Hottest weather in december: Hot Places to visit in December to Celebrate Christmas

U.S. saw its 4th-warmest year on record, fueled by a record-warm December

The year 2021 was marked by extremes across the U.S., including exceptional warmth, devastating severe weather and the second-highest number of billion-dollar weather and climate disasters on record.  

The nation also saw an active wildfire year across the West as the north Atlantic Basin stayed busy with its third most-active Atlantic hurricane season on record, according to scientists from NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information.

Here’s a recap of the climate and extreme weather events across the U.S. in 2021:

Climate by the numbers

December 2021 | Full year 2021 

The December contiguous U.S. temperature was 39.3 degrees F, 6.7 degrees above average, making it the warmest December on record and exceeding the previous warmest December in 2015.

Ten states — Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas — also had their warmest Decembers on record.

For 2021, the average contiguous U.S. temperature was 54.5 degrees F, 2.5 degrees above the 20th-century average and ranked as the fourth-warmest year in the 127-year period of record. The six warmest years on record have all occurred since 2012.

Maine and New Hampshire had their second-warmest year on record with 19 additional states across the Northeast, Great Lakes, Plains and West experiencing a top-five warmest year. Meanwhile, Alaska’s average annual temperature was 26.4 degrees F, 0.4 of a degree above the long-term average and the coldest year since 2012.

Precipitation across the contiguous U.S. totaled 30.48 inches (0.54 of an inch above average), which placed 2021 in the middle third of the climate record. Massachusetts had its ninth-wettest year on record, while Montana ranked ninth driest on record for 2021.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, drought coverage remained fairly significant and steady throughout much of 2021, with a minimum extent of 43. 4% occurring on May 25 and maximum coverage of 55.5% on December 7.

A map of the United States plotted with significant climate events that occurred throughout 2021. Please see the full climate report highlights at http://bit.ly/USClimate202112 offsite link. (NOAA NCEI)

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Billion-dollar disasters in 2021

Last year, the U.S. experienced 20 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters that killed at least 688 people — the most disaster-related fatalities for the contiguous U.S. since 2011 and more than double last year’s number of 262. The following 20 events, each exceeding $1 billion, put 2021 in second place for the highest number of disasters recorded in a calendar year, behind the record 22 separate billion-dollar events in 2020:  

• 1 winter storm/cold wave event (focused across the deep south and Texas).
• 1 wildfire event (western wildfires across Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington).
• 1 drought and heat wave event (summer/fall across western U.S.).
• 2 flood events (in California and Louisiana).
• 3 tornado outbreaks (including the December tornado outbreaks).
• 4 tropical cyclones (Elsa, Fred, Ida and Nicholas).
• 8 severe weather events (across many parts of the country, including the December Midwest derecho). 

Damages from these disasters totaled approximately $145 billion for all 20 events. This exceeds the total damage of $102 billion from the 22 events in 2020.

Map of the U.S. plotted with 20 separate billion dollar disasters that occurred in 2021. For more, go to https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/billions/.

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Hurricane Ida was the most costly event of 2021 at $75 billion and ranks among the top-five most costly hurricanes on record (since 1980) for the U.S. The combined cost of the four tropical systems was approximately $78. 5 billion, more than 54% of the total U.S. billion-dollar disaster price tag in 2021.

The historic mid-February winter storm/cold wave was the costliest winter storm on record ($24 billion), more than double the previous record winter storm event — the Storm of the Century in March 1993. 

The total cost over the last five years of these disasters (2017-2021) exceeds $742 billion — averaging $148 billion a year. These five-year and annual average costs both set record highs.

Other notable climate and weather events in 2021

The Atlantic hurricane season was busy: During 2021, 21 named storms formed in the North Atlantic Basin. This was the third most active Atlantic hurricane season on record. Category 4 Hurricane Sam was the most intense Atlantic hurricane of the season, while Category 4 Hurricane Ida was the strongest landfalling and most destructive hurricane of the season. This was the sixth year in a row with above-average tropical activity across the Atlantic Basin.  

Numerous wildfires scorched the West: More than 7.1 million acres were burned across the western U.S. last year, which was 96% of the 10-year average. The second-largest fire in California history, the Dixie Fire, consumed nearly 964,000 acres in 2021. Smoke from several large fires created air quality and health concerns throughout much of the season. 

An active tornado year: The tornado count for 2021 was above average across the contiguous U.S., with 1,376 tornadoes reported. By early January 2022, 193 tornadoes were confirmed in December alone — the greatest number of tornadoes for any December on record and nearly double the previous record of 97 in 2002. 

The most notable events during the year were two outbreaks on March 17 and March 25 across the South, with a combined total of about 100 tornadoes, including an EF-4 tornado, an outbreak in Iowa on July 14, the December 10-11 Mid-Mississippi River Valley Tornado event that spawned two EF-4 tornadoes and the December 15 Midwest derecho event that produced more than 60 tornadoes across Nebraska and Iowa.

More: Find NOAA’s climate reports and download the images from the NCEI climate monitoring website.

California in December: 14 Ideas for The Perfect Getaway (2022)

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California in December is a special treat!

As the rest of the country is zipping into down coats and pondering snowplows, California weather in December is frequently gorgeous – soothing sunshine, with just scattered rain showers and slightly cooler temperatures. It’s one of the very best places to visit in the US in December.

Summer crowds are gone, leaving pristine beaches empty as iconic cities dress up in holiday glitter. Wondering where to go in December? Read on to learn about all of my favorite places.

Here, travel bloggers share their favorite things to do in winter in California …Where to go, what to see, and where to stay! So if you’re looking for things to do in California in December, read on.

For even more ideas, check out my posts on the best weekend road trips from San Diego or getaways in Northern California.

San Diego beaches in winter

California in December: Weather

December weather in California obviously varies depending on where you go.

It’s one of the coolest months for the state but that means you can expect daytime temperatures in Southern California in the mid to high 60’s and overnight lows of about 50 degrees.

Days are mostly sunny with scattered rain showers.

In Northern California, it’s just a bit cooler. For example, San Francisco in December sees sunny days in the low 60’s and overnight temps averaging around 48 degrees.

Head to the mountains—Lake Tahoe or Mammoth for instance—and you can expect clear sunny days in the mid 30’s (for snow!) and 40’s with overnights in the teens. December in California is gorgeous!

California’s rainy season is between November and April so expect a few showers at lower elevations and snow at higher elevations.

If you’re looking for warm places in California in December, head directly to the desert. You’ll enjoy the very warmest sunny weather with little chance of rain.

Death Valley and Palm Springs make an ideal California vacation in December.

With this variety, there’s something for everyone this time of year. California is one of the best places to visit in December!

Best Places to Visit in California in December

1. San Diego in December

San Diego is one of the best places to visit in California during winter.

As a native, I love walking the empty beaches on clear sunny days. Or walking the PCH in downtown Encinitas in North County.

Whale watching season also kicks off mid-December so it’s a perfect time to book a harbor cruise spotting gray whales migrating south from Alaska (or look for them from the shore).

If it’s Christmas in California you’re after, consider a holiday tea at the iconic Hotel Del (scene of Some Like It Hot with Marilyn Monroe) on Coronado Island.

Or check out the Pet Parade in the trendy Gaslamp Quarter.

San Diego’s famous Old Globe Theater in beautiful Balboa Park brings Dr. Seuss to life for kids and the young-at-heart in its annual rendition of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

Balboa Park’s December Nights is San Diego’s premier holiday festival with food, drink, free admission to all of the museums, and festive holiday lighting!

Whatever you do, don’t miss the Parade of Lights in San Diego’s Bay.

More than 80 boats decked out in colorful holiday lights strut their stuff as they cruise from Shelter Island, past Harbor Island, the Embarcadero and the Ferry Landing on Coronado. It’s a uniquely San Diego celebration.

San Diego in winter is amazing! If you’re wondering where to go in California in December, look no further!

Where to Stay in San Diego

La Valencia is a Mediterranean-inspired retreat with vintage luxury and oceanside views in the cute seaside village of La Jolla north of downtown.

Check price and availability at La Valencia here. For an even better value, check out my list of oceanfront and other unique vacation rentals in La Jolla.

Or, see my list of the coolest vacation rentals by San Diego neighborhood.

Chris | Explore Now or Never

Credit: Carla Stoner

Read more on California travel:

• Best places to visit in California in January

• Spring in California

• Fall in California

• Best places to visit in the U.S. in fall and in winter

2. San Francisco in December

San Francisco is one of America’s greatest cities at any time of year and one of the best places in California to visit in December. (San Francisco in October is also incredible.)

It makes for one of the best winter vacations in California.

However, it’s also one of the best places in California to spend Christmas as they really roll out the red and green carpet.

