Spending Christmas in Accra feels like a burst of warm weather, bright skies, and all that festive energy. Instead of cold winter days, you get tropical warmth that makes outdoor celebrations and beach trips possible.
Around Christmas, daytime temperatures usually hit about 30–31°C (86–88°F). Nights stay mild at about 25–26°C (77–79°F).
Rain hardly interrupts plans during this time, with just a few light showers here and there. Humidity can feel sticky, but those coastal breezes often make things more comfortable.
You’ll find plenty of daylight and sunshine, so there’s more time to explore the city or just relax by the coast.
Whether you want to join holiday events in town or hang out quietly by the ocean, the weather really supports both options.
Overview of Accra’s Climate in December
December in Accra brings hot days, warm nights, and not much rain. Sunshine is frequent, humidity is high, and the sea stays warm, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities or go for a swim.
General Climate Patterns
Accra’s December weather stays warm, with daytime highs around 30–31°C (86–88°F) and nighttime lows near 25–26°C (77–79°F). The air feels humid, usually above 75–80%, but coastal breezes help with the heat.
Rainfall drops compared to wetter months. On average, 25–30 mm of rain falls, usually as a few quick showers.
Most days are sunny, with about 7–8 hours of sun per day.
The Atlantic Ocean holds steady at about 28°C (82°F), so swimming, snorkeling, or other water activities are always an option.
This warmth and light rain make December one of Accra’s drier, more predictable months.
Seasonal Weather Trends
Accra’s dry season runs from November through March, so December falls right in the middle.
Harmattan winds blow from the Sahara, but in Accra, they’re not as intense as up north.
You might notice the sky looks a bit hazy at times, but visibility along the coast stays good.
Rain can happen, but it’s usually brief and doesn’t mess up your plans.
Flooding or long downpours? Not really a thing at this time of year.
Humidity stays high, but less rain and steady breezes make things easier.
This mix of dry air, warmth, and sunshine is why December is such a solid month for outdoor travel in Accra.
Comparison to Other Months
If you compare December to the rainy season months of April to June and September to October, it’s way drier and sunnier.
Rainfall during the wettest months can go over 100 mm, but December usually brings just 25–30 mm.
December temperatures are pretty similar to the rest of the year, but the lower rainfall means the heat feels less heavy.
Nights are warmer than in the middle of the year, when you sometimes get cooler breezes.
If you visit in January or February, you’ll find almost the same weather, though the harmattan haze might get stronger.
July and August? Those are cooler, cloudier, and see more showers.
December strikes a nice balance with warmth, sunshine, and not much rain, making it stand out in Accra’s climate cycle.
Typical Temperatures Around Christmas
Late December in Accra stays warm day and night, with only small changes between highs and lows.
You can expect steady heat, not much rain, and humidity that makes it feel warmer than the numbers suggest.
Average Daytime Highs
Daytime highs around Christmas usually reach 30°C to 31°C (86°F to 88°F). That level of heat sticks around for most of December, so you won’t see big spikes or drops.
The sun is strong, and with humidity near 70–80%, the heat might feel more intense.
Light clothing, sunscreen, and staying hydrated help you deal with the warmth if you’re outdoors.
Afternoons are hottest. Mornings feel a little cooler, but not by much.
Unlike some tropical places, Accra doesn’t get wild midday heat waves in December, so outdoor activities are manageable if you prep a bit.
Nighttime Lows
At night, temperatures hover around 25°C to 26°C (77°F to 79°F). Evenings stay warm, so you won’t need jackets or sweaters.
Humidity sticks around after dark, so the air can feel heavy even when the sun’s down.
If you’re not used to tropical weather, you might want a fan or air conditioning at night.
Since nights don’t cool off much, you can enjoy outdoor gatherings without worrying about chilly air.
Beaches, restaurants, and open-air events all stay comfortable late into the evening, though the warmth might feel a bit much if there’s no breeze.
