Jamaica is a lush country in the Caribbean. This island nation has a diverse landscape with rainforests, mountains, and beaches with reefs. It is well known for its reggae music and is considered the genre’s birthplace. The country has a general feel-good vibe (for more reasons than one) that is perfect for a sunny, relaxed getaway. Despite recent doubts about its safety, Jamaica is a welcoming destination where travelers can feel comfortable. Visitors can enjoy plenty of outdoor adventures and embark on unique sightseeing opportunities during their stay. Although Jamaica is considered a destination you can visit all year long, December is the best time to visit for many reasons.
Average Temperature This Time of Year
- 70-85 Degrees F
Weather
The weather in Jamaica is quite warm nearly all year long. To have an enjoyable trip though, visitors should consider their heat tolerance. Jamaica can get extremely hot which would be uncomfortable for tourists or anyone who is not used to the sheer power of the sun in the region. For example, July is the hottest month in Jamaica, with peak temperatures well over 90 degrees. Instead, December in Jamaica offers relatively mild weather conditions. This month is also one of the driest times in the year so travelers do not have to worry about heavy rain ruining their sunny getaway.
Travel Tip: Visitors should pack clothing that will keep them cool, like light garments made from breathable fabrics. In the case of sunny skies and minimal cloud coverage, make sure to also have a good hat and a pair of sunglasses.
Seasonal Cuisine
The Christmas season in Jamaica is surely unique due to the lack of cold weather. For visitors who are seeking out a warm holiday experience, the Christmas season foods in Jamaica will also make the time special. The country has many traditional foods that are typically enjoyed with loved ones during the holidays. Some of the most popular authentic staples are pineapple-topped ham, rice and peas, goat soup, and Black Cake. For a good drink to accompany the delicious Christmas feast, Sorrel is a local favorite. This popular drink can be non-alcoholic or spiked.
Travel Tip: If visitors are lucky enough to already know or make friends with people in Jamaica, all of these seasonal cuisine staples are best homemade.
Reggae Music And Culture
Reggae is a unique style of music that became popular locally in the late 1960s. The music became the voice of the nation as it was used as a way to deliver both social and political commentary. With the growing popularity of Bob Marley, considered one of the main pioneers of reggae, it became an international phenomenon in the 1970s. This rich history is still represented in the country since its legacy lives on. Jamaica has many events throughout the year that celebrate reggae but also has a thriving tourism industry which highlights the genre. Visitors can take reggae tours, visit the birthplace of Bob Marley, Bob Marley Museum, or check out Kingston Dub Club.
Travel Tip: The music scene in Jamaica is lively so visitors should not run out of places to see. Montego Bay and Negril are most popular for their thriving nightlife so people can catch live performances there.
Hiking And Outdoor Adventure
Due to the more manageable weather conditions, December is an ideal time for hikers and adrenaline-rush seekers. Jamaica has many trails and spots for a good hike. Some of the most popular places for hiking and getting outdoors include Montego Bay, Negril, and Ochoa Rios. For hiking, the Blue Mountains are a great place to visit since it has trails and panoramic views. Travelers can also try out ATV adventures, romantic horseback riding on the beach, zip lining through the forest, and bamboo rafting.
Travel Tip: For envy-worthy pictures, visitors should book waterfall excursions, bamboo river rafting, or ATV beach experiences.
Local Events
Jamaica is considered to have a relatively celebratory culture so there will likely be events happening during a December visit. Visitors with niche interests can flourish during this time of year. The Motor Sports Championship Series happens in early December in Jamaica and is a time to celebrate the popularity of motorsports. The most popular motorsports categories in Jamaica are circuit racing, drag racing, and karting. There are also many food and music festivals, Christmas soirées, and even fashion shows.
Travel Tip: Many local events in Jamaica are advertised on road posters or social media, so travelers can find them there. If visitors are worried about safety, they can also seek help finding events on Jamaica’s tourism website.
A Kingston Christmas
Kingston is the capital of Jamaica and it is the largest city so it is a cultural hub. It is located on the southeastern coast of the island. Visitors who are interested in a non-traditional Christmas can simply explore Kingston. Around Christmas, many of the attractions that can get crowded will be empty since people are typically home for the holidays. There are many traditional attractions in the Kingston Parish like Fort Clarence Beach, Port Royal, Holywell Park Jamaica, and Fort Charles. Beyond those spots, Trench Town and the National Heroes Park are also popular. For travelers who want to celebrate Christmas more traditionally, there are markets and vendors on the streets with Christmas clothes, decorations, food, and other keepsakes.
Travel Tip: Although an elaborate family feast is a big part of celebrating Christmas in Jamaica, locals typically consider Christmas a time to party.
Negril Beaches
Visiting the beach is a must if travelers are planning a trip to Jamaica. Since December has milder weather conditions it is the best time to visit Jamaica for relaxing on the sand. Negril is particularly popular with tourists for its crystal clear waters and stunning coasts that make even a quick visit to sunbathe unmatched. There are a few different beach options in this town. Seven Mile Beach is one of the most popular ones since a portion of it overlooks Long Bay and provides a postcard-perfect view. There are many resorts, restaurants, and bars around this area.
Travel Tip: If visitors of Jamaica are prioritizing beach time, Negril is an ideal place to stay.
Leisurely Explore Mystic Mountain
Mystic Mountain is a rainforest adventure park in Ocho Rios that has plenty to offer to visitors. December is an ideal time to visit the park since the peak tourist season runs from December to April. By coming earlier in the popular tourist season visitors may be able to avoid the height of the crowds. The weather is also better since there is minimal rain and mild temperatures. Mystic Mountain was made for thrill seekers and those who love nature. The Sky Explorer, Mystic Pavilion, Rainforest Bobsled, and Canopy Zipline are some of the most popular attractions there.
Travel Tip: Visitors can book guided tours for Mystic Mountain if they want to have the commute taken care of. It is also advisable for people to wear light clothing to the park and close-toed shoes if participating in the exciting attractions.
Jamaica is a cultural capital of the Caribbean that is rightfully famous. Its iconic music, delicious food, and natural attractions have situated the country as a classic Caribbean getaway. The fun-loving locals make visiting that much more exciting. While the country can be appreciated through many parts of the year, December has some of the best weather and events. Overall though, one of the best parts of Jamaica is that it steadily reveals more and more reasons to return.
