If you imagine Christmas with snow and icy winds, Eilat paints a totally different picture. This southern city sits by the Red Sea, and late December here feels mild and sunny—definitely one of the warmest spots in Israel during winter.
Around Christmas, daytime highs usually reach about 20°C (68°F), while nights cool down close to 10°C (50°F).
You’ll get loads of sunshine—about nine hours of daylight, and clear skies are pretty common. Rain hardly ever interrupts plans, so you can expect to do what you want outdoors.
The Red Sea stays inviting, with water temperatures around 22–23°C (72–73°F). That’s warmer than many other coastal places in the region this time of year.
This mix of mild air, bright skies, and pleasant water really makes Eilat stand out in December. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the desert, or just enjoy festive activities without bundling up, the weather sets the mood for a different kind of holiday.
Overview of Eilat’s Climate
Eilat has a hot, dry climate thanks to its desert location and the Red Sea nearby. You’ll see sun most of the year, barely any rain, and big differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures.
Subtropical Desert Characteristics
Eilat sits right at the southern tip of Israel, deep in the Negev Desert, and the climate is subtropical desert. Winters feel mild, while summers can get extremely hot.
In January, which is the coldest month, daytime highs reach about 21–22 °C (70–72 °F). Nights dip to around 10–12 °C (50–54 °F).
July and August? Those months often bring highs of 40 °C (104 °F) or even more.
Humidity levels stay low, so the heat is more bearable than in other coastal places. Nights often cool off, which is honestly a relief after those hot days.
Sudden temperature swings can happen, especially from day to night, because of the desert setting.
Frost or snow almost never shows up in Eilat. Even during cold spells, temperatures rarely fall below 5 °C (41 °F). That’s why Eilat is one of Israel’s warmest winter destinations.
Year-Round Sunshine
Eilat gets recognized as one of the sunniest cities in the region. On average, you’ll see about 3,365 hours of sunshine per year—that’s more than 9 hours per day.
In summer, you can get 11 hours of daily sunshine. Even in winter, you’ll still enjoy 7 to 8 hours.
Cloudy days hardly show up, and skies usually stay clear. Even in December, when days are short, the sun shines about 70% of daylight hours.
All that sunshine keeps the Red Sea warm enough for swimming most of the year. From June through September, the sea can reach 27–28 °C (81–82 °F). In winter, it cools to about 20–21 °C (68–70 °F).
Rainfall Patterns
Rain almost never bothers Eilat. The city only gets about 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation in a year, making it one of Israel’s driest spots.
Any rain usually falls between October and May. Even then, showers are short and rare.
From June through September, measurable rain is pretty much unheard of.
When it does rain, it comes in quick bursts. Sometimes, heavy downpours cause flash floods in the desert valleys, but that’s not common.
Most months see 0–5 mm of rain, and plenty of months get none at all. For example:
| Month | Avg. Rain (mm) | Rain Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | 4 | 1 |
| February | 5 | 1 |
| June–September | 0 | 0 |
You can plan outdoor activities with almost no worry about rain messing up your schedule.
Typical December and Christmas Weather in Eilat
December in Eilat brings mild daytime warmth, cooler nights, and barely any rain. You’ll see plenty of sunshine, gentle winds, and comfortable weather that makes it easy to enjoy outdoor holiday activities.
Temperature Ranges
During December, average daytime highs usually land at 19–22°C (66–72°F). Early December can feel a bit warmer, but by the end of the month, it cools to around 20°C.
Nights drop to 9–12°C (48–54°F). That’s mild compared to much of Israel, though you’ll definitely notice the chill after sunset.
The sea temperature sticks around 22–23°C (72–73°F). If you like cooler water, it’s still great for swimming. Eilat is one of the rare places in Israel where you can hit the beach in winter.
You can get away with light clothing during the day, but you’ll want warmer layers for evenings.
Daytime Versus Nighttime Conditions
December days in Eilat are usually sunny and clear. You’ll get about 9 hours of sunshine per day, which is a lot for winter.
The sun feels warm enough for you to spend time outside in comfort.
At night, temperatures drop fast once the sun goes down. Even if the day feels mild, evenings get chilly, especially near the water or out in the open.
If you plan to walk along the promenade or eat outside, a sweater or jacket is a must.
