Thinking about a trip to Djerba around Christmas? You’ll get a mild Mediterranean winter instead of the biting cold you might find elsewhere. Expect average daytime highs near 17–18°C and cooler nights around 10–12°C, which feels just right for sightseeing and being outdoors.
Rain doesn’t show up too often, so most days will probably be dry and sunny. You won’t have to worry much about being stuck inside.
Djerba’s winter climate feels calm and inviting. You can walk the beach, explore old sites, and soak up the local culture without summer’s crowds.
Sunshine hours stay steady, so there’s enough daylight to enjoy both the coast and the inland villages. It’s nice not having to rush.
The sea sits at about 18°C, which feels chilly for long swims. Still, you can try water sports, go sailing, or just relax by the shore if you’re up for it.
If you plan well, you’ll get a Christmas holiday with pleasant weather and plenty of authentic experiences.
Typical December Weather in Djerba
December brings mild winter conditions to Djerba. You’ll notice cooler evenings and moderate warmth during the day, with a mix of sun and light rain.
Temperatures stay comfortable, with occasional showers and shorter daylight hours than in summer.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
During December, Djerba’s daytime temperatures usually reach 16–19°C (61–66°F). Early in the month, highs might touch 20°C, but by late December, they settle closer to 16°C.
These mild days are great for being outside without sweating through your shirt.
At night, it drops to 13–15°C (55–59°F). Evenings can feel cool, especially with the breeze, so pack a light jacket or sweater if you’ll be out after dark.
The sea stays relatively mild too, about 18°C (64°F). Some people still swim, but most folks stick to beach walks or waterfront dinners instead.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
December counts as one of Djerba’s wetter months, but it still gets less rain than northern Tunisia. You’ll see about 40–45 mm of rain over 10–12 days.
Showers are usually light and quick. They don’t tend to drag on all day.
Humidity sits between 65% and 75%. It might feel damp when it’s cloudy, but it’s generally not uncomfortable.
After short bursts of rain, skies often clear up again.
Wind shapes the island’s December weather too. Average speeds reach 30–35 km/h, so it gets breezy along the coast.
That wind can make things feel cooler at night, so wind-resistant clothes come in handy.
Hours of Sunshine
December brings the least sunshine, but you still get a decent amount of daylight. On average, Djerba has 6–7 hours of sun per day, even with more clouds around.
Days are shorter, so sunrise comes later and sunset sneaks up fast. Plan your outdoor stuff for midday when the sun’s strongest.
Even when it’s cool, the sun can be bright, so sunglasses and sunscreen aren’t a bad idea.
Clouds show up more often in December, but you’ll still get plenty of clear days. It’s a nice time to wander markets, coastal spots, or old towns without sweating buckets.
Christmas Climate Conditions
Christmas in Djerba brings mild winter weather. Expect cooler evenings, moderate rain, and shorter daylight hours than you’d get in summer.
The climate stays comfortable for sightseeing and light outdoor activities, but swimming and long beach days might not sound as tempting.
Weather Patterns During Christmas Week
Around Christmas, daily high temperatures usually sit between 17°C and 19°C (63°F–66°F). Nights cool down to 13°C–15°C (55°F–59°F), so you’ll want a light jacket for evenings.
Rain falls moderately, with 20–25 mm for the month. You can expect about 4–6 rainy days in December.
Showers tend to be brief and don’t often linger.
Sunshine is more limited than in summer, averaging 6–7 hours per day. Skies can be cloudy, but you’ll still get sunny breaks.
The sea cools to about 16°C (61°F), which feels pretty cold for swimming unless you’ve got a wetsuit.
Humidity usually ranges from 60% to 67%. That’s mild compared to the tropics.
Winds blow steadily, adding a bit of a chill at night, but nothing too harsh.
Comparing December to Other Winter Months
December feels cooler than autumn, but it’s warmer than January’s core winter. In January, average highs dip to about 16°C, and nights can drop to 13°C or lower.
February starts to warm up again, with highs reaching 16–17°C and less rain than December.
