Last updated: February 24, 2025
In San Clemente, United States, December brings a delightful coastal climate with maximum temperatures reaching 27°C (81°F), while the average temperature settles at a comfortable 13°C (56°F). Nights can get chilly, with lows dipping to 4°C (39°F). While the month sees moderate precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over the course of 5 rainy days, the air remains pleasantly humid at 71%. December in San Clemente is ideal for those seeking a mild winter retreat by the beach.
In December, San Clemente experiences a refreshing transition into winter, marked by a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F) and a comfortable average of 13°C (56°F). The maximum temperature typically reaches around 27°C (81°F), hinting at the region's mild climate even during the cooler months. This month stands out in contrast to the sweltering heat of summer, creating a pleasant environment for outdoor activities. With temperatures gradually cooling from the highs of summer, December offers a crisp yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying coastal strolls and festive gatherings by the beach. Overall, the seasonal shift highlights San Clemente's ability to maintain its charm while embracing the tranquility of winter.
In December, San Clemente experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with a total of 73 mm (2.9 in) recorded over five rainy days. This uptick marks a contrast to the drier months preceding it, particularly the summer when rainfall almost vanished entirely. As the year draws to a close, December often stands out as one of the wetter months, following November's 26 mm (1.0 in). This pattern of increased rainfall toward the end of the year aligns with the region's seasonal shifts, highlighting how the cooler months bring much-needed moisture after a prolonged dry spell. Therefore, December serves not only as a pivotal month for precipitation in San Clemente but also sets the stage for winter's onset.
In December, San Clemente experiences a humidity level of 71%, marking a slight drop from the wetter months leading up to it, particularly February's peak at 79%. Throughout the year, humidity shows a distinct pattern, with levels generally higher in the earlier months. From January’s 74% to April’s 70%, the air remains notably moist. The summer months see a gradual decline, reaching its lowest in October at 67%. As the year closes, December's humidity provides a refreshing balance, being neither overwhelmingly high nor particularly dry, hinting at the temperate climate that San Clemente is renowned for. This consistent shift in humidity levels underscores a relatively stable coastal environment, ideal for both seasonal visitors and residents alike.
As December rolls into San Clemente, the UV Index reflects a moderate level of sun exposure with a UV Index of 4 and a burn time of 30 minutes. Notably, this month's UV levels are a transition from the extreme conditions experienced in the summer months, peaking with an Index of 11 in May, June, and July, where burn times dropped to just 10 minutes. As the year progresses, we see a gradual decline in the UV Index, reinforcing the importance of monitoring sun exposure even in winter. The trend reveals that while December offers relatively lower UV risks, it remains wise to stay informed and protect your skin. For more detailed UV forecasts, visit San Clemente UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in San Clemente offers a gentle transition into winter, with around 223 hours of sunshine illuminating the coastal paradise. As the year winds down, daylight hours begin to dip, but this month still basks in a comfortable glow compared to the chillier depths of winter elsewhere. Notably, the city's sunshine remains abundant, although it marks a decline from the sun-drenched heights of summer, where July and June basked in nearly 380 hours. It's a time to appreciate San Clemente's moderate climate, as December's softer sunlight sets the stage for cozy gatherings and picturesque beach strolls, providing a lovely backdrop as the holidays approach.
In December, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather in San Clemente dips to 46%, making it one of the cloudier months in the region. This decrease contrasts with the late summer and early fall months, such as August and September, which enjoy sunshine probabilities soaring to 70% and 71%, respectively. The year starts strong with a steady 59% chance in January, gradually climbing to 61% by February and March, before a noticeable decline in April and May. While December may not offer the sun-soaked days found in peak summer, it does emphasize a seasonal shift, transitioning from the vibrant warmth of fall into the cooler embrace of winter. So, while you may have to embrace a few overcast days, San Clemente’s December still holds its charm amidst occasional sunny respite.
In San Clemente, the shift in daylight duration throughout the year paints a clear picture of the changing seasons. Starting with 10 hours of daylight in both January and February, the days gradually lengthen, reaching a peak of 14 hours in June and July, perfect for summer adventures. As autumn rolls in, daylight begins to wane, tapering to 12 hours in September and further down to 10 hours by November. December brings the shortest days, with just 9 hours of daylight, inviting cozy evenings as the year winds down. This rhythmic ebb and flow not only marks the passing of seasons but also beautifully highlights the unique charm of coastal life in San Clemente.
As December graces San Clemente, the coastal winds shift into a subtle dance, averaging a pleasant 2.1 m/s (5 mph). This slight uptick from the lower speeds seen in late autumn reflects a gentle resurgence in breezy activity, reminiscent of the early winter months. Notably, December's winds align with the strong, steady gusts of March through May, showing a consistent rhythm that invites both local surfers and beachgoers to savor the invigorating ocean air. With the transition from the classically calm summer months, December sets the stage for a refreshing seasonal breeze that enchants the Southern California shoreline, providing a delightful backdrop for festive gatherings and winter adventures.
The weather in San Clemente 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 San Clemente and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing the weather between December and January, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and averages of 13°C (56°F). However, January tends to be slightly warmer, reaching a maximum of 30°C (87°F), compared to December's 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent across both months, with December bringing 73 mm (2.9 in) and January slightly less at 71 mm (2.8 in), both with rain occurring on about 5 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with December at 71% and January slightly higher at 74%. For more detailed information, you can check San Clemente weather in January.
December and February exhibit similar average temperatures, both hovering around 13°C (56°F), but February tends to be slightly warmer at its maximum, reaching up to 29°C (85°F) compared to December's 27°C (81°F). Precipitation levels are fairly close, with December experiencing 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 5 days, while February sees a bit less at 66 mm (2.6 in) over 6 days. However, February has higher humidity at 79%, compared to December's 71%. For a more detailed look at February's climate, you can explore San Clemente weather in February.
December and March present relatively mild temperatures, with both months experiencing minimum temperatures around 4°C (39°F to 40°F). However, March tends to be slightly warmer with an average temperature of 14°C (58°F) compared to December's 13°C (56°F). The maximum temperatures in both months are similar, reaching up to 27°C (81°F) in December and 28°C (82°F) in March, indicating a subtle rise as spring approaches. Precipitation is slightly lower in March at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 10 days, compared to December's 73 mm (2.9 in) over 5 days, suggesting that March may experience more frequent light rains. Humidity levels are also a bit higher in March at 75% versus 71% in December. For a more detailed look at March weather, visit San Clemente weather in March.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 5 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, April experiences milder conditions with temperatures starting from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and peaking at 34°C (94°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). Precipitation decreases to 30 mm (1.2 in) over just 3 days, and humidity remains relatively stable at 70%. This shift in weather showcases the warmer and drier characteristics of April compared to the cooler and wetter December. For more detailed insights, visit San Clemente weather in April.
December and May present notably different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences higher precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over about 5 days, coupled with a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, May sees warmer conditions with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 31°C (87°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Notably, precipitation drops significantly to just 18 mm (0.7 in) across 3 days, while humidity remains relatively similar at 70%. For more insights on the May weather, you can visit San Clemente weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, notable differences emerge. December experiences cooler temperatures with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). Rain is more frequent, with about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over five days. In contrast, June boasts warmer conditions, starting with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average temperature of 20°C (68°F), reaching a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Remarkably, June sees minimal rainfall, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) and no days of precipitation. Both months exhibit similar humidity levels, around 71-72%. For a deeper insight into the summer climate, check out San Clemente weather in June.
December and July present contrasting weather patterns, highlighting the seasonal variations experienced in the region. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). This month also sees more precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over five days, resulting in a humidity level of 71%. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and a soaring maximum of 41°C (106°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). Notably, July experiences minimal rainfall, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) and zero days of precipitation, maintaining the same humidity level of 73%. For a closer look at the July conditions, visit San Clemente weather in July.
December and August present starkly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F), accompanied by about 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain over five days and a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and soaring to a high of 35°C (95°F), averaging around 24°C (75°F). Notably, August sees minimal precipitation, accumulating just 3 mm (0.1 in) with no rainy days and slightly lower humidity at 69%. For more details about the weather in August, check out San Clemente weather in August.
In December, the weather is generally cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), and an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). This month experiences more precipitation, with a total of 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately five days, contributing to a relatively higher humidity of 71%.
In contrast, September boasts warmer conditions, with temperatures that can soar to a maximum of 40°C (105°F), averaging around 23°C (73°F) and a much milder minimum of 13°C (56°F). Additionally, September is much drier, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation over just one day and humidity levels slightly lower at 68%.
For more detailed information on September weather, you can check out San Clemente weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to that of October, a notable difference in temperatures and precipitation can be observed. In December, the daily temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). In contrast, October enjoys warmer temperatures, with minimums around 9°C (49°F) and maximums reaching up to 38°C (101°F), averaging 20°C (69°F). Additionally, October experiences significantly less precipitation, with only 11 mm (0.4 in) over 2 days compared to December's 73 mm (2.9 in) over 5 days. Both months maintain relatively high humidity levels, with December at 71% and October at 67%. For more detailed information, you can visit San Clemente weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to November, we see a notable drop in temperatures, with December’s minimum of 4°C (39°F) being significantly lower than November's 7°C (45°F). The average temperature in December is also cooler, resting at 13°C (56°F) compared to November’s warmer average of 17°C (63°F). Maximum temperatures in December peak at 27°C (81°F), which is lower than the 33°C (91°F) experienced in November. Additionally, December has more precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over 5 days, while November sees only 26 mm (1.0 in) over just 2 days. Humidity remains fairly similar, with December at 71% and November at 68%. For a more detailed look at the weather in November, check out San Clemente weather in November.
As December settles into San Clemente, the weather presents a notable shift compared to other months. With average temperatures dipping to a comfortable 13°C, this month brings a refreshing coolness, especially in the early mornings and evenings. While the warmth pushes up to a pleasant 27°C on some days, the contrast with the cooler minimums makes it a unique time to experience the area's mild climate. It's also the start of the rainy season, with 73 mm of precipitation spread over a handful of days, adding a crucial touch of greenery to the coastal landscape. Despite the increased humidity, December offers a perfect blend of sunny days and refreshing breezes, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For those interested in detailed climate patterns, be sure to explore the full picture at San Clemente Climate.