Halong Bay Weather in December
December is a festive month and why not celebrate your important event in Halong Bay?
- For many, December is still a favorable month to visit Halong Bay with cold and dry weather and a low amount of rainfall.
- No snow and frost in December in Halong Bay! With an average temperature of 19°C, the weather is very mild.
- It is a great time to visit the caves and go for hikes around the islands.
Winter officially arrives at Halong Bay in December. The highest temperature reaches around 21°C while the lowest can drop to approximately 14°C. Humidity levels are relatively low, with minimal rainfall occurring throughout the month.
December marks the low tourist season for domestic travelers due to cooler weather, which can discourage beach activities. As a result, there are fewer local tourists in Halong Bay this month.
Halong Bay Weather in December
Temperature
In December, we experience the second lowest temperatures (February being the coldest) of the year. The average temperature is around 18°C, and it can occasionally drop to as low as 14°C. This type of weather allows for various outdoor activities without becoming overly fatigued or sweaty. Be sure to bring warm clothing, as it can feel quite brisk once out of the sun.
Sunshine
December typically enjoys about 8 hours of sunshine each day, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. The abundance of sunlight and minimal precipitation render December an excellent time to visit Halong Bay!
Rainfall
Although November sees less rain overall, December has fewer rainy days. On average, it receives about 9mm of rain over 4-6 days compared to November's 12mm over 7 days.
Humidity
The humidity in December falls to 64%, making it far more pleasant for outdoor activities than during the humid summer months.
| Month | High / Low (°C) | Average rainfall (MM) | Rain Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| December (2024) | 23.1°C (73.6°F) / 12.1°C (53.8°F) | 20.5mm / 0.81in | 5 days |
| December (2023) | 22.3°C (72.1°F) / 13.5°C (56.3°F) | 18.6mm / 0.73in | 4 days |
| December (2022) | 25.0°C (77.0°F) / 12.5°C (54.5°F) | 32.5mm / 1.28in | 6 days |
Weather averages for December
Pros and Cons of Visiting Halong Bay in December
Pros:
- While December is one of the colder months, the temperatures are generally comfortable for international travelers.
- The cool temperatures combined with low humidity create excellent conditions for outdoor adventures.
- Sunny, long, and dry days are frequent in December.
Cons:
- With lows around 14°C, December can feel too cold for children and seniors.
- It is advisable to bring warm layers and a jacket.
- Although it is low season for locals, Halong Bay still attracts many international visitors.
- Water activities like swimming and snorkeling may be unsuitable due to the cooler temperatures.
Events in Halong Bay in December
Christmas is not an official holiday in Vietnam; however, it is somewhat acknowledged. Travelers may encounter Christmas decorations and music on cruises, in stores, and restaurants.
Christmas celebrations in Vietnam.
Best Things to Do in Halong Bay in December
Kayaking
Winter kayaking is a must-try experience in Halong Bay during December as it provides the best paddling conditions. The gentle sea breeze, clear skies, and mild water temperatures create ideal kayaking weather. It’s best to wear long sleeves in case the temperatures drop.
Taking an Overnight Cruise
Setting sail on a cruise with minimal wind and rain leads to one of the most enchanting experiences. Aboard a ship, you can explore the stunning scenery of Halong Bay while participating in onboard activities such as morning tai chi, sunset cocktail parties, squid fishing, and enjoying live music performances.
Hiking
Climbing mountains in pleasant conditions with ample sunshine allows for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. However, be mindful that occasional chilly days may make hiking less appealing.
Exploring Caves
For those who don’t mind the crowds, exploring caves can be quite rewarding even in colder weather. With sunny and bright skies and little rain, the conditions are favorable for cave exploration. Inside, however, it could be significantly cooler; hence, it is prudent to wear warm clothing, especially sweaters, and sturdy shoes to prevent slipping.
Activity Ratings
Activities |
Best Places to Do |
Pros and Cons in December |
Rating |
Kayaking |
Luon Cave, Dark & Bright Cave, Tung Sau Pearl Farm, Ao Ech Area, Ba Trai Dao Beach |
- Pros: Cool and dry weather ensures you won’t become overly tired. Lower chances of rain enhance the quality of your trip. - Cons: Popular tourist sites may be crowded. |
8/10 |
Taking Overnight Cruise |
- Pros: Generally pleasant weather, with low humidity and a low likelihood of inclement conditions. - Cons: Prices can be elevated. |
9.5/10 |
|
Hiking |
Bai Tho Mountain, Yen Tu Mountain, Titop Mountain, Ngu Lam Mountain |
- Pros: Dry weather with minimal rainfall keeps you from overheating while climbing. - Cons: Some trails may be demanding for certain individuals. |
8/10 |
Exploring Caves |
Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Dark & Bright Cave |
- Pros: Beneficial weather conditions allow for enjoyable cave explorations. - Cons: Tourist traffic can be high in caves. There may be cold days that deter outdoor excursions. |
8/10 |
What to Pack When Traveling to Halong Bay in December
Despite the cold air, sunlight can still be potent; so it's essential to pack sun protection like sunscreen, long-sleeve clothing, or hats. The water temperature may be warmer than the air temperature, so bringing gear for water activities like kayaking and visiting floating villages is advisable.
A sweater and jacket are wise choices considering how chilly it can get in the evenings and out of the sun.
Activities |
Weather |
Packing List |
Kayaking |
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Taking Overnight Cruise |
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Hiking |
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Exploring Caves |
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Local Tips
- The chilly December weather does not diminish the intensity of the sun’s rays, making sun protection such as sunscreen and sun hats essential.
- While swimming may not be an option, numerous other water and outdoor activities are available to enjoy.
- Expect higher prices and overbooked services over Christmas and New Year’s Eve, so plan accordingly.
- It would be prudent to book cruises and services well in advance if your travel dates coincide with holidays or special occasions.
FAQs
1. Is Halong Bay in December worth it?
Absolutely. Despite potentially cool temperatures, they are generally manageable for Western visitors. The sunny days and low rainfall mean plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, and there are fewer local tourists present compared to peak seasons.
2. Is it too cold in Halong Bay in December?
The average temperature of about 18°C is not excessive, though it can feel chilly for those unaccustomed to cooler weather. The temperature may occasionally drop to 14°C, which could be brisk.
3. What essential items should I bring when visiting Halong Bay in December?
Due to the cold and sometimes brisk weather in December, warm clothing is a must. Swimsuits might not be suitable. Pack sunscreen, a camera, and sturdy shoes for outdoor excursions.
4. Is December considered high or low season?
While December is festive and lively, it is not as crowded as the peak months of October and November, allowing for a better experience during onboard and outdoor activities in Halong Bay.
5. Can I swim and snorkel in Halong Bay during December?
The sea temperature is considerably cooler during winter, so swimming and snorkeling are generally not recommended. However, other activities such as kayaking, mountain trekking, and cave exploration are great alternatives.