Temperature Fluctuations During December
Temperatures in December hardly budge, with just a small gap between highs and lows.
The difference is usually no more than 5–6°C (9–10°F) over 24 hours.
Accra’s coastal spot means the Atlantic Ocean helps keep the climate steady.
Unlike inland Ghana, you don’t get sudden cold nights or hot surges.
Since temperatures hold steady, you can plan activities without stressing about big swings in weather.
Markets, city exploring, or beach days all stay predictable and easy to dress for.
Rainfall and Humidity During the Holiday Season
December falls in Accra’s dry season, so expect little rain and lower humidity than the middle of the year.
It’s still warm, but the air feels lighter, making outdoor activities more pleasant.
Chance of Rain Around Christmas
Rain is rare in Accra during late December. The rainy season wraps up by November, so by Christmas, skies usually clear up.
Light showers might pop up, but they’re quick and don’t ruin plans.
Most days bring dry conditions and partly cloudy skies.
You can plan outdoor events, beach trips, or sightseeing without much worry.
Rainfall chances are low enough that you probably won’t need an umbrella.
The odds of measurable rain during Christmas week sit below 10%.
If showers happen, they’re isolated and don’t last long.
No need to expect heavy downpours or long wet spells like in the rainy season.
Monthly Rainfall Totals
By December, Accra’s rainfall drops sharply.
Earlier months like June and October bring heavy rain, but December averages just a few millimeters.
Some years, it barely rains at all.
To give you an idea:
- June–August: 150–200 mm per month
- October: around 100 mm
- December: usually less than 20 mm
This drop shows how dry December is compared to the rest of the year.
Less rain means dry roads and outdoor spaces, and visibility stays good.
December is one of the driest months in Accra’s year, so it’s a safe bet for travel if you want to avoid rain disruptions.
Humidity Levels in December
Humidity sticks around all year in Accra, but December brings some relief.
During the rainy season, humidity can shoot past 80%, which makes the air feel heavy.
In December, average relative humidity drops closer to 70–75%.
This helps make the heat easier to handle.
Daytime highs still reach about 30°C (86°F), but the lower humidity means it’s not as uncomfortable.
Nights feel cooler too, with temperatures near 24°C (75°F).
You’ll probably still notice some stickiness, especially in the mornings, but it’s much less than in August or September.
This mix of warmth and manageable humidity makes December a pretty pleasant month for visitors.
Sunshine, Daylight Hours, and Cloud Cover
Around Christmas, Accra gets long stretches of bright sunlight, steady daylight hours, and a moderate chance of clouds.
The weather stays warm and tropical, but skies are much clearer than during the rainy season.
Average Sunshine Duration
December is one of Accra’s sunniest months.
You can expect about 10 hours of sunshine per day, adding up to more than 300 hours for the month.
That’s more than many mid-year months, which get bogged down with clouds.
The sun is strong, with a UV index around 9, so you’ll want sun protection if you’re outside for long.
Even with the humidity, the long sunny days make December a solid time for the beach or sightseeing.
Compared to rainy months like June or August, December’s sunshine is just more dependable.
The drier skies give you more daylight for exploring the city and coastline.
Day Length and Sunrise/Sunset Times
Accra’s spot near the equator keeps day length pretty steady all year.
In December, you get about 11 hours and 45 minutes of daylight each day.
The sun rises around 6:15 AM and sets close to 6:00 PM.
This steady rhythm makes it easy to plan your day.
No huge swings in daylight hours like in higher latitudes.
Mornings brighten up fast, and evenings get dark soon after sunset.
Nightlife starts earlier compared to places farther north or south.
Cloud Cover Trends Near Christmas
Cloud cover in December is moderate, but lighter than in the wet months.
On average, skies are clear or partly cloudy more than half the time, with a 57% chance of sunny conditions.
Rainfall stays low, about 25 mm over 7 days, so most days are dry.
Clouds show up but usually clear out quickly, leaving long sunny stretches.
Compared to September or August, when clouds can dominate, December feels brighter and less humid.
Outdoor activities become more comfortable, and you’ll have a better shot at enjoying Accra’s beaches, markets, and cultural events without rain getting in the way.
Wind and Comfort Levels
Steady coastal breezes in December really shape how the warm days feel in Accra.
Comfort outdoors depends on temperature, wind, humidity, and shade.
Typical Wind Speeds
In December, winds usually blow from the south and southwest, rolling in from the Gulf of Guinea.
Average speeds range from 6 to 10 mph (10–16 km/h), which keeps things moving but never gets wild.
These breezes are strongest near the coast and a bit weaker in the city.
You’ll notice the wind most in open spots like beaches or promenades, where it helps take the edge off the midday heat.
Wind direction doesn’t change much, unlike in the rainy months.
This predictability is handy if you’re planning outdoor activities or hanging out by the water.
Comfort Index for Outdoor Activities
Daytime highs in December average around 30–32°C (86–89°F), and humidity drops compared to the wet season.
The steady breeze cools things down, especially in the late afternoon and evening.
When you mix temperature, humidity, and wind, comfort levels land somewhere between moderate and warm.
You might feel sticky at midday without shade, but the breeze keeps it from getting too much.
For outdoor plans, mornings and evenings work best.
Walking tours, beach outings, or dining outside all benefit from the cooling wind.
Usually, carrying some water and wearing light clothes is enough to stay comfortable.
This balance of warmth and steady breezes makes December a great month to enjoy Accra’s outdoor scenes.
Travel Tips: Planning a Trip to Accra at Christmas
December in Accra brings warm temperatures, little rain, and lots of sunshine.
You’ll want to prepare for daytime heat, slightly cooler evenings, and the busy holiday travel rush.
What to Pack for December Weather
Daytime highs usually climb to around 31°C (88°F). Nights don’t get much cooler, hanging near 26°C (79°F).
Humidity can feel pretty high, but you probably won’t see much rain—just a few light showers here and there.
Go for light, breathable clothing like cotton shirts, shorts, or dresses. Toss in a light jacket or shawl, since air conditioning on buses or in restaurants can get chilly.
Honestly, the sun is intense, so pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
For shoes, sandals or lightweight walking shoes are perfect for wandering markets or the coast.
If you’re planning a swim, the ocean temperature sits near 28°C (82°F), so don’t forget your swimwear. Maybe bring snorkel gear if that’s your thing.
A small umbrella or a light rain jacket might come in handy for those random showers.
Best Activities for the Season
December usually brings dry, sunny days, so it’s a great month for outdoor activities. You can hang out at Labadi Beach or check out Bojo Beach—both places get pretty popular during the holidays.
Markets like Makola Market buzz with energy, and they’re fun if you want to shop for local fabrics or crafts as gifts.
You’ll probably stumble on cultural events or concerts around December, and sometimes there are holiday festivals with music and dancing.
Evenings feel comfortable enough for eating outside. Maybe you’ll want to try fresh seafood at a beachside spot or go for Ghanaian favorites like jollof rice and grilled tilapia.
The warm water makes swimming, boating, or even quick coastal trips really tempting in December.
Advice for Holiday Travelers
Christmas brings a rush of travelers to Accra, so it’s smart to book flights and hotels early if you want decent prices and a good spot. Popular hotels and guesthouses fill up fast.
Traffic gets pretty heavy, especially near shopping centers or event venues. Give yourself extra time to get around, and maybe stay close to the neighborhoods you actually want to visit.
Bring cash in small bills since a lot of local vendors won’t take cards. Drink plenty of bottled water, and don’t push yourself too hard if you’re out walking in the sun.
If you’re planning day trips outside Accra, try to sort out your transportation ahead of time, because everyone else is looking for rides during the holidays too.