Honolulu Weather in December

🇺🇸 United States

28°C

High

21°C

Low

Rain Days

Sunshine

78%

Humidity

North America › 🇺🇸 United States › Honolulu

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Honolulu?

4/10

Fair

December is a fair time to visit Honolulu (4/10). Average highs of 28°C and 1 sunshine hours daily make conditions workable, though not exceptional. December suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 6 potential rain days. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Honolulu's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.

vs November:28°C avg high

Honolulu's December climate peaks at 28°C each afternoon before cooling to 21°C overnight. 1 daily sunshine hours and just 6 wet days mean the odds of a fine day are solidly in your favour. It is a reasonable time to visit, with a backup plan for the occasional shower.

28°C

Avg High

21°C

Avg Low

6 days

Rain Days

Sunshine

78%

Humidity

Temperature in Honolulu in December

The 7°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. At 78% humidity, the 28°C daytime high feels 2-4°C warmer in practice: quick-dry fabrics and shade-seeking between noon and 3pm are the sensible response. The UV index of 3 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 82°F average high, 70°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Honolulu in December

Morning21°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon28°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening24°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Honolulu in December means dressing for 28°C days and 21°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 28°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evening temperatures settle at 21°C, a modest 7°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. At 78% average humidity, quick-dry synthetic or bamboo fabrics dry overnight and stay comfortable longer than cotton.

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Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Honolulu. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.

Events in Honolulu in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Honolulu, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Honolulu in December

Based on 28°C average highs and 6 rainy days

Light layers for morning and evening
Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
UV-protective sunglasses
Quick-dry travel towel
Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
SPF 30+ sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
Universal travel adapter
Small day pack for city exploration
Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Honolulu in December

Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 28°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)December is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in December, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings

Why is Honolulu warm in December?

In December, Honolulu sits in the dry season corridor, as the ITCZ shifts away from the region and trade winds bring drier, more stable air. This produces reliably sunny days reaching 28°C, with lower humidity than the wet months. Overnight lows of 21°C offer a pleasant reprieve from the midday heat. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Honolulu in December

In December, Honolulu experiences average highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 21°C (70°F). Expect around 6 rainy days and 1 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 78%. The 7°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 3.

Honolulu typically sees 6 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 70mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Honolulu typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.

Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Honolulu in December. Daytime temperatures of 28°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 21°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 6 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.

December is a reasonable time to visit Honolulu. Expect 6 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 28°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 1 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.

The average high temperature in Honolulu in December is 28°C (82°F), and the average low is 21°C (70°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 25°C (76°F). The day-to-night range of 7°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.

The best month to visit Honolulu is generally February. February offers the most sunshine at 3 hours per day and only 9 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 29°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around February gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

December is shoulder or low season in Honolulu, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 1 sunshine hours and 6 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.

In December, Honolulu suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 28°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. Cosy cafes and cultural venues make ideal retreats on overcast days.

December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Honolulu, with an average 1 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are December, January, and November. May is the hottest month (32°C avg high); January is the coolest (28°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 28°C high, 7 rain days), December is similarly warm and drier. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Year-Round Climate

Month	High	Low	Rain Days	Sun	Details
January	28°C	21°C	7	1h	View
February	29°C	22°C	9	3h	View
March	30°C	23°C	12	4h	View
April	31°C	24°C	15	6h	View
May	32°C	25°C	17	7h	View
June	32°C	25°C	18	7h	View
July	32°C	25°C	17	7h	View
August	31°C	24°C	15	6h	View
September	30°C	23°C	12	4h	View
October	29°C	22°C	9	3h	View
November	28°C	21°C	7	1h	View
December	28°C	21°C	6	1h	View

Other Months in Honolulu

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Honolulu

Best Time to Visit Honolulu

Data Sources for Honolulu

Honolulu on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.