December in the Dominican Republic is a magical time when the country celebrates Christmas and the New Year in Caribbean style. Crowds trickle in mid-month to enjoy the festivities, of course, but it’s also the first month of the dry season, which means more sun, less rain, and all-around beach bliss.
Weather in the Dominican Republic in December
As December arrives, a collective sense of relief washes over those planning trips to the Dominican Republic. The Atlantic hurricane season, a concern for many travelers, officially concludes in November. This transition marks the beginning of the dry season, a period characterized by increased sunshine, remarkably clear blue skies, and ideal beach weather. The intense heat and humidity of the summer months begin to dissipate, creating a more comfortable environment for exploration and relaxation. While the occasional rain shower might occur, typically in brief bursts, visitors can anticipate significantly less moisture compared to the wetter months stretching from May/June to November. This predictability in weather patterns makes December an alluring time to visit the Dominican Republic.
The weather along the Dominican Republic’s extensive coastline remains relatively consistent, with only minor regional variations. Travelers can expect daily high temperatures to reach approximately 84°F (29°C), while lows hover around 71°F (21°C). It’s advisable to pack light, breathable clothing suitable for daytime activities and to include light layers for evenings, especially as the sun sets relatively early, typically just after 6 pm in December. For those venturing into the mountainous regions for adventurous pursuits, such as hiking to the summit of Pico Duarte, it is essential to pack appropriate cold-weather gear. Temperatures at higher elevations can drop considerably. Furthermore, waterproof hiking boots and a rain jacket are highly recommended, as wet weather and muddy trail conditions can occur unexpectedly.
Crowds and Costs in December
The month of December presents a dichotomy in terms of crowd levels and associated costs. The first half of the month generally remains quieter, with fewer tourists, mirroring the relative tranquility of the preceding wet season months. However, around the middle of December, there is a noticeable and often dramatic increase in visitor numbers as sun-seekers arrive to spend their holiday vacations in the Dominican Republic. If you prefer a more secluded experience, with uncrowded beaches, readily available restaurant reservations, and ample space for activities, it’s best to plan your trip for the early part of the month.
This pattern extends to pricing as well. The initial weeks of December often feature attractive rates on flights, accommodations, and rental cars, making it a strategic time for budget-conscious travelers to visit. These deals become harder to find as the country transitions into its “high season” around mid-December, characterized by peak demand and consequently, the highest prices of the year. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to book your travel arrangements well in advance to secure availability and potentially benefit from lower prices before the high season surge.
Recommended Destinations
The majority of visitors to the Dominican Republic in December seek to enjoy the holidays on its beautiful beaches. With over 800 miles (1287 km) of coastline, the country offers an abundance of options to choose from. Popular beach destinations are located between the capital city of Santo Domingo, situated on the southern Caribbean coast, and Punta Cana, on the easternmost tip of the island. Playa Bayahibe is a great option, and offers convenient access to the natural beauty of Cotubanamá National Park, where you can explore forests, beaches, and caves. From Bayahibe, you can embark on day trips to the offshore islands of Catalina and Saona, which are renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving, making them ideal for beginners. This area offers a diverse range of activities and experiences.
Another attractive option is the northern coast, where you’ll discover smaller hotels and apartments geared towards independent travelers. Explore walkable towns like Las Terrenas and Cabarete, both offering easy access to numerous beaches and activities. Many of these activities, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, take advantage of the consistent trade winds. Further west, you’ll find Puerto Plata, a city boasting a UNESCO-listed historic district and a scenic cable car. The coastline continues with more beaches stretching towards the border with Haiti.
The Dominican Republic is also home to some of the highest mountain peaks in the Caribbean, particularly within the Cordillera Central mountain range. Consider basing yourself in one of the charming mountain towns, such as Jarabacoa or Costanza, where you can enjoy the crisp morning air and explore the numerous trails and rivers. Another area worth exploring is the less-visited southwest Barahona Province, where you can discover unique ecotourism attractions, including Jaragua National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve celebrated for its desert-like landscapes and distinctive flora and fauna.
Things to Do in December
If you choose to stay in the popular resort area of Punta Cana, you’ll find a wide array of activities readily available, including mountain biking, fishing excursions, and catamaran trips to the nearby islands of Saona and Catalina. You can also partake in off-road buggy tours and try a safe, introductory version of scuba diving that doesn’t require certification, making it accessible to beginners.
The Samaná Peninsula experiences an increase in tourism during the latter half of December, which means that you may encounter more crowds at popular attractions such as El Limón waterfall and on day trips to the idyllic island of Caya Levantado. Boat tours through Los Haitises National Park also become more popular. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting earlier in the month or renting a car to explore the numerous beaches at your own pace. Surf conditions begin to improve during this time of year, making it an excellent opportunity to learn to surf. The trade winds near Cabarete attract a steady flow of wind- and kitesurfers, and instructors are readily available. PADI-certified scuba divers should consider visiting Sosua Beach, known for its shipwrecks and fascinating underwater sites.
Venturing inland allows you to discover the Dominican Republic’s stunning countryside and mountain regions, areas often overlooked by tourists. You can participate in coffee production tours, enjoy water rafting in freshwater rivers, go hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Don’t forget about the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Santo Domingo on December 31st, when the capital comes alive with fireworks and festivities.
December Events in the Dominican Republic
Christmas Eve, Nationwide. Christmas Eve is considered the most important day of the year for many Dominicans, surpassing even Christmas Day. Instead of opening presents on Christmas morning, many families traditionally stay up all night on Christmas Eve to open their gifts at midnight.
New Year’s Eve, Nationwide. The last night of the year is celebrated throughout the Dominican Republic in a similar fashion to other countries. People gather in the streets and celebrate in local bars with music and dancing that continues throughout the night. If you are in the capital city, head to George Washington Avenue to witness the spectacular fireworks display over the coastline at midnight.
Festival El Santo Cristo de Bayaguana, San Juan Bautista de Bayaguana. Starting on December 28th, this inland town hosts a vibrant four-day celebration. One of the highlights is the parade of vaqueros (cowboys) leading young bulls through the streets. The festival also includes a wide range of festivities, such as singing, dancing, and fireworks.
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