Throughout the city is a month-long celebration called the Festival of Lights.

A collection of artists install massive light sculptures in installations in prime locations for your enjoyment.

You can enjoy the lights in any number of ways from a self-guided walking tour of San Francisco to riding a historic fire engine to taking a Christmas cruise on the bay.

Don’t forget SantaCon, an adult-only party where thousands of costumed revelers take to the streets for a jolly party or the Chocolate and Art Show.

There are the usual holiday shows as well, like Christmas Carol, Handel’s Messiah, and The Nutcracker.

Even without the holiday glitz, San Francisco is a spectacular destination. Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, China Town, and Cable Cars are every bit as beautiful in the winter.

See them from a Golden Gate Bay cruise.

If you think Christmas is spectacular in the City by the Bay, you should see what they do for New Years.

Fireworks by the Bay and New Year’s cruises will let you celebrate in style.

Where to stay in San Francisco

Argonaut Hotel, Fisherman’s Wharf! If you love harbors and delicious seafood, stay in this wonderful nautically themed hotel right on famous Fisherman’s Wharf.  Check price and availability at Argonaut Hotel here.

Or, stay in this gorgeous Victorian home with a private bath in Pacific Heights. Travelers give it top marks. Check price and availability here.

Jenn and Ed | Coleman Concierge

Credit: Coleman Concierge

What to Pack for Winter in California

Pack layers! Even in winter, there is plenty of warmth and sunshine. However, in coastal areas particularly, your day may start out with overcast weather until the fog burns off giving way to brilliant California sunshine.

Don’t forget to pack:
• Sunglasses
• Lightweight rain shell
• Packable cooler
• Flip flops
• Down jacket

For other travel essentials, see my road trip packing list.

3. Palm Springs in December

If you’re  wondering where the warmest place in California is in December, look no further than Palm Springs!

Southern California in winter makes for the perfect time to explore the desert since daytime temperatures are pleasant.

And the perfect springboard for launching your exploration is the Greater Palm Springs area, which includes the City of Palm Springs and a number of small nearby communities.

Palm Springs has been a favored California winter vacation spot for years. It’s also one of the warmest places in California in winter.

This is the perfect spot to take in soaring views of the desert from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway!

In fact, there is an amazing number of things to do in and around Palm Springs, long known as the getaway to the stars of Hollywood.

Do a tour of the city’s famous mid-century modern architecture. Or go stargazing!

Visit the Moorten desert botanical garden. Stroll Palm Canyon Drive, the main street in downtown Palm Springs, and browse the many stores and galleries that line the street.

A little way out in Rancho Mirage, you must tour Sunnylands, the estate of the Annenbergs.

The gardens are gorgeous, and if you love birds, you can join a birdwatching tour led by a local expert.

The Visitor Center is a lovely place to relax with a drink and take in the views. You can tour the home as well, but only with advance reservations and a ticket.

If you are an active vacationer, consider playing a round of golf at one of Palm Springs’ famous resorts.

Or drive an hour out of town to Joshua Tree National Park, where you can see stunning rock formations and the namesake Joshua trees.

If you are here to relax, try a pampering treatment at one of the many spas in Palm Springs. Or lounge by the pool.

Closer to Christmas, enjoy the many light shows in the area.

Palm Springs is home to RoboLights, the largest private residential holiday lights display in the USA, with more than 8 million lights!

Light displays also brighten the night skies at the Living Desert in Palm Desert and many other places in the Greater Palm Springs area. Drive around and take in all the displays!

Where to stay in Palm Springs

El Morocco Inn & Spa! It’s an exotic four star bed and breakfast.

Richly colored decor, a lovely pool, and daily happy hour make this the perfect Palm Springs oasis. Try the property’s signature cocktail, the “Morocco-Tini.”

Check price and availability at El Morocco here.

Or, relax poolside at your own private romantic cottage downtown. Check price and availability at the romantic cottage here.

Dhara | Not about the Miles

Credit: Not about the Miles

Want 9 quick and easy shortcuts to creating a WOW itinerary every time? Click here to get my best tips.

4. Santa Monica in December

Considering a California vacation in December?

Santa Monica is  a perfect choice in December as well as year-round. It’s a wonderful beach town situated west of downtown Los Angeles.

Even if the temperatures will be lower, you can still enjoy the beaches and have a good time at the Santa Monica Pier.

The famous Santa Monica beach stretches for several miles and makes a great place for relaxation.

It’s also a great place to get that Christmas feeling going strong. For example, you can go ice-skating or watch Christmas events and carols.

Santa Monica Place is also great if you want to go shopping and buy nice presents for your family, friends and loved ones.

Museum of Flying, California Heritage Museum, Santa Monica Camera Obscura are some other attractions that are recommended if you want to enjoy some culture while visiting.

Santa Monica is also full of restaurants and trendy cafes where the locals will go out and about in December especially for the upcoming holiday season.

Where to stay in Santa Monica

The Ambrose Hotel! It’s both centrally located and affordable.

From here, you can get around Santa Monica easily, and the hotel is nicely decorated around Christmas as well. Check price and availability at The Ambrose here.

Or stay in a dreamy beach cottage with designer finishes just steps from the beach. Check price and availability at the beach cottage here.

Alexander | Destinavo

5. Lake Tahoe in December

Lake Tahoe is a beautiful place in any season, but it is a magical place to visit in California during winter.

While snow is not guaranteed in December, it is likely that you will find this area located high in the basin of the Sierra Nevada Mountains covered in shimmering white.

And it’s easy to rent some cross country skis to enjoy it! The crystal blue water, breathtaking vistas, and fresh mountain air are unrivaled.

Activities are plentiful in Lake Tahoe in December including outdoor ice skating at Northstar, seeing the ice sculptures at Heavenly Mountain Resort and taking the gondola up the mountain for stunning views.

Or just curl up in a cozy cabin with a hot chocolate as you watch the snow fall.

A drive around the lake with a stop at the Emerald Bay lookout is also well worth your while as it is the second most photographed spot in all of the United States.

If you are feeling adventurous, strap on your snowshoes for a hike down to the Vikingsholm Mansion or the Eagle Falls trail.

Skiing and snowboarding at one of the many resorts that surround the lake are among the most popular winter activities in Lake Tahoe.

Even in the case of uncooperative snowy weather, all resorts will make plenty of man-made snow if necessary, ensuring that you will be able to hit the slopes.

Heavenly Mountain Resort’s popularity brings in plenty of crowds, but many enjoy the massive amount of trails and family-friendly ski schools.

If you are looking for fewer crowds, deep powder, and steep runs, Kirkwood Resort may be the best choice for you.

December often brings Santa to the slopes, so keep your eyes peeled if you have children in tow!

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe

The Ritz Carlton Resort Hotel is our favorite choice for a luxury stay with its ski in and out privileges and elegant spa after a full day, conveniently located in Truckee, North Lake Tahoe. Check price and availability at The Ritz Carlton here.

Or, stay in a lake view cabin with a rustic, romantic ambiance.  Check price and availability at the lake view cabin here.

Sierra | Free to Travel Mama

Credit: Free to Travel Mama

6. Santa Barbara in December

With a soothing California sun, cloud-covered mountain views, sparkling Pacific shorelines, Spanish architecture, exotic gardens, and farm-fresh food, Santa Barbara is one of the best winter getaways in California.

While you might get some rain showers in December, the winters are mild with average temperatures in the 60s. Don’t forget to pack some sweaters.

In December, there will be holiday markets, Christmas parades,  wine tours, and concerts to enjoy.

But truth be told, Santa Barbara has a laid-back vibe all year long, so you may just want to relax and watch the waves anyway.

Head to Stearns Wharf at the Santa Barbara Harbor,  the West Coast’s oldest operating wharf and one of Santa Barbara’s iconic landmarks. 

You can drive on the wooden wharf and see some breathtaking views of the Santa Barbara coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains during sunset.

Or ride a surrey along the palm tree-lined waterfront.

You can also take a narrated trolley tour of the city with that stops at all the highlights including Old Mission Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, the Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Butterfly Beach and a few more.

The trolley departs from the Visitors Center on the corner of Cabrillo Boulevard and Garden Street.

This is an ideal place for a food tour! Go wine tasting in some of Santa Barbara County’s most renowned vineyards. Or book a wine tasting tour to sample the best of the best.

Many of the tasting rooms are located right in Santa Barbara’s downtown Funk Zone, are within walking distance of each other.

Santa Barbara County has more than 220 wineries and around 170 tasting rooms!

In addition, you’ll find some respected and influential tasting rooms in the Presidio Neighborhood in the historic heart of downtown Santa Barbara… names like Margerum Wine Company, Grassini Family Vineyards and Jamie Slone.

