Last updated: February 24, 2025
In Big Sur during December, visitors can expect a mix of mild temperatures and vibrant weather patterns. The maximum temperature reaches a comfortable 23°C (74°F), while the average sits at a cool 11°C (52°F), dipping down to a brisk minimum of 4°C (40°F). This month brings 118 mm (4.6 in) of rain across approximately 9 days, contributing to the lush coastal scenery. With an average humidity level of around 80%, the atmosphere has a refreshing feel, making it an ideal time for those who enjoy the dynamic beauty of nature amidst the chill in the air.
In December, Big Sur embraces the cool embrace of winter with temperatures that reflect a gentle transition into what many consider its off-peak season. The minimum temperature hovers around 4°C (40°F), while the average rises slightly to 11°C (52°F), reaching a comfortable maximum of 23°C (74°F). This month showcases a pattern of stability, with temperatures that are consistently milder compared to the deeper winter months, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to explore its stunning coastal landscapes. As the year comes to a close, the weather remains relatively pleasant, making December an ideal time to experience the beauty of Big Sur without the summer crowds.
In December, Big Sur experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with an average of 118 mm (4.6 in) falling over 9 days. This marks a continuation of the wetter trend that begins in the late fall, following November's rainfall of 43 mm (1.7 in). The increase in precipitation is a stark contrast to the dry summer months, when the region sees minimal rainfall, recording just 1 mm in both July and August. This pattern highlights Big Sur's seasonal variability, where the lush coastal landscape breathes life again as the winter rains arrive, setting the stage for the vibrant greenery that characterizes the region in the months to come.
In December, humidity in Big Sur settles at a comfortable 80%, marking a notable transition as the year draws to a close. This figure reflects a modest increase from the drier summer months of July and August, which boast humidities as low as 54%. As autumn progresses, humidity creeps back up, peaking in the winter months, with January and February recording even higher percentages at 82% and 84%, respectively. The trend illustrates the region's characteristic climate shift, where cooler air and increased precipitation lead to a rise in humidity, enriching the coastal landscape and preparing it for the lushness of the coming seasons.
In December, the UV Index in Big Sur begins to drop, landing at a moderate 3, which indicates a more forgiving sun and a burn time of about 30 minutes. This shift toward milder UV exposure contrasts with the peaks in spring and summer when the index reaches extreme levels, such as 11 in July and August. Notably, the data reveals a clear trend: as the year progresses from January to May, the UV Index steadily climbs, peaking at 11 in May before gradually decreasing towards the end of the year. With December's moderate levels, it's a perfect time to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery with less concern for sunburn. For more information on the UV Index throughout the year, visit Big Sur UV Index.
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Big Sur, with its breathtaking coastal views, ushers in December with 209 hours of sunshine, a modest dip from the vibrant late autumn months. As the year winds down, sunlight gradually decreases from the summer peak of 388 hours in July, reflecting a natural rhythm that embraces the changing seasons. While the sunlit days shorten, December still offers a pleasant retreat, inviting visitors to find solace in its serene landscapes. The transition from 359 hours of sunshine in May to December’s softer glow highlights the region's remarkable charm throughout the year, with each month showcasing a unique tapestry of light and landscape. Whether it's the crisp air or the stunning views, December in Big Sur remains a delightful experience amidst the ebb and flow of sunshine.
While December in Big Sur can offer some beautiful moments, the likelihood of sunny weather dips to just 45%, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. This trend follows the gradual ascent in sunshine through the spring and summer, peaking in August with an impressive 80% chance of sunshine. As autumn settles in, the chances begin to wane, dropping from 59% in November. Visitors seeking that iconic Big Sur sunshine might want to reconsider their timing, as the vibrant coastal landscape is often cloaked in winter's mist during December.
As the year progresses in Big Sur, California, daylight hours undergo a rhythmic transformation, reflecting the changing seasons. In December, the days are shorter, with only 9 hours of daylight, mirroring January's brevity, creating a tranquil, introspective atmosphere as winter settles in. This period marks the tail end of a gradual decrease from a peak of 14 hours in June and July, when summer shines at its zenith. The gentle decline continues through the autumn months, as daylight slips from 12 hours in September down to 10 hours in November. Each month tells a story, highlighting the beauty of seasonal change, where Big Sur's stunning landscapes are illuminated by the dwindling sunlight.
In Big Sur during December, the wind takes on a subtle yet invigorating character, with an average speed of 3.9 m/s (approximately 9 mph). This marks a slight dip from the brisk breezes typically felt in late spring and early summer, where wind speeds peaked at 4.9 m/s in May. Interestingly, the winter months show a general trend of reduced gustiness, with January’s winds starting off at 4.0 m/s but gradually declining into the more tranquil months that follow. As the year draws to a close, the winds in Big Sur maintain a gentle presence, offering a serene backdrop to the breathtaking coastal views, inviting visitors to experience the peace of nature amidst the ever-changing landscape.
