Last updated: February 24, 2025
In Monterey, United States, December showcases a mild climate characterized by an average temperature of 12°C (54°F), with maximum highs reaching 21°C (69°F) and minimum lows dipping to 8°C (47°F). This month typically experiences 105 mm (4.1 in) of rainfall spread over approximately 10 days, resulting in a humid atmosphere with an average humidity level of 80%. Visitors can expect a blend of crisp coastal air and refreshing rain, making December a unique time to experience the scenic beauty of this coastal gem.
As December rolls into Monterey, the coastal charm is accompanied by mild temperatures that signal the onset of winter. With minimums around 8°C (47°F) and maximums peaking at 21°C (69°F), the month maintains an average of 12°C (54°F), highlighting a comfortable climate for outdoor exploration. This period marks a gentle transition from the cooler fall temperatures, with December's averages closely resembling those of November, indicating a consistent mildness typical of the region. Notably, it's a time when the chill in the air meets the warmth of the sun, making for pleasant afternoons perfect for strolling along the scenic coastline.
In Monterey, December marks a significant uptick in precipitation, with the month receiving an average of 105 mm (4.1 in) over about 10 days. This trend showcases a noticeable shift from the otherwise dry summer months, where scant rain (0-5 mm) is typical. Following a brief dry spell in June, July, and August, the arrival of autumn is accompanied by a gradual increase, culminating in the heavy rains of December. This month's precipitation, while slightly less than January and February, serves to replenish water sources and prepare the region for its wet winter season, reinforcing Monterey's climatological rhythm.
In December, Monterey experiences a noticeable increase in humidity levels, recording 80%—a figure that is slightly higher than the 78% seen in November. This shift marks a transition as the city moves from the drier summer months, where humidity dips to around 54% in August, to the wetter winter season. Following the peak of 84% in February, the humidity begins to stabilize, generally oscillating around the 80% mark towards the year's end. This pattern highlights Monterey's characteristic coastal climate, where winter months tend to bring more moisture, enriching the air and embracing the refreshing essence of the season.
As the year comes to a close, December in Monterey sees a noticeable dip in the UV Index, dropping to a moderate level of 3. This reduction symbolizes a shift from the extreme levels experienced in the summer months, where UV Index readings soared to 11, necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. In contrast, December allows for a more leisurely 30 minutes of sun exposure without the risk of burns, making it a great time to enjoy the outdoors. This trend of decreasing UV levels is part of a broader seasonal pattern in Monterey, where the sun becomes more forgiving as winter approaches. For more insights, check out the detailed Monterey UV Index guide.
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In December, Monterey basks in a gentle embrace of sunlight, with approximately 210 hours illuminating its coastal beauty. While this marks a slight dip from the vibrant late autumn sun, the month still glows with more than double the hours seen in January. December's milder days hint at a seasonal trend, where sunshine gradually intensifies from the chilly depths of winter into the warmth of spring. As the year draws to a close, these slimmer daylight hours invite locals and visitors alike to appreciate the serene charm of Monterey's winter landscapes, reminding us that even the dimmer days hold their own unique allure.
In Monterey, United States, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at 43%, reflecting a trend of declining sunshine hours as the year draws to a close. This percentage is among the lowest for the year, notably lower than October's peak of 62% and November's 57%. As we transition from the warmer months of summer to the cool embrace of winter, the chance of sun dips, showing a marked decline particularly after August, when it peaks at 52%. This December statistic suggests that while some sunshine is likely, residents and visitors should prepare for the possibility of more overcast days, typical of the season in coastal California.
As December descends upon Monterey, daylight begins to dwindle, offering just 9 hours of sunshine, matching the brief light of January. This reduction marks the culmination of a gradual decrease in daylight hours that started with peak brightness in June. From the start of the year, daylight steadily increases until April, when it reaches a delightful 13 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities. However, as summer yields to autumn, the sun sets earlier, with hours of light tapering to 10 hours by November and finally settling back to the year's low in December. This cyclical trend highlights Monterey's distinct seasonal rhythm, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the cozy charm of winter evenings.
In December, the coastal charm of Monterey comes alive with a noticeable uptick in wind speed, averaging 5.3 m/s (12 mph), marking it as one of the breezier months of the year. This increase breaks the downward trend seen in the warmer summer months, where wind speeds dipped to their lowest, peaking in June at 4.5 m/s (10 mph) and continuing to drop through to September. As the year wraps up, the December wind not only invigorates the atmosphere but also reflects the seasonal transition, reinforcing the crisp, refreshing essence of winter along the picturesque coast. This revitalizing breeze invites both locals and visitors to embrace the beauty of Monterey, making it a perfect backdrop for holiday strolls and coastal adventures.