We loved visiting the eccentric gardens of Ganna’s Lotusland and farm to table meals at Bouchon and San Ysidro Ranch.

Walking in the gardens and seeing this special place where the Kennedys honeymooned was the highlight of our trip!

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

The Rosewood Miramar in Montecito! We loved waking up to the view of the mountains, gurgling fountains, and lavender.

The best part? The pristine Montecito beach just across the railroad tracks. Check price and availability on the Rosewood Miramar here.

Or, stay in a sunny and affordable penthouse two blocks from the beach. Check price and availability on the beach penthouse here.

Priya | Outside Suburbia

7. Joshua Tree in December

Whenever I’m in Southern California in the winter months, I absolutely must stop by Joshua Tree National Park.

It’s an easy day trip from Los Angeles, though I prefer to camp in the beautiful desert and fall asleep to the sounds of coyotes.

So it makes a good winter getaway. Plus, there are so many things to do in Joshua Tree.

Joshua Tree is a fairly popular place, so the first piece of advice I’d give is to book your accommodation as early as possible.

This applies whether you’re camping in the park, glamping in a nearby yurt or cabin, or staying in a hotel or lodge in town.

Winters in Joshua Tree are quite mild, but keep in mind it is the high desert, so nights, in particular, can get chilly. There’s nothing quite like getting cozy next to the fire at sunset in the desert.

The silhouettes of the Joshua trees against the wide California desert horizon are just as eerily magical as you’d think—and the stargazing, once that sun sets, is some of the best in SoCal.

A Joshua Tree National Park vacation has something for every type of traveler.

I enjoy hiking and checking out the educational Ranger programs, but you could just as easily spend the whole time relaxing, meditating, and taking in the serene desert solitude.

Kaisa | Glam Granola Travel

Where to stay in Joshua Tree

Stay at Hawks View House in a secluded canyon just six minutes from the park. This historic 1950s homesteader cabin has been completely renovated with state of the art everything, include A/C.

Hike out the back door. Gaze at the starry night around the fire pit. There are incredible views in every direction. This place gets five star reviews from every guest.

Check price and availability at Hawks View House here.

Or see a list of the top 18 best Joshua Tree vacation rentals here.

Credit: Glam Granola Travel

8. Santa Cruz in December

You can’t spell Santa Cruz without Santa!

Santa Cruz is a beautiful California town to visit in December filled with so many fun things to do. It’s another one of the best places to travel or visit in winter.

And it’s not just for humans coming to the party, but animals too!

Late December is the time of year when elephant seals return to Año Nuevo State Park to mate. The beaches there are filled with 5,000 lb males barking for attention.

Monarch butterflies return to the coastal groves of Natural Bridges Park. On warm days, they fill the air, but when it gets colder, they gather in mass on the branches.

Santa Cruz is also home to surfing in California. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum commemorates the first surfing trip from three Hawaiian princes who surf these breaks in 1885.

Check the surfing reports for when the big winter waves are coming to Mavericks, just up the coast in Half Moon Bay. Mere mortals shouldn’t attempt these 25′ monsters, but it’s fun to watch.

The town of Santa Cruz offers weekend Christmas celebrations at the Boardwalk—an iconic seaside amusement park—and even a skating rink.

At night, the Roaring Springs Railroad converts into the Holiday Light Train. Ride to the redwoods in style as you sip cider and sing carols.

Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Hilton Scotts Valley! It’s just minutes from beaches and the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Check price and availability at Hilton here.

Otherwise, stay in a stylish and modern surf shack and walk to the beach. Comes with beach cruisers! Check price and availability on the modern surf shack here.

Jenn and Ed | Coleman Concierge

9. Eastern Sierras in December

The backside of the Sierras in the wintertime is breathtaking and just a few short hours drive from Los Angeles Metro area.

You really get a different take of what California looked like and still does in this region of the Sierras with memorable views, a national park to explore at Death Valley, and world-class skiing if you are in an adventure mode.

There are so many wonderful natural landscapes to explore here.

Or just stop at many of the really cool western-inspired towns that dot the major highway I395 going from south all the way north to Lake Tahoe area.

You will enjoy the cooler temperatures in December, especially in extremely hot places like Death Valley which can reach temperatures over 110 degrees in summer.

This makes a great stop on an Eastern Sierra road trip.

There are many unique places to visit like Manzanar (the internment camp for Japanese during World War II), the Alabama Hills and the tallest mountain in California at Mount Whitney.

Where to stay in the Eastern Sierras

Best Western Inn in Bishop! If you are looking for a central location to stay along the way on I395, think about basing in Bishop where there are plenty of options.

The Best Western Inn in Bishop is clean, roomy and affordable. Check price and availability here.

Noel | Travel Photo Discovery

Credit: Travel Photo Discovery

10. Monterey in December

Monterey has long been a popular beachside town, a perfect stop for those completing the Pacific Highway 1 drive.

During December, Monterey is home to crisp days and whilst you might encounter some rain, a lot of this will come in the form of romantic Monterey fog.

Aside from some of the grandest homes you could wish for along the beach, the most popular attraction here is the iconic Monterey Aquarium, in particular, its tall tanks filled with luminescent jellyfish.

Or book a half-day whale watching trip.

A half an hour drive south and you’ll be across the iconic Bixby Bridge.

This bridge is well known along the Pacific Coast Highway and deserves a visit when you’re in Monterey.

Fans of the TV show Big Little Lies will recognize it immediately, with that series based in Monterey.

Whilst a visit in December might still require you to rug up, visiting with fewer visitors than the peak summertime affords an enjoyable trip.

Where to stay in Monterey

The Spindrift Inn! Located on Monterey’s Cannery Row amongst a host of restaurants and bars in the former sardine factories, get a room with a sea view and wake up to the waves crashing outside your window. Check price and availability at The Spindrift Inn here.

Or stay in an oceanfront townhome at Lover’s Point and watch sunsets from your window. Check price and availability on the oceanfront townhome here.

Jeff and Kristen | Our Passion for Travel

11. Hollywood in December

December is a great time to visit Hollywood, the temperatures are perfect as the humidity drops and there’s still a whole host of great attractions for both locals and tourists.

During your visit, we recommend checking out the Hollywood Christmas Parade. The parade takes place every year on the Sunday after Thanksgiving and travels along a 2.5-mile route. There’s plenty of complimentary viewing areas; alternatively, you can reserve a prime viewing spot online in advance for a small fee.

Or book a tour of this iconic destination. From tours of celebrity homes to Hollywood after dark, the options are endless and fascinating.

No trip to Hollywood is complete without a trip to the Dolby Theatre to watch a performance of The Nutcracker by the LA Ballet. This annual performance has been taking place in the theatre since 2006 and has a wide range of seating options to accommodate all budgets.

If you’re looking for a great meal out during your visit, then I’d suggest visiting Cal Mare. Not only does the restaurant offer incredible Italian coastal-inspired cuisine, but it also helps to support the LA Region Food Bank by rewarding guests to a free cocktail or dessert if they bring along an Italian inspired non-perishable item to donate to the cause.

Where to stay in Hollywood

The W Hollywood! This four-star hotel gets consistently great reviews, is in a perfect location for exploring the Hollywood area of Los Angeles, and has a wonderful range of fantastic amenities. Check price and availability on The W here.

Or, stay in a chic and modern house just minutes from the sunset strip. Check price and availability here.

Cora | Inside Our Suitcase

12. Paso Robles in December

Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the legendary historical El Camino Real trail is the wine region of Paso Robles.

With more than 250 wineries, any time is a great time to visit Paso Robles. Don’t want to drink and drive? Book an all-inclusive wine tasting tour!

December is especially nice because you won’t find Paso Robles as busy as the summer months.

Beyond the world-class wine, you’ll find top-notch breweries, craft distilleries, and elevated eateries.

As Paso Robles continues to grow with its ever-increasing popularity as a wine region, it has kept its small-town charm.

This is seen at the various events you’ll find in December including the Adelaida Cellar’s Walnut & Wine Festival.

The farm has over 700 acres of walnuts and is one of California’s largest walnut ranches. The festival celebrates the walnut harvest with wine and food pairings.

Another fun December event is the Vine St. Victorian Showcase. Thirteen blocks of Vine Street feature beautifully restored Victorian houses that are lit up for the holidays! 

For more ideas on what to do in Paso Robles in December and current event dates, check out Travel Paso.

Where to stay in Paso Robles

Allegretto Vineyard Resort! It’s a charming luxury hotel that won’t break the bank. Check price and availability at Allegretto here.

Or stay in Beer Haven, an adorable cottage whose decor is a tribute to local craft breweries. Check price and availability on Beer Haven here.

