December brings perfect weather to tropical paradises around the world. The Maldives offers crystal-clear waters, while Bora Bora showcases dramatic volcanic peaks. Fiji, Bali, and Costa Rica provide diverse experiences from pristine beaches to lush rainforests.
Keep reading as we explore the best tropical places to visit in December that promise sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable memories during the winter months.
List of Contents
- 1. The Maldives: Where Time Stops
- 2. Bora Bora: The Crown Jewel
- 3. Fiji: 333 Islands of Pure Joy
- 4. Bali: Island of the Gods
- 5. Costa Rica: Pura Vida Paradise
- 6. Phuket: Thailand's Pearl
- 7. Jamaica: One Love Island
- 8. Aruba: One Happy Island
- 9. St. Lucia: Caribbean Majesty
- 10. Palawan: The Last Frontier
- Your December Paradise Awaits
1. The Maldives: Where Time Stops
The Maldives consists of 1,192 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. December marks the beginning of dry season, bringing eight hours of daily sunshine and calm seas.
I still remember my first morning in Malé—the sound of seaplanes overhead and the impossible blue stretching to every horizon. The water here is so clear you can see reef sharks swimming thirty feet below your overwater bungalow.
Local fishermen wake before dawn to catch the day's fresh tuna. Follow their lead and book an early morning dolphin cruise when the ocean is glass-smooth and spinner dolphins are most active.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: December-April
- How to get there: Fly to Malé International Airport
- Entry fee: From $25 visa on arrival
- Suggested stay: 5-7 days
- Key spots: Malé, Maafushi Island, Hulhumalé
2. Bora Bora: The Crown Jewel
Bora Bora rises from turquoise lagoons like a emerald cathedral. Mount Otemanu, an ancient volcano, dominates the skyline at 2,385 feet. December weather stays consistently warm with minimal rainfall.
The island spans just 12 square miles, making it perfect for exploration by bicycle or scooter. Skip the expensive resort restaurants and head to Bloody Mary's, where locals gather for fresh mahi-mahi and cold Hinano beer.
Snorkeling in the coral gardens feels like swimming through an aquarium. The lagoon stays shallow for miles, creating perfect conditions for beginners and experts alike.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: May-October
- How to get there: Fly to Tahiti, then 50-minute flight to Bora Bora
- Entry fee: No visa required (French territory)
- Suggested stay: 4-6 days
- Key spots: Matira Beach, Mount Otemanu, Coral Gardens
3. Fiji: 333 Islands of Pure Joy
Fiji's 333 islands offer something for every traveler. December sits in the wet season, but tropical showers are brief and warm. The temperature rarely drops below 75°F.
Fijians greet visitors with “Bula!” and genuine smiles that remind you why this place is called the soft coral capital of the world. The diving here changed my perspective on underwater life—colors so vivid they seem painted.
Take a kava ceremony seriously when offered. This traditional drink tastes earthy and slightly bitter, but refusing is considered rude. Clap three times before drinking and once after.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: May-October
- How to get there: Fly to Nadi International Airport
- Entry fee: No visa required for stays under 4 months
- Suggested stay: 7-10 days
- Key spots: Mamanuca Islands, Coral Coast, Suva
4. Bali: Island of the Gods
Bali combines ancient temples, emerald rice terraces, and world-class beaches. December brings occasional afternoon showers, but mornings and evenings remain perfect for exploration.
The island operates on “Bali time”—everything moves slower here, and fighting it only causes frustration. Embrace the rhythm and you'll discover why millions return year after year.
Rent a scooter and explore the back roads of Ubud at sunrise. The rice paddies glow golden in early light, and you'll have most paths to yourself before the tour groups arrive.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: April-September
- How to get there: Fly to Ngurah Rai International Airport
- Entry fee: $35 visa on arrival
- Suggested stay: 7-14 days
- Key spots: Ubud, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Canggu
5. Costa Rica: Pura Vida Paradise
Costa Rica packs incredible biodiversity into a country smaller than West Virginia. December marks the start of dry season on the Pacific coast, bringing sunny skies and calm seas.
You haven't truly experienced Costa Rica until you've watched scarlet macaws fly overhead while howler monkeys call from the canopy. The country protects 25% of its land, creating wildlife encounters that feel like documentaries come to life.
