When you picture Christmas in Florida, snowy scenes and icy winds just don’t fit. Instead, you’ll find mild to warm days, cooler evenings, and maybe a passing shower or two. December temperatures usually run from the low 50s at night to the low 70s during the day. It’s honestly one of the best times to be outside in Florida.
You’ll get a mix of sunny skies and some clouds, with way less rain than in the sticky summer months. Sometimes, a cold snap brings a quick chill, but most days stay comfortable enough for short sleeves or maybe a light sweater.
This blend of warmth and coolness gives Florida’s holiday season its own vibe. It’s not the classic winter scene, but it still feels festive in a different way.
If you’re planning Christmas in Florida, it helps to know what kind of weather to expect. The climate really shapes how you celebrate, what you do, and even what you pack.
Typical Weather Patterns During Christmas in Florida
You can count on mild warmth during the day, cooler evenings, and lower humidity than the muggy summer. Rainfall drops off in December, but quick showers still pop up, especially in the central and southern parts of the state.
Average High and Low Temperatures in December
Daytime highs in December usually sit in the low 70s °F in central Florida, and the mid-70s °F down south. Up north, like in the Panhandle, highs often stay in the 60s °F.
At night, you’ll notice a real drop. Central Florida often sees lows in the low to mid-50s °F. Northern spots can dip into the 40s °F. South Florida stays warmer, with lows in the mid-60s °F.
Cold fronts sometimes sweep through and can push temps into the 30s °F up north. These chilly spells don’t last long, but you’ll want to be ready if you’re out in the mornings or evenings.
| Region | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| North Florida | 62–67 | 42–48 |
| Central Florida | 71–74 | 52–56 |
| South Florida | 75–77 | 62–66 |
Humidity and Wind Conditions
Humidity in December drops way down compared to summer, so the air feels a lot more comfortable. Mornings and evenings, especially inland, feel drier and fresher.
Afternoons are pleasant, and you won’t get that sticky feeling you remember from July or August. Relative humidity averages 70–75%, but cooler temps make it feel just fine.
Winds usually blow light to moderate, mostly from the northeast or east. Along the coast, breezes can pick up, especially when fronts come through. Inland, the wind usually stays calm, unless a storm system moves in.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
December kicks off Florida’s dry season, but that doesn’t mean you’ll never see rain. Central and southern areas average about 2–4 inches, while the north might get a bit more.
Most rain comes in quick showers, not long storms. The daily chance of rain drops to around 20–30%. You might still get caught in a brief downpour, especially when a cold front moves across the state.
Snow? Almost unheard of, unless you’re in the far northern Panhandle. Expect occasional light rain, but mostly dry, sunny days.
| Location | Avg. Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| North Florida | 4–5 |
| Central Florida | 3–4 |
| South Florida | 2–3 |
December’s rainfall pattern makes it one of the best months for outdoor travel, with storms rarely spoiling your plans.
Regional Differences Across Florida in December
Florida’s climate in December really shifts as you drive from the Panhandle down to the Keys. You’ll notice cooler mornings and evenings up north, mild afternoons in the center, and the warmest, most steady weather in the south.
North Florida Weather Variations
In North Florida—think Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Pensacola—December brings the coolest conditions in the state. Daytime highs usually hit the upper 60s°F (19–21°C), and nighttime lows can slip into the 40s°F (7–9°C).
Cold fronts move through this region more often than in other parts of Florida. These systems can drop the temperature, especially early in the morning.
Expect crisp, dry air with lower humidity than you’d get in summer. Rainfall stays limited, averaging 2–3 inches for the month, but you might still see a quick shower.
If you’re planning to be outside, bring layers. A light jacket or sweater helps at night, but afternoons are great for sightseeing or strolling the coast.
Central Florida Climate Conditions
Central Florida—Orlando, Tampa, and nearby spots—gets slightly warmer and more stable weather than the north. Highs usually reach the low 70s°F (21–23°C), and lows hover around 50–55°F (10–13°C).
Humidity stays moderate, and rain is pretty low compared to summer. You might see about 2 inches of rain in December, mostly in light, quick showers.