Alexa | 52 Perfect Days

Credit: 52 Perfect Days

13. Long Beach in December

Long Beach is located roughly 25 miles south of Los Angeles proper and is a hidden gem of activities for visitors of all ages. 

In the late ’90s and early 2000s, Long Beach experienced a revitalization and has since become a worthwhile destination of its own.

While some may wonder about visiting a beach town in December, much of what is unique about Long Beach is its proximity to the beach.

Visitors can easily spend a day visiting the Aquarium of the Pacific, which provides abundant opportunities to view sea life up close, followed by an afternoon harbor boat ride departing from the Rainbow Harbor Marina.  

The late afternoon and evening is a perfect opportunity to visit Shoreline Village, which is full of quaint shops and dining options in all price ranges.

Don’t miss a tour of The Queen Mary while you’re here!

Where to stay in Long Beach

Stay in an upscale beach cottage nestled inside a serene garden. This place is a steal. Check price and availability at the Long Beach cottage here.

Nancy | We Go with Kids

14. Disneyland in December

Planning a trip to California during the month of December?

Let me tell you about a little local secret: Disneyland in December is one of the most magical times to visit.

The entire Disneyland Resort is dressed to the nines with festive garlands, wreaths, millions of twinkling lights, and holiday cheer. (And you can join in with fun ideas for Disneybounding here.)

Sleeping Beauty’s Castle is enveloped in a blanket of snow, restaurants pull out all the stops with delectable treats, and joyous wishes can be heard all throughout the resort.

Here’s how to avoid the crowds:

Tip #1: Stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotel! You’ll take advantage of Magic Mornings, an early admission option…in fact, a full hour before the general public!

Tip #2: Visit early in the month and avoid weekends. Local schools are in session until mid-December and Thanksgiving holiday-goers usually vacate the resort by December 1.

Also, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays tend to have fewer crowds and shorter wait times for rides.

Tip #3: Arrive early in the morning. If you’re just visiting Disneyland for the day, plan on arriving before the park opens.

If you’re planning on driving to the park and leaving your car, aim to arrive a full hour before the park opens to avoid a full parking lot.

Tip #4: Invest in a FastPass. FastPass is a ticket that saves your place in line, leaving you free to enjoy other attractions.

The base option for a FastPass is free, with a paid digital option also available.

Tip #5: Discover the off-the-beaten-track attractions. Have you ever heard of Tom Sawyer’s Island? Star Wars Launch Bay? Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes?

Take a ride around the park on the Disneyland Railroad to rest your feet and get away from the crowds!

By arriving early to Disneyland, even during the holiday season, you can avoid the crowds and still experience the Happiest Place on Earth!”

Where to stay at Disneyland

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel! It’s my personal favorite. Check price and availability at The Grand Californian here.

Or, stay in the Disney magic dream house, just across the street from Disneyland. Check price and availability on the magic dream house here.

Rachelle | Adventure is Never Far Away

Credit: Adventure Is Never Far Away

Winter in California is lovely.

Whether you’re sunning in Palm Springs or skiing Lake Tahoe’s fresh powder, California makes the perfect winter vacation destination.

The best places to travel in December are the ones that call to you. The Golden State always delivers with its soft desert colors, world-famous coastline, and pristine beaches.

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8 warm places to go for Christmas around the world

(CNN) — This is for you if: You love to celebrate Christmas. You love to travel. And you love to stay warm.

And the great thing about this? You don’t have to compromise on any of these desires!

On this big ol’ planet of ours, you can enjoy the merry holiday, indulge your wanderlust and avoid cold, wintry weather all at the same time.

We’ve studied the globe and found eight places that are big on Christmas celebrations but regularly deliver temperatures in the spring to summer range in December.

So leave that heavy coat behind, pack a stocking (maybe even a bathing suit) and enjoy yourself in:

Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is a gorgeous Spanish colonial town in Guatemala with a volcano as a dramatic backdrop.

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Average temperature in December: 16.8 C / 62.2 F

This charming city in Central America checks off a lot of boxes: stunning setting (with a volcano as a backdrop no less), gorgeous Spanish architecture and spring-like weather all year. You may want to bring a light jacket for night, but it’s the dry season here, so it’s not likely that you’ll need an umbrella.

Lily García, a Spanish teacher at Antigueña Spanish Academy, told CNN Travel about a few highlights of the season, including the beloved posadas — processionals that represent the journey of Joseph and Mary.

“This is a small procession that is accompanied by many people from December 15 to 24 every night,” she said. “They go down the street singing Christmas songs. When they arrive at the house where they are symbolically given shelter, the people from the procession pray and finally all share typical dishes and drinks that are only common at this time of the year.

“There is no special invitation — anyone can join.”

Then there’s the December 24 dance at La Merced Church. This “is a traditional dance called Los Cabezones (the headed ones). This name comes from the size of the masks — a really large head. They dance accompanied with marimba music through the streets of Antigua and they return to the church late at night.”

Barbados

Do Christmas island-style in sun-kissed Barbados.

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Average temperature in December: 25.2 C / 77.4 F

You’ll find this independent island, a former British holding, transitioning from wet season to dry season during December. While some rain may fall during your stay, you’re pretty well promised a warm Yuletide — no roaring fireplace needed.

Businesses and homes love to decorate for Christmas here.

And food plays a big role — don’t miss the great cake, says the website Barbados.org. It’s made with a combination of dried fruits (cherries, raisins, currants, prunes), spices (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, allspice) and liquor (rum, port wine, falernum).

Buenos Aires, Argentina

The ‘B’ and ‘A’ in downtown Buenos Aires are adorned with a Santa hat and presents for Christmas.

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Average temperature in December: 22 C / 71.6 F

Buenos Aires is a city of four seasons, but because of its Southern Hemisphere location, Christmas is the beginning of summer here. That may bring some rain, but the city doesn’t typically see huge downpours.

The capital of Argentina may be just your cup of tea if you like a more low-key Christmas experience than what you find in Europe and North America. But it’s not totally quiet.

Daniel Beauregard of LandingPadBA.com writes you can expect a fireworks display on Christmas Eve and that many of city’s most famous tango shows remain open.

Buenos Aires is known for it’s great food, and come Christmas, pan dulce (a sweet cake with dried fruits) and ensalada de fruta con helado (fruit salad with ice cream) are favorites.

Kolkata, India

A group of young people takes a selfie during Christmas Eve celebrations on Park Street in Kolkata.

Samir Jana/Hindustan Times/Getty Images

Average temperature in December: 19.5 C / 67.1 F

December brings blessed relief to Kolkata — it’s typically the driest month and in a tie with January for the coolest. But what may be “winter weather” to a Kolkata native will feel pleasingly temperate to a visitor from truly cold climes.

While Hindus make up the majority and Muslims make up the largest minority, the 40,000 or so Christians in Kolkata put on a robust celebration for Christmas that everyone can enjoy.

A highlight of the holiday season is the annual Kolkata Christmas Festival, situated on the major thoroughfare of Park Street. During the festival, you’ll find food stalls (delicious Bengali cuisine!), musical performances and a children’s pageant.

Kolkata can offer the best of both worlds in one place — a chance to celebrate Christmas and a chance to experience other religions and cultures.

Medellin, Colombia

People look at the spectacular Christmas lights in Medellin.

Raul Arboleda/AFP/Getty Images

Average temperature in December: 20.9 C / 69.6 F

Colombia lies firmly in the tropics, but Medellin, situated at an elevation of about 1,475 meters (4,840 feet), is high enough to enjoy springlike temperatures all year.

Once notorious for drug violence, this city of around 2 million people is now becoming known more for its flowers and during the holiday, its amazing Christmas lights.

Medellin is a serious contender for best Christmas lights in the world, and you can find out more about where to see the Alumbrados Navideños at Medillinliving. com.

Naples, Florida

Naples, Florida, often has some of the warmest temperatures in the continental United States around Christmas.

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Average temperature in December: 19 C / 66.2 F

Your odds of a warm Christmas on the continental United States can swing wildly, but the lovely Gulf Coast city of Naples in Southwest Florida will be one of your best bets. There’s a good chance you could mark the holiday in pair of shorts (at least during the day). Better yet — South Florida is in its dry season by December.

Paradisecoast.com rounds up some of the best holiday events.

That includes the annual boat parade (Saturday, December 21), when a festive flotilla displays all sorts of imaginative and fun lights.

San Fernando, Philippines

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Average temperature in December: 26.1 C / 79.0 F

This Asian hot spot barely edges out Barbados as the warmest destination on average in our roundup. And what can you expect besides a wonderful balmy feeling in this city north of Manila?

In a word: Lanterns. Giant, colorful, mesmerizing Christmas lanterns that symbolize the Star of Bethlehem.

