What the weather is like in December
December is drier than November (91mm) with 29°C days, and the Atlantic hurricane season is over. Rates climb through the month to the Christmas–New Year peak, the busiest stretch of the year, so book that fortnight early.
Against November, December runs 1°C cooler with 40mm less rain and 0.4 hours less sun a day.
These December averages are station normals for Punta Cana International Airport (NOAA, via Wikipedia, 1991-2020); other parts of Punta Cana vary. Full sources below.
Punta Cana in December, on the ground
December is when Punta Cana turns drier after the wetter autumn, and the Atlantic hurricane season is over. Trade winds keep the coast breezy, and short tropical showers still pass through.
Crowds and prices in December
The first half of December is calmer than the holiday weeks. From about the 20th, Christmas and New Year make it the busiest and most expensive stretch of the year, and many resorts sell out.
What to do in December
- Take a boat trip to Isla Saona, in Cotubanamá National Park, on a calm day.
- Visit Altos de Chavón, the stone village above the Chavón River near La Romana.
- Spend a day in Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Swim in the Hoyo Azul cenote at Cap Cana.
Before you book: Book flights and rooms for Christmas to New Year early; that fortnight fills first.
What to pack for Punta Cana in December
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Sun hat & high-SPF sunscreen
- A packable rain jacket or compact umbrella
- Swimwear
Is December the right month?
Punta Cana's best month, March, is three months after December; the toughest, October, is two months before. If December does not fit, January is the closest month in the same best-season window. For the best balance of good conditions and smaller crowds, aim for April. See the full month-by-month breakdown for Punta Cana, or where else to go in December.
Where to stay in December
December is peak season in Punta Cana, so prices are at their highest. Book early for the best choice of rooms. Every area is compared on airport access and price in our guide, where to stay in Punta Cana.
- Bávaro$$The widest choice and the main beachThe core resort strip with the widest choice. Most exposed to sargassum in summer.See hotels in Punta Cana for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Cap Cana$$$Upscale resorts, golf, the marinaGated, quieter, and closest to the airport. Juanillo Beach is one of the calmest on the coast.See hotels in Punta Cana for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Uvero Alto$$$Secluded resorts, couples, fewer crowdsForty-five minutes north of the airport; wilder beach with stronger surf. Often less sargassum than Bávaro.See hotels in Punta Cana for 12–18 Dec 2026
Links open a hotel search for 12–18 Dec 2026; you can change the dates there. We may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Before you go
Book the rest of your December trip
Tours and tickets
Day trips, attraction tickets and guided tours in Punta Cana.
Browse Punta Cana on KlookAirport transfer
A fixed-price car from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) to your hotel, booked before you land.
Book a transfer on KiwitaxiMobile data
An eSIM for Dominican Republic installs before you fly, so you have data when you land. Check your phone supports eSIM first.
See Dominican Republic plans on AiraloCar hire
Compare rental car prices in Punta Cana.
Compare cars on EconomyBookings
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Frequently asked questions
What is the weather like in Punta Cana in December?
Is December a good time to visit Punta Cana?
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How far ahead should I book Punta Cana for December?
Sources: Go Dominican Republic (Ministry of Tourism) · Go Dominican Republic: Samaná · NOAA: Punta Cana International Airport, 1991-2020 · NOAA National Hurricane Center · Oficina Nacional de Meteorología (ONAMET). Full provenance on the Punta Cana guide.
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