Average high temperature and rainfall for Montego Bay, Jamaica, in December. © Scott S. Bateman

Jamaica weather in December offers one of the best months to visit the island because it is near the start of the dry season.

As a result, it’s also gearing up as a popular time for western Caribbean cruises.

Jamaica is one of the most popular destinations on a western cruise because of its shopping, culture and things to do including the famous Dunn’s River Falls excursion.

December weather in Jamaica marks the first month after the end of the Caribbean hurricane season. It runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.

In fact, Jamaica historically has the lowest rainfall of the year in the months ahead.

Jamaica Temperatures in December

Jamaica weather in December is good enough for both water and land activities. © Jamaica Tourist Board

The Caribbean has a drop in temperatures during winter like most other places in the northern hemisphere, but the drop is mild because it is so close to the equator.

Jamaica temperatures in December have an average high of 87 degrees Fahrenheit or about 31 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Service of Jamaica. The average low is 71 degrees Fahrenheit or 22 Celsius. The measurements take place at Montego Bay.

Although 87 degrees Fahrenheit is near the low for the year, it is only four degrees cooler than the warmest months, which are July and August at 91 degrees Fahrenheit or 33 Celsius.

December temperatures put Jamaica among a small number of Caribbean islands that have seawater comfortable for swimming most days and most hours of the day.

Average Rainfall

Again, December is the start of lower rain, although it’s not necessarily the best month for it.

Total rainfall in Jamaica during December has averaged less than two inches over a 30-year period, according to the Meteorological Service of Jamaica.

It is not as good as January through March, which average less than one inch each. But two inches is quite low for most months in most Caribbean destinations. It also is much better than the six inches that fall during a typical October, which is the high point of the year.

Even better, it rains only an average of six days during December. It also is low compared to other months and other Caribbean destinations. October is the worst month for Jamaica at 14 days.

• Jamaica weather in January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December.

Should I Go in December?

Anyone wanting to vacation in Jamaica during December to get away from bad weather in the north will likely find plenty of warm temperatures and a low risk of rain.

January through March are even better, but the differences are small. So it would make sense to consider other factors in choosing which months to go including work schedules and best prices for resorts and cruises.