The Giant Lantern Festival, which goes back more than 80 years, has earned San Fernando the title of “Christmas Capital of the Philippines.” It started as a smaller celebration by locals for locals, but it’s gotten increasingly bigger and garnered more travel interest in recent years.

And this part of the Philippines is usually exiting its rainy season by December, so there’s a good chance rain won’t dampen the festivities.

Seville, Spain

If you want a warm-as-possible Christmas while staying on continental Europe, Seville is one of your best bets.

NurPhoto/Corbis/Getty Images

Average temperature in December: 11 C / 51.8 F

We go from the warmest location on average in the roundup to the coolest with Seville. But for people who want to spend a memorable Christmas on continental Europe without freezing, this is one of your best options.

You might find night lows down to 7 degrees C (45 F), but this is nothing a sweater or light coat can’t handle.

If you need more convincing, the Telegraph newspaper in the United Kingdom proclaimed Seville as the best winter city in Europe.

You might be particularly impressed by Seville’s Belen displays, sumptuous nativity scenes with long queues (for good reason). And attending a service or taking a tour at the stunning Seville Cathedral would be a highlight of any Christmas trip.

The 10 Hottest Places to Spend the Holidays

Ditch your dreams of a White Christmas this year. After all, winter and its frightful snowstorms will last for another three months. Instead, head to one of these 10 destinations where the weather averages in the high 70s in December, with a few temperatures easily climbing past 80 degrees F.

org/Person”>By Juliana Shallcross

November 14, 2015

• Guanacaste, Costa Rica: 81 degrees

  Boasting an average tropical temperature of 81 degrees (and plenty of humidity) with picture perfect beaches and largely untouched rainforests, Costa Rica will quickly banish the winter blues. The country’s emphasis on “Pura Vida” is also exactly what you’ll need after a long month of in-your-face seasonal marketing. The Andaz Papagayo in Guanacaste is a 153-room luxury room on Culebra Bay, close to national parks, secret beaches, an indigenous reserve, and the Rincon de la Vieja volcano.

• Miami: 78 degrees

  Incredibly easy to get to and with an average of 78 degrees in December, Miami Beach is always a good idea when seeking sunshine and warmth. Check into the swish Miami Beach EDITION, located on the main thoroughfare of Collins Avenue, but just north of the most crowded part of South Beach. If, for some reason, you find yourself missing the cold, take a spin on the ice-skating rink in the hotel’s basement. And then head back up to the beach.

• Sydney, Australia: 80 degrees

  The summer season begins on December 1 Down Under and by the time Christmas arrives, the temperature will be an average of 80 degrees. The minimalist rooms at the Park Hyatt Sydney offer unreal views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Harbor Bridge, all with private balconies. And since you’ve come all this way, extend your stay through New Year’s Eve to watch the fireworks show in the harbor.

• Auckland, New Zealand: 75 degrees

  American Airlines just announced daily service from Los Angeles to Auckland—New Zealand’s largest city—which averages about 75 degrees in December. The Langham Auckland, located at the top of the city’s main shopping district, plans on celebrating Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day with several dinners and holiday-themed teas.

• Maldives: 80 degrees

  Yes, Santa Claus even comes to the Maldives, where temperatures are often in the low 80s in December. Guests at the Jumeirah Vittaveli, a 20-minute catamaran ride away from the Malé airport, will get a visit from Kris Kringle himself on Christmas Day. They can also take a submarine ride to check out the resort’s underwater Christmas tree.

• Puerto Rico: 84 degrees

  Christmastime weather in Puerto Rico is typically 84 degrees, just the right temperature for water sports like kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling. You can do all of that at the St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort, located on a former coconut plantation between the Espíritu Santo River and El Yunque rain forest with two miles of private beach. For a little Christmas flair, the resort will unveil a “village” of gingerbread houses and Santa will shimmy into the lobby on Christmas.

• Buenos Aires, Argentina: 80 degrees

  While Paris, France is rather nippy in December, the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires, is usually a balmy 80 degrees, a perfect temperature to explore the dynamic city, especially before the peak tourist season begins. The Home Hotel in the Palermo Hollywood neighborhood offers subtly cool lodgings in a residential and laid-back part of town.

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• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: 84 degrees

  Forgo flavored lattes and snow boots for refreshing caipirinhas and Havaianas sandals in Rio, where the average temperature in December is 84 degrees. The Fasano Hotel along Ipanema beach has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean that will make winter seem so very, very far away.

• Nicaragua: 83 degrees

  Still a largely under-the-radar destination, Nicaragua is a toasty 83 degrees in December. Two hours from the country’s two airports by car, there’s Rancho Santana, a 17-room inn along two miles of shoreline with Pacific ocean views from every room. Instead of shoveling snow and salting steps, you could be surfing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding instead.

• Penang, Malaysia: 86 degrees

  With an average temperature of 86 degrees, Penang is about as far as you can get from “Miracle on 34th Street. ” While the foodie spots of Penang are not to be missed, unwind at the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort where tropical spa treatments take place in private villas.

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10 Cities Report 2021 as Hottest Year on Record; U.S. Sees Warmest December in History

The United States saw abnormally high temperatures and extreme weather events in 2021 as the nation experienced its warmest December in history and several cities reported last year as their hottest year yet.

Three different reports were released on Monday saying the U.S. is struggling with global warming and 2021 showed the effects of what’s to come.

Last year was the fourth warmest year on record with an average temperature of 54. 5 degrees, according to a report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The United States also recorded the hottest December on record with an average temperature of 39.3 degrees, 6.7 degrees higher than average.

The warmer weather has been noticeable across the country as several cities reported 2021 as their hottest year on record. The 10 cities include Toledo, Ohio; Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; Montpelier, Vermont; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Erie, Pennsylvania; Buffalo, New York; Boston, Massachusetts; Bismarck, North Dakota; Baltimore, Maryland; and Akron, Ohio.

The country also saw a series of bizarre weather disasters last year. Portland reported temperatures reaching 116 degrees after an extreme heatwave hit the Pacific Northwest.

Texas reported deadly ice storms; the Midwest reported tornados for the first time in December; four hurricanes caused extensive damage; wildfires swept across part of the country; a derecho was reported; as well as extensive flooding, mudslides and droughts.

“It was a tough year. Climate change has taken a shotgun approach to hazards across the country,” said Adam Smith a climatologist and economist for NOAA.

Last year was the fourth warmest year on record in the United States, according to a report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The U.S. also recorded the hottest December on record. The country endured a series of bizarre weather disasters as well. Above, a kayaker paddles in Lake Oroville as water levels remained low due to continuing droughts in Oroville, California, on Aug. 22, 2021.
Ethan Swope/AP Photo

A report from the Rhodium Group, an independent research firm, on Monday said that in 2021, America’s emissions of heat-trapping gas rebounded from the first year of the pandemic at a faster rate than the economy as a whole, making it harder to reach the country’s pledge to the world to cut emissions in half compared to 2005 by 2030. And last year was the deadliest weather year for the contiguous United States since 2011, with 688 people dying in 20 different billion-dollar weather and climate disasters combining to cost at least $145 billion, the NOAA said Monday.

That was the second highest number of billion-dollar weather disasters — which are adjusted for inflation with records going back to 1980— and third costliest.

Scientists have long said human-caused climate change makes extreme weather nastier and more frequent, documenting numerous links to wild and deadly weather events. They say hotter air and oceans and melting sea ice alter the jet stream, which brings and stalls storm fronts, makes hurricanes wetter and stronger, and worsens western droughts and wildfires.

While 2020 set the record for the most billion-dollar disasters, in 2021, “the extremes seemed a bit more profound than in 2020,” Smith said.

Last year, billion-dollar weather disasters were more than twice as deadly as in 2020, when those extremes killed 262 people. The last deadlier year was 2011. Hurricane Maria in 2017 killed nearly 3,000 people in Puerto Rico, which isn’t part of the contiguous United States.

Changes in where people live and housing vulnerability were factors, Smith said, “but the 800-pound gorilla in the room is, of course, climate change, because that’s accelerating all of these trends in regards to disaster potential for damage. “

“We’re having these compound cascading events one after another, after another,” Smith said. “A lot of trends are going in the wrong direction.”

The last five years have cost $742 billion in 86 separate billion-dollar weather disasters, an average of more than 17 a year, a new record. That’s nearly $100 billion more than the combined total of all the billion-dollar disasters from 1980 to 2004, adjusted for inflation and far more the three billion-dollar disasters a year that the nation averaged in the 1980s.

