So you're thinking about Key West in December? Smart move. I remember my first December trip down here – stepping off the plane into that perfect 75-degree air after leaving snow up north felt like cheating winter. But let's be real, Key West weather in December isn't perfect for everyone. If you hate sunshine and need guaranteed hot beach days, maybe try July instead. I'll give it to you straight based on my 10 winters living here – no fluff, just what actually matters.
What's Key West Weather Really Like in December?
Don't trust those generic "average temperature" stats. Here's the real deal:
| Weather Factor | Key West December Reality | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime Highs | 75°F-80°F (24°C-27°C) | Perfect walking-around weather, but might feel cool if you want intense heat |
| Nighttime Lows | 65°F-70°F (18°C-21°C) | You'll want long sleeves at night, especially on boats |
| Rain | 2.5 inches average (only 7 rainy days) | Drought season! But when it rains, it POURS – I got soaked last year at Mallory Square |
| Ocean Temp | 76°F (24°C) | Refreshing for northerners, Floridians might find it chilly |
| Humidity | Around 70% | Dryest month – your hair won't frizz like in summer |
That Key West weather in December means you can actually enjoy outdoor activities without drowning in sweat. But pack smart – I’ve seen tourists shivering at sunset celebrations because they only brought tank tops.
Local tip: Always throw a light rain jacket in your day bag. December showers hit fast and hard – ruined my phone last year during an unexpected downpour near Duval Street.
Exactly What to Pack for December Weather in Key West
Forget generic packing lists. Here’s what you’ll actually use:
Clothing Essentials
- Short-sleeve tops (5-7): You'll live in these during the day
- Light sweater or fleece (1-2): Crucial for evenings – restaurants blast AC
- Rain shell (1): Compact waterproof layer that saved me countless times
- Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets murder cheap flip-flops
- Swimsuit: Hotels heat pools, but ocean feels brisk to some
Seriously, that light jacket isn't optional. I made that mistake year one – ended up buying an overpriced hoodie from a tourist trap that still smells like cheap dye.
Top Things to Do in Key West December Weather
December's weather makes these activities perfect:
| Activity | Why December Rocks | Local Details (+ Costs) |
|---|---|---|
| Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square | Cool evenings = comfortable crowds | Free entry, daily 2 hrs before sunset. Street performers work for tips ($1-5 per show recommended) |
| Snorkeling Dry Tortugas | Crystal-clear winter water visibility | Seaplane tours: $360-$450/person (Yankee Freedom ferry: $190). Bring windbreaker – that ride gets chilly |
| Duval Street Bar Crawl | No summer sweat-stickiness | Happy hour specials: 3-6pm. Avoid Sloppy Joe's between 7-9pm – total tourist trap chaos |
| Kayaking Mangroves | Lower humidity = fewer mosquitoes | Gecko's Island Adventures: $59/person, 2.5hr tours. Their 9am slot avoids afternoon winds |
The Key West weather in December means you can actually enjoy walking tours without wanting to die of heatstroke. Try the Hemingway Home tour (907 Whitehead St, $17 admission) early morning – cats sunbathe in the courtyard when it's cool.
December-Only Events You Can't Miss
- Christmas Boat Parade (Dec 15-20): Free viewing along Harborwalk. Get there by 5:30pm for front-row spots
- Key West Lighthouse Krampus Night (Dec 10): Bizarre European tradition meets tropics. $12 entry, 7-10pm – bring camera
- New Year's Eve Schooner Drop: