What's the Weather like in Grand Cayman in December
Temperature
Air temperatures on Grand Cayman are pleasant all day long in December. Daily low temperatures usually range from 22C (71.6F) to 26C (78.8F); variations breaching these values are rare. Daily highs usually remain between 26C (78.8F) and 30C (86F), occasionally falling below or exceeding these temperatures. Around 1 pm is, in general, the warmest time of the day. This time of year, Jamaica (Kingston) features similar temperatures to the Cayman Islands.
Starting from this month, potential northwestern winds (Northwesters) that blow from the direction of the U.S.A. tend to lower night temperatures below 20C (68F). Hence, pack a pullover or a sweater in addition to your light clothing, just in case.
Clouds
In the course of December, every next day on the island is less likely than the previous to feature cloud cover. The chances that December 1 will be mostly cloudy or overcast are 38%. The final day of the year is 25% likely to have cloudy conditions. Deep night and early morning are periods of the day that are the cloudiest. Evening hours, around 7:30 pm, are usually the clearest time of the day.
Sunshine Hours
If you come to the Grand Cayman resort in December, you will have between 7 and 8 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Rain
With the arrival of December, the rainy season in Grand Cayman Island is over. The overall amount of received rainfall compared to November is about half the value around 70 mm (2.75 in). The average number of rainy days this time of year is 11.
From the beginning of the month toward its end, the possibility of rain decreases at a fast rate. For example, December 1 has about a 16% chance to be a wet day. The likelihood of the precipitation on December 31 is 10%. The lowest possibility of a rainy day throughout the month is 9% on December 27.
If rain occurs on December 1, the probable amount of rainfall should be around 43 mm (1.69 in). If precipitation takes place on December 31, that value should be around 17 mm (0.67 in).
Note that showers and thunderstorms are most frequent forms of rain on the island of Grand Cayman. Their duration is up to a few hours, and when they stop, they usually don't repeat on the same day. More so, rain could fall in one part of the island, or town, while the other remains dry.
Wind Speed
Throughout the month, the island features moderate breeze most of the time. The wind speed is, with subtle variations, around 7 m/s during this period. The windiest time of the day is usually around 8:30 am, while mid-afternoon around 3:30 pm is the calmest.
Humidity
The chances of having humid conditions are constantly decreasing throughout the month. At the beginning of December, the probability of a muggy day is 97%. By the month's end, the chances are 92%.
Sunrise and Sunset
The duration of the daylight in the resort of Grand Cayman is around 11 hours per day during the last month of the year. On December 1, sunrise takes place at 6:42 am, while the sunset occurs at 5:45 pm. On December 31, the sun rises at 6:58 am, and sets at 5:57 pm.
Average Sea Temperature
The average sea temperature by the coastline of Grand Cayman is 28C (82.4F) in the course of December.
Extraordinary Weather Occurances
Northwesters may be the cause of rough seas during the winter (high) season, which put a stop to enjoying water sports. Occasionally, they may even damage vessels if these aren't anchored in safe harbors, and splash debris on the roads by the Grand Cayman coastline.
Also note that the Cayman Islands are in a seismic sensitive zone. But, the possibility of an earthquake occurring is very low. The last great earthquake, which caused a big damage, took place in 2004. Furthermore, earthquakes could lead to tsunamis, which are also rare. They are most dangerous by the coast where the waves grow in size. Hence, if it comes to that, remain on the open sea or go inland as quickly as possible. Taking some higher ground is also a good option.
If you're looking for a weather forecast for Grand Cayman, you are advised to visit this page.
Hotels for Grand Cayman in December
There are many well-reputed resorts everywhere along the Grand Cayman coastline. People with interests in some particular areas should find the following three interesting.
Grand Caymanian Resort
Grand Caymanian Resort should be especially interesting to fans of golf since the property overlooks the North Sound Golf Club. Located in the far northeastern section of the George Town district, the complex features views of the North Sound, too. Units dispose of TVs with flat screens and free Wi-Fi. Business and fitness centers, tennis courts and parking are some accompanying facilities. The resort boasts verdant surroundings.
Wyndham Reef Resort
Wyndham Reef Resort is a 4-star beachfront complex, located in the northeastern corner of East End. It is a good place for everyone who is fond of exploring great diving spots. Also, it caters to people interested in entertainment since the property organizes evening events. Guests of Wyndham Reef Resort enjoy free wireless internet, parking, a fitness club and playing tennis among other amenities.
