December Weather in Bethany Beach, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In December, Bethany Beach experiences a cool maritime climate, with average temperatures hovering around 7°C (45°F). Daily highs can reach a pleasant 19°C (66°F), providing a brief respite from the winter chill, while the nights can dip to a frosty -6°C (21°F). Visitors can expect 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, creating a damp and lush winter landscape. With a humidity level of 84%, the air feels quite brisk, adding to the enchanting coastal atmosphere of this seasonal destination.

December Temperature in Bethany Beach

In December, Bethany Beach experiences a notable shift as winter takes hold, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -6°C (21°F). Nevertheless, average daytime temperatures remain a crisp 7°C (45°F), offering a refreshing winter atmosphere to visitors. The maximum temperatures peak at 19°C (66°F), hinting at occasional milder days that can pleasantly surprise. This month marks a transitional period, where the chill of winter is setting in, yet there's still a glimmer of warmer conditions typical of the early seasons. Overall, December in Bethany Beach balances chilly nights with relatively moderate days, making it a unique time for beach strolls under a winter sky.

December Weather in Bethany Beach: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Bethany Beach, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404245536271787773655245
Data source: Temperature data for Bethany Beach generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Bethany Beach

In Bethany Beach during December, precipitation reaches 116 mm (4.6 in), making it one of the wetter months of the year. This uptick in rainfall typically occurs across about 10 days, hinting at more consistent winter weather patterns as the year draws to a close. Notably, December's precipitation is slightly elevated compared to the preceding months, reflecting a seasonal shift. The gradual increase in rainfall from October's 137 mm (5.4 in) to December's totals highlights a trend towards increased moisture during the fall and winter months, creating a rich, serene atmosphere ideal for beach walks and cozy indoor activities. As the year ends, those visiting can expect a mix of brisk breezes and refreshing rain, encapsulating the essence of a coastal winter.

December Precipitation Trends in Bethany Beach

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bethany Beach, with values for each month alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8211410287121821141119713795116
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Bethany Beach

As the year wraps up, December in Bethany Beach sees a humidity level of 84%, closely mirroring the highs of November. Throughout the months, humidity levels display a gentle decline, peaking in the colder months of January and November. The summer months witness a noticeable dip, with humidity dropping to its annual low of 72% in August. This pattern reflects the coastal climate's oscillation between the refreshing breezes of summer and the damp chill of winter, offering a unique blend of atmospheric characteristics. As December settles in, residents and visitors alike can appreciate the familiar, brisk air that comes with the season's closing month, while still holding onto a hint of the moisture that defines Bethany Beach's charm.

December Average Humidity in Bethany Beach

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bethany Beach, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%83%83%81%78%79%74%72%75%81%85%84%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Bethany Beach

As winter settles in Bethany Beach, December sees a modest UV Index of 3, categorized as moderate. This signifies a welcome break from the intense UV rays of the summer months, where the index peaked at 10 from June to August, requiring only 15 minutes of exposure before burning occurs. As the year progresses, we witness a gradual decline in UV intensity, with the strongest sunlight appearing in spring and early summer. While it's still advisable to be mindful of sun exposure, December’s 30-minute burn time aligns well with the cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities without the scorching sun. For more insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Bethany Beach UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bethany Beach for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bethany Beach in December, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101010108753
Data source: Bethany Beach December UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

December Sunshine in Bethany Beach

In Bethany Beach, December offers a delightful interlude of sunlight as the year winds down, with an average of 192 hours of sunshine. This marks a subtle decline from the abundant light of summer months, where July basks in a peak of 365 hours, showcasing the beach's sun-drenched appeal. As the seasons change, sunshine begins to retreat – from 319 hours in May to 187 hours in February – creating a beautiful transition through the year. Despite the chill, December remains a bright gem amid winter's grasp, allowing visitors to relish the coastal charm under a gentle winter sun. With each passing month, the rhythm of sunlight invites a sense of continuity, drawing both locals and tourists to embrace the serene beauty of Bethany Beach, even in the quieter, cooler days of December.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bethany Beach: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bethany Beach experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec159h187h270h287h319h343h365h335h294h259h226h192h
Data source: Bethany Beach December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bethany Beach During December

In Bethany Beach, the likelihood of sunny weather in December dips to 39%, a figure that reflects a decreasing trend as winter approaches. While early winter months like January see chances rise to 49%, December is noticeably gloomier compared to the more favorable sun probabilities of late spring and early fall, which hover in the mid to high 50s. This pattern suggests that December is not the ideal month for sun-seekers, as the coast braces for colder temperatures and cloudier skies, making it a time when visitors might want to plan indoor activities instead of beach outings.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Bethany Beach

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bethany Beach throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Bethany Beach experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec49%28%53%49%47%43%53%37%57%46%55%39%
Data source: Bethany Beach December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bethany Beach in December

In Bethany Beach, United States, the daylight hours exhibit a clear seasonal trend, reflecting the changing rhythms of nature throughout the year. Starting with just 9 hours of daylight in December, the days gradually lengthen as winter gives way to spring, peaking at 14 hours in both June and July. This pattern highlights the gradual increase in sunlight during the spring months, with March and April allowing for 11 and 13 hours of daylight, respectively. As summer fades into autumn, the daylight begins to recede, tapering back to 12 hours in September and then declining to 10 hours by November, before returning to the 9 hours seen at the start of the winter cycle. This rhythmic dance of daylight serves as a reminder of the seasonal transitions that shape life in this coastal paradise.

