Kingston in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Kingston

32°C (89°F) High Temp

21°C (69°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather with minimal rainfall - December falls in Kingston's drier months with temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration
Christmas festival season brings busy cultural celebrations including traditional Jamaican caroling and street festivals throughout the parishes
Cool northeastern trade winds provide natural relief from humidity, making walking tours and outdoor markets comfortable during 21-28°C (70-82°F) temperatures
Tourist crowds are lighter in early December before Christmas rush, allowing better access to this destination hiking trails and downtown cultural sites

Considerations

December 15-31 sees significant price increases (30-50% higher) for accommodations as Christmas tourism peaks and locals return from abroad
Afternoon heat can reach 32°C (89°F) with 70% humidity, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable without proper planning
Some outdoor venues and tours reduce operating hours due to earlier sunsets at 6:15 PM, limiting evening photography opportunities

Best Activities in December

Blue Mountains Coffee Estate Tours

December's dry weather creates perfect conditions for mountain hiking at 1,200-2,256 m (3,937-7,402 ft) elevation where temperatures drop to comfortable 18-24°C (64-75°F). Coffee harvest season ends in November, so estates offer fresh roasting demonstrations and optimal tasting conditions without muddy trails.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed estate operators. Tours typically cost J$4,000-6,500 per person including transportation from Kingston. Morning tours (7 AM start) avoid afternoon heat and offer clearest mountain views. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Downtown Kingston Cultural Walking Tours

December's lower humidity and trade wind cooling make exploring historic downtown comfortable. Christmas decorations transform King Street and Parade areas, while traditional markets like Coronation Market showcase seasonal fruits and holiday preparations. Early morning tours (8-10 AM) avoid peak heat.

Booking Tip: Book cultural tours 5-7 days ahead through certified local guides. Typical cost J$2,500-4,000 per person for 3-4 hour experiences. Look for guides registered with Jamaica Tourist Board. Current downtown tour options available in booking widget below.

Port Royal Historical Site Exploration

December's dry conditions provide clear visibility for exploring the 'Wickedest City on Earth' ruins and maritime archaeology sites. Low rainfall means better access to Fort Charles and Giddy House without muddy walkways. Sea breezes keep coastal temperatures 2-3°C cooler than inland Kingston.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically range J$3,500-5,500 including boat transport from Kingston Harbor. Book through licensed maritime operators 5-8 days ahead. Best visited morning or late afternoon to avoid midday sun. See current Port Royal tours in booking section.

Devon House Estate and Gardens

December's comfortable weather perfect for exploring 19th century mansion grounds and sampling famous Devon House I-Scream in pleasant outdoor settings. Christmas season brings special holiday exhibitions and traditional decorations throughout the estate's preserved rooms and courtyards.

Booking Tip: Estate tours cost J$1,500-2,500 per adult with ice cream tastings additional J$800-1,200. No advance booking required but arrive before 4 PM for full experience. Self-guided exploration possible with audio guides available in booking options below.

Bob Marley Museum and Trench Town Tours

Dry December weather ideal for walking tours through Trench Town's historic streets where reggae originated. Museum visits combined with neighborhood exploration showcase music history without concern for rain disrupting outdoor portions of cultural experiences.

Booking Tip: Combined museum and community tours range J$4,500-7,000 per person including transportation. Book 3-5 days ahead through certified cultural tour operators. Tours include both indoor museum time and outdoor community walks. Current reggae heritage tours in booking section.

Hellshire Beach Day Trips

December's calm seas and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for beach visits and fresh seafood dining at famous fish shacks. Water temperatures remain warm at 27-28°C (81-82°F) while trade winds prevent excessive heat buildup on sand.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost J$2,000-3,500 including transport from Kingston (45-minute drive). No advance booking needed but departure by 9 AM recommended for best beach spots. Fresh fish lunches additional J$1,500-2,500. Transportation options available in booking widget.

December Events & Festivals

December 26

Boxing Day Junkanoo Celebrations

Traditional Jamaican street festival on December 26th featuring colorful costumes, traditional drums, and cultural performances throughout Kingston's major squares and streets. Local communities prepare elaborate displays and authentic Caribbean music.

December 24-25

Christmas Grand Market

Traditional all-night Christmas Eve market in downtown Kingston where locals shop for holiday foods, crafts, and celebrations until Christmas morning. Experience authentic Jamaican Christmas preparations and traditional holiday foods.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even during December's 'cooler' season requiring reapplication every 2 hours

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity which traps moisture and increases discomfort

Light rain jacket or umbrella - 10 rainy days expected with brief afternoon showers lasting 20-30 minutes

Comfortable walking shoes with good tread - some historic downtown areas have uneven colonial-era stones

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes most active during dawn/dusk hours even in dry season

Light sweater for this destination excursions - temperatures drop to 18°C (64°F) at higher elevations

Portable water bottle - stay hydrated during 32°C (89°F) afternoon temperatures and outdoor walking

Cash in Jamaican dollars - many local vendors and small attractions don't accept cards

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during brief December showers and beach visits

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (route taxis) cost J$150-200 for short Kingston trips versus J$2,000+ for tourist taxis - look for red license plates for legitimate operators

Christmas season brings extended family returns from overseas, so book accommodations before December 15th when local demand spikes and prices jump 40%

Patois becomes more pronounced during holiday celebrations - learn basic greetings like 'Wah gwaan' (What's going on) to connect better with locals

December's trade winds blow strongest 10 AM-4 PM making this ideal time for outdoor markets and walking tours when natural cooling is maximum

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 12-3 PM when sun intensity peaks and trade winds diminish - plan indoor cultural sites during these hours

Bringing heavy winter clothing for 'December weather' - Kingston's December is warm tropical climate requiring summer clothing with light layers

Expecting Christmas to shut down all activities - many attractions remain open December 25-26 with special holiday programming and local celebrations