Last updated: February 24, 2025
December on Hilton Head Island offers a unique blend of mild to cool temperatures, with daytime highs reaching a pleasant 23°C (73°F) and nighttime lows dipping to a chilly -1°C (30°F). Visitors can expect an average temperature around 13°C (55°F), making it an ideal time for those seeking a respite from harsher winter climates. With approximately 125 mm (4.9 in) of rainfall spread over 10 days, the humidity hovers at a tropical 87%, lending a distinctive character to the island's winter ambiance. Whether you're strolling along the beach or exploring the local attractions, December provides a refreshing coastal experience.
In December, Hilton Head Island experiences a shift towards cooler weather as the year wraps up. With minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (30°F), the island feels the crispness of winter, though this is balanced by an average of 13°C (55°F) and maximums reaching up to 23°C (73°F). This month represents a notable contrast to the warmer summer months, but it still offers a mild winter escape compared to many other destinations. As temperatures begin to decline from autumn's averages, December showcases a gentle transition, making it a perfect time for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the island without the sweltering heat.
December brings 125 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation to Hilton Head Island, marking a significant uptick compared to the preceding months. This increase indicates a shift towards wetter conditions as the year wraps up, with precipitation occurring over approximately 10 days. Notably, December's rainfall aligns closely with the early summer months, suggesting a transitional pattern as temperatures cool. The trend of rising precipitation amounts throughout the latter half of the year culminates in December, making it a vital period for the region’s ecosystem, highlighting the shift from the drier corridors of late fall towards the onset of winter.
In December, Hilton Head Island experiences a notable rise in humidity, reaching 87%, the highest level of the year. This increase marks a distinct shift from the previous months, where humidity levels have generally shown a gradual decline from January's 86% to October's 78%. Following a slight uptick in November to 85%, December’s weather hints at the onset of winter’s cooler yet moist air. Throughout the year, the island's humidity typically fluctuates between 75% and 87%, indicating a generally humid climate, but December stands out, offering a reminder of the region's tropical characteristics even as the year draws to a close.
In December, Hilton Head Island experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, resulting in a burn time of about 30 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. This marks a notable decrease from the peak extreme levels seen in the summer months of May through August, where the UV Index reached as high as 11. As the year winds down, the trend indicates a movement toward more manageable sun exposure, with January also starting at a UV Index of 4. Visitors can enjoy the milder winter sun while still being mindful of protective measures. For more detailed information, check out Hilton Head Island UV Index.
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December on Hilton Head Island offers a gentle respite from the bustling summer months, boasting 218 hours of sunshine that invite visitors to savor the cooler coastal air. As the year wraps up, the sunlight begins to dwindle after peaking in July with an impressive 347 hours, but December still shines brighter than the drearier winter months found in many other regions. The consistent decline from 338 hours in May indicates a gradual transition into winter, setting the stage for a serene holiday getaway. While December may not compete with the sun-drenched glory of earlier months, its moderate warmth and golden rays create an ideal backdrop for peaceful strolls on the beach and leisurely outdoor activities under the clear skies.
December in Hilton Head Island offers a moderate chance of sunshine, with a 43% likelihood of clear skies. As the year winds down, the trend showcases an intriguing shift: while summer months witness lower probabilities of sun, December stands out with a chance higher than several preceding months, including the summer peak. Notably, November brings the highest likelihood at 61%, setting a hopeful tone for December’s slightly less sunny disposition. This month captures the essence of an autumnal transition, where sunlit days become a cherished rarity, making those bright moments all the more special for locals and visitors alike.
In Hilton Head Island, December welcomes a return to shorter days, with 10 hours of daylight that echo the patterns established in November. This trend of diminishing daylight begins in the fall, as the island transitions from the longer, sun-drenched days of summer, peaking at 14 hours in June, down to the 12 hours enjoyed in both March and April. As the year draws to a close, the consistency of 10 hours in December mirrors the earlier month and sets the stage for the slight increase expected in the following January. The cyclical nature of daylight in Hilton Head Island reveals the island's rhythmic dance with the seasons, where each month paints the sky with varying shades of light.
As December sweeps across Hilton Head Island, the winds begin to settle into a gentle rhythm. With an average wind speed of 3.8 m/s (9 mph), there's a noticeable decrease from the busier months earlier in the year. This pattern reflects a broader seasonal trend, where winds gradually soften after peaking during the spring and early summer, which often see speeds hovering around 4.4 m/s (10 mph). By the time winter arrives, the island's breezes are more subdued, creating a serene atmosphere that invites relaxation. While December's winds may be calmer compared to November's 4.0 m/s (9 mph), they still maintain a refreshing edge, perfect for strolls along the beach or cozying up by the fire after a day of exploration.
The weather in Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January show notable differences in weather patterns. December experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums reaching down to -1°C (30°F) and maximums peaking at 23°C (73°F), accompanied by higher precipitation levels totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over about 10 days. In contrast, January is generally colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -5°C (23°F) and a slightly narrower maximum of 24°C (75°F). Additionally, January sees significantly less precipitation, measuring just 61 mm (2.4 in) over 7 days, and maintains a similar humidity level at 86%. For more detailed insights, check out Hilton Head Island weather in January.
In comparing the weather of December and February, December tends to be cooler with minimum temperatures dropping to -1°C (30°F), while February experiences slightly milder conditions with a minimum temperature of 1°C (33°F). The average temperatures in December are around 13°C (55°F) compared to February's 14°C (57°F), and both months see their maximum temperatures reach comfortable highs—23°C (73°F) in December and 25°C (77°F) in February. Precipitation is more prevalent in December with 125 mm (4.9 in) over about 10 days, while February sees a drop in rainfall to 80 mm (3.1 in) across 11 days, making it a somewhat drier experience. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in February at 81%, compared to December's higher humidity of 87%. For a more detailed look at conditions, check out the Hilton Head Island weather in February.
In December, the weather exhibits a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to around -1°C (30°F) and maximums reaching up to 23°C (73°F). The month is relatively wet, accumulating about 125 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over 10 days, resulting in high humidity levels around 87%. In contrast, March brings milder conditions with minimum temperatures rising to 1°C (34°F) and maximums soaring to 27°C (81°F). Precipitation drops to 68 mm (2.7 in) over just 6 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 81%. For a more detailed analysis, you can check Hilton Head Island weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, a notable difference in temperatures emerges. December experiences a wide temperature range, with lows dipping to -1°C (30°F), while April is milder, with minimum temperatures starting at 6°C (43°F). On average, December’s temperature is around 13°C (55°F), compared to April's more comfortable 19°C (67°F). Additionally, April boasts higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 30°C (87°F) versus December's peak of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is also less frequent in April, with 85 mm (3.4 in) spread across about 8 days, compared to December's 125 mm (4.9 in) over 10 days. Moreover, the humidity levels in December are slightly higher at 87%, compared to April’s 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Hilton Head Island weather in April.
December and May showcase markedly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a comfortable maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, May brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a mild minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a hot maximum of 34°C (94°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation drops to 89 mm (3.5 in), also spread over 10 days, while humidity levels decrease to 75%. For more detailed insights into the pleasant weather in May, check out Hilton Head Island weather in May.
In December, the weather tends to be cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F). This month experiences relatively high humidity at 87%, along with about 125 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). Despite the slightly lower precipitation total of 122 mm (4.8 in), June has more rainy days, totaling 18, but it also boasts a lower humidity level of 75%. For more detailed insights into June's weather, you can check Hilton Head Island weather in June.
December weather features a much cooler range of temperatures, with lows reaching around -1°C (30°F) and maximums peaking at 23°C (73°F), accompanied by relatively high humidity levels at 87%. With an average precipitation of 125 mm (4.9 in) over approximately 10 rainy days, December tends to be damp but mild compared to the summer months.
In contrast, July brings warmer temperatures, with minimums around 23°C (73°F) and highs soaring up to 35°C (95°F). The humidity is slightly lower at 80%, but the month experiences more rainfall, averaging 156 mm (6.1 in) over about 19 days. This combination of warmth and moisture creates a distinctly humid summer atmosphere. For more detailed insights, you can check out Hilton Head Island weather in July.
December and August present markedly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a comfortable maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average of 13°C (55°F). The month sees around 125 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, August brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (73°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F), resulting in an average temperature of 27°C (82°F). August is also wetter, with 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain spread over 22 days, though humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For more details, you can check out the Hilton Head Island weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, it's clear that these months exhibit contrasting climates. December experiences cooler temperatures, with lows averaging around -1°C (30°F) and highs reaching 23°C (73°F), while September boasts warmer conditions, with lows of 16°C (61°F) and highs soaring up to 34°C (93°F). Both months receive similar levels of precipitation—December with 125 mm (4.9 in) over approximately 10 days and September slightly higher at 127 mm (5.0 in) across about 15 days. Interestingly, despite December's higher humidity at 87%, September remains relatively comfortable at 83%. For a more detailed understanding, you can explore Hilton Head Island weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, it is clear that October experiences warmer temperatures with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and an average of 23°C (73°F), reaching a maximum of 31°C (89°F). In contrast, December shows a notable drop in temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 23°C (73°F). Additionally, October has higher humidity levels at 78% compared to December's 87%. Although December receives more precipitation at 125 mm (4.9 in) over 10 days, October’s 88 mm (3.5 in) spread over 11 days represents a relatively drier period. For more detailed insights, you can check out Hilton Head Island weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, it is evident that December experiences cooler temperatures overall, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), while November maintains a milder range with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation levels are higher in December, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over 10 days, compared to November's 90 mm (3.5 in) over 8 days. Humidity is also slightly higher in December at 87%, compared to November's 85%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can check out Hilton Head Island weather in November.
December on Hilton Head Island offers a unique charm, as temperatures begin to drop, creating a refreshing contrast to the warm summer months. With an average temperature that feels quite mild, the island experiences a blend of cool days and crisp nights, making it an ideal time for those who appreciate a quieter atmosphere. While the humidity remains high, the increased precipitation—falling over several days—contributes to the lush, green landscapes that define the area. As the festive season unfolds, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the island in a different light, inviting them to explore its natural delights without the usual crowds. For a deeper understanding of what to expect year-round, check out the Hilton Head Island Climate.