Average Daylight Hours in Bethany Beach for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bethany Beach throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 48m10h 45m11h 58m13h 13m14h 16m14h 47m14h 30m13h 35m12h 23m11h 8m10h 3m9h 30m
Data source: Bethany Beach daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Bethany Beach

As December settles in Bethany Beach, the wind whispers softly, averaging 5.1 m/s (12 mph)—a gentle reminder of the season's transition. This month experiences a slight dip from November's brisk 6.0 m/s (14 mph), marking a shift towards milder winter winds. Interestingly, December's breezes echo the calmer summer months, like August, where winds were at their lowest. Overall, while December may not be the most blustery month, it maintains a consistent and inviting breeze, perfect for beach strolls and festive gatherings along the coast.

Average December Wind Speed in Bethany Beach

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bethany Beach, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.56.45.85.54.84.64.43.65.15.66.05.1 m/s
Data source: Bethany Beach December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Bethany Beach Compares to Other Months

The weather in Bethany Beach 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 Bethany Beach and find detailed weather information for every month.

December and January weather at Bethany Beach exhibit noticeable differences despite their proximity in the calendar year. December typically has a milder average temperature of 7°C (45°F), with highs reaching up to 19°C (66°F), while January sees a cooler average of 4°C (40°F) and a minimum temperature that can drop to -12°C (11°F). Moreover, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 10 days, compared to January's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 8 days. Both months share a similar humidity level of 84%, but the colder conditions in January create a more brisk and chilly atmosphere. For further insights on January weather specifics, you can visit Bethany Beach weather in January.

December and February exhibit relatively similar weather patterns, though there are notable differences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) to a mild 19°C (66°F), averaging around 7°C (45°F). The month tends to be wetter, with 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, and a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, February features slightly colder conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -10°C (14°F) and peaking at 17°C (62°F), averaging at 6°C (42°F). Precipitation is similar at 114 mm (4.5 in), but it occurs over a few more days, totaling 12. Humidity remains comparable, at 83%. For more details about February’s weather, you can check out Bethany Beach weather in February.

When comparing the weather in December and March, one can note that both months have similar average temperatures, around 7°C (45°F). However, December experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to -6°C (21°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F), whereas in March, the temperatures are slightly milder, with minimums at -4°C (26°F) and maximums at 21°C (71°F). Precipitation is relatively close, with December receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 10 days, compared to March's 102 mm (4.0 in) over 11 days. Both months exhibit high humidity, with December being a bit higher at 84% compared to March's 83%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can refer to Bethany Beach weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, we see a notable shift in temperatures and precipitation. December experiences colder conditions, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a mild 19°C (66°F) during the day, alongside significant humidity at 84%. In contrast, April brings a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures of 2°C (35°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (76°F), making it feel significantly warmer on average (12°C or 53°F). Although April has slightly less precipitation at 87 mm (3.4 in) over 11 days compared to December's 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days, it still maintains a relatively humid environment at 81%. For more specific weather details, you can check out Bethany Beach weather in April.

In December, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at minimum to a mild 19°C (66°F) at maximum, averaging around 7°C (45°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 10 days, with a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, May offers a much more pleasant climate, featuring milder temperatures from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). May sees a slight increase in precipitation at 120 mm (4.7 in) over 11 days, but with lower humidity at 78%. For a more detailed look, check out Bethany Beach weather in May.

December and June present striking contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a milder maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, June warms up considerably, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a comfortable maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation in June is lighter, at 82 mm (3.2 in) across 11 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For more insights on June weather, check out Bethany Beach weather in June.

December and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at their lowest to a mild 19°C (66°F) at their highest, with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 84% and notable precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days. In contrast, July enjoys much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging around 25°C (78°F). Precipitation levels are similar, at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days, but the humidity drops to a more comfortable 74%. For more details on the pleasant summer weather, you can check Bethany Beach weather in July.

When comparing the weather in December and August, it’s clear that the two months present significantly different climates. December is much cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), while August enjoys a warmer range, with averages from 25°C (77°F) to highs of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is relatively similar, with December experiencing 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 10 days, compared to August's 111 mm (4.4 in) with rain on 14 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 84%, while August sees a more comfortable level of 72%. For more specifics on August weather, you can check out Bethany Beach weather in August.

In comparing the weather between December and September, it's clear that these months offer distinct seasonal experiences. December is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging around 7°C (45°F). In contrast, September boasts a much milder climate, featuring temperatures that range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (87°F), with an average temperature of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation levels are also notable, with December receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days, while September sees slightly less at 97 mm (3.8 in) over the same number of days. Additionally, December's humidity level is higher at 84%, compared to September's 75%. For more detailed information about weather specifics in September, check out Bethany Beach weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, we observe notable differences. December experiences a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). In contrast, October boasts milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar; December records 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days, while October has slightly higher rainfall at 137 mm (5.4 in) across 11 days. Humidity in December is higher at 84%, compared to 81% in October. For more detailed information, you can explore Bethany Beach weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be colder overall, with average temperatures dipping to around 7°C (45°F) compared to November's average of 11°C (52°F). Nighttime temperatures in December reach a minimum of -6°C (21°F), while November's lows are slightly milder at -1°C (30°F). Precipitation also increases in December, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days, compared to November's 95 mm (3.8 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels remain similar, averaging around 84% in December and 85% in November. For more detailed insights, check out Bethany Beach weather in November.

Compare Bethany Beach's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Bethany Beach

As December sets in, Bethany Beach transforms into a cooler, wetter retreat compared to other months of the year. With an average temperature that dips significantly, residents and visitors experience a shift from the warm summer days to brisk winter air. The month sees increased precipitation, with about a third of the month marked by rainy days, resulting in a humidity level that hovers around 84%. This combination of cooler temperatures and frequent rains offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for cozy indoor activities or scenic strolls along the beach. For a deeper look into what you can expect throughout the year, check out the Bethany Beach Climate.