoor activities are a treat, but you’ll need to be careful with sun protection.
Sunshine Duration and Brightness
December is one of the sunniest times of year in Cape Town.
On average, you get about 11 hours of bright sunshine per day, which is nearly 78% of available daylight.
This means most days are clear or partly sunny, with just a few clouds here and there.
The sun sits high at midday, reaching an altitude of nearly 80°, so the light feels intense.
You might want to plan outdoor activities early or later in the day to dodge the strongest glare.
Long hours of sunshine make for excellent sightseeing, beach outings, and outdoor dining.
Length of Daylight
During December, Cape Town enjoys its longest days.
Around Christmas, daylight stretches about 14 hours and 15 minutes, so you have plenty of time to be outside.
The sun usually rises before 6:00 a.m. and sets after 8:00 p.m.
You won’t feel rushed to fit in sightseeing and relaxation.
Here’s a quick reference for December:
| Measurement | Average Value |
|---|---|
| Daylight per day | ~14h 15m |
| Sunshine per day | ~11h 05m |
| % of daylight sunny | ~78% |
That extended daylight is perfect for day trips, whether you’re heading to Cape Point, wine estates, or Table Mountain.
UV Index and Sun Protection
The UV index in Cape Town during December gets very high, often peaking between 10 and 12 at midday.
At those levels, unprotected skin can burn in under 20 minutes.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wear a wide-brimmed hat, and grab sunglasses with UV protection.
Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing helps, too.
If you’re outside for long stretches, take breaks in the shade, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun is strongest.
Kids and people with fair skin should be extra careful, since they’re more sensitive to UV damage.
A little prep lets you enjoy Cape Town’s sunny December weather while keeping your skin and eyes safe.
Humidity, Wind, and Air Quality
December in Cape Town brings moderately warm weather with steady breezes and not much rain.
Humidity stays in a comfortable range, seasonal winds shape daily conditions, and air quality is generally good.
Humidity Levels in December
Humidity in Cape Town during December averages around 65–70%, which counts as moderate.
The air feels neither too dry nor overly damp, so outdoor activities are easy to enjoy.
Mornings can feel a bit more humid, but afternoon sun and winds usually dry things out.
By evening, temperatures cool and humidity levels settle again.
Compared to winter, December’s humidity is lower, so you won’t deal with the heavy, damp air that’s common in June or July.
If you’re sensitive to humidity, you’ll find December in Cape Town pretty mild.
Light clothing and sunscreen usually do the trick, and you won’t need to worry about muggy conditions found in tropical climates.
The Cape Doctor: Typical Winds
Cape Town is famous for its strong south-easterly wind, called the Cape Doctor.
In December, this wind is at its most active, blowing often in the afternoons and evenings.
The Cape Doctor can reach 25–35 km/h (15–20 mph) on many days, with even stronger gusts sometimes.
It might feel brisk, but it clears the air of pollution and haze, leaving the city with bright skies.
You’ll notice the wind most along the coastline, Table Mountain, and open spots like the V&A Waterfront.
On calm days, conditions feel warm and still, but when the Cape Doctor picks up, it can be strong enough to make outdoor dining or beach umbrellas a challenge.
Many travelers find the wind refreshing, especially during hot afternoons.
Pack a light jacket or windbreaker if you’ll be outside for a while.
Air Clarity and Comfort
Air quality in Cape Town during December is usually good to excellent.
Coastal breezes and the Cape Doctor sweep away pollutants, so the air stays clean.
Visibility is high, often exceeding 10 miles (16 km), which is great for sightseeing and photography.
Clear skies are common, making December a solid month for mountain hikes, scenic drives, and vineyard visits.
Sometimes, you might notice dust or pollen on the wind, especially in drier areas outside the city.
This usually isn’t a big problem unless you have allergies.
Overall, comfort levels are high, with clean air, moderate humidity, and steady winds balancing out the summer heat.
