What's the weather like in Cape Town in December
December marks the beginning of the summer season in Cape Town, South Africa, and the days are glorious with little precipitation and plenty of bright sunlight.
Located on South Africa's southern coast, the weather in Cape Town remains temperate all year long, but winter can be rainy, making December and the other summer months a much better time for visitors who want to be outdoors. It is easy to see why the rising temperatures and dry days that characterise December make it one of the most popular times to visit this resort.
Rainfall
There is very little precipitation during the month of December. With an average 20 mm of rain throughout the entire month, most of the 7 wet days in December are overcast with intermittent rain. Visitors should come prepared for the occasional rain.
Sunshine Hours
Overall, Cape Town is a wonderful December destination. The holiday spirit is in full swing, and because it is located in the southern hemisphere December is the sunniest month of the year in Cape Town, and also has the longest days. These factors mean you can expect an average 11 hours of bright sunlight daily. For visitors from Europe and other places in the northern hemisphere, Cape Town is a great place to find some sun.
Temperature
Rising temperatures in December beckon visitors and locals alike to the outdoors. If you plan a stay during this month, you can expect the average high temperature to hit 25°C (77°F) in the daytime, and the average overall temperature to be a pleasant 20°C (68°F). There is no better time of year to hike, bike and explore in Cape Town.
The warm sun does a lot of work during the day, and after it sets the temperature does drop. Overnight is cool, with the average low temperature being 15°C (59°F). Even the evenings and mornings can get quite chilly, so make sure you come prepared with layers and some warm clothes.
Sea Temperature
The ocean water is also warming up. The average sea temperature rises to 19°C (66°F), up from 18°C (64°F) in November, and many visitors are eager to hit the beach on December's cloudless days.
Cape Town Hotels for December
The holiday season is a time of celebration and excitement, and coupled with the excellent warm weather in Cape Town in December, it is the time of year to plan for a fantastic holiday. If this is your year to have an all-out December getaway, then get to Manna Bay. Filled with glass, character and charm, Manna Bay is often considered as the best boutique hotel in Cape Town. With only a handful of guestrooms, Manna Bay is certain to provide an individualised stay, and it is easy to start pretending this mansion is your home. The views over the city will leave guests breathless.
December is also the perfect time of year to be on or near the water in Cape Town. The Blackheath Lodge is nestled in Sea Point, right along the Atlantic Seaboard in Cape Town. Seaside villas surround this boutique hotel, where the focus is always on the water. Therefore, this boutique hotel is perfect for exploring the V&A Waterfront, the famous beach at Camps Bay and the stunning beach at Clifton. Plus, the Blackheath Lodge has its own fabulous swimming pool, which is ideal for a quick dip after a long day exploring Cape Town.
African Soul Surfer has an ideal summer location just steps from the sand. It is the perfect place to embrace your inner hippie and enjoy the sun and sea on seemingly endless summer days in December. This is a great place for experienced and novice surfers, as there are boards for rent and lessons are offered. While it is mostly about the surf at this effortlessly cool hostel, guests should find some time to take an onsite yoga class, complete one of the recommended hikes in the area or just sip a latte from the wonderful onsite café.
Cape Town Beaches in December
There are seemingly endless white sand beaches along South Africa's southern coast, one of the most beautiful is Muizenberg Beach. Not only is the sand soft and inviting, but this is a great beach for the whole family. This blue flag beach is a great destination for swimming and wading. Plus, the colourful huts that line the sand are an interesting tourist attraction in their own right.
Bars and Restaurants
Cape Town's oceanfront location makes seafood an obvious culinary option when visiting the city. There are numerous restaurants across the Mother City that specialise in fish and seafood dishes, but one of the best is Blues Restaurant. Located in the posh and trendy Camps Bay, Blues Restaurant has Saturday jazz sessions during the summer and the venue was recently renovated to highlight its seaside location.
The beautiful summer days beg visitors to eat al fresco, and La Colombe at the Silvermist winery has idyllic surroundings. The vineyard setting is simply stunning on a summer afternoon or evening. Plus, the food is beyond incredible and the chef has received numerous awards and accolades. The menu is creative and changes with the seasons. Of course wine pairings are available. Bookings are recommended.
One of the most luxurious restaurants in Cape Town is The Roundhouse Rumbullion. The restaurant has individual dining areas, each with a unique atmosphere and culinary offering. The Roundhouse itself is a UNSECO world heritage site, and the terraces, called the Rumbullion serves vintage cocktails, decanters of wine and whole roasts for an old-world dining experience.
Things to do in Cape Town in December
Throughout Cape Town you will see gorgeous Christmas decorations everywhere you turn, so make a night of it and take the time to explore the resort and admire the lights. Do not forget to stop off at the Adderley Street Night Market, which is packed with stalls laden with wonderful Christmas gifts or the Cape Town Summer Market.
If you are looking for an activity the whole family can enjoy, how about a trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium? Located on the V&A Waterfront, this aquarium features loads of tropical underwater species and includes one of the only three living kelp forest exhibitions in the world. This place is perfect for families, couples and friends; kids will love it!