The difference between day and night can be as much as 10°C (18°F). It’s worth planning for, especially if you’re out all day and into the evening.
Humidity and Wind
December humidity usually stays low in Eilat. You won’t run into sticky air like in Tel Aviv.
The dry desert air makes evenings feel crisp, not damp.
Winds are typically light to moderate, mostly from the north. Average speeds are 7–12 km/h (4–7 mph).
Breezes aren’t strong, but they do make evenings feel cooler than the thermometer says.
Thanks to the dry air and gentle winds, conditions are good for hiking, walking tours, or just sitting outside at a café. High humidity or strong gusts won’t get in your way.
Precipitation Levels
Rain almost never visits Eilat in December. The city averages less than 6 mm of rain over just 1–2 days for the whole month.
Some years, it doesn’t rain at all.
If you do catch rain, it’s usually brief and light, not a steady downpour. You probably won’t need an umbrella or raincoat.
This dry stretch is part of Eilat’s appeal at Christmas. While other parts of Israel might get winter showers, you’ll almost always have dry skies and sunny weather in Eilat.
Sunshine and Clear Skies in December
December brings bright, dry weather to Eilat, making it one of Israel’s sunniest winter destinations. You’ll get long daylight hours, almost no rain, and a high chance of clear skies throughout the month.
Average Daily Sunshine Hours
Expect around 7 hours of bright sunshine per day in December. That’s a lot for winter and gives you plenty of time outside.
The total sunshine for the month averages about 217 hours. That’s more than you’ll find in most other parts of Israel during December.
These hours spread across short winter days, so the sun rises later and sets earlier than in summer.
Daylight lasts about 10 hours and 15 minutes, with the shortest day just over 10 hours and the longest about 10 hours and 20 minutes.
Even with shorter days, the sun’s intensity stays strong. Sun protection—hats, sunscreen—is still a good idea.
Cloud Cover and Visibility
Cloud cover in December is low. Skies usually stay mostly clear or partly cloudy.
That keeps visibility great over the desert and the Red Sea.
Rainfall is so rare that you almost never get fog or heavy clouds blocking the view. You can easily enjoy spots like the mountains and the Gulf of Aqaba.
Visibility is usually excellent, which is perfect if you want to hike, take a boat trip, or just soak in the scenery. The dry air keeps haze away, so everything looks sharp.
Clear Skies Frequency
Clear skies are the norm in December. Studies say the sky is clear or mostly clear about 74% of the time.
That’s over two-thirds of the month with little to no cloud cover.
Compared to central or northern Israel, where winter means more rain, Eilat really stands out for its sunny, dry climate. You’ll probably only get 1–2 days of measurable rain for the whole month.
With this many clear days, December is a reliable time for outdoor plans, whether you’re hitting the beach, exploring the desert, or just enjoying the waterfront.
Sea Temperatures and Beach Conditions
Eilat’s Red Sea coast stays warmer than most of Israel during winter. It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy the beach in December.
The water remains comfortable for swimming, and the dry desert climate keeps the shoreline pleasant for hanging out.
Average Sea Temperature
In late December, the sea in Eilat averages 22°C to 23°C (72°F to 73°F). That’s cooler than in summer—when it can hit 28°C (82°F)—but still warmer than the Mediterranean coast at the same time.
The Gulf of Aqaba’s narrow shape and depth help keep water temperatures steady. Unlike northern beaches, you won’t feel sharp drops in sea warmth during winter.
The water usually feels refreshing, not cold, especially compared to the air, which ranges from 14°C at night to 22°C during the day.
For many visitors, December actually feels like a comfortable time to swim. Early mornings might feel chillier, but by midday, the sea temperature is steady enough for a swim without a wetsuit.
Swimming and Water Activities
Swimming is definitely possible in December, though the water is cooler than in summer. Most people find it comfortable for casual swimming, snorkeling, or floating near the shore.
If you plan to be in the water for a long time, a light wetsuit can help.
The Gulf of Aqaba shelters Eilat’s beaches, so waves stay small and currents are mild. That makes it safe for families and less experienced swimmers.
Snorkeling is especially popular now because visibility is excellent. The coral reefs—like those at Coral Beach Nature Reserve—are still lively with colorful fish, and the cooler water doesn’t bother marine life.