This area is perfect for long days at theme parks or on the golf course. Afternoons are warm enough for t-shirts, but evenings cool off quickly, so a light layer comes in handy.
Nearby lakes and the Gulf cool down, with water usually in the mid-60s°F. Swimming outside is less common unless you’re headed to a heated pool.
South Florida Temperature Differences
South Florida—Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Keys—offers the warmest December climate in the state. Average highs hit 75–77°F (24–25°C), and nighttime lows stay mild at 63–68°F (17–20°C).
The ocean stays inviting, with water temps around 72–76°F (22–24°C) near Miami, even warmer near Key West. Swimming, snorkeling, and boating are all popular through December.
Rain is minimal, often less than 2 inches, and humidity drops compared to summer. Sunshine is plentiful, with lots of clear days for outdoor dining or the beach.
You can wear light clothing all day. Evenings rarely need more than a thin sweater, making this area the most reliable for warm-weather fun in December.
How Florida’s Climate Affects Holiday Experiences
Florida’s climate shapes how you spend the holidays, from outdoor get-togethers to festive local events. Warm temps, moderate rain, and the occasional weather surprise make December feel totally different from most of the U.S.
Comparing Florida Christmas Weather to Other Regions
When you’re in Florida for Christmas, it’s hard not to notice the difference from the north. While much of the country deals with snow and freezing temps, Florida stays mild. Highs often reach the 70s °F, and lows usually stick in the 50s or 60s °F.
You get to enjoy outdoor celebrations without bundling up in heavy coats. Families often gather at the beach or theme parks, and visitors from colder places love the break from winter storms.
This weather also makes travel easier. Airports up north might deal with snow delays, but Florida’s airports usually run smoothly in December. The state becomes a reliable spot for a holiday trip if you want to avoid weather headaches.
Impact of Humid Subtropical Climate
Florida’s humid subtropical climate really affects the holiday experience. The state’s surrounded by the Gulf and Atlantic, which helps keep winters warmer than inland areas elsewhere in the country.
Humidity levels in December usually run 70% to 80%. This can make mild temperatures feel a bit warmer, especially in southern cities like Miami or Key West. Up north, in spots like Jacksonville, the air feels cooler and less humid.
By late fall, the wet season wraps up, so December is one of the drier months. Average rainfall is about 2–3 inches, and most holiday events or outdoor plans go on without much worry about rain. You can plan beach days, boat parades, or light festivals and not stress about getting rained out.
Weather Surprises: Cold Snaps and Heat Waves
Even though December is warm, Florida can still surprise you. Cold fronts sometimes roll in from the north, dropping temps into the 40s °F in central and northern areas. These chilly spells don’t last long, but they can catch you off guard.
On the flip side, a brief heat wave can push highs into the low 80s °F, especially in the south. It feels a little strange for the holidays, but it does happen.
Pack for both. Bring a light jacket or sweater for chilly evenings, and stick to breathable clothes and sunscreen for the warmer days. When you’re ready for anything, you’ll enjoy Florida’s holiday events without a hitch.
What to Pack for Christmas in Florida
Florida weather around Christmas goes from warm afternoons to cooler mornings or evenings. You’ll want both light summer wear and a few warmer layers, plus sun protection and swim gear if you’re hitting the pool or beach.
Recommended Clothing for Day and Night
Daytime highs in December usually range from the mid-60s°F up north to the mid-70s°F down south. Afternoons call for T-shirts, shorts, and lightweight pants. Fabrics like cotton or linen keep you comfy.
Evenings cool off, especially in northern and central Florida. Pack a light jacket, sweatshirt, or sweater for after sunset. If you’re headed to Orlando or Jacksonville, jeans or leggings are handy for chilly nights.
A simple packing list might look like:
- 3–4 T-shirts
- 2–3 pairs of shorts
- 1–2 pairs of jeans or long pants
- 1–2 sweaters or hoodies
- Comfortable walking shoes
This combo lets you layer up or down without stuffing your suitcase.
Sun Protection and Swimwear Essentials
Even in December, Florida’s sun packs a punch. Bring sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), a wide-brim hat or cap, and UV-protective sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen every few hours if you’re outside a lot.
