December Weather in Sanibel, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Sanibel, United States offers a delightful blend of mild temperatures and refreshing humidity. With a maximum temperature reaching 27°C (81°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in pleasant weather. However, cooler nights drop to a minimum of 8°C (46°F), inviting cozy evenings. This month also brings 52 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall over approximately 6 days, contributing to the island's lush landscapes. The humidity averages 84%, adding to the tropical charm that makes Sanibel a favorable winter getaway.

December Temperature in Sanibel

In December, Sanibel, United States, ushers in a delightful transition from the warmer months, with temperatures settling into a mild range. The minimum temperature hovers around 8°C (46°F), providing a crisp yet refreshing start to the day. As the sun climbs higher, the average temperature reaches a comfortable 20°C (68°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures or leisurely strolls along the beach. By the afternoon, the maximum temperature peaks at about 27°C (81°F), offering a perfect blend of warmth without the oppressive heat seen in the summer months. This pattern reflects a general cooling trend as winter approaches, while still allowing for plenty of enjoyable, sunny days typical of Sanibel's tropical charm.

December Weather in Sanibel: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Sanibel, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec656971757981828282807368
Data source: Temperature data for Sanibel generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Sanibel

In December, Sanibel experiences a moderate amount of precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.1 in) over six days. This marks a slight increase compared to the preceding month of November, which saw just 44 mm. The transition to December indicates a shift towards the wetter months, following a pattern of increasing rainfall that peaks during the summer months. Historically, the island's precipitation starts low in the early year, gradually building up by mid-year, and then tapering off in late fall and early winter. As the holiday season unfolds, residents and visitors can expect mild rains that contribute to the island's lush scenery, making it a tranquil escape during the winter months.

December Precipitation Trends in Sanibel

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Sanibel, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec36362242122170195206170774452
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Sanibel

In Sanibel, the humidity dances through the months, painting a vivid picture of the tropical climate. As the year winds down, December's humidity peaks at an inviting 84%, marking it as the most humid month. This slight increase from the previous months reflects an overall trend of returning humidity during the winter season, with levels generally oscillating between the 65% of May and heights of 83% in the tail end of the year. Interestingly, the summer months, while typically known for their heat, maintain a relatively moderate humidity level compared to the wetter winter months, illustrating the unique and alluring climate of this coastal paradise.

December Average Humidity in Sanibel

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Sanibel, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83%80%75%68%65%73%77%80%83%83%83%84%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Sanibel

In December, Sanibel experiences a UV Index of 6, placing it in the high exposure category, with a burn time of approximately 25 minutes. This marks a notable decrease compared to the preceding months, where the index peaked at 12 during the summer, indicating extreme conditions that required much shorter exposure times. As the year draws to a close, it's important for residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant about sun protection, even during the winter months. For detailed insights and monthly variations, check out Sanibel UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Sanibel for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Sanibel 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec69101212121212111086
Data source: Sanibel 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 Sanibel

In Sanibel, December brings a delightful 288 hours of sunshine, offering a perfect escape from the chill of winter. As the year draws to a close, sunlight levels remain robust, contributing to a seasonal trend of gradually increasing daylight that began in the previous month. After a dip in sunlight during November, December enjoys a resurgence, just as the sunshine peaks in the summer months, with July showcasing the highest at 332 hours. This consistent warmth and brightness not only enhance the island's natural beauty but also invite visitors to bask in the outdoors, making it an ideal time for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike to experience the mild, sun-kissed charm of Sanibel.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Sanibel: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Sanibel 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec225h277h328h325h329h303h332h326h313h301h276h288h
Data source: Sanibel December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Sanibel During December

In December, Sanibel's weather brings a charming 64% chance of sunny days, making it one of the more favorable months for sunshine. This trend reflects a notable increase as the year comes to a close, particularly in comparison to the preceding months, where the likelihood of sun ranges from a moderate 35% in September to a peak of only 53% in November. As the region transitions into winter, it seems December stands out with a promising promise of clear skies, perfectly setting the stage for beach outings and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to bask in the sunlight or enjoy the island's natural beauty, December offers a delightful escape to soak in the sun before the year ends.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Sanibel

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Sanibel 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 Sanibel experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46%61%59%65%56%19%21%18%35%49%53%64%
Data source: Sanibel December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Sanibel in December

In Sanibel, United States, December marks the arrival of 10 hours of daylight, resembling the shorter days of January and November. As the year progresses from winter to summer, there is a gradual increase in daylight, peaking at 13 hours between May and August. Following this peak, daylight begins to wane again, creating a rhythmic cycle where the hours of sunlight ebb and flow with the seasons. This trend underscores the island's climatic shift throughout the year, offering residents and visitors alike a vibrant array of experiences from the sun-drenched days of summer to the serene, shorter days of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Sanibel for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Sanibel throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 40m11h 15m12h 1m12h 47m13h 26m13h 45m13h 35m13h12h 16m11h 29m10h 49m10h 29m
Data source: Sanibel daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Sanibel

As December rolls in, the average wind speed in Sanibel gently declines to 3.0 m/s (7 mph), marking the lowest point of the year. This transition reflects a broader trend as winter approaches, with the wind subtly calming down from the breezy conditions seen earlier in the fall. Notably, December contrasts sharply with the more energetic wind patterns of spring and early summer, where speeds reached up to 4.6 m/s (10 mph). While the gentle December breeze may feel tranquil, it also serves as an invitation to enjoy the island’s serene beauty, making it an ideal time for beach walks and leisurely explorations amidst nature’s embrace.