The Ritz Carlton
The Ritz Carlton is a high-end resort, located north of Camana Bay. This 5-star complex is a beachfront property that accesses Seven Miles Beach. Its units boast the utmost comfort, and guests benefit of free toiletries, Wi-Fi and parking. Flat-screen TVs, a fitness center, a pool and water sports facilities are some additional amenities.
Beaches for December for Grand Cayman
Finding a great time is easy on the beaches dotting the coastline of Grand Cayman. There are beaches suitable for any activity throughout the island, including partying, snorkeling, relaxing and watching famous Caymanian sunsets.
Spotts Beach
Spotts Beach, located in Savannah, probably won't impress you by its appearance. However, it doesn't attract large crowds if you prefer to relax in a peaceful environment. Unlike crowds, it does attract sea turtles that feed on sea grass somewhere between 4 pm and 6 pm. Hence, if you weren't lucky enough to see turtles elsewhere around the island, this beach is your best bet.
Rum Point Beach
Rum Point Beach is one of the most attractive beaches in Grand Cayman Island. It features soft, white sand, lush greenery and shallow turquoise waters. Also, it is less crowded than other popular beaches around the island. You can enjoy water sports here, too. Showers and restrooms are some useful facilities available on Rum Point Beach.
Seven Miles Beach
Seven Miles Beach is the most famous beach of the Grand Cayman resort. Like its name implies, it is very long. Other popular beaches, such as Governor's Beach and Public Beach, are sections of 7 Miles Beach. The beach features calm waters ideal for snorkeling, and numerous hotels, bars and restaurants line the beach. The best sunsets on the island are experienced from this particular beach.
Restaurants and Bars for Grand Cayman in December
Grand Cayman features many bars and restaurants throughout the island. Regardless of how much you plan to spend for a meal or a drink, you can always find a great eatery suitable for your budget.
Big Tree BBQ
Big Tree BBQ is an affordable eatery in the southeastern corner of East End that is highly rated among its guests. It serves Caribbean dishes and barbecue, which you can enjoy under a big tree next to the restaurant. Ribs, steaks and chicken are some dishes in the menu. Big Tree BBQ is open daily from 11 am to 6 pm except on Saturdays and Mondays.
The Grape Tree Cafe
The Grape Tree Café is a reputable, affordable eatery in Bodden Town. Located on the beach, it features an attractive environment, with tables in the shade of palm trees. The restaurant serves fried and roasted fish, chicken and conch fritters among other dishes. The Grape Tree Café's opening hours are from 12 pm to 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 12 pm to 8 pm on Sundays and public holidays.
Southern Spice
Southern Spice is a mid-range Indian restaurant, located in George Town. The eatery caters to gourmands and vegans, and the staff prepares halal food on request. If you are a gourmand, you should order "Lamb Rogan Yosh," for example. A popular vegan specialty is "Vegetable Biryani." Southern Spice is open for lunch daily (11:30 am to 2:30 pm) except on Sunday, and every day for dinner (5:30 pm to 10 pm).
Da Fish Shack
Da Fish Shack is a waterfront restaurant in George Town that specializes in fresh seafood. Still, it doesn't neglect gourmands fond of steaks and burgers either. From this restaurant, you will have clear views of the Caribbean Sea and the Caymanian sunset. Da Fish Shack is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
Things to Do in Grand Cayman in December
The island of Grand Cayman isn't that big, but the list of things you can do here any time of the year is rather long. Most enterprises, however, are in a close relation to amazing beaches and activities in the water. But, if you come to the resort of Grand Cayman in the holiday season of December, consider partaking in some great activities ashore.
Christmas Tree Lighting
Christmas time features one of the biggest events on the island Christmas Tree Lighting. A craft market and musical performances by the Cayman National Choir accompany the event, not to mention a visit from Santa Claus. Nearby restaurants and bars are great places for enjoying the event from a vantage point, so make reservations in advance.
Camana Bay
Camana Bay is a place where you can find action most of the time. It is a shopping, dining and entertainment district that is especially amazing during the final days of the year. Grand Cayman is a convenient shopping destination because it is a duty-free zone. And many shops selling goods suitable for gifts are available in Camana Bay.
New Year's Eve
You can celebrate New Year's Eve anywhere in the island on a beach, at a restaurant, in a resort, or in the town. The opportunities are endless, from attending the fireworks throughout resorts to parties suitable for all ages at restaurants and clubs. Also, allocate some time to walk the streets of Camana Bay for a great visual experience.