Palm Springs Weather in December
Thinking of visiting Palm Springs in December? Expect pleasant temperatures reaching 20°C (68°F) during the day, dropping to 7°C (45°F) at night, and be prepared for the wettest month of the year.
Rainfall in Palm Springs in December
During the wettest month of the year, an umbrella can be your best friend to stay dry. Historically, December sees about 4 days of rain, with a monthly average of 29 mm (1.1 in). Showers tend to be short but heavy rather than persistent drizzle. When it rains, it usually means it, but it doesn't last long.
Temperature in Palm Springs in December
The temperature in Palm Springs in December is perfect. Daytime highs reach 20°C (68°F), with nights dropping to 7°C (45°F). The month of December belongs to the winter season. Conditions are often most pleasant around the middle of the day. With overnight lows of 7°C (45°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets. The temperatures this month are milder, providing a comfortable and warm experience.
Average water temperature in December
The water temperature is 16°C (61°F) — chilly, but perfectly fine for a swim if you're not too sensitive to cold water. A short wetsuit can make longer sessions more comfortable.If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, January, February, March, November and December typically offer the best circumstances for Palm Springs.
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 Palm Springs's climate page.
Palm Springs Temperature in December
Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Water Temperature
16°C (61°F)
Chance of Rain
13%
Precipitation
29 mm (1.1 in)
Rainy days
4 days
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Palm Springs typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 20°C (68°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 8°C (46°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather for Palm Springs in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Palm Springs spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Palm Springs historical weather extremes in December
Based on 49 years of weather observations in Palm Springs between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- The warmest day in December was on December 23, 1980, with a maximum of 32°C (90°F).
- On December 23, 1995, Palm Springs saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at 10°C (50°F).
- The coldest night in December in Palm Springs was on December 26, 1987, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F).
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 →
perfect weather
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unpleasant
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What to Wear in Palm Springs in December
For Palm Springs in December, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Some rain is possible, so pack something to handle light showers. The water temperature sits at about 16°C (61°F), which is too chilly for most people to enjoy swimming. Leave the swimsuit at home unless you love cold water.What To Do in Palm Springs in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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 Palm Springs's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Water Temp
See the full Palm Springs climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
