You're standing on the sand at South Beach, looking at a group of tourists from Ontario splashing in the Atlantic like it’s mid-July. Meanwhile, the local guy next to you is wearing a literal parka and a beanie because the thermometer just hit 68°F.
Welcome to Miami in December.
It’s a weird, beautiful, and sometimes confusing month. Most people think "Florida" and assume it's an endless 90-degree steam room. They pack nothing but bikinis and flip-flops, only to find themselves frantically buying a $60 overpriced hoodie at a gift shop because a "cold front" rolled through. Honestly, the miami weather in dec is some of the best you'll find in the country, but it requires a bit of insider knowledge to actually enjoy it without shivering or sweating in the wrong places.
The Temperature Reality Check
Let’s get the numbers out of the way. On average, you’re looking at daily highs around 76°F to 79°F. At night, it dips to about 64°F to 66°F.
But averages are liars.
In reality, December is the month of the "Cold Front." These are systems that push down from the north, clearing out the humidity and dropping temperatures. One day you’re sipping a mojito in 82°F sun, and the next morning you wake up to a crisp 54°F. It doesn't stay that cold for long—usually just a day or two—but if you aren't prepared, it feels freezing because the wind coming off the ocean is no joke.
👉 See also: Hillary Step Before After: What Really Happened to Everest’s Most Iconic Obstacle
The humidity also takes a massive hike. While summer in Miami feels like breathing through a warm, wet blanket, December is the start of the dry season. The air is actually breathable. The sky becomes that specific shade of "Florida Winter Blue" that you just don't see in July.
Rainfall and the End of Hurricane Anxiety
By December 1st, the Atlantic hurricane season is officially over. Everyone in the city collectively exhales. You don't have to worry about a tropical storm ruining your flight or your hotel view.
It also stops raining every afternoon at 3:00 PM. In the summer, you can set your watch by the thunderstorms. In December? Rain is rare. You might get a quick shower when a front passes through, but for the most part, it’s dry. According to historical data from the National Weather Service, December is one of the driest months of the year, averaging only about 2 to 2.2 inches of total precipitation.
Can You Actually Swim in December?
This is the most asked question, and the answer depends entirely on where you grew up.
If you’re from Michigan, New York, or London, the water is going to feel like a dream. The Atlantic Ocean around Miami stays surprisingly warm, usually hovering between 73°F and 77°F.
- Early December: The water is still holding onto that summer heat. It’s perfect.
- Late December: It might feel a bit "brisk" when you first jump in, but once you're moving, it’s fine.
- The Local Perspective: Most Miamians won't touch the ocean if the air temperature is below 75. You’ll have the beach mostly to yourself (well, shared with other tourists).
If you’re worried about the chill, head to Matheson Hammock Park. It has a man-made atoll pool that’s shallow and enclosed. Because it’s shallow, the sun warms it up faster than the open ocean, often making it 2 or 3 degrees warmer than South Beach.
What to Wear (The Layers Game)
Packing for miami weather in dec is an art form. You need to dress for three different climates in a single day.
Morning starts cool. You’ll want a light sweater or a denim jacket for your walk to get Cuban coffee. By noon, the sun is blazing. The UV index still hits around 5 or 6, which is enough to burn you if you aren't careful. You'll be down to a T-shirt and shorts. Then, as soon as the sun sets (which happens early, around 5:30 PM), the sea breeze kicks in.
If you're planning on a fancy dinner in Brickell or a night out in Wynwood, bring a real jacket. Restaurants in Miami are notorious for cranking the AC to "Arctic Tundra" levels regardless of what it's like outside.
The Essential December Packing List:
- Light layers: Cardigans, hoodies, or a light trench.
- Swimwear: Yes, you’ll use it.
- Jeans and one pair of long pants: You'll regret it if you only bring shorts.
- Sunglasses: The winter sun sits lower in the sky and can be incredibly bright.
- Closed-toe shoes: Walking Ocean Drive in flip-flops is fine, but for breezy nights, sneakers are better.
Why the "Microclimates" Matter
Miami isn't just one weather block. If you’re staying right on the beach, it’s going to be windier and slightly cooler at night than if you’re staying inland near the Everglades.
Heading to the Everglades for an airboat tour? Expect it to be about 5 degrees cooler than the coast. Also, despite the "dry season," the mosquitoes in the swamp don't care about the calendar. If you're going out there, the weather will be pleasant, but the bugs are still a thing.
Actionable Tips for Your December Trip
- Check the "Cold Front" Forecast: Look at the 10-day forecast before you leave. If you see a dip into the 50s, pack an extra scarf. It sounds dramatic, but 55 degrees with 20mph ocean winds feels significantly colder than 55 in Ohio.
- Book a Heated Pool: If you aren't a "brave" swimmer, make sure your hotel or Airbnb specifically mentions a heated pool. Unheated pools in Miami can get down into the 60s in December, which is basically an ice bath.
- Plan Outdoor Activities for Mid-Day: Since the sun sets early, maximize your beach or boat time between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
- Don't Forget Sunscreen: Don't let the "cool" breeze fool you. The tropical sun is still strong enough to give you a nasty burn in under an hour.
December is arguably the best time to visit South Florida. You get the tropical vibes without the soul-crushing humidity or the fear of a Category 4 hurricane. Just remember: layer up, watch for the cold fronts, and don't be surprised when you see a local in a winter coat while you're in your swimsuit.