“That’s exactly what I’d expect with climate change because climate change is essentially supercharging many types of extreme weather, making heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, intense rainfall, flooding and storms more severe, destructive and deadly,” said Jonathan Overpeck, dean of environmental studies at the University of Michigan, who wasn’t part of the reports.

National temperature records go back 127 years and the 20th century average is 52 degrees.

Experts expected U. S. greenhouse emissions to increase from the steep 2020 pandemic dive, but the scope of the jumped worried them.

“What was dismaying was that emissions bounced back even faster than the economy as a whole,” said Rhodium Group partner Kate Larsen, a co-author of the emissions report, which was based on daily and weekly government data.

Coal use increased for the first time since 2014, 17% from 2020, mostly because of spikes in natural gas prices, Larsen said.

“This is an example of how we’ve been riding on cheap natural gas to drive coal’s decline over the last 15 years,” Larsen said.

The other major factor was transportation emissions, mostly from long-haul diesel trucking, rising 10 percent, as freight nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels and is likely to continue to rise, Larsen said.

Over the long run, U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have been decreasing — even with 2021’s jump from the sudden 2020 plunge. However, last year’s emissions increases the difficulty in reaching the goal President Joe Biden set as part of the Paris and Glasgow climate agreements, Larsen said. She said to get to the 50 percent cut Biden pledged, the country needs to be reducing emissions 5 percent a year, not increasing.

“We are running out of time,” she said.

Cornell University climate scientist Natalie Mahowald, who wasn’t part of the reports, agreed.

“The radical changes in our economy that are required for reaching low climate goals have not been achieved,” Mahowald said. “Unfortunately, what we are seeing today is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what we will see unless substantial reductions in emissions are made and quickly.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

What’s The Warmest Place To Visit In Florida In December? – Trip Memos

If you’re searching for a way to escape that dreaded December chill, you’ve probably considered vacationing in Florida. As the nation’s southernmost state, Florida enjoys mild subtropical and tropical weather conditions.

That doesn’t mean it can’t get chilly in the Sunshine State. Vacationers who are keen to feel Florida’s warmth must read the research we’ve done on this topic.

Generally speaking, the further south you travel in Florida, the warmer temps you’ll experience.

Two of Florida’s “hottest” cities for December tourists are Miami and Key West. However, that doesn’t mean temps are “freezing” in popular Central Florida locations like Orlando. Even if you’re traveling in North Florida, it’s rare for temps to dip below 40° F in December. 

December is typically one of Florida’s busiest months for tourism. Not only are visitors interested in this state’s warm weather, but they also want to check out the many holiday-related festivities.

If you’re planning a December trip to the Sunshine State, we’d recommend reading all the pro tips we’ve compiled below.

What Are The Warmest Florida Destinations In December?

Tourists who want to experience Florida’s warmest temps must plan a trip to southern counties like Miami-Dade, Collier, or Monroe.

Only Florida’s southern regions are technically in a “tropical climate zone.” This translates to higher average temperatures versus central and northern cities. 

For instance, Miami has an average December low in the high 60° F range. If you travel even further to the Florida Keys, you’ll probably experience temps in the mid-70s F. Indeed; the Florida Keys are the only region in the USA that is 100 percent frost-free!

The further north you travel in Florida, the more likely you could experience a cold snap during your December vacation. It’s not unheard of for a cold front to dip into the Florida Panhandle or Central Florida during the winter months. 

Depending on where you travel, you may experience daytime temps in the 40° F range during your vacation. Be sure to closely monitor weather conditions for your target area before deciding what clothes to pack. Chances are you’ll need at least a light jacket for those late-night strolls in Central or Northern counties.

Find out more on this Amazon link.

Bottom line: If you want warm weather, you’ve got to book a South Florida vacation. Luckily for you, there’s a ton to see in these sizzling hot counties. In fact, you could check out our post on the “66 Things To Do In The Florida Keys” for fun vacation ideas.  

What’s The Weather Like In Florida In December?

Although there are slight regional variations, Florida has the mildest winter weather pattern in the USA. No matter where you are, daytime temps are usually in the 60° F range, and rain chances are low.

Even in the northern cities like Jacksonville or Tallahassee, it’s unlikely daytime lows will dip below 40° F during your stay. 

However, as mentioned above, Florida’s southern counties will have the best chance of warm temps. Daytime weather conditions in Miami, Naples, and the Florida Keys are usually in the 70° F range. 

That’s not to say Florida can’t experience chilly winds or even freezing nights. Indeed, there have been at least a dozen significant freezes in Florida’s past. Sadly, when these unseasonably cold temps occur, they can cause considerable damage to the state’s citrus industry. 

Please don’t assume you could get away with a T-shirt and shorts when visiting Florida in December. Indeed, you should pack some autumn clothes in your luggage if you’re visiting Northern or Central cities. 

Anne’s note:

We lived in Central Florida for a year, between the summer of 2021 and the summer of 2022. Our house was near Orlando. We could go out in shorts and teeshirts even on December nights. Can you imagine watching Christmas displays dressed like that? That’s Florida for ya!

We did experience a couple of cold spells during January and February. They were short and mild. Only once did we get a frost on our lawn, and that only lasted for a few hours.

My husband and son walking through Christmas decorations in our neighborhood. Short sleeves and shorts!

Oh yeah, and please don’t forget to apply sunscreen regularly when you’re going out! 

Click this Amazon link for more details.

If you’d like more info on visiting Florida in the winter, be sure to read this previous post entitled, “When’s The Best Time To Visit Florida?”

Can You Swim In The Ocean In December In Florida?

Although winter isn’t the “peak season” for swimming in Florida’s oceans, that doesn’t mean you can’t swim during the winter. However, you may find the water is a touch too chilly if you visit the Northern or Central beaches. 

For the most comfortable swimming experience, it’s best to look into beaches in southern cities like Naples, Key West, and Miami. Since the average temps in South Florida are hotter than in other regions, it makes sense that the water here is warmer.

Also, southern attractions like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offer better snorkeling opportunities in the winter. You could learn more about this Key Largo attraction in our thorough “John Pennekamp Park Guide.”

If you’re dead set on swimming in Northern or Central Florida, you should invest in a wetsuit to keep you warm. Otherwise, research the hotels in your area and see if they have heated pools.  

Find out more on this Amazon link.

For a more in-depth discussion of water temps in Florida, please read our post on “Swimming In Florida During The Wintertime.”

Is Disney World Crowded In December?

For many families, the primary reason for visiting Florida in December is to experience an extra-magical Disney Christmas. But some tourists complain it’s a lot more “frantic” than festive at this uber-popular resort. So, just how crowded does it get in the Magic Kingdom? 

Usually, Disney World gets incredibly busy between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. In fact, it gets so crowded at these parks that employees typically have to turn some guests away.

Check out this compilation of Christmas day pics in Disney World:

If you’re going to travel in the heat of the holiday season, you have to do a lot of prep work beforehand. Be sure you book your hotel room months in advance and get to your chosen park early in the morning. 

For a better chance of avoiding these crazy crowds, you should schedule your vacation for the first two weeks of December. While you’ll still get to experience the holiday festivities, there shouldn’t be as many people as later in the month. 

By the way, these crowd-related tips also apply to the popular Universal Orlando theme park. So, anyone who wants a Potter-themed Christmas party should book their hotel rooms early. 

FYI: Please remember the Magic Kingdom sometimes closes early for “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.” If you want to go to this event, you have to purchase a special ticket well in advance. Be sure to research when these party dates when booking your Disney vacation. 

Anne’s note:

All of the parks offered special programs for Christmas. While they all seemed extremely attractive, they were also very expensive.

Is The Everglades Open In December?

December is one of the best months to visit the Everglades National Park. Tourists to this South Florida park won’t have to worry about excessive humidity, tons of mosquitos, or hurricanes when visiting in December.

For more info on visiting this South Florida park, please check out our previous “Everglades Visitor’s Guide.”

Anne’s note:

We visited the Everglades twice. Visiting in winter time meant the temperatures were ok, but it was still very warm. Even hot! When we were visiting Shark Valley, the temperatures climbed up to the 90s and we had to cut our hike short.

Alligators sunbathing in the Everglades – at winter time

The Everglades are FANTASTIC during winter time. Florida wildlife is actually more active and visible during wintertime.

If you’re visiting Florida in December, make sure to go out and view the wildlife. Check out my guide about where to see alligators in Florida for specific locations.

Does It Snow In Florida During December?

Chances are, the only “snow” you’re going to see in Florida is the fake soapy suds they shoot out in Orlando theme parks. While snow isn’t impossible in the Sunshine State, it’s extremely rare. 

If you’re going to see real snow on Florida vacation, odds are you’ll see it in a Northern city like Saint Augustine. However, even these “snowstorms” are more like “flurries.” 

