Rabaul
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Rabaul Weather in December

December in Rabaul typically sees daytime highs of 29°C (84°F) and nighttime lows of 26°C (79°F). December falls within the rainy season, so heavy rainfall is to be expected.

Rainfall in Rabaul in December

As part of the rainy season, Rabaul sees around 21 days of rain in December, with an average of 293 mm (12 in). Rainy season showers tend to be fairly substantial. A good rain jacket or umbrella is worth having with you most days.

Temperature in Rabaul in December

December in Rabaul brings typical temperatures with highs around 29°C (84°F) and lows of 26°C (79°F). This gives the month a fairly typical daily rhythm, with warmer afternoons and more comfortable nights. With lows around 26°C (79°F), the nights are warm enough that a sheet is usually all you need for bedding.

Sunshine in Rabaul in December

The month experiences a moderate amount of sunlight, with 167 hours of sunshine. This provides a nice balance between sunshine and rain.

Wind Speed in Rabaul in December

Average wind speeds reach 3 m/s (6 knots) in December, creating light breezes that feel pleasant throughout the day. Some days are calmer, while others bring slightly more active breezes.

Average water temperature in December

At 29°C (84°F), the water is very warm, more like a heated pool than the sea. Great for those who like warm water, though some may find it less refreshing on a hot day.

December in Rabaul has its charm, but if you're looking for destinations with pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.

Rabaul Temperature in December

Min Temperature
26°C (79°F)
Max Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Water Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Chance of Rain
69%
Precipitation
293 mm (12 in)
Rainy days
21 days
Humidity
76%
Windspeed
3 m/s (6 knots)
Sunshine
167 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Rabaul Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Rabaul - and find the best time to visit.

Historical weather records for Rabaul in December

Browse day-by-day weather records for Rabaul spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Rabaul historical weather extremes in December

Based on weather observations in Rabaul between 2006 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during December.

  • The hottest December day on record in Rabaul reached 32°C (90°F) (December 23, 2024).
  • On December 17, 2012, Rabaul saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at 27°C (81°F).
  • Rabaul registered its coldest December night on December 28, 2013, with temperatures dropping to 25°C (77°F).
  • The wettest day in December Rabaul was on December 17, 2012 with 103 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation.

Best Places in Papua New Guinea in December

Find out more about the weather in Papua New Guinea and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Papua New Guinea in December →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Rabaul in December

Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in December. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can. Expect water temperatures of around 29°C (84°F), which is ideal for taking a refreshing dip. Bring swimwear and consider packing a towel for drying off. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month

What To Do in Rabaul in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    7/10
  • Cycling
    7/10
  • Walking
    7/10
  • Camping
    7/10
  • Outdoor sports
    7/10

Rabaul 3-Day Forecast

Popular in December

Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.

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