Sunlight is shortest in December, averaging 6.8 hours per day. January gets about 7 hours, and February climbs to nearly 8 hours.
So, Christmas marks the dimmest stretch of the year in Djerba.
Rainfall is also a bit higher in December—about 24 mm, compared to 15–17 mm in January and February.
That makes December slightly wetter, but it’s still much drier than autumn months like October.
December offers a nice balance—cooler than fall but not as chilly as January. You’ll notice shorter days and more clouds, but temperatures stay mild compared to most of Europe.
How Weather Impacts Holiday Activities
The mild climate lets you enjoy walking tours, markets, and cultural sites without sweating through your shirt. Exploring the medina, visiting mosques, or checking out small villages feels comfortable in December’s cooler air.
Outdoor dining works during the day. At night, you’ll probably want a sweater or light coat.
Many cafés and restaurants stay open-air, and some tourist spots have heaters.
Beach activities are limited. You can stroll the coast, but the sea at 16°C is too cold for most swimmers.
Water sports like kitesurfing might still run, since winds are steady, but unheated pools don’t appeal much.
Rain showers might interrupt outdoor plans, but they’re quick. It’s smart to have indoor options like museums or craft shops ready, just in case.
If you’re chasing winter sun, Djerba feels a lot milder than northern Europe, but don’t expect it to be hot. The climate encourages a relaxed pace, with more focus on culture and wandering than sunbathing.
Sea Temperatures and Water Activities
Sea temperatures in Djerba during December stay mild compared to many Mediterranean spots. The water’s cooler than in summer, but you can still do some activities if you don’t mind a brisk dip.
Average Sea Temperature in December
In December, the average sea temperature in Djerba is about 18°C (64°F). Early in the month, it’s often closer to 20°C (68°F), but by the last week, it drops to 16–17°C (61–63°F).
This gradual cooling means your experience depends on when you visit. The first half of December feels better for water contact, while late December brings a brisker sea.
Air temperatures average 18°C during the day and 10°C at night. The water stays fairly steady.
Rainfall sticks to about 36 mm across seven days, so storms are rare and the sea surface usually stays calm.
Suitability for Swimming and Water Sports
At 18°C, the water feels cool at first, but some visitors still swim—especially if they’re used to temperate seas.
Short swims are fine, but you probably won’t want to stay in long unless you’ve got a wetsuit.
For snorkeling or diving, a light wetsuit helps you stay in longer. The Mediterranean around Djerba often stays clear in December, so underwater visibility is good.
If you like windsurfing or kitesurfing, average wind speeds of 16 km/h (10 mph) give you steady breezes.
These conditions work for beginners and casual riders, though experts might find them a bit tame.
Beach walks, paddleboarding, or kayaking are also nice options, with calm seas and far fewer crowds than in summer.
Best Time to Visit Djerba for Pleasant Weather
Djerba’s climate gets shaped by its desert setting and the nearby Mediterranean. Conditions shift by season, with mild winters, very hot summers, and in-between months that often feel the most comfortable.
Advantages of Visiting in December
If you visit Djerba in December, you’ll find mild winter weather that’s still comfortable compared to much of Europe.
Daytime highs average around 16–18 °C (61–64 °F), while nights cool to about 10–11 °C (50–52 °F).
Rain can happen but is limited, with about 30 mm spread over a few days. You still get more than 6 hours of sun per day, so skies are often bright and clear.
The sea temperature hovers near 19 °C (66 °F). That’s too cool for most people to swim, but perfect for walking along the coast.
December also means fewer crowds than summer. You’ll enjoy quieter beaches, lower hotel prices, and easier access to cultural sites.
The weather’s great for walking tours, market visits, and short bike rides—no summer heat to slow you down.
Comparison with Other Seasons
Spring (March to May) brings warmer days, with highs rising from 18 °C in March to 27 °C in May. Rain falls less as spring goes on, and by late spring, you get long sunny days.
This time is ideal for sightseeing before the summer heat arrives.
Summer (June to September) gets seriously hot. Average highs reach 30–34 °C, and heat waves can push it above 40 °C.
The sea is warmest, around 26–28 °C, so it’s great for swimming but not so much for long walks or outdoor tours.
