December is the start of Fiji's wet season, and the islands turn lush, green and dramatic — the air is hot and humid, the sea is at its warmest, and tropical showers roll through in the afternoon to leave everything fresh and glistening. It is a more intense Fiji than the dry winter months, but also a more rewarding one: the reefs are vivid, the waterfalls are full, the resort rates ease after the peak, and the festive season brings a special atmosphere to the islands. The trade-off is heat, humidity and the occasional downpour, so dressing for Fiji in December is a question of light, breathable layers, serious sun protection, swimwear that dries fast, and a light rain shell for the tropical showers.
This complete guide to what to wear in Fiji in December covers the clothing you need for every part of a December trip — beach days, resort days, boat trips, village visits, evenings out and active days — plus a full packing list and answers to the most common questions. We also bring together all the travel essentials in one place: live flight prices to Fiji, the best Fiji resorts and hotels, car rentals and bike hire for getting around, a Fiji eSIM so you stay connected, and the best GetYourGuide tours and experiences to round out your trip. Whether you're spending a long weekend or a full fortnight over the festive season, this is your December Fiji packing handbook.
The Fiji December Climate in Brief
December in Fiji is hot and humid, with daytime highs typically around 30-31°C (86-88°F) and night-time lows around 22-23°C (72-73°F). December marks the start of the wet season, so humidity is high — often 75-85% — and the air feels heavy, especially in the middle of the day. The trade winds ease in the wet season, so the cooling breeze that makes the dry months so comfortable is less reliable, and the heat can feel more intense than the temperature alone suggests.
Rain in December is high — typically around 250-350 mm across the month, with rain on roughly 15-20 days. The rain usually arrives as heavy, warm, tropical showers and the occasional thunderstorm, often in the afternoon or overnight, rather than all-day downpours. Most December days still have long sunny spells between the showers, and the rain is warm rather than chilling. December also sits within the South Pacific cyclone season, though direct hits on Fiji are rare in any given year.
In short: December in Fiji is hot, humid and showery, with a warm sea and lush, green islands. The wardrobe it asks for is light, breathable and sun-protected, with a rain shell for the tropical showers — built around linen and cotton, swimwear that dries fast, a hat and sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen for the equatorial sun.
The Six Wardrobe Essentials for Fiji in December
A Fiji December wardrobe can be built around a small number of versatile essentials. Get these six right and the rest of your packing falls into place.
Light, Breathable Clothing
The single most important piece for Fiji in December is light, breathable clothing. Think loose linen shirts, cotton shorts, lightweight sundresses and kaftans — natural fibres that let the warm, humid tropical air circulate. December in Fiji is hot and humid, with daytime highs of around 30-31°C, so anything tight or synthetic will feel oppressive. Stick to a relaxed tropical palette — white, cream, sand, soft blue — and you'll look and feel the part from the beach to the resort bar.
Swimwear You Love
You will live in swimwear in Fiji, so pack at least three or four sets so one is always dry — December's humidity means nothing dries fast. A flattering one-piece, a bikini or swim trunks, plus a rash vest for snorkelling on the reef, are the essentials. Choose a rash vest with UPF protection — the Fiji sun is strong even on cloudy days, and a vest lets you snorkel for hours without burning. A cover-up or sarong is the classic Fiji move from beach to bar.
Sun Protection
December in Fiji sits close to the equator, and the sun is intense even through cloud. A wide-brimmed straw hat, a pair of good sunglasses with UV protection, and reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) are non-negotiable. Reef-safe matters — standard sunscreens damage the coral you've come to snorkel. Add a lightweight scarf or sarong for shoulder cover on long beach walks and boat trips, and reapply sunscreen every two hours.
A Light Rain Shell
December is the start of Fiji's wet season, and tropical showers — sometimes heavy and sudden — are part of the day. A lightweight, packable rain shell that fits in your day bag is the single most useful December layer; it weighs nothing, dries fast, and keeps you comfortable through a downpour without overheating. Skip heavy rain gear — Fiji rain is warm, and you'll be glad of the breathability of a light shell.
