Okinawa in December
Good time to visit
December offers crisp, clear weather that's perfect for sightseeing and cultural activities. Swimming becomes less appealing, but the comfortable temperatures and holiday atmosphere make up for it.
Weather
December brings cooler, dry weather with highs around 72°F (22°C) and crisp lows near 61°F (16°C). Rain is minimal, and humidity stays low. The ocean starts cooling down, making swimming less appealing for most visitors.
22°C high16°C low5 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$95/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas illuminations
- •New Year preparations
- •Winter cultural festivals
December Tips
- •Pack warm clothes for evenings - it actually gets chilly
- •Beach activities wind down but hiking weather is perfect
- •Hotel prices spike during Christmas and New Year weeks
All Months
April through May gives you perfect weather without the crowds. Temperatures hover around 25°C, humidity stays manageable, and the rainy season hasn't started yet. Cherry blossoms bloom in late January here — months before mainland Japan — but April's weather beats everything.
October and November work almost as well. The summer heat finally breaks, typhoon season ends, and water temperatures stay warm enough for swimming. Hotel prices drop after Golden Week madness, and you'll actually find space on the beaches.
Avoid June through September unless you love heat and humidity. Summer temperatures push 35°C with 80% humidity, and typhoons regularly slam the islands. July and August bring Japanese school holidays, which means every beach, restaurant, and attraction gets packed. Winter (December-March) stays mild but feels too cool for swimming — water temperatures drop to 20°C.
Okinawa Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
8/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
7/10
Budget
5/10
Luxury
7/10
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