Swimming is still on the table, especially in southern Florida. Pack swimwear, flip-flops, and a cover-up or light dress for the pool or beach. A compact beach towel and water shoes are smart if you’ll be boating or doing water sports.
A quick checklist:
- 1–2 swimsuits
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Lightweight beach bag
With these, you’re set for both the mild winter sun and Florida’s outdoor fun.
Popular Destinations and Activities During Christmas
You can soak up Florida’s mild December weather while exploring festive towns and outdoor activities. Warm temps mean you can join in holiday events without bundling up, and the beaches and parks stay open for all kinds of seasonal fun.
Best Towns to Visit for Warm Weather
Some Florida towns really shine during Christmas with their celebrations and great weather. St. Augustine lights up its historic streets, perfect for evening strolls with highs in the low 70s °F.
Down in Key West, you’ll spot decorated boats in the harbor and catch tropical breezes. Daytime temps often land in the mid to upper 70s °F, and cold fronts almost never reach this far south, so evenings stay warm.
Orlando goes all-out at the theme parks with holiday shows and parades. Highs usually hang in the low to mid 70s °F, so you can spend all day outside at the attractions.
Farther south, Naples and Fort Lauderdale mix beach access with seasonal fun. Outdoor markets, concerts, and waterfront displays pop up everywhere, and the weather stays mild enough for outdoor dining and exploring.
Outdoor and Beach Activities in December
Florida’s December weather really lets you blend holiday traditions with time outside. Highs usually sit in the upper 60s °F up north and reach the mid 70s °F down south, so you can plan coastal activities without much worry.
You can swim, kayak, or paddleboard in a lot of places since the water stays warmer than almost anywhere else in the U.S. South Florida beaches still get plenty of sunbathers, while folks up north seem to prefer walking or hunting for shells.
People flock to state parks like Everglades National Park and Canaveral National Seashore for hiking or wildlife watching in December. The humidity drops and nights feel cooler, so you might actually enjoy being outside more than in the sticky summer.
Evenings bring outdoor dining, waterfront light displays, and boat parades. You can join in on these events without bundling up, which honestly sets Florida apart from most of the country at Christmas.
Travel Tips for Visiting Florida at Christmas
Florida brings warm weather and lots of festive things to do around Christmas, but you’ll also run into big crowds and unpredictable conditions. Planning ahead and packing for the weather can save you from a lot of headaches.
Holiday Crowds and Planning Ahead
Christmas brings some of the biggest crowds to Florida all year. Theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios fill up fast, and events like St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights draw in thousands.
You’ll want to book flights, hotels, and rental cars months ahead of time. Prices go up quickly in December, and last-minute options almost disappear. For theme parks, buy your tickets online and use reservation systems if you can.
Crowds hit their peak between December 24 and January 1. Try to get to attractions early and visit on weekdays when possible. Smaller towns and beachy spots usually feel a lot less hectic than Orlando or Miami.
Here’s a quick planning checklist:
- Book lodging early (3–6 months out)
- Reserve theme park tickets before you go
- Have backup activities for busy days
- Check local calendars for parades, festivals, or closures
Safety and Weather Preparedness
Florida in December usually gives you mild weather. Daytime highs sit in the 70s°F, and nights drop to the 50s°F.
You’ll probably see less rain than in summer, but quick showers can still pop up. Pack some light layers, a small umbrella, and comfortable shoes since you’ll likely walk a lot.
Humidity hangs around, especially down in South Florida. Make sure you drink water often and don’t skip the sunscreen, even if the sky looks cloudy.
The sun sits lower in the sky during winter, but UV rays can still burn your skin.
Sometimes cold fronts move in fast and drop the temperature. Bring a light jacket or sweater for those cooler evenings or early mornings.
If you plan to hit the beach, check local advisories for rip currents—those can get stronger in winter.
Keep your valuables secure in crowded spots, and use the hotel safe if you have one. Traffic tends to pick up near big attractions, so give yourself extra travel time.
Apps with live traffic and weather updates can help you change your plans if something unexpected happens.