For those who like trivia: There was one freak day in 1977 when it snowed in Miami. So, while it’s unlikely you’ll see snow on your Florida vacation, stranger things have happened! 

Warm Up With A December Florida Vacation!

It doesn’t take a NASA scientist to explain why Florida is such a “hot” tourist spot in December. Though if you’re looking to talk to one, then Florida – and specifically the Kennedy Space Center – is where you should go!

Thanks to its southern location, Florida enjoys wonderfully warm temps year-round. Also, there are loads of festive decorations and events at some of the state’s most popular theme parks.

However, we’d still recommend packing some long pants and a jacket, especially if you visit Northern or Central Florida. While it’s unlikely temps will dip below 40° F, chilly nights are common in these regions. 

weather, holidays, safaris and excursions

Weather in Zanzibar in December

December marks the end of the low rainy season in Zanzibar and a relatively dry and hot season. Not to say that the air temperature is much higher than in the summer and autumn months, but still the high temperature and humidity should be kept in mind when planning a vacation on the famous island in the first month of winter. Note that it is quite warm this month not only during the day, but also at night, since the usual night temperature for Zanzibar in December is 28 degrees.

The water in the Indian Ocean near Zanzibar in December warms up to a temperature of around 29 degrees. So you just have to choose a good beach for swimming and enjoy a beach holiday. We generally recommend Kendwa Beach as well as Nungwi Beach. On the latter, however, not all parts of the beach are ideal for swimming. But Nungwi is, in principle, the most developed resort area in Zanzibar, which also needs to be borne in mind.

But let’s get back to the weather on the island and give you the average climate data in December:

It rains in Zanzibar in December, but in most cases for the guests of the island they are a pleasant gift, which is so necessary during a hot day. If you imagine a sky covered with clouds for several days and heavy rainfall, then we will immediately say that your ideas are wrong. The weather this month is generally great and we rank December as one of the best months to visit Zanzibar.

Weather in mainland Tanzania

December is one of the most popular months for safari in Tanzania. And the point is not only that at the end of December many people come to the country to celebrate Christmas and New Year, but also that the conditions for a safari at this time are very good: dry and not very hot weather during the day, cool evenings . .. Not We recommend that you go only to the parks of Western Tanzania in December, as there are few animals in these parks this month. But the parks of Western Tanzania are not very popular among travelers.

It is important to remember that in the second half of the month a lot of travelers come to Tanzania for safaris, so it is advisable to book safari tours in advance. Even if tickets remain, then, most likely, for dates that are not the most convenient for you.

Based on our experience, we can say that the period from December 20 to January 20 is the season of peak demand for safari, and not everyone manages to fulfill their dream and go on a safari due to the elementary lack of air tickets and / or the occupancy of hotels and lodges.

National park temperature (day/night)

• Selous Park – 31°C / 21°C
• Ngorongoro Park – 24°C / 16°C
• Serengeti Park – 28°C / 16°C
• Tarangire Park – 28°C / 18°C ​​
• Lake Manyara Park – 30°C / 19°C

Where to go on vacation in Zanzibar in December

You may have already encountered cases when the weather is different in different parts of a seemingly small island. There are no places on Zanzibar that differ in weather from the rest of the island, since the landscape here is completely flat. Of course, there may be times when it rains on the east coast and the sun shines on Nungwi beach in the north. But this does not mean any kind of rule, since, we repeat, the climate throughout the island in December (and all year round as a whole) is the same.

How to get to Zanzibar in December

The charter flight program from our country to Zanzibar in November 2020 will be implemented by 3 airlines: Nord Wind, Azur Air and Royal Flight. Flights will be operated not only from Moscow, but also from other Russian cities such as Novosibirsk, Kazan, Krasnoyarsk, Rostov-on-Don, Samara and St. Petersburg. It is worth paying attention to the fact that the frequency of airline flights will vary.

Also, flights from Moscow to Zanzibar from the end of November will be launched by Utair, on whose official website you can buy tickets. The tour operator Biblio-Globus will form its tours based on the flights of this airline, while Pegas, Anex Tour, Intourist and Coral Travel will form their tours based on the flights of Azur Air, Royal Flight and Nord Wind.

In addition, you can fly to Zanzibar in December thanks to regular flights with transfers in Dubai and Istanbul. In order to get to the island through Istanbul, you should use the services of Turkish Airlines, and the flight through Dubai is organized by Emirates. However, it is worth noting that Turkish Airlines periodically cancels its flights.

Probably in the near future other options for flights to Zanzibar from Russia will be offered.

Vacation in Zanzibar in December

As mentioned above, December is a rather popular month in Zanzibar, especially its second half, when a large number of travelers come here to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Therefore, expect overcrowded hotels and an excess of demand over supply for excursions and safaris. We all know this from our own experience.

However, December 2020 may stand out in this regard, but so far everything is moving towards the fact that tourism in Zanzibar and Tanzania in general will recover quite quickly.

December is a good month for sea excursions and fishing, although the possibility of the ocean closing for a day or two cannot be completely ruled out. Land tours are less popular at this time due to the hot weather, so we recommend visiting Stone Town during the Prison Island + Disappearing Island + Stone Town combo tour, as the Stone Town tour will be short and will take place in the afternoon.

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Weather in the Dominican Republic, temperature by months 9002 B The climate of the Dominican Republic is completely unpredictable.

It seems that the sun is shining in the morning, but after half an hour a tropical downpour can begin, and by noon the sky will again be cloudless! On the other hand, throughout the year, the air temperature stays almost at the same level – about 30 degrees Celsius, which means that the beach season here lasts all year round. Although different months are a little cooler or hotter, a little more humid or dry.

We live on an island and today we will tell you how the weather in the Dominican Republic changes from month to month.

Read also: Everything you wanted to know about life in the Dominican Republic!

Weather in the Dominican Republic in January

Late December-early January is the most popular time to visit the Dominican Republic. And it’s not just that many people want to spend the New Year holidays under palm trees on the ocean.

It is during this period that the weather in the Dominican Republic is the most beautiful – the sun almost constantly shines, a weak warm breeze blows from the ocean, the air temperature is around 27-28 C degrees.

During this period, it can sometimes rain, but they do not cause much trouble – tropical showers in January are most often short and very warm.

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Weather in the Dominican Republic in February

The last month of winter is the driest month of the year in the Dominican Republic. The air temperature during this period during the day on average stays at + 26 ° С – + 28 ° С. The water temperature in the ocean is also about +26°C.

There is especially little rain during this period, but this does not mean that the sky will be cloudless. In the tropics, it is extremely rare to see the sky without a single cloud.

It is believed that the ocean is the coldest in February, but you must admit – 26 degrees for a Russian tourist is very warm!

See also: Seasons in the Dominican Republic: when is the best time to relax in the Dominican Republic

Weather in the Dominican Republic in March

but it seems a little hotter. The air in the daytime still warms up to +28-30°C, and the water in the sea – almost +26-28°C.

During this period, ocean currents are weaker than in winter.

That is, the weather favors swimming, excursions, and outdoor activities.

Weather in the Dominican Republic in April

It is believed that in April the rainy season should begin in the Dominican Republic. Precipitation this month is still not too much, but still the rest becomes not so cloudless. Sometimes the rain can charge for the whole day.

If you suddenly get unlucky with the weather, we recommend going on an excursion to Santo Domingo – in this region of the Dominican Republic it rains the least.

The average air temperature in April in the Dominican Republic is slightly higher than in March – about 30°C during the day, and 24°C – 25°C at night, the water temperature rises to about +27-29°C.

Weather in the Dominican Republic in May

Real tropical showers happen in May, but fortunately, mostly at night. Clear weather for the whole day happens much less often at this time, but a real show is going on in the sky – clouds and clouds of all kinds, sizes and shades that can only be seen in the tropics!

Quite strong, although warm winds can blow during this period. The air becomes noticeably more humid. The air temperature during the day is still around +30°С, and the ocean warms up to +28°С.

Photographer Alexey Raevsky

The weather in the Dominican Republic in June

But still more often there are fine days. During the day the air temperature is about +30°С, water – about 28°С.

June officially marks the beginning of hurricane season in the Caribbean. However, you definitely should not worry, in the Dominican Republic, real hurricanes are extremely rare, and even if they do, then closer to the end of summer.

Weather in the Dominican Republic in July

In July, the Dominican Republic is often affected by tropical cyclones. Therefore, the weather is unstable. Heavy rains, squalls, storms and significant pressure drops are quite likely. It rains most often at night and early in the morning.

Daytime air temperature in July averages around +30°C, and water around +28°C.

