Formal
Black Blazer Pleated Rain
A black blazer over an ivory blouse and pleated maxi skirt in warm rain is complete formal coverage. Black mule heels are the practical formal choice when espadrilles are off the table.
What to Wear in Jacksonville in December
In December, Jacksonville averages 45–66°F with about 8 rainy days and the mild North Florida winter that makes it one of the more pleasant Southern December destinations. Evenings cool to the upper 40s, so a proper jacket is needed after dark — a fact that catches visitors expecting Florida warmth year-round. Jacksonville Beach in December is beautiful for a coastal winter walk, though the Atlantic wind makes the waterfront 5–8°F cooler than inland temperatures.
What to wear
top / Short-Sleeve Top
classic tee
bottom / Jeans
straight-leg
chinos for a slightly smarter look
footwear / Waterproof Boots
ankle boots
rubber sole for traction — keep feet dry all day
outerwear / Rain Jacket
shell jacket
waterproof or DWR-treated — keep it packable
Consider bringing:
UmbrellaSunglasses
Based on typical December conditions in Jacksonville. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
December in Jacksonville is the reward for residents who endure the summer's daily thunderstorms and oppressive humidity — mild 66°F afternoons, cool 45°F evenings, and the Atlantic Coast in its most comfortable, uncrowded form. The beaches are beautiful in December, the Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods are at their most pleasant for walking, and the tourist crowds that define Florida's spring and summer seasons are largely absent. Jacksonville Beach and Neptune Beach provide Atlantic Ocean beach access in conditions that are ideal for coastal walking even if not for swimming — the December water temperature is in the low 60s, tolerable for the hardy but comfortable for beach walks with a light layer. The St. Johns River waterfront creates cool breezes that amplify wind chill in December, making the waterfront feel noticeably colder than inland areas. The Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods are flat, walkable, and shaded by mature trees that have mostly lost their leaves by December — the canopy provides less protection from northerly breezes than in summer. The coastal-casual Florida aesthetic adapts to December with lightweight winter layers: a medium-weight jacket over a sweater handles most Jacksonville December days comfortably without the heavy insulation that northern climates require. Jacksonville's winter social calendar includes holiday events, outdoor markets, and the beginning of the snowbird migration to Northeast Florida — the city's cafes and restaurants fill with seasonal residents and visitors who appreciate the mild winter climate. Evenings at outdoor Jacksonville restaurants in December are comfortable in a jacket rather than requiring a serious coat.
Curated Looks
Cozy
Parka and the Ivory Mules
A black longline parka over a crewneck sweatshirt in warm rain has a deliberateness that works. Ivory satin mules and a cream beanie are the contrasts that make it.
Casual
Linen Under Rain Jacket
A black rain jacket over ivory linen trousers refuses to look sloppy in warm rain. Espadrilles and a crochet bucket hat keep the warm-weather mood alive below the waterline.
Cute
Double Denim Rainy Day
A light wash denim jacket over a denim mini skirt makes a strong case for double denim in warm rain. The black square neck top underneath adds structure.
Chic
Blush Jacket Tortoise
A blush cropped jacket over a white linen blouse and ivory wide-leg trousers refuses to look heavy in warm rain. Tortoiseshell cat-eye sunglasses are the editorial punctuation.
Business Casual
White Linen Blazer Day
A white linen blazer over matching wide-leg linen trousers and a blue collarless blouse stays entirely polished through warm rain. Slide sandals and gold aviators make it feel like summer despite the drizzle.
Sporty
Yellow Jacket Biker
A yellow hooded rain jacket over biker shorts and a longline tee handles warm rain with high-visibility attitude. Ivory pointed-toe mules are the surprising finishing note.
Packing List
What to Pack for Jacksonville in December →
Other Months in Jacksonville
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Jacksonville in December?+
Wear light to medium-weight layers in Jacksonville in December — temperatures range from 45°F to 66°F, and the mild Florida winter is manageable with a good jacket rather than heavy winter gear. Evenings cool to the upper 40s, making a proper jacket non-negotiable for outdoor dining. A light rain layer handles the 8 rainy days; no heavy insulation is needed for most December Jacksonville days.
Is December a good time to visit Jacksonville?+
December is an excellent time to visit Jacksonville — the summer heat and humidity are completely gone, the beaches and Riverside neighborhood are at their most comfortable and uncrowded, and the mild 66°F afternoons are ideal for coastal walking and outdoor dining. The Atlantic wind makes the beach cooler than inland temperatures, and evenings require a jacket — both manageable adjustments for a very pleasant December destination.
What shoes are best for Jacksonville in December?+
Comfortable walking flats, ankle boots, or light walking shoes are the best footwear for Jacksonville in December. The flat terrain of Jacksonville Beach boardwalk and the Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods handles most footwear options. Waterproof options are useful for the 8 rainy days. No heavy insulation is needed in footwear — the mild 45°F minimum temperature doesn't require serious winter boots.
How cold does it get in Jacksonville in December?+
Jacksonville averages a high of 66°F and a low of 45°F in December, with about 8 rainy days. The St. Johns River waterfront and Atlantic Beach coastline run 5–8°F cooler than inland areas. Occasional cold fronts can briefly drop temperatures to the upper 30s, but these passes are short-lived in North Florida. January is the coldest month but still mild by national standards.
What should I pack for Jacksonville in December?+
Pack a medium-weight jacket, layered sweaters or light knitwear, a light rain layer, and comfortable walking shoes or ankle boots. No heavy winter gear is needed — Jacksonville's December is mild enough for a regular jacket rather than a serious coat. The coastal-casual Florida aesthetic adapts naturally to light winter layering: a leather jacket over a sweater, ankle boots, and casual-smart cold-weather pieces.