Saint Georges - Things to Do in Saint Georges in December

Things to Do in Saint Georges in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Saint Georges

28°C (82°F) High Temp
24°C (75°F) Low Temp
180mm (7.1 inches) Rainfall
85% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

  • Lush tropical landscapes at peak greenery - waterfalls flow strongest and rainforest hiking is spectacular with temperatures around 26°C (79°F) in mountain areas
  • Significantly fewer tourists than January-March peak season means better prices and authentic local experiences, especially at Grand Anse Beach and market stalls
  • Mango season reaches peak - local Julie mangoes and other tropical fruits are at maximum ripeness and sold fresh at Melville Street Market daily
  • Spice harvest season - nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove processing happens now, making spice estate tours (Gouyave and Grenville areas) incredibly aromatic and educational

Considerations

  • Heavy afternoon rainfall 12 days per month - sudden downpours between 2-5pm can disrupt outdoor activities and make hiking trails slippery for 2-3 hours
  • High humidity at 85% makes it feel like 32°C (90°F) even when temperatures are 28°C (82°F) - exhaustion happens faster during midday activities
  • Rough seas on windward coast limit some boat trips - Atlantic-facing beaches like Levera have stronger currents and choppy conditions unsuitable for swimming

Best Activities in December

Grand Anse Beach Morning Sessions

December mornings (7-11am) offer perfect beach conditions before afternoon rains hit. Water temperature stays 27°C (81°F) with calm seas. The 3km (1.9 mile) stretch is nearly empty of tourists, giving you pristine Caribbean beach experience. Rain typically starts after 2pm, so morning beach time is ideal.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed for beach access. Beach chair rentals typically ฿150-300 per day. Reference booking widget below for current water sports and beach tour options.

Rainforest Waterfall Hikes

December's rainfall creates spectacular waterfall displays at Annandale and Seven Sisters falls. The 45-minute hike to Seven Sisters is challenging but rewarding - waterfalls are at 80% capacity versus 40% in dry season. Temperature drops to 24°C (75°F) under forest canopy, providing relief from coastal humidity.

Booking Tip: Local guides typically charge ฿800-1,200 for half-day waterfall tours. Book morning starts (8am) to avoid afternoon rain. See current guided waterfall tours in booking section below.

Spice Estate Educational Tours

December is active processing season at nutmeg and cocoa estates. You'll see workers drying spices and witness the complete farm-to-export process. Dougaldston Estate and Belmont Estate offer 2-hour tours during harvest time with tastings of fresh spices and chocolate production demonstrations.

Booking Tip: Estate tours cost ฿600-900 per person including tastings. Tours run 9am-4pm but book morning slots to avoid afternoon rains. Check booking widget for current spice tour availability.

Underwater Sculpture Park Snorkeling

December's calmer leeward waters make Molinere Bay perfect for viewing the world's first underwater sculpture park. Visibility reaches 15m (49 feet) and water stays 27°C (81°F). The protected bay location means minimal wave action even during December's wetter weather patterns.

Booking Tip: Snorkeling tours typically ฿1,200-1,800 including equipment and boat transport. Morning tours (9am-12pm) offer best visibility before afternoon weather changes. See current underwater sculpture tours below.

St. George's Market and Heritage Walking

December brings the best local produce to Saturday markets - fresh Julie mangoes, breadfruit, and callaloo are in peak season. The historic Carenage area offers covered walkways perfect during brief afternoon showers. Market vendors are less rushed with fewer cruise ship tourists.

Booking Tip: Self-guided market exploration is free. Historical walking tours cost ฿400-600 per person for 2-hour guided experiences. See booking options below for cultural walking tours with local historians.

River Tubing Adventures

December's increased water levels make river tubing on the Balthazar River exceptional - normally shallow sections become navigable rapids. The 2-hour float covers 5km (3.1 miles) through rainforest with small waterfalls and natural pools. Water temperature stays comfortable at 25°C (77°F).

Booking Tip: River tubing tours range ฿1,000-1,400 including transport and safety equipment. Book for morning departures only - afternoon rains can make rivers dangerous. Current river adventure options available in booking widget.

December Events & Festivals

Throughout December

Parang Festival Season

Traditional Venezuelan-influenced Christmas music performances happen throughout December in villages across the island. Local bands perform door-to-door parang music, especially strong in Gouyave and Victoria areas. Free community performances most weekends.

Mid to Late December

Nutmeg Harvest Celebrations

Working celebrations at spice estates where you can participate in traditional nutmeg processing methods. Includes local food, rum tasting, and calypso music. Authentic cultural experience centered around Grenada's most important export crop.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon showers last 30-45 minutes and humidity hits 85%
SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 and reflection off water intensifies exposure
Moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool underwear - cotton stays wet in 85% humidity
Closed-toe water shoes for rocky beach areas and river activities - Grand Anse has some coral areas
Small waterproof day pack - essential for protecting electronics during sudden downpours
Lightweight long-sleeve shirts for rainforest hikes - protects from insects and UV while staying cool
Cash in small bills - many local vendors and small tour operators don't accept cards or large denominations
Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquitos are more active during wet season especially near water
Antibacterial hand gel - helpful when trying street food at markets and after boat trips
Portable charger in waterproof case - humid conditions drain batteries faster and power outages happen during storms

Insider Knowledge

Visit Gouyave Fish Friday (Friday nights) for the most authentic local food experience - December brings special holiday preparations with locals cooking traditional oil down and callaloo
Book accommodations on the leeward (Caribbean) side - windward (Atlantic) side gets stronger winds and more rainfall in December, making beach activities less enjoyable
Shop at local supermarkets like IGA or FoodFair early morning (7-9am) for best selection - afternoon delivery trucks get delayed by rain and roads become congested
Carry exact change for bus transportation - ZR vans cost ฿3-5 per ride but drivers often lack change during tourist low season when business is slower

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities after 2pm - December afternoon rains are predictable and can last until 5pm, ruining beach days and hiking plans
Bringing only cotton clothing - takes hours to dry in 85% humidity and becomes uncomfortable when wet from rain or sweat
Expecting calm seas everywhere - windward beaches like Bathway and Levera have rough conditions in December unsuitable for swimming or snorkeling

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