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San Diego Weather in December

San Diego weather in December features mild temperatures with highs in the 60s°F and lows in the 50s°F. Explore key seasonal events, tips for visiting, and why December is great option for visiting San Diego.

Mac Douglass profile image
by Mac Douglass
San Diego Weather in December

What Is the Weather Like in San Diego in December?

San Diego weather in December offers a mild winter experience that’s far from typical. Average high temperatures hover around the mid-60s°F (18-20°C), while nighttime lows dip into the high 40s°F (around 9°C), particularly late at night or early in the morning. While the weather remains mild, rain showers are common, making December one of the city's wetter months.

If you’re hoping for a beach vacation, December might not be the best time, as ocean waters cool significantly. Most locals skip the shorelines during this period. However, December is perfect for enjoying outdoor events and seasonal activities thanks to the pleasant daytime weather.

Average December Weather in San Diego

San Diego's December weather features mild highs around 65-67°F and cooler lows near 50°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities and seasonal events. Data from WeatherSpark.
  • Daytime Temperatures: Average highs reach around 67°F early in December and drop slightly to 65°F by Christmas Day.
  • Nighttime Temperatures: Lows average 51°F early in the month, cooling to about 50°F as December progresses.
  • Rainfall: December is one of San Diego’s wetter months, so pack an umbrella for unexpected showers.

December San Diego Weather Compared to Other Months

Month Average High (°F) Average Low (°F) Days with Precipitation Hours of Sunshine Average Precipitation (in)
January 65 48 6 217 1.53
February 76 65 1 255 0.15
March 73 61 3 234 0.57
April 69 54 4 236 1.01
May 76 67 0 277 0.02
June 75 65 0 293 0.03
July 71 62 1 253 0.07
August 69 59 2 261 0.12
September 67 56 5 242 0.78
October 66 53 7 262 1.81
November 65 51 7 212 2.27
December 65 49 7 216 1.98

San Diego's weather in December is among the coolest of the year, with average highs in the mid-60s°F and lows around 50°F.

Compared to warmer months like July, where average highs can reach the low-70s°F, December offers a refreshing change. While rainfall is more common in December than in summer, the mild climate still makes it an ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions.

Things to Do in San Diego in December

San Diego's December weather may not be ideal for beachgoers, but the city’s vibrant seasonal activities more than make up for it.

  • San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: Watch dazzling boats light up the harbor in a holiday tradition that draws locals and visitors alike.
  • Balboa Park December Nights: Explore San Diego’s cultural heart during this festive two-day event, featuring food, entertainment, and free museum access.
  • Whale Watching Excursions: December marks the start of gray whale migration season, offering unforgettable ocean experiences.

Why Visit San Diego in December?

San Diego’s December weather offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the city without summer crowds. Hotel rates are often more affordable, and the cooler temperatures make it easier to explore the city’s iconic attractions like Balboa Park, Old Town, and the Gaslamp Quarter.

Whether you’re planning to attend seasonal events, enjoy a whale-watching adventure, or simply take in the city’s mild winter charm, San Diego in December is an ideal destination for a laid-back getaway.

Plan Your Trip Around the December Weather in San Diego, California

December weather in San Diego provides cool mornings, pleasant afternoons, and occasional rain showers. If you’re looking for a winter escape that offers a mix of outdoor activities and festive events, San Diego should be at the top of your list.

San Diego Weather Guides for Every Month

San Diego Weather in January
San Diego weather in January features cool and mild conditions with highs in the 60s°F and lows in the high 40s°F. Discover why January is a fantastic time to visit, what to pack, and the seasonal highlights that make it unique.
San Diego Weather in February
San Diego weather in February offers a mild winter experience with highs in the 60s°F and lows in the 50s°F. Discover why February is perfect for exploring the city, enjoying seasonal events, and taking advantage of the cooler climate.
San Diego Weather in March
San Diego weather in March marks the beginning of spring, with warmer days and mild evenings. Explore why March is a fantastic time to visit, along with highlights of the season’s best events and activities.
San Diego Weather in April
San Diego weather in April features average highs in the upper 60s°F and lows in the mid-50s°F, with minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine. Explore why April’s mild spring weather makes it an ideal time to enjoy San Diego’s outdoor activities and seasonal events.
San Diego Weather in May
San Diego weather in May marks the transition to summer, offering warm days, cool evenings, and plenty of sunshine. With average highs of 76°F and lows of 67°F, and almost no rainfall, May is perfect for enjoying the city’s vibrant outdoor events and natural beauty.
San Diego Weather in June
San Diego weather in June features sunny days with mild evenings. With average highs of 75°F, lows around 65°F, and over 293 hours of sunshine, June provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy all that the city has to offer.
San Diego Weather in July
San Diego weather in July offers sunny days, mild evenings, and a perfect backdrop for summer festivities. With average highs of 71°F, lows of 62°F, and just 0.07 inches of rainfall, July is an ideal time to enjoy the city’s beaches, cultural events, and vibrant nightlife.
San Diego Weather in August
San Diego weather in August is a summer dream with sunny days, mild evenings, and warm coastal waters. With average highs of 69°F, lows of 59°F, and just 0.12 inches of rainfall, August is the perfect month to enjoy beach outings, outdoor festivals, and cultural events across the city.
San Diego Weather in September
With average highs of 67°F, lows of 56°F, and 0.78 inches of rainfall across five days, September weather in San Diego offers a pleasant climate for outdoor activities, beach outings, and vibrant city events.
San Diego Weather in October
San Diego in October transitions into cooler weather while maintaining its signature mildness. With average highs of 66°F and lows of 53°F, October offers a comfortable climate perfect for exploring San Diego’s festivals and attractions.
San Diego Weather in November
San Diego in November signals the onset of cooler days and crisp evenings. With average highs of 65°F and lows of 51°F, November offers a blend of mild weather and festive charm, ideal for exploring San Diego’s seasonal activities and events.
San Diego Weather in December
San Diego weather in December features mild temperatures with highs in the 60s°F and lows in the 50s°F. Explore key seasonal events, tips for visiting, and why December is great option for visiting San Diego.

Mac Douglass profile image
by Mac Douglass

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