Autumn (October to November) brings moderate warmth, with highs between 23–28 °C. The sea stays warm into October, but rain picks up, especially in November.
This season balances beach time with cooler evenings, though you might run into a storm or two.
December offers steadier mild weather, which feels practical if you like gentle temperatures and fewer tourists.
Weather Variability Across Djerba
Weather in Djerba stays pretty consistent across the island, but you’ll notice small differences depending on where you stay.
Local geography, distance from the coast, and wind exposure can shift temperature, rain, and humidity a bit.
Differences Between Popular Destinations
In Houmt Souk, the main town, you get slightly warmer daytime highs because it’s inland. Nights cool off faster here than at the coast, but not by much.
Along the Midoun and Sidi Mahres beaches, the sea keeps temperatures steady. You won’t notice sharp drops at night, and humidity stays a bit higher during the day.
This coastal effect makes the area feel milder in both winter and summer.
In the southern villages, like Guellala, the land is more open and exposed. Winds get stronger here in winter, which can make it feel colder.
Rainfall stays about the same, but breezes might make evenings cooler than up north.
| Area | Typical Winter Feel | Key Influence |
|---|---|---|
| Houmt Souk | Warmer days, cooler nights | Inland position |
| Midoun/Beaches | Stable temps, higher humidity | Sea influence |
| Southern Villages | Windier, cooler evenings | Open terrain |
Microclimates and Regional Variations
You won’t run into extreme microclimates in Djerba, but those small differences still matter if you’re planning outdoor activities. The Mediterranean Sea shapes the coastal weather, and inland spots react more quickly when the air temperature shifts.
During winter, the coast holds onto warmth a bit longer. Sea temperatures hover around 16–18 °C, which helps keep nights from feeling too chilly. That’s part of why beachside hotels often feel cozier than guesthouses farther inland in December.
Wind exposure changes things too. Northern shores catch stronger breezes from the Gulf of Gabès, while inland areas stay calmer most of the time. These winds can really change how warm or cold you feel, even if the thermometer says otherwise.
Rain usually stays light everywhere, though the northern and western parts of the island might see a bit more. The difference isn’t huge—just a few extra millimeters—but you might notice a couple more brief showers up there.
Packing Tips and Travel Advice for December
Daytime temperatures in Djerba stay mild, but evenings cool off fast. Light rain can happen, so you’ll want to be ready for both sunny walks and the occasional damp stretch.
Recommended Clothing
Daytime highs in December usually land around 18–19°C, so light layers are your best bet. Short-sleeved shirts, thin long-sleeves, and breathable trousers keep you comfortable for pretty much anything.
Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings, when it can drop to 11–13°C. If you’re near the coast and the wind picks up, a windbreaker comes in handy.
Footwear actually matters here since you’ll probably walk through sandy paths, busy markets, or uneven cobblestone streets. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, but sandals work fine during warmer afternoons.
If you’re spending time outside, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Even in winter, Djerba clocks over 200 hours of sunshine in December. Swimsuits are optional—just keep in mind the sea averages about 18°C, which most people find a bit too cold for a swim.
Preparing for Rain and Cooler Evenings
December brings just a bit of rain, usually 20–25 mm over 4 or 5 days. Still, showers can pop up and mess with your plans when you least expect it.
I’d toss a small umbrella or a packable rain jacket in your bag. They don’t weigh much, and you’ll be glad to have one if the sky decides to open up.
Humidity sits at around 70%. If you’re heading out after a shower, pick quick-drying fabrics. Trust me, you don’t want to deal with damp clothes.
Skip the heavy coats. Djerba’s winter feels pretty mild, so you won’t need them.
Nights can surprise you with a chill, especially if you’re hanging out at a café or wandering by the water. Toss on a medium-weight sweater or a fleece to stay cozy after dark.
Layering works better than carrying one big jacket. Mix a t-shirt, a long-sleeve, and a light jacket so you can adjust as the temperature shifts.
Just be ready for a mix of sunshine and a little rain, and you’ll enjoy your trip without much fuss.