Weather in the Dominican Republic in August

The hottest days in the Dominican Republic are in August. And just in this month, the largest amount of precipitation falls. At night, thunderstorms are accompanied by beautiful lightning and loud peals of thunder.

In August, the average air temperature is the maximum of the year, sometimes reaching +32°С. Humidity is also the highest.

Weather in the Dominican Republic in September

Most often, typhoons and tropical hurricanes came to the Dominican Republic just in September. Although, in general, no one will insure against such a disaster at any other time of the year. Another thing is that hurricanes most often hit the western part of the island – the Republic of Haiti, and hit the Dominican Republic only in the form of prolonged precipitation.

Nevertheless, in September you can have a wonderful rest in the Dominican Republic. Dominican weather in early autumn is humid, hot, the temperature rises to + 31 ° C, and the water warms up to + 29°C.

Read also: The best beaches in the Dominican Republic for weddings and photo shoots

Weather in the Dominican Republic in October

not grown, as before the new year. A great time to travel around the country with excursions, get acquainted with its culture and traditions.

The weather in October is stable. Precipitation is not too much, and the temperature is about the same as in September: air around +30°С, water – +29°C.

Photographer Aleksey Kryuchkov

Weather in the Dominican Republic in November

Weather in November contributes to a good rest – this is the beginning of a high tourist season. But storms and rain are still possible. Follow the forecasts – in recent years, climate changes on our planet have led to the fact that even in November, prolonged rains can occur in the Dominican Republic.

The average daily temperature in the Dominican Republic in November is about 28°C, but it can reach 30°C, but the water temperature drops to +28°C.

Weather in the Dominican Republic in December

The Dominican Republic is the most popular time and place in the world in December. Nowhere else during this period is there such a warm sea and such a festively bright sun.

The air temperature on the island during the day is +28-29°С, and the water temperature is about +27°С. There are usually no strong rains and winds in December, so you can be sure that your vacation will not be spoiled by bad weather.

However, holidays in the Dominican Republic in December are not so cheap – during the Christmas and New Year holidays, hotels and airlines significantly raise prices for their services.

We hope you find this Dominican Weather review helpful when planning your trip to this wonderful country. Let your vacation in the Dominican Republic become an unforgettable memory for a lifetime.

If you still have questions about the weather in the Dominican Republic, be sure to ask them in the comments to this article, and we will definitely answer you.

Republica.Pro

December – Chelyabinsk hydrometeorological center

Informer

Official symbols of Roshydromet

On urgent measures to prevent coronavirus infection (COVID-19))

New service: Production of a weather certificate on your memorable date (birthday, wedding day, etc. ) tel. 729-83-63, 232-09-58 Thunderstorm

Thunderstorms are formed at high air instability and can be intramass and frontal. At the same time, nighttime thunderstorms occur on warm fronts, and daytime thunderstorms occur on cold fronts, and the more contrast the front, the stronger and more dangerous the thunderstorms on it. In Chelyabinsk, there are up to 35 thunderstorms a year.
details…

Tornado

Every year in summer in different parts of the world, where the weather is hot, accompanied by the development of powerful thunderclouds, there are vertical funnel-shaped air disturbances, known under the common name “tornado”.
more…

News

09/02/22
September 1, 2022 turned out to be the warmest day of knowledge in the entire history of observations.
more…

08.08.22

According to the Chelyabinsk Center for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring, the unfavorable conditions that contribute to the accumulation of pollutants in the atmospheric air are caused by the long-term presence of an extensive anticyclone over the territory of the region

more. ..

Climate and weather in Thailand according to months of 2022, the rainy season in Thailand – NGS.TOURISM

Here you can find information about the weather in Thailand by months: average air and water temperatures, average monthly rainfall.

Thailand is perhaps the most popular holiday destination among Russians. This is due to many factors, including the climate of Thailand plays an important role. The weather in Thailand is generally good at any time of the year. The local climate can be described as humid tropical, subtropical. But still, the weather in Thailand by months differs significantly in resort areas.

The rainy season in Thailand lasts differently depending on the climate zone, but usually it starts in May and lasts until November. The rains are brought here by the southwest monsoons, but avid holidaymakers in Thailand should not be afraid of the rains. At most resorts, they are short-lived and insignificant. In the off-season, namely in the autumn months, it is not very hot. Temperatures average 28 degrees Celsius. At this time, it is very rainy in the kingdom, especially in Phuket. December is the peak of the Dodge season in Phuket. December is the coldest month by local standards.

The hottest period of and the most favorable time for rest is probably from February to May itself. During this period, you can enjoy a great vacation under the hot sun of Thailand and get a lot of vivid impressions from the famous Thai shows. True, the flow of tourists during the season is also impressive, but for those who love noisy and active holidays, this is not an obstacle.

• January is one of the best months to travel to Thailand. Gentle sea, soft beaches, summer sun – what else do you need to get the most out of a beach holiday? Well, perhaps the popular and spectacular cultural events that Thailand is famous for literally all over the world! In January, the average air temperature is about 30 degrees, for most tourists this is the most comfortable . ..

• Thai February is a favorite time for tourists to relax. The weather in February in Thailand differs slightly from January , but the air and water in the sea still become warmer. Just like in January, this month has practically no precipitation and the lowest air humidity of the year. February in Thailand is the most pleasant travel experience: sightseeing places in Thailand, famous Thai shows and excursions …

• March is a great time to relax in Thailand. As a rule, in March it is always clear and sunny. The winter heat is slowly subsiding, and the rainy season is still far away. But still, in some areas of Thailand, small rains still begin to “splatter”. In a word, the weather in March in Thailand is conducive to a relaxing holiday. The average air temperature in March is 33 degrees Celsius. In March you won’t…

• Thailand in April is dearly loved
  tourists. In April, it gets hotter in Thailand, the temperature rises to
  35 degrees, and the humidity of the air rises significantly. Water temperature
  stays at 29 degrees. The weather in April in Thailand is ideal for those
  who love the hot sun, but do not mind freshening up. In many parts of Thailand begin
  light rains, the most comfortable rest in Pattaya …

• Thailand is popular at almost any time of the year, even if the Thai sky is “crying” with its tropical showers. The weather in May in Thailand is almost the hottest and most humid. The air temperature is about 35 degrees, and the water is 30. May is the rainy season in Thailand. But what can I say, no rains scare Russian tourists. They are happy to rest in Pattaya and Koh Samui. This is explained…

• Despite its raininess, holidays in Thailand in June are very much in demand. In June, a fairly large amount of precipitation falls, the air temperature drops by a couple of degrees compared to May and is about 30-32 degrees Celsius. Despite this, the water temperature allows you to swim, and tourists actively continue to relax. In addition, it rains mostly in the late afternoon, but during the day, …

• Thailand in July is a favorite rainy month. The heat here is also kept at 33 degrees. The water in the sea also pleases with its temperature, 29 degrees is the optimal temperature for swimming. In general, the weather in July in Thailand is identical to the weather in June. Let the showers do not scare tourists, they usually go in the evening and at night. In the daytime, nothing interferes with outdoor activities, swimming or carefree “doing nothing” …

• At different resorts in Thailand, the weather in August can be very different. However, in general, showers and rains continue. The average temperature fluctuates around 30-33 degrees, and the water in the sea – 29-30 degrees. Yet most tourists do not attach much importance to the term “rainy season”. Indeed, in Thailand it is not so critical, because during the day the sun almost always shines! Weather in August in Thailand…

• September Thailand is rain mixed with downpours! Nevertheless, September promises to be exciting for those who decide to travel to Thailand. The temperature of the water in the sea and air is still kept at 28 degrees Celsius. The weather in September in Thailand is perhaps not the most comfortable for a holiday. The September weather in Thailand, as a rule, scares away Europeans, but not Russians. Many Russians…

• Thailand promises to be hot and humid in October. In October, the weather in Thailand makes everything literally bloom and smell! Trees and flowers bloom and the kingdom itself revives. The rains are still pouring, but they are no longer so protracted, their duration is on average 5-10 minutes. The water temperature drops slightly compared to the summer months, but 31 degrees Celsius…

• November weather in Thailand is a mix of comfort and warmth. Finally, the rain stops. The season starts. This month you can enjoy the Thai sun to your heart’s content. The average temperature is 32 degrees. Thailand attracts tourists from all over the world. Perhaps the most favorable vacation in November is in Pattaya. There are practically no Dodges here. In second place in terms of comfort is …

• The weather in Thailand in December is very similar to November. Dry, warm and sunny. Here is the peak of the season. The warm sea pleases tourists with the possibility of scuba diving. And this opportunity is worth taking advantage of, because the underwater world of the Andaman Sea will impress you very much. The air temperature is still around 28-31 degrees. The water in the sea retains its former warmth and stays at 27 degrees. December…