Comfortable Sandals & Reef Shoes
Footwear in Fiji is simple: comfortable sandals for the resort, flip-flops for the beach, and a pair of reef shoes or water shoes for snorkelling, rocky shores and island boat trips. Reef shoes matter more than you'd think — coral cuts are painful and slow to heal, and many of Fiji's best snorkel spots are reached over rocky or coral-strewn shorelines. A pair of light trainers or walking shoes is useful for any inland or village visits.
A Compact Day Bag
A compact, water-resistant day bag is the Fiji essential you'll use every day. A dry bag or a small backpack for snorkelling trips, a beach bag for towels and sunscreen, and a secure crossbody for resort and town wear. Choose something that handles a splash — you'll be on boats, beaches and near water all day, and a bag that can't take a little salt water will be a constant worry.
What to Wear for Each Part of Your Fiji Day
An October day in Fiji moves between the beach, the resort, the boat, a possible shower and the evening bar — so each part of the day has its own dress code. Here is what to wear for each.
Beach Days (Snorkelling, Swimming, Sunbathing)
For a day on the beach in Fiji in December, start with swimwear you love, add a rash vest for snorkelling on the reef, and a sarong or cover-up for the walk between the water and the sun-lounger. A wide-brimmed straw hat, sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen are non-negotiable, and reef shoes matter for the rocky and coral-strewn shorelines at many of Fiji's best snorkel spots. A lightweight scarf or sarong doubles as a shoulder cover on long beach walks.
Resort Days (Pools, Bars, Relaxing)
For a day around the resort in Fiji, swimwear with a cover-up or sundress is the standard, with comfortable sandals and a hat for the sun. A kaftan or a light linen dress works beautifully from pool to lunch to bar, and a lightweight scarf takes the edge off the air-conditioning in the resort restaurants. Keep a small day bag with your sunscreen, sunglasses and a book, and you're set for the day.
Boat Trips and Island Hopping
For a day trip to the Mamanuca or Yasawa islands, or a snorkelling cruise, start with swimwear and a rash vest, add a lightweight cover-up or linen shirt for sun protection on the boat, and reef shoes for getting in and out of the water over rocky or coral shorelines. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with a strap, and reef-safe sunscreen are essential, and a small dry bag keeps your phone, wallet and camera safe from spray — and a light rain shell in case of a December squall.
Village Visits and Inland Tours
For a village visit or an inland tour in Fiji, modesty matters — Fijian culture is conservative, and beachwear is not appropriate in villages. Pack a light, loose top that covers the shoulders and knees, light trousers or a longer skirt, and comfortable walking shoes or trainers. A sarong (sulu) is the traditional and respectful choice, and most villages will lend or sell you one. A hat and sunscreen are still essential for the tropical sun.
Evenings Out (Resort Dinners, Bars)
Fiji December evenings are warm and humid, and the dress code at resort restaurants leans smart-casual. For women, a light sundress or a linen dress with sandals works beautifully; for men, a linen shirt with chinos or smart shorts and a pair of clean sandals is the standard. Skip the extra layer — December evenings rarely need one — and choose breathable fabrics that stay comfortable in the humidity. Fiji evenings are relaxed, so keep it effortless and comfortable.
Active Days (Hiking, Waterfalls, Water Sports)
For an active day in Fiji — a hike to a waterfall, a kayaking trip or a day of water sports — pack for sun, water and the occasional shower. A rash vest or a quick-dry top, lightweight shorts, a hat that won't blow off, and water shoes or trainers with grip are the essentials. A small dry bag for your phone and wallet, reef-safe sunscreen, a refillable water bottle and a light rain shell round out the kit. The tropical sun is strong even on a cloudy day, so cover up rather than strip down for active hours outdoors.
The Complete Fiji December Packing List
- 3-4 sets of swimwear (a rash vest for snorkelling is essential)
- 4-5 light, breathable tops (linen or cotton, light colours)
- 3-4 pairs of lightweight shorts or linen trousers
- 2-3 sundresses or kaftans for resort days and evenings
- 1 smart-casual outfit for resort dinners
- A lightweight cover-up or sarong
- A wide-brimmed straw or sun hat
- A pair of good sunglasses with UV protection
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- 1 pair of comfortable sandals
- 1 pair of flip-flops for the beach
- 1 pair of reef shoes or water shoes for snorkelling and rocky shores
- 1 pair of light trainers or walking shoes for village and inland visits
- A lightweight, packable rain shell for tropical showers
- A modest outfit for village visits (shoulders and knees covered)
- A sulu or sarong for respectful village wear
- A compact, water-resistant day bag or small dry bag
- A refillable water bottle
- A lightweight scarf or sarong for shoulder cover on boat trips
- After-sun lotion and insect repellent
Staying Sun-Safe, Reef-Safe and Dry in December
December in Fiji asks for three things at once: serious sun protection, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light rain shell. The equatorial sun is intense even through cloud, and you'll burn in 20 minutes without protection — so a wide-brimmed hat, good sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) are non-negotiable. Reapply every two hours and after every swim. A rash vest with UPF protection is the smart choice for snorkelling: it lets you stay in the water for hours without burning, and it reduces how much sunscreen you need on your back and shoulders.
Reef-safe matters more than you'd think. Standard sunscreens contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, which damage and bleach the coral you've come to snorkel — and many Fiji resorts and boat operators now ban them outright. Choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and you'll protect both your skin and the reef. If you forget, reef-safe sunscreen is sold at most resorts and dive shops, though it's more expensive than at home.
For the showers, a lightweight, packable rain shell is the right gear — it handles a December downpour without overheating, dries fast, and packs to nothing in your day bag. Heavy rainwear is too hot for Fiji's warm, humid rain; you'll be glad of the breathability of a light shell. Hydration matters as much as sun protection in the humid heat — carry a refillable water bottle and drink more than you think you need — and a modest outfit (shoulders and knees covered) is the respectful choice for any village visit.
Tips for Dressing Well in Fiji in December
- Pack light, breathable natural fibres — linen and cotton, not synthetics
- Reef-safe sunscreen is non-negotiable — standard sunscreen damages Fiji's coral
- A wide-brimmed hat and good sunglasses are essential in the equatorial sun
- A rash vest lets you snorkel for hours without burning — pack at least one
- Reef shoes matter more than you'd think — coral cuts are painful and slow to heal
- Pack three or four sets of swimwear — December humidity means nothing dries fast
- A sarong or sulu is the classic Fiji cover-up and the respectful choice for villages
- Fijian culture is conservative — cover shoulders and knees for village visits
- A light packable rain shell handles December's tropical showers without overheating
- Choose a water-resistant day bag or a small dry bag for boat and beach days
- Reapply reef-safe sunscreen every two hours — the equatorial sun is intense
- Light colours keep you cooler in the humid tropical heat
- Pack a modest outfit for any village or inland tour you've planned
- A refillable water bottle keeps you hydrated in the heat and cuts plastic waste
- After-sun lotion and insect repellent are easy to forget and hard to buy on islands
- Skip the extra evening layer — December nights are warm and humid
Fly to Fiji
Compare live flight prices to Nadi (NAN) and Suva (SUVN) from cities across the world. December is the festive peak — book early, especially around Christmas and New Year, for the best fares.
Book Fiji Resorts & Hotels
Check live rates and availability across Fiji — from overwater bungalows in the Mamanucas to family resorts on the Coral Coast — and book early for the festive season when demand peaks.
Book Fiji HotelsRent a Car in Fiji
A rental car is the easiest way to explore Viti Levu — the Coral Coast, the Sigatoka Sand Dunes and the Nausori Highlands. Book online in advance for the best festive-season rates and airport pickup.
Get a Fiji eSIM
Activate a Fiji eSIM before you land so you can navigate, book resort transfers and message your hotel the moment you arrive — no airport SIM queues.
Get a Fiji eSIMRent a Bike in Fiji
Many Fiji resorts offer bikes for guests, and a bike is a lovely way to explore the coastal roads and local villages at a slow, sun-warmed pace. Book a rental online