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Quick Overview: Where to Go in the Caribbean in December
If you’re looking for warm weather, sunny beaches, and a festive island vibe, December is one of the best times of year to visit the Caribbean. It’s the start of the dry season, meaning less rain, lower humidity, and prime beach weather — all before the peak holiday crowds fully kick in.
Below are some of the best islands to visit in December, based on first-hand travel experience, ideal weather, and overall vibe during the holidays:
- St. Martin / Sint Maarten – Great mix of French and Dutch culture, tons of beaches, and easy flights. Explore my St. Martin/Maarten guides | Book Hotels in St. Martin
- Curacao – Bright, colorful island with great snorkeling, diving, and a local feel even in high season. Explore my Curacao guides | Book Hotels in Curacao
- Saba – A non-beach Caribbean gem with dramatic hiking, diving, and a peaceful escape from the crowds. Explore my Saba guides | Book Hotels in Saba
- St. Barths – Glitzy but gorgeous; perfect weather, luxury hotels, and a lively holiday scene. | Book Hotels in St. Barths
And while I’m focusing on islands I’ve personally visited, other fantastic options in December include:
Saint Lucia, Aruba, St. Kitts & Nevis, and the British Virgin Islands — all offering warm weather, stunning beaches, and a festive holiday season without the snow.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them — at no extra cost to you.
If you’re dreaming about trading snow for sunshine, December is one of the best times to visit the Caribbean. The rainy season is winding down, temperatures are warm but comfortable, and the islands start buzzing with holiday energy — without the full peak season crowds (at least in early December). But with so many islands to choose from, you might be wondering where to go in the Caribbean in December for the best experience.
In this guide, I’m sharing a shortlist of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December, based on places I’ve actually been. These destinations offer a great balance of good weather, great beaches, festive vibes, and things to do — plus tips on where to stay and what to experience while you’re there.
Whether you’re planning a holiday escape, an early winter getaway, or a warm-weather trip for New Year’s, these are my go-to Caribbean islands worth checking out in December.
Where to Go in the Caribbean in December
With winter setting in across North America and Europe, December is one of the most popular months to escape to the Caribbean — and for good reason. The weather is warm but comfortable, the hurricane season is behind us, and most islands are gearing up for the holidays with festivals, lights, and beachfront celebrations.
But not all Caribbean destinations offer the same experience this time of year. Some are drier, some are livelier, and some stay surprisingly quiet even as the holidays approach. Below are some of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December, based on places I’ve personally explored — including where to stay and what to do once you arrive.
St. Martin / Sint Maarten in December
Great for: Beach lovers, foodies, couples, and travelers who want a mix of culture + convenience
St. Martin (French side) and Sint Maarten (Dutch side) together make up one of the most diverse and accessible islands in the Caribbean — and December is one of the best months to visit. You’ll get dry, sunny days, temps around 80–84°F (27–29°C), and water that’s still warm enough for long swims. Hurricane season is over, and the island starts to come alive again after the slower fall months.
Learn more about the best places to stay in St. Martin!
It’s a great time to explore both sides of the island — the chic French beaches and restaurants in Grand Case, and the more developed Dutch side with its cruise port, nightlife, and shopping.
December Weather & Vibe in St. Martin/Maarten
- Weather: Mostly dry, low humidity, warm days and breezy nights
- Crowds: Busy near Christmas and New Year’s, but early December is calm and perfect for beach hopping
- Festivities: Holiday lights go up mid-December, and both sides of the island celebrate with markets, parades, and music
Where to Stay in St. Martin/Maarten in December
On the French Side (more relaxed, boutique-style):
- Orient Beach Hotel – Right on the sand, walkable to restaurants
- Grand Case Beach Club – Beachfront, with one of the best sunset views on the island
- St. Martin Villas Rentals – If you want more space in a villa setup, you’ll find beautiful options all over the island.
On the Dutch Side (closer to nightlife & activities):
- The Morgan Resort Spa & Village– Right next to the airport for Maho Beach access and easy overnight stays.