If you’d rather stay on shore, the dry desert air keeps the sand warm enough for sunbathing. You can go for beach walks without the summer heat, so December offers a nice balance for both water and land activities.
How Eilat’s Christmas Weather Compares to Other Seasons
In December, Eilat brings mild daytime warmth, cool evenings, and barely any rain. These conditions really stand out when you compare them to Eilat’s scorching hot summers or the more varied climates of spring and autumn.
Winter Versus Summer Weather
During Christmas, expect average daytime highs near 21°C (70°F). Nights usually drop to around 9°C (48°F).
The air feels dry, and rain barely shows up—maybe just 2 rainy days all month. Sunshine sticks around, with over 200 hours in December, so outdoor activities usually feel comfortable.
Summer in Eilat, though, is a whole other story. July and August easily hit highs above 37°C (99°F), and even at night, it rarely cools below 25°C (77°F).
Humidity stays low, but the dry desert heat can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re out in direct sun.
The Red Sea also changes with the seasons. In December, the water averages 22°C (72°F), which is pretty nice for swimming.
By summer, the sea warms up to about 27–28°C (81–82°F), so it’s really warm.
The main difference? Comfort. Winter lets you walk, hike, and sightsee without worrying about heat stress.
In summer, you’ll want to do outdoor stuff early or late, when the sun isn’t as harsh.
Spring and Autumn Differences
Spring in Eilat brings a steady rise in temperature. By March, highs reach 24°C (75°F). By May, they climb above 33°C (91°F).
Rain barely appears, and skies usually stay clear. Nights feel warmer than in December, but the weather still works for outdoor plans.
Autumn cools things down after the blazing summer. September often stays hot, with highs over 35°C (95°F). By November, daytime temperatures drop to about 26°C (79°F).
Nights also cool off, but they’re not as chilly as December.
Spring and autumn both have that dry climate, but they feel more like in-between seasons. You get just a short stretch of mild weather before summer’s heat or winter’s cooler nights take over.
Travel Tips for Visiting Eilat at Christmas
Eilat in late December gives you mild warmth during the day, cool nights, and almost no rain. You can enjoy outdoor activities, but it’s smart to bring layers, check the weather forecast, and split your time between the beach, desert, and city spots.
What to Pack
Daytime highs usually reach 20–22°C (68–72°F), while nights can dip near 10°C (50°F). So, bring layered clothing.
A light jacket, sweater, and long pants help in the evenings. Short sleeves and lighter clothes work best during the day.
You’ll want comfortable walking shoes for the beaches and desert trails. If you’re planning to swim, the Red Sea water stays around 23°C (73°F), so pack a swimsuit.
A light scarf or shawl comes in handy for breezy evenings.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are still must-haves. Even in December, Eilat gets about 9 hours of sunshine daily, and the UV can be strong.
A small backpack makes it easier to carry water and essentials when you’re out exploring.
Outdoor Activities
The dry, stable weather means you can plan activities without worrying about rain. Try snorkeling or diving at Coral Beach—the water’s warm enough to be comfortable.
Many people also like Hananya Beach for calm conditions and water sports.
If you prefer land adventures, check out Timna Park for hiking and desert scenery, which feels especially nice in cooler weather.
The Hai Bar Wildlife Reserve lets you see desert animals in a more natural setting.
Evenings get cooler, so it’s a good time for outdoor dining or catching a show at the Isrotel Theatre.
If you want something quieter, just stroll along the promenade—the mild December air makes it really pleasant.
Weather Forecast Resources
When you check a local weather forecast before or during your trip, you can plan what to wear and what to do. Eilat usually gets pretty reliable forecasts, since the winter weather there barely changes and rain is rare.
You might want to use sources like the Israel Meteorological Service. Major international platforms like Weather.com or AccuWeather work too, and there are some handy travel weather sites out there.
A lot of hotels even share daily weather updates right at the reception desk, which is honestly pretty convenient.
Keep an eye on daily highs, lows, and wind speeds. Wind sometimes makes the beach or hiking less comfortable.
If you’re thinking about swimming or diving, check the sea temperature forecasts too. That way, you won’t get caught off guard by the conditions.