Tasmania Weather in December

Average Temperatures in Tasmania in  December

Maximum December temperatures range between 19 °C (66.2 °F) and 23 °C (73.4 °F) along the East Coast. The warmest region are the valleys west of Hobart, where temperatures regularly rise above 25 °C (77 °F). 

In 2019, the month of December brought record high temperatures to many parts of the island, including a state record of 41.9 °C (107.4 °F) at Friendly Beaches in Freycinet National Park.

The coldest part of Tasmania in December is the Central Plateau, with temperatures starting at 3 °C (37.4 °F) and rarely exceeding 17 °C (62.6 °F).

Average temperatures in Tasmania in December

Average Sea Temperatures in Tasmania in December

The average water temperature of the sea surrounding Tasmania is 15.9 °C (60 °F) in December. Swimming in Hobart, Devonport, Coles Bay, Maria Island, and Wynyard is possible only for short periods of time without a wetsuit.

Does it snow in Tasmania in December?

Although snowfall in the summer months is rare, elevated areas like kunanyi/Mount Wellington may occasionally experience early summer snow in December. 

Average Sunshine Hours per Day in Tasmania in  December

December is a sunny and pleasant month with many long bright days. There are approximately 15.3 daylight hours and 12.6 hours of sunshine per day. The sun rises at around 5:30 am and sets between 8:30 pm and 8:50 pm.

UV levels in Tasmania in December

The UV index in Tasmania in December is above 11, which is considered extreme. There is a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure and it doesn’t take much to get sunburnt. 

Average Rainfall in Tasmania in December

December is the driest month of the year, with an average of 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation. However, the amount of rain varies greatly throughout the island. The West Coast is the wettest, with up to 170 mm (6.7 in) of rainfall, while the East Coast gets only around 26-37 mm (1.02-1.5 in) rainfall.

Average rainfall in Tasmania in December

Best Things to Do in Tasmania in  December

December is the most popular time of year to visit Tasmania with plenty of events and activities taking place throughout the month, in particular between Christmas and New Year. The weather is also comfortably warm for visiting Tasmania’s national parks and outdoor attractions.

Taste of Tasmania 

Taste of Tasmania is a yearly culinary event that takes place during the last week of December. The festival, set up on the Hobart waterfront, features hundreds of stalls showcasing the best of Tasmanian food and beverages, in addition to live music, entertainment, and street performances.

Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

See some of the world's greatest yachts as they take part in the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, considered to be the most difficult ocean race in the world. The yachts depart from Sydney on Boxing day to arrive at Hobart's Constitution Dock a few days later, greeted by firing cannons and festivities. 

Launceston Beerfest

For the ultimate beer-tasting experience, head to Launceston where Australia’s longest-running beer festival takes place each December. Here you’ll have the chance to sip on craft beers, chat with the brewers, and attend masterclasses by industry experts. 

Bay of Fires

A trip to Tasmania in December wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Bay of Fires, known for its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and imposing orange-hued granite blocks. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing, bird-watching, walking, or just taking in the spectacular landscape.

Ready to start planning your trip to Tasmania?

For a really comprehensive outline for Tasmania in December, read our Two Week Best of Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary. 

Recommended Itineraries for Tasmania in  December

Ready to start planning your trip to Tasmania? FLT’s Tasmania Driving Holiday Itineraries will provide plenty of inspiration. Explore the island at your own pace or contact our travel specialists who will help you plan an amazing journey.