- Simpson Bay Resort – Great for longer stays, families, or travelers who want more amenities
Things to Do in December in St. Martin/Maarten
- Spend a beach day at Orient Bay or Mullet Bay — warm, swimmable, and lively
- Take a day trip to Pinel Island for snorkeling and lunch by the sea
- Have a French-style dinner in Grand Case — still one of the best foodie towns in the Caribbean
- Watch planes land at Maho Beach — touristy, yes, but still a thrill
- Charter a boat or join a guided boat tour around the island – the Caribbean is best viewed from the water. Book yours here!
Curacao
Great for: Culture lovers, divers, colorful towns, and off-the-beaten-path vibes
If you’re looking for an island that offers reliable weather, fewer crowds, and a strong local culture, Curacao is one of the best Caribbean destinations to visit in December. It sits outside the hurricane belt, so the weather is consistently dry and warm, with average highs around 85°F (29°C) and very little rainfall — even during early December.
Learn more about Curacao with these guides!
Curacao feels different from many other Caribbean islands. It’s Dutch-influenced but very much its own place, with a strong local identity, colorful architecture, and a great blend of history, nature, and beach life.
December Weather & Vibe in Curacao
- Weather: Hot, dry, and sunny — perfect for swimming, diving, and exploring
- Crowds: Steady but not overwhelming, especially earlier in the month
- Festivities: Willemstad gets festive with lights and holiday events, and locals celebrate Christmas and New Year’s with fireworks and outdoor parties
Where to Stay in Curacao in December
Curacao offers a mix of boutique hotels, beachfront resorts, and vacation rentals. If you want to explore the island, I recommend staying close to Willemstad for easy access to restaurants and culture, or along the west coast for a more relaxed, beach-focused trip.
- Avila Beach Hotel – A beautiful, historic property near the city with a calm private beach
- Baoase Luxury Resort – One of the top luxury stays on the island, perfect for couples
- Curacao Villas – If you want more room in a villa, there’s lot of great options all over the island.
- LionsDive Beach Resort – Great for divers, with an active vibe and beach access
- Scuba Lodge Boutique Hotel – Colorful and walkable to Willemstad’s historic district
Things to Do in Curacao in December
- Wander through Willemstad’s pastel-colored streets — it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Snorkel or dive at Tugboat Beach or Playa Kalki
- Visit Klein Curacao — a tiny uninhabited island with white sand and turquoise water (full-day boat trips available)
- Check out local Christmas and New Year’s fireworks in town (they love their firecrackers!)
- Explore Shete Boka National Park for dramatic coastal cliffs and blowholes
- Hike up Christoffelberg Mountain for incredible views of the ocean and the island
Saba
Great for: Hikers, divers, peace-seekers, and off-grid travelers
If you’re craving a Caribbean escape that’s nothing like the typical beach resort scene, Saba should be on your radar. Known as the “Unspoiled Queen” of the Caribbean, this tiny Dutch island is all mountains, jungle, and dramatic ocean views — no beaches, no cruise ships, no crowds.
Learn more about Saba with these travel guides!
December is a great time to visit Saba. The weather is cooler and breezy (but still warm), with daytime temps around 78–82°F (25–28°C) — ideal for hiking and diving. You’ll get dry, clear days, and the island feels extra quiet and peaceful during the holidays. It’s the kind of place where you truly unplug and reset.
December Weather & Vibe in Saba
- Weather: Mild, breezy, and mostly dry — perfect for hiking and outdoor adventure
- Crowds: Low year-round; December sees a gentle uptick but it still feels uncrowded
- Festivities: Christmas lights and dinners in local guesthouses, but no big resort-style events — just local charm and calm
Where to Stay in Saba in December
Saba is known for its eco-lodges, villas, and family-run guesthouses rather than big resorts — and that’s what makes it special. My top recommendation:
- Spyglass Villa – Perched on a cliff with panoramic ocean views, this private villa is hands-down one of the most incredible places I’ve stayed. It’s quiet, luxurious without being flashy, and perfect for travelers who want space, peace, and serious views.