The environment feels fresh and easy to adapt to, even if you’re not used to warmer climates.
Sea Temperature and Beach Conditions
Around Christmas, Cape Town’s beaches greet you with warm air temperatures and loads of sunshine. The sea, though, stays on the cooler side.
You’ll get long daylight hours, dry weather, and breezy afternoons. These breezes really shape how comfortable the beach feels for swimming and water activities.
Average Sea Temperatures
In December, Cape Town’s Atlantic coastline usually sees sea temperatures of about 19–20°C (66–68°F). That’s warmer than in spring, but it’s not exactly tropical.
On hot days, the water feels refreshing, but after a few minutes, some swimmers might find it a bit brisk. Folks used to warmer seas will probably notice the chill even more.
The sea near False Bay feels a bit warmer than the Atlantic side. Atlantic beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay often feel colder because of upwelling currents.
| Location | Average December Sea Temp |
|---|---|
| Atlantic Seaboard (Clifton, Camps Bay) | ~19°C (66°F) |
| False Bay (Muizenberg, Fish Hoek) | ~20°C (68°F) |
If you want slightly warmer water, you’ll probably prefer False Bay.
Swimming and Water Sports Conditions
You can swim comfortably in Cape Town during December, but without a wetsuit, the water often feels chilly, especially if you stay in long. Short dips are easy enough, but surfers, divers, and kayakers usually wear wetsuits for comfort.
Lifeguards keep the beaches generally safe for swimming, though currents can be strong on the Atlantic side. False Bay tends to be calmer and better for beginners.
Winds matter, too. The south‑easterly “Cape Doctor” often picks up in the afternoon, and that can make the sea choppy. Mornings usually stay calmer, so if you’re into swimming or paddleboarding, that’s the best time.
If you want to surf, Muizenberg draws lots of learners, while more advanced surfers go for the bigger swells on the Atlantic side.
Tips for Visitors: Weather Preparation and Activities
December in Cape Town brings long, sunny days, warm temperatures, and barely any rain. You’ll want to prepare for the strong sun during the day and the cooler breezes that often show up in the evenings.
Packing and Clothing Recommendations
Pack light, breathable clothes for the daytime. Think T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and swimwear—these will keep you comfortable when it’s hot.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are must-haves since the UV index runs high in December.
Evenings can cool down to around 14–18°C (57–64°F). You’ll want a light jacket, cardigan, or sweater for outdoor dinners or walks.
If you’re thinking about hiking Table Mountain or heading to Cape Point, bring sturdy walking shoes and a refillable water bottle.
For the beach, pack flip-flops, a towel, and a light cover-up. If you plan to visit wine estates or dine out, toss in at least one smart-casual outfit.
Mixing summer gear with a few warmer layers should keep you ready for whatever Cape Town throws your way.
Outdoor Activities and Seasonal Events
December in Cape Town really shines for outdoor activities thanks to the dry, sunny weather. I’d say Table Mountain is best early in the morning, before the wind starts acting up.
You can hike up or just hop on the cable car if you’re after those panoramic views. Both options have their charm, honestly.
The beaches? They’re a huge part of the scene. Camps Bay and Clifton pull in the sunbathers, and Muizenberg Beach is where folks go for gentler waves or a surfing lesson.
The Atlantic side usually feels cooler, but if you want to swim, False Bay beaches are the way to go. The water’s just more inviting there.
Seasonal events make everything feel festive. The Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts bring music to the botanical gardens, and you can sprawl out with a picnic on the grass.
At the V&A Waterfront, you’ll find festive lights, street performers, and holiday markets. It’s busy, but the energy is infectious.
If you’re after wildlife, Boulders Beach is the place to spot penguins up close. December’s even better since you might see chicks waddling around.
A drive out to Cape Point Nature Reserve gives you those dramatic coastal views. Keep an eye out for ostriches and baboons—they’re locals too.