Wake early for the best wildlife viewing. Animals are most active at dawn and dusk when temperatures drop. Bring binoculars and prepare to add species to your life list daily.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: December-April
- How to get there: Fly to San José or Liberia
- Entry fee: No visa required for US citizens
- Suggested stay: 10-14 days
- Key spots: Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Arenal, Guanacaste
6. Phuket: Thailand's Pearl
Phuket offers pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic Thai culture. December brings cool, dry weather with gentle breezes off the Andaman Sea.
The island's west coast faces incredible sunsets that paint the sky orange and pink every evening. I've watched hundreds of sunsets around the world, but Phuket's consistently rank among the most spectacular.
Visit local markets early morning for the freshest ingredients. Street vendors prepare pad thai and som tam right before your eyes, and the flavors surpass any restaurant.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: November-March
- How to get there: Fly to Phuket International Airport
- Entry fee: No visa required for stays under 30 days
- Suggested stay: 5-8 days
- Key spots: Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Old Phuket Town, Phi Phi Islands
7. Jamaica: One Love Island
Jamaica pulses with reggae rhythms and laid-back Caribbean energy. December weather stays consistently warm with occasional brief showers that cool the air.
The Blue Mountains rise dramatically from coastal plains, creating microclimates and some of the world's finest coffee. Jamaicans take pride in their island, and their passion becomes contagious within hours of arrival.
Try jerk chicken from a roadside stand rather than resort restaurants. The smoky, spicy flavors developed over pimento wood fires represent authentic Jamaican cooking at its finest.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: December-April
- How to get there: Fly to Kingston or Montego Bay
- Entry fee: No visa required for US citizens
- Suggested stay: 6-8 days
- Key spots: Negril, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Blue Mountains
8. Aruba: One Happy Island
Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt, providing year-round sunshine and steady trade winds. December brings perfect beach weather with minimal rainfall.
The island's Dutch colonial architecture creates a European feel in the Caribbean. Pastel buildings line Oranjestad's waterfront, while constant breezes keep temperatures comfortable even at midday.
Eagle Beach consistently ranks among the world's best beaches, but locals prefer Baby Beach on the southern tip. The protected cove creates calm, shallow water perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: December-April
- How to get there: Fly to Queen Beatrix International Airport
- Entry fee: No visa required for US citizens
- Suggested stay: 5-7 days
- Key spots: Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Natural Pool, Baby Beach
9. St. Lucia: Caribbean Majesty
St. Lucia's twin peaks, the Pitons, rise 2,600 feet directly from the Caribbean Sea. December offers ideal weather with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall.
The island combines French sophistication with Caribbean warmth. Creole cuisine blends African, French, and indigenous influences creating flavors found nowhere else in the Caribbean.
Hike between the Pitons early morning when mist still clings to the peaks. The trail challenges even experienced hikers, but views from the summit reveal why St. Lucia captivates photographers worldwide.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: December-April
- How to get there: Fly to Hewanorra International Airport
- Entry fee: No visa required for US citizens
- Suggested stay: 5-8 days
- Key spots: The Pitons, Soufrière, Rodney Bay, Marigot Bay
10. Palawan: The Last Frontier
Palawan stretches 270 miles between the South China Sea and Sulu Sea. December brings the start of dry season, creating perfect conditions for island hopping and cave exploration.
El Nido's limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons inspired countless travel magazines, but the reality exceeds every photograph. Crystal-clear water reflects towering karst formations, creating scenes that seem almost fictional.
Book island hopping tours through local operators rather than hotels. Filipino boat captains know secret beaches and snorkeling spots that larger tours never visit.
Quick Facts:
- Peak season: December-May
- How to get there: Fly to Puerto Princesa, then travel to El Nido or Coron
- Entry fee: No visa required for stays under 30 days
- Suggested stay: 8-10 days
- Key spots: El Nido, Coron, Puerto Princesa, Underground River
Your December Paradise Awaits
December transforms these tropical destinations into perfect escapes from winter weather. Whether you choose the overwater bungalows of the Maldives or the volcanic peaks of Bora Bora, each destination offers its own magic.
The best tropical places to visit in December combine ideal weather, fewer crowds, and unforgettable experiences. Pack light, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for memories that will warm you long after you return home.
Your tropical December adventure starts with a single booking. Choose your paradise and let the planning begin.