Other great options include:
- Juliana’s Hotel – Cozy, well-run, and centrally located in Windwardside
- The Cottage Club Hotel – Quirky and charming with rustic Caribbean cottages set around a hillside garden.
Things to Do in December in Saba
- Hike Mt. Scenery — the highest point in the Netherlands, with cloud forest at the summit. Learn more with this guide
- Go diving — Saba has some of the best underwater terrain in the Caribbean, including pinnacles and lava tubes
- Explore Windwardside — a charming little mountain town with local cafés and shops
- Unwind at your villa with a glass of wine and an insane sunset
St. Barths
Great for: Luxury travelers, couples, boutique hotel fans, and festive holiday energy
If you’re looking for a more upscale Caribbean escape in December, St. Barths is a top pick. This little French island blends Mediterranean style with Caribbean beauty, and December is when it really starts to shine. The early part of the month is relatively calm, but the island kicks into full celebration mode for Christmas and New Year’s, drawing yachts, celebs, and travelers looking to splash out a bit.
The weather is dry, breezy, and warm, with average highs around 82°F (28°C) — perfect for beach days, shopping, and sipping wine with an ocean view.
December Weather & Vibe in St. Barths
- Weather: Sunny and dry, with warm days and cooler evenings
- Crowds: Low-key early in the month, then very lively around the holidays
- Festivities: High-end restaurants and beach clubs host elegant Christmas dinners and legendary New Year’s Eve parties (especially around Gustavia and St. Jean)
Where to Stay in December in St. Barths
St. Barths is known for its boutique hotels and luxury villas. Most properties are small, design-focused, and come with top-notch service. Early December is the sweet spot for value — rates jump closer to Christmas.
- Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa – Beachfront luxury with a wellness vibe
- Hotel Christopher – Gorgeous cliffside property with one of the best infinity pools on the island
- St. Barths Villas– Chic and tucked-away with bohemian charm
- Pearl Beach Hotel – Located on popular St. Jean Beach, great for people-watching and beach access
Things to Do in December in St. Barths
- Spend the day at Shell Beach or Gouverneur Beach — two of the island’s most beautiful spots
- Dine in Gustavia — the capital is full of high-end French restaurants and boutique shops
- Rent a Mini Moke and explore the island’s winding roads and beaches at your own pace
- Toast to sunset at a beach bar in St. Jean — often with a DJ or live music in December
- Watch the yachts arrive for New Year’s — the harbor fills with megayachts in the final week of the year
- Book early if visiting for Christmas or New Year’s Eve — everything sells out fast during that week
Other Great Caribbean Islands to Consider in December
While the islands I’ve featured above are the ones I’ve personally explored and can vouch for, there are plenty of other amazing Caribbean destinations to visit in December — especially if you’re after sunshine, warm water, and a mix of beaches and adventure. Here are a few more worth adding to your list:
- Saint Lucia – Lush, green, and mountainous with a mix of romance and adventure. Stay near the Pitons if you want dramatic views and boutique luxury. December is part of the dry season here, and it’s a great time to visit before high-season prices fully kick in.
- Aruba – One of the warmest and driest Caribbean islands in December, Aruba is outside the hurricane belt and enjoys near-perfect beach weather all month long. It’s great for travelers looking for reliable sunshine, a blend of beach and nightlife, and a wide range of resorts and vacation rentals. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are the top areas to stay, especially for first-timers.
- The British Virgin Islands – Calm, uncrowded, and ideal for sailing between islands. December brings great weather for beach hopping and exploring by boat, especially around Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke.
Tips for Visiting the Caribbean in December
December is one of the best times of year to visit the Caribbean, but it’s also a month that comes with a few key things to know before you go. Whether you’re traveling early in the month for a quiet beach getaway or planning to spend the holidays island-hopping, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your trip.