The weather in Big Sur changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Big Sur and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January display similar weather patterns, with January being slightly cooler, registering an average temperature of 10°C (51°F) compared to December's 11°C (52°F). Both months experience mild minimum temperatures, with December's minimum at 4°C (40°F) and January's at 3°C (38°F). Precipitation is higher in January, with 140 mm (5.5 in) over 8 days, compared to December's 118 mm (4.6 in) across 9 days. Humidity levels also remain comparable, slightly rising from 80% in December to 82% in January. For more details on January's weather in this region, check out Big Sur weather in January.
December and February share similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing a maximum of 23°C (74°F). However, December typically has a slightly warmer average temperature of 11°C (52°F) compared to February's 10°C (51°F). Precipitation levels are quite close, with December receiving about 118 mm (4.6 in) and February at 120 mm (4.7 in), both spread over approximately 9 days. Humidity is marginally higher in February at 84%, compared to December's 80%. For a more detailed look at February conditions, check out Big Sur weather in February.
In December, the weather boasts a warmer maximum temperature of 23°C (74°F) compared to March, where the highs reach up to 21°C (70°F). The average temperatures are similar, with December averaging 11°C (52°F) and March slightly lower at 10°C (51°F). While both months experience mild minimum temperatures of around 4°C (39°F to 40°F), December sees a higher total precipitation of 118 mm (4.6 in) over 9 days, while March records slightly less at 109 mm (4.3 in) spread over 13 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, hovering around 80% in December and rising a bit to 82% in March. For more insights on the weather in March, check out Big Sur weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, December tends to be cooler and wetter. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F) and significant rainfall of 118 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 9 days, resulting in high humidity at around 80%. In contrast, April sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), while maintaining the same average temperature of 11°C (53°F). Precipitation drops considerably to 33 mm (1.3 in) across just 5 days, along with a slightly lower humidity of 78%. For more detailed insights, you can check Big Sur weather in April.
In December, the weather is generally cooler with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F). It is also quite wet, with a significant 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, May offers a slight warming trend, with average temperatures from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F). The month is much drier, featuring only 23 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation spread over just 3 days and a lower humidity of 71%. For more details on spring weather, check out Big Sur weather in May.
In December, the weather is generally cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), and an average of 11°C (52°F). The month sees significant rainfall, averaging 118 mm (4.6 in) over about nine days, coupled with high humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, June offers a milder and drier climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), and an average of 14°C (58°F). Rainfall is minimal, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, resulting in lower humidity levels of 64%. For a detailed overview of the weather in Big Sur during June, check this link: Big Sur weather in June.
In December, the weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a maximum of 23°C (74°F). This month also brings significant rainfall, with 118 mm (4.6 in) over about 9 days, and the humidity is relatively high at 80%. In contrast, July enjoys milder conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F), reaching up to 24°C (75°F). Notably, July is quite dry, experiencing only 1 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation on no days, and the humidity levels drop to 58%. For more insights on the warm and dry conditions of July, check out Big Sur weather in July.
December and August showcase markedly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). This month also experiences considerably higher precipitation, with about 118 mm (4.6 inches) falling over 9 days and humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). This month is notably dry, with only 1 mm (0.0 inches) of precipitation recorded and no rainy days, resulting in significantly lower humidity at 54%. For more details on summer weather, you can visit Big Sur weather in August.
In comparison to December, September presents significantly warmer temperatures, with average highs reaching 33°C (91°F) and minimal precipitation, totaling just 4 mm (0.2 in) across the month. In contrast, December features cooler temperatures, averaging around 11°C (52°F) with a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and much heavier rainfall of about 118 mm (4.6 in) over 9 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 80%. This stark difference indicates that September is not only warmer but also much drier, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For more details on weather patterns, you can find useful information here: Big Sur weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, there's a noticeable shift in temperature and precipitation. In December, the temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F), indicating a cooler climate overall. The month also sees a significant amount of rain, with 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, October presents milder weather, featuring a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), leading to a warmer average of 15°C (59°F). Moreover, October experiences considerably less rainfall, with only 21 mm (0.8 in) over just 1 day and a lower humidity level of 62%. For more details on October's pleasant conditions, you can check Big Sur weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, we see some noteworthy differences. December experiences similar minimum temperatures to November, both at about 4°C (40°F). However, December's average temperature drops to 11°C (52°F) compared to November's slightly warmer average of 13°C (55°F). Additionally, December sees a maximum temperature of 23°C (74°F), slightly below November's peak of 24°C (75°F).
In terms of precipitation, December is considerably wetter, with 118 mm (4.6 in) falling over 9 days, while November records only 43 mm (1.7 in) over 5 days. The humidity remains similar between the two months, with December at 80% and November at 78%. For more detailed insights into November weather, you can check Big Sur weather in November.
As December unfolds in Big Sur, it marks a noticeable shift in weather dynamics compared to the preceding months. With temperatures on the cooler side, averaging around 11°C (52°F), the coastal fog gives way to a more humid atmosphere, peaking at 80%. While the area experiences a refreshing break from the summer heat, it also welcomes a higher likelihood of rain, totaling 118 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 9 wet days. This season adds a unique charm to the already stunning landscape, bringing vibrant colors and lush greenery. If you're curious about how this fits into the broader climate patterns, be sure to explore more at Big Sur Climate.