Average December Wind Speed in Sanibel

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Sanibel, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.84.64.34.34.43.63.13.42.73.74.13.0 m/s
Data source: Sanibel December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Sanibel Compares to Other Months

The weather in Sanibel 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 Sanibel and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, the weather is generally warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F). The month sees around 52 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 84%. In contrast, January experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), while still maintaining a maximum temperature of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation decreases to 36 mm (1.4 in) over about 4 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 83%. This transition highlights a shift towards cooler conditions in January. For more detailed insights, you can check Sanibel weather in January.

In comparing the weather of December and February, we see that both months experience mild temperatures, with December having a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), while February features a slightly lower minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a comparable average of 21°C (69°F). February boasts a maximum temperature of 28°C (83°F), just slightly higher than December’s max of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is lower in February, averaging 36 mm (1.4 in) over 4 days, compared to December's 52 mm (2.1 in) over 6 days, and the humidity is also slightly reduced in February at 80%, compared to December's 84%. For more details on February weather, check out Sanibel weather in February.

December and March exhibit similar warm temperatures, with December seeing a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while March ranges from 9°C (48°F) to 28°C (83°F). The average temperature in both months is quite comparable, with December averaging 20°C (68°F) and March at 21°C (71°F). However, December experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.1 in) over 6 days, compared to March's 22 mm (0.9 in) over only 2 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 84%, in contrast to March's 75%. For more detailed information, you can check Sanibel weather in March.

December and April show notable differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F). The month experiences around 52 mm (2.1 inches) of precipitation over 6 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, April presents a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F). While April sees slightly less precipitation at 42 mm (1.7 inches) over 7 days, the humidity is lower at 68%. For more details, you can check Sanibel weather in April.

In December, temperatures in Sanibel range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). The humidity is notably high at 84%, and the month experiences around 52 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 6 days. In contrast, May brings warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). The humidity level drops to 65%, but the rainfall increases significantly, totaling 122 mm (4.8 in) over 12 days. For more specific details on the weather during this month, check out Sanibel weather in May.

In December, temperatures are mild, ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, with about 52 mm (2.1 in) over 6 days, and higher humidity at 84%. In contrast, June brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging 27°C (82°F). However, June sees significantly more rainfall, with approximately 170 mm (6.7 in) spread over 22 days and lower humidity at 73%. For those interested in more details about Sanibel weather in June, you can visit Sanibel weather in June.

December and July present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a mild 8°C (46°F) at night to a pleasant average of 20°C (68°F) during the day, peaking at 27°C (81°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation, with only 52 mm (2.1 in) over six days and high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July shows a significant increase in warmth, with minimum temperatures starting at 24°C (75°F) and averaging 28°C (83°F), reaching maximums of 32°C (90°F). However, July is much wetter, seeing 195 mm (7.7 in) of rain over 26 days, though the humidity is slightly lower at 77%. For more detailed insights on July weather, visit Sanibel weather in July.

When comparing the weather in December and August, notable differences emerge. December offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of around 20°C (68°F). In contrast, August is significantly warmer, featuring temperatures that range from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F). Additionally, August experiences much higher rainfall, with 206 mm (8.1 in) over 26 days, compared to December's 52 mm (2.1 in) over just 6 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, at 84% for December and 80% for August, adding to the warm experience of late summer. For more detailed insights, check out Sanibel weather in August.

When comparing the weather in December and September, notable differences emerge. December features milder temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). In contrast, September enjoys much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) to an average of 28°C (82°F) and reaching up to 33°C (92°F). Additionally, December experiences less precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.1 in) over just 6 days, while September sees significantly more rainfall, accumulating 169 mm (6.7 in) across 20 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, around 83-84%, making for a generally humid climate year-round. For more detailed information on September weather, check out Sanibel weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, we can observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. October features warmer conditions, with average temperatures hovering around 26°C (80°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (90°F). In contrast, December experiences a cooler climate, with an average of 20°C (68°F) and maximums peaking at 27°C (81°F). Additionally, October sees more rainfall, with 76 mm (3.0 in) over 12 days, compared to December's 52 mm (2.1 in) across 6 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar in both months, with October at 83% and December slightly higher at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can check Sanibel weather in October.

When comparing the weather in December to that of November, December tends to be slightly cooler with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F). In contrast, November features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F). Both months experience a similar level of humidity, with December at 84% and November at 83%. Precipitation is marginally higher in December at 52 mm (2.1 in) compared to November's 44 mm (1.7 in), although both months share the occurrence of rain on six days. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns during November, you can visit Sanibel weather in November.

Compare Sanibel's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Sanibel

December in Sanibel brings a refreshing shift from the warmer months, as the temperatures become milder and lend a cozy atmosphere to the island. With average highs of around 27°C (81°F) and cooler nights dipping to 8°C (46°F), it's an ideal time for both exploration and relaxation. The higher humidity at 84% may linger, but it's often balanced by the pleasant breezes. Though precipitation is somewhat moderate with only a few rainy days, December’s charm lies in its comfortable temperatures and the vibrant natural landscapes, making it a delightful time for visitors. For more detailed insights, check out the full Sanibel Climate overview.