- Book early, especially for the holidays
The closer you get to Christmas and New Year’s, the higher the prices go — for flights, hotels, and even rental cars. If you’re traveling during the last two weeks of December, try to book at least 2–3 months in advance for the best availability and rates. - Go earlier in the month for better deals and fewer crowds
The first two weeks of December are a sweet spot — great weather, low crowds, and more affordable prices. It’s one of my favorite times to visit the Caribbean if you’re looking to relax without the holiday rush. - Pack for warm days but cooler evenings
Daytime temps are usually in the 80s°F (27–30°C), but evenings can feel cooler with the breeze — especially if you’re near the water or in higher elevation areas like Saba. Bring a light jacket or sweater just in case. - Expect festive events and celebrations
Many islands start decorating and celebrating by mid-December. Look out for Christmas markets, holiday parades, and beachside dinners, especially on islands like St. Martin, St. Barths, and Curacao. - December marks the start of dry season — but quick showers are still possible
While the rainy season is mostly over, it’s still the tropics — so don’t be surprised by a passing shower. They usually don’t last long, and you’ll be back on the beach before you know it. - Check holiday closures
On Christmas Day and New Year’s, some businesses may close or run on limited hours — especially on the French islands. Stock up on snacks and water if you’re staying in a rental or villa during that time. - Budget for higher prices during peak weeks
Late December is peak season in the Caribbean, and prices will reflect that. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly December trip, consider islands like Curacao, Bonaire, or the Dominican Republic, and aim for early in the month.
Final Thoughts: Where to Go in the Caribbean in December
Whether you’re escaping the cold, planning a warm-weather holiday getaway, or just craving sunshine and sea, December is one of the best months to visit the Caribbean. The weather is dry and warm, the beaches are beautiful, and there’s a festive energy in the air — especially as the holidays roll in.
From the laid-back charm of St. Martin, to the colorful streets of Curacao, the hiking trails of Saba, and the luxury of St. Barths, every island has its own vibe — and if you go early in the month, you’ll enjoy lower crowds and better rates too.
These are the destinations I’ve personally visited and would go back to in a heartbeat. I hope this guide helps you decide where to go in the Caribbean in December based on your travel style — whether that’s adventure, relaxation, food, or just soaking in the sun.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Caribbean in December
Is December a good time to go to the Caribbean?
Yes — December is one of the best months to visit the Caribbean. It marks the start of the dry season, with warm weather, lower humidity, and mostly sunny skies. Early December is quieter and more affordable, while the second half of the month gets livelier with holiday celebrations.
Where in the Caribbean is warmest in December?
The warmest Caribbean islands in December tend to be those located further south, like Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, and parts of St. Lucia. These destinations usually see highs in the mid-80s°F (29°C), and stay consistently dry this time of year.
What Caribbean island has the best weather in December?
Aruba and Curacao have some of the most reliable weather in December, thanks to their location outside the hurricane belt. They tend to be dry, sunny, and warm — ideal for beach days. St. Barths and St. Martin also enjoy great December weather, especially in the first few weeks of the month.
Are there hurricanes in the Caribbean in December?
No — the Atlantic hurricane season officially ends on November 30th, so December is considered a safe time to travel. While no time is ever 100% guaranteed, the chances of storms are very low.
Are flights to the Caribbean expensive in December?
Yes, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. Prices for flights and accommodations rise significantly in late December. If you’re looking for better deals, aim for early in the month or book well in advance for holiday travel.
Can you swim in the Caribbean in December?
Absolutely. The water is warm year-round, with sea temperatures typically around 78–82°F (25–28°C) in December. Great for swimming, snorkeling, and diving — no wetsuit required.
What are the most festive Caribbean islands in December?
St. Barths, St. Martin, St. Kitts, and Puerto Rico are all known for their holiday celebrations, including parades, Christmas markets, live music, and fireworks. If you’re looking for a lively island vibe during the holidays, these are solid options.
Which Caribbean islands are cheapest to visit in December?
For more budget-friendly December trips, look into Curacao, Bonaire, or the Dominican Republic — especially in the first half of the month. Avoid peak holiday weeks if you’re trying to keep costs down.
What should I pack for a Caribbean trip in December?
Bring light clothing, a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a light sweater or jacket for breezy evenings. Some islands, like Saba or the higher areas of St. Lucia, can feel cooler at night.