The weather in Monterey 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 Monterey and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences about 105 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, and humidity levels are around 80%. In contrast, January sees slightly cooler maximum temperatures, reaching up to 18°C (64°F), while the minimum dips to 7°C (46°F), maintaining an average of 12°C (54°F). The precipitation increases marginally to 112 mm (4.4 in) over the same number of days, with humidity rising slightly to 82%. For more specific information, you can check Monterey weather in January.
In comparing the weather of December and February, both months experience mild temperatures, though December is slightly warmer overall. December features an average temperature of 12°C (54°F), with maximums reaching 21°C (69°F), while February's average drops to 11°C (53°F), with a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Both months receive similar amounts of precipitation—around 105-106 mm (4.1-4.2 in) over approximately 10 days—though February sees a slight increase in humidity at 84%, compared to December's 80%. For more insights into February's weather specifics, you can check this link: Monterey weather in February.
Comparing the weather in December and March reveals some similarities and differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). December also sees more precipitation, totaling 105 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days, and the humidity is high at 80%. In contrast, March sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). Precipitation in March is a bit lower at 93 mm (3.7 in) spread over 12 days, with humidity increasing slightly to 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Monterey weather in March.
December and April offer distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition from late autumn to spring. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). This month tends to be wetter, accumulating 105 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, and maintaining a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, April experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging 11°C (53°F). Precipitation dramatically decreases to 35 mm (1.4 in) over just 6 days, and humidity remains relatively low at 78%. For more insights on the weather during this month, you can check Monterey weather in April.
In December, the weather is generally warmer, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F). However, it also experiences significant rainfall, with 105 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, leading to higher humidity levels at around 80%. In contrast, May has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). The month is much drier, featuring only 26 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation across just 4 days, resulting in lower humidity at 71%. For more detailed insights, check out Monterey weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 105 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days, along with high humidity levels at 80%. In sharp contrast, June offers warmer conditions, with temperatures peaking at 25°C (78°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F); the minimum temperature is slightly higher at 10°C (50°F). Additionally, June is remarkably drier, receiving only 5 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation and enjoying about zero rainy days, coupled with a more comfortable humidity level of 64%. For more details on the weather during this summer month, consider checking out Monterey weather in June.
In December, the weather is noticeably milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). The month also sees considerable rainfall, accumulating 105 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July presents a cooler, drier climate, characterized by a minimal temperature variation between a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). Notably, July experiences very little precipitation, only 4 mm (0.2 in), and boasts zero rainy days, resulting in a lower humidity of 58%. For more detailed information, you can explore Monterey weather in July.
December and August present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month is characterized by considerable precipitation, receiving 105 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August boasts milder weather with temperatures starting at a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and peaking at 21°C (70°F), but with a much lower average of 14°C (58°F). Notably, August experiences minimal rainfall, with only 5 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation and no rainy days, alongside a comfortable humidity level of 54%. For a closer look at the weather specifics, you can check Monterey weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), while September is typically warmer, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). The maximum temperature in September can reach a comfortable 29°C (84°F), compared to December's maximum of 21°C (69°F). Additionally, December is significantly wetter, receiving 105 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over around 10 days, whereas September sees minimal rainfall, averaging only 4 mm (0.2 in) with no rainy days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 80%, compared to a much drier September at 55%. For more details, you can visit Monterey weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to that in October, it's clear that December is generally cooler and wetter. In December, average temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). In contrast, October features milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly higher precipitation, with 105 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days, whereas October sees much less rainfall at 21 mm (0.8 in) across just 2 days. The humidity in December also rises to 80%, compared to 62% in October. For more details on October weather, check out Monterey weather in October.
When comparing the weather in December to that of November, we see a slight increase in minimum temperatures, remaining steady at 8°C (47°F) for both months, while the average temperature decreases from 14°C (57°F) in November to 12°C (54°F) in December. December brings a higher level of precipitation, totaling 105 mm (4.1 in) over 10 days, contrasted with November's significantly lower 42 mm (1.7 in) over 5 days. Humidity levels are also relatively similar, with December at 80% compared to November's 78%. For more detailed weather information, you can check out Monterey weather in November.
As December rolls into Monterey, the coastal charm of the region presents a unique blend of mild temperatures and increased precipitation compared to other months. While daily highs gently reach around 21°C (69°F), the average cools to a refreshing 12°C (54°F), inviting cozy layers during evening strolls. The month is characterized by higher humidity levels and about 10 days of rain, resulting in a landscape that flourishes beautifully. If you're considering a visit, December offers a distinctive experience, transforming Monterey into a wet yet captivating seaside escape. For more details on seasonal variations, explore Monterey Climate.