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California Weather in December

December in California averages 10°C (50°F) during the day and 1°C (34°F) at night. Quite a bit of rainfall is typical this month, with around 108 mm (4.3 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.

Rainfall in California in December

Records from the past 30 years suggest around 12 days of rain, with 108 mm (4.3 in) average for the month. When showers do arrive, they tend to be on the heavier side. Worth being prepared even if rain days are not that numerous.

Temperature in California in December

If you're visiting California in December, expect highs of 10°C (50°F) and overnight lows around 1°C (34°F). This month falls in the winter season. Even at the warmest part of the day, temperatures stay low. Dressing warmly from the start is the sensible approach. Nights fall to 1°C (34°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, December may not be the ideal month to visit California. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

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Check the conditions for any month of the year.

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our California's climate page.

California Temperature in December

Min TemperatureMin Temperature 1°C (34°F)  
Max TemperatureMax Temperature 10°C (50°F)  
Chance of RainChance of Rain 40%  
PrecipitationPrecipitation 108 mm (4.3 in)  
Rainy daysRainy days 12 days  

Best Places in the United States of America in December

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in December →

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Legend 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 California in December

The weather can be unpredictable in December, so pack clothes you can easily mix and match. You could bring jeans, other long pants, and a few t-shirts. A light jacket or light sweater will be pleasant for the cooler moments. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho.

What To Do in California in December

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

Cycling
5/10
Walking
5/10
Barbeque
2/10
Camping
3/10
Outdoor sports
5/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our California's climate page.

More climate data for California