Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, Santa Monica experiences a delightful blend of mild temperatures and refreshing coastal breezes. The maximum temperature can reach up to 27°C (80°F), providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities, while the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 14°C (57°F). As the month progresses, temperatures can dip to a minimum of 5°C (42°F). Visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, with precipitation amounting to 80 mm (3.1 in) over about 5 days. Despite these showers, humidity levels remain relatively high at 71%, enhancing the area's lush and vibrant atmosphere. Embrace the holiday season in Santa Monica, where mild winter weather offers a unique charm.
In Santa Monica, December temperatures exhibit a mild chill, with minimums hovering around 5°C (42°F) and averages settling at a comfortable 14°C (57°F). This month marks a noticeable dip from the warmer climes of summer, yet the maximum temperatures still reach a pleasant 27°C (80°F), allowing for lovely outdoor activities under the winter sun. The overall trend shows a gradual decrease as the year wraps up, with December embodying a transitional phase between the warmth of fall and the cooler winter months. As such, visitors can expect a refreshing break from the heat while still enjoying balmy afternoons along the scenic coastline.
In December, Santa Monica experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with 80 mm (3.1 in) falling over 5 days. This marks a significant increase compared to the drier months that precede it, particularly from June to November, where rainfall amounts remain minimal. December often brings a refreshing change, contributing to the annual total with more frequent rainy days compared to the summer and fall. As the year wraps up, this month stands out as one of the wetter periods, highlighting a transition into the winter season where the atmosphere is replenished, and the lush coastal landscape is revitalized.
As December settles in Santa Monica, the humidity hovers around 71%, providing a slight increase from the preceding months. This rise can be observed as the year transitions from late autumn to winter, with November at 68%. Throughout the year, humidity levels have exhibited a gradual ebb and flow, peaking in February at 79% and dipping to their lowest point in October with 67%. Overall, Santa Monica experiences relatively consistent humidity levels, maintaining a comfortable coastal vibe that is characteristic of its enchanting climate.
In Santa Monica, December heralds a return to a moderate UV Index of 4, reminiscent of January. This lower value means residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities with a burn time of 30 minutes, showcasing a decrease in sun intensity compared to the preceding months. As the year progresses, the UV Index escalates dramatically from early spring through summer, peaking with extreme levels in June and July. With a steady decline in UV radiation as the year winds down, December offers a gentler sun, encouraging more leisurely outdoor enjoyment. For those planning their sun exposure, it’s always wise to stay informed about local sun conditions via the Santa Monica UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Santa Monica, the warmth of the California sun starts to dim as December arrives, offering 225 hours of sunlight, a notable drop from the vibrant 380 hours of July. This seasonal transition marks a shift from the peak summer brilliance to the gradual retreat that characterizes the winter months. However, even in December, Santa Monica enjoys considerably more sunlight than many other locations across the United States, reflecting the area's mild Mediterranean climate. As the year draws to a close, residents and visitors alike can relish the crisp, sunny days, and the refreshing ocean air, inviting a festive spirit and a beautiful backdrop to their holiday celebrations. The sun may be setting earlier, but the charm of Santa Monica remains ever-present, making December a delightful time to experience this coastal gem.
As December rolls in, Santa Monica experiences a noticeable shift in its sunny weather patterns. While the months leading up to December showcase a commendable range of sunlight, peaking at 76% in September, the likelihood of sunshine begins to wane as the year closes, dropping to 51% by December. This decline illustrates a gradual transition towards winter, where the vibrant warmth of early fall gives way to a cooler, cloudier climate. Despite this lower probability of sun, December can still offer its share of crisp, sunny days perfect for enjoying the beach, albeit with a more cautious expectation of overcast skies. Overall, while sun-kissed moments may become less frequent, the charm of Santa Monica remains ever-present during this festive month.
As December rolls in, Santa Monica experiences a noticeable shift in daylight duration, with the sun providing about 9 hours of light each day. This marks the culmination of a gradual decline that began in October, where the daylight dipped from 11 hours to November's 10 hours. The trend is clear: as winter approaches, the days shorten, contrasting sharply with the long, sun-drenched days of summer, which boast around 14 hours of daylight in June and July. As the year draws to a close, residents and visitors alike can embrace the cozy charm of shorter days, even as they look forward to brighter and longer days ahead in the coming months.
As December rolls into Santa Monica, the coastal breeze offers a refreshing touch, with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph). This marks a slight uptick from the stiller months of September and November, when winds dipped to 2.2 m/s (5 mph). While the wind speeds throughout the year remain relatively gentle, the consistent range—hovering between 2.2 m/s and 2.9 m/s—suggests a reliable maritime breath that defines Santa Monica’s climate. Just before winter truly settles in, December's flirtation with a bit more wind invites locals and visitors alike to embrace the outdoors, enhancing the scenic charm of this vibrant coastal city.
The weather in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures in Santa Monica typically range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average temperature around 14°C (57°F). The month sees about 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, coupled with a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, January offers slightly warmer weather, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 29°C (84°F), while the minimum remains the same at 5°C (40°F) and the average remains steady at 14°C (57°F). Precipitation decreases to 68 mm (2.7 in) over 4 days, and humidity rises slightly to 74%. For more detailed information, check out Santa Monica weather in January.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month receives about 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 5 days, and the humidity hovers around 71%. In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while maintaining the same average of 14°C (57°F). February sees less rainfall at 53 mm (2.1 in) over 5 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 79%. For a detailed overview of February weather, you can visit Santa Monica weather in February.
When comparing December and March weather, we see several similarities and a few differences. Both months exhibit an average temperature of around 14°C (57°F), with maximum temperatures reaching 27°C (80°F). However, December has slightly lower minimum temperatures at 5°C (42°F) compared to March's 6°C (43°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with December experiencing 80 mm (3.1 in) over 5 days, while March sees 71 mm (2.8 in) across 8 days, indicating more frequent, but lighter, rainfall in March. Humidity also rises slightly in March, with levels at 75% compared to December's 71%. For a detailed look at March weather in Santa Monica, visit Santa Monica weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, we can see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. December typically experiences a min temperature of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), with maximums reaching up to 27°C (80°F). In contrast, April starts warmer, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and an average temperature of 17°C (62°F), peaking at 33°C (92°F). Additionally, December brings more rainfall, with about 80 mm (3.1 in) over 5 days, whereas April sees significantly less precipitation, totaling just 15 mm (0.6 in) across 2 days. Humidity levels remain fairly consistent, with December at 71% and April slightly lower at 70%. For a closer look at April weather patterns, you can visit Santa Monica weather in April.
December and May exhibit distinct weather characteristics, making each month unique. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). This month also sees about 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation, occurring on roughly 5 days, and maintains a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, May offers a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Precipitation significantly drops to 10 mm (0.4 in), falling on just 1 day, while humidity remains slightly lower at 70%. For more details, you can explore Santa Monica weather in May.
December and June exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a warm maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences relatively high precipitation of 80 mm (3.1 in) over about 5 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with humidity levels around 71%. In stark contrast, June boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging at 20°C (68°F). Remarkably, rainfall is minimal during June, with only 1 mm (0.1 in) and no recorded precipitation days, while the humidity remains slightly elevated at 72%. For more details, check out Santa Monica weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, notable differences emerge. December offers a milder range with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, with around 80 mm (3.1 in) spread over about 5 days, and humidity levels are around 71%. In stark contrast, July presents a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F). Rainfall is almost non-existent in July, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) over the entire month and no rainy days, and humidity remains similar at 73%. For more specific details about the weather in July, visit Santa Monica weather in July.
The weather in December and August presents a striking contrast. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average temperature of 14°C (57°F). This month also experiences approximately 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over five days, coupled with a humidity level of 71%. In comparison, August boasts notably warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging around 23°C (74°F). Interestingly, August is typically dry, receiving only 1 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation over the course of the month and recording no rainy days, while maintaining a slightly lower humidity of 69%. For a closer look at August's climate, you can visit Santa Monica weather in August.
December and September present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F), and the month sees around 80 mm (3.1 in) of rainfall over about 5 days, resulting in a humidity level of 71%. In stark contrast, September offers much warmer conditions, featuring temperatures that start at 14°C (57°F) and can reach up to 37°C (100°F), with a comfortable average of 22°C (72°F). Remarkably, September experiences negligible rainfall, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) throughout the month and no recorded rainy days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 68%. For more details, you can check Santa Monica weather in September.
In comparison to October, December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) compared to October's 10°C (50°F). The average temperature in December is 14°C (57°F), which is notably lower than October's warmer average of 20°C (69°F). Additionally, December tends to be wetter, with 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 5 days, while October is quite dry, receiving only 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain over just 1 day. Humidity is relatively similar, with December at 71% and October at 67%. For more details on October weather, check out Santa Monica weather in October.
In December, the weather is generally cooler, with an average temperature dropping to 14°C (57°F) compared to November's warmer average of 17°C (63°F). December’s temperature ranges from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while November experiences a more significant high of 32°C (89°F). Additionally, December sees increased precipitation at 80 mm (3.1 in) over 5 days, compared to November's minimal rainfall of just 17 mm (0.7 in) on only 1 day. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 71%, compared to November's 68%. For more details, you can check Santa Monica weather in November.
As December unfolds in Santa Monica, temperatures take a refreshing dip, with average highs pleasantly cooler compared to the warmer months. While the days offer a mild reprieve with comfortable averages, nights can bring a crisp chill that contrasts sharply with the summer heat. Additionally, this month sees a slight uptick in precipitation, making it one of the wetter periods of the year, though rainstorms are generally brief. The elevated humidity adds to the cozy atmosphere, creating a unique blend of beach-town charm and wintery feel. For a more in-depth look at how the weather shapes Santa Monica's climate year-round, visit Santa Monica Climate.