As the year draws to a close and colder days settle in across Europe, many travellers dream of escaping to a sun drenched paradise where the pace of life slows, the sea sparkles and festive traditions take on a tropical twist.
Few destinations capture that spirit as beautifully as St Lucia in December. With its lush volcanic peaks, golden beaches and warm-hearted local culture, this jewel of the Caribbean offers the perfect balance between relaxation, adventure and celebration.
Whether you're seeking a luxurious winter getaway or a Christmas holiday filled with colour and Caribbean rhythm, December in St Lucia is an experience that feels exotic yet comforting. Read on to learn more about what you can expect if you visit the Caribbean island at this time of year.
What is the Weather Like in St Lucia in December?
When the calendar turns to December, St Lucia enters one of its most delightful seasons. The island offers a warm, tropical year-round climate, but December in St Lucia also marks the start of the dry season. That means plenty of sunshine, low humidity and refreshingly balmy evenings.
In terms of the temperature in St Lucia in December, you can expect daytime temperatures to hover around 29 degrees. The evenings are comfortably cooler but they still rarely drop below 23 degrees at this point in the year.
The sea remains invitingly warm in December, with average temperatures of roughly 27 degrees. This makes it perfect for swimming, sailing and snorkelling. Brief rain showers can occasionally pass through the region, especially in the early days of the month, but these tend to be short lived and immediately followed by clear skies and breathtaking rainbows.
For travellers from colder climates such as the UK, this means trading frost and grey skies for swim wear and sandals. The combination of consistent sunshine, gentle trade winds and comfortable temperatures creates the ideal climate for both lazy beach days and active exploration of the surrounding region. It's no wonder that St Lucia in December has become a cherished holiday destination for those seeking a touch of luxury and warmer climes at the end of another busy year.
Things to Do in St Lucia in December
Beyond its picture perfect scenery, St Lucia offers a wealth of activities that make December in St Lucia a month of discovery and delight. Whether you're drawn to the island's natural wonders, its vibrant culture or its exclusive experiences, there's something for every kind of traveller.
For adventure lovers, the island's iconic Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, invite you to hike through lush rainforest trails and enjoy sweeping views from the summits. The cool December air makes these hikes especially pleasant, and the reward of panoramic vistas across the Caribbean Sea feels even sweeter. Alternatively, you can explore the famous Sulphur Springs near Soufriere, where you can take a dip in mineral-rich mud baths known for their rejuvenating properties.
Water based activities are equally inviting at this time of year. With crystal clear waters and calm conditions, December is ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling along St Lucia's vibrant coral reefs, home to tropical fish, sea turtles and colourful sponges. Many resorts offer sailing excursions, where guests can watch the sun set behind the Pitons with a glass of champagne in hand, creating unforgettable Caribbean memories.
For those seeking a touch of culture, the island's towns and villages come alive in December with local music, street food and artisan markets. Castries, the capital, is a wonderful place to shop for handmade crafts and island spices, while Rodney Bay offers a lively marina lined with restaurants serving Creole inspired cuisine and freshly caught seafood. The combination of festive energy and relaxed island charm makes every day in St Lucia feel like a festive celebration.
Wellness experiences are another highlight of December in St Lucia. With many of the island's luxury resorts having their own world-class spas offering a range of holistic treatments. Guests can indulge in open air massages, yoga sessions overlooking the sea and spa rituals using natural Caribbean ingredients. The tranquil surroundings and comfortably warm weather make it the perfect time to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit before the New Year begins.
Christmas in St Lucia: Traditions, Events & Festive Celebrations
While the beaches and tropical landscapes may feel far removed from the snow covered Christmas scenes that populate festive imagery in the northern hemisphere, Christmas in St Lucia is a time of joy, community and vibrant celebration. The island's deep rooted traditions and lively festivities infuse the season with warmth and character, offering visitors a unique way to experience the Christmas holiday spirit.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, homes and towns across St Lucia are adorned with colourful lights, nativity scenes and festive decorations. Churches hold special services, and the sound of carols fills the air, often accompanied by steel drums and soca rhythms. One of the most beloved traditions is the Festival of Lights and Renewal, held on December 13th in honour of Saint Lucia, the island's namesake and patron saint of light. The event transforms the capital, Castries, into a dazzling spectacle of lanterns, fireworks and music. Locals and visitors gather for parades and a fireworks display which light up the Caribbean night sky.
For food lovers, Christmas in St Lucia is also a culinary celebration. Traditional dishes take centre stage, with favourites such as baked ham glazed with local honey, roasted breadfruit and rich fruitcake soaked in rum. Many luxury resorts host gourmet Christmas dinners and beachfront feasts, allowing guests to savour Caribbean flavours in a festive setting.
On Christmas Day, the atmosphere is as relaxed as you might expect and also joyful. Locals head to the beach for family gatherings, picnics & barbecues, and visitors are warmly welcomed to join in with the traditional St Lucia Christmas celebrations. Boxing Day sees a continuation of the merriment with live music, dancing and open air parties that capture the island's exuberant spirit.
For those spending Christmas in St Lucia at one of the island's elegant resorts, the experience is both luxurious and heart warming. Many hotels host special holiday programmes featuring candlelit dinners, live entertainment and native cultural performances. The blend of festive elegance and Caribbean charm creates a holiday atmosphere that feels both indulgent and authentic - a true celebration of life, light and togetherness.
Spending December in St Lucia
Choosing to spend December in St Lucia offers more than just a tropical escape, it's a chance to end the year surrounded by beauty, warmth and serenity. The island's mix of natural splendour, rich culture and world class hospitality makes it an unrivalled destination for travellers seeking a memorable winter holiday.
Whether you're toasting the season beneath palm trees, watching the sunset from a catamaran or listening to Christmas carols sung in Creole, St Lucia in December promises moments that linger long in the memory. It's a place where festive spirit meets barefoot luxury and where every sunrise feels like a fresh opportunity for fun and laughter.
For those dreaming of a Christmas filled with sunshine, culture and Caribbean elegance, there is no better destination than St Lucia in December. Start planning your festive getaway today with the help of our luxury travel specialists who will use their first hand knowledge and experience in the region to create a tailor made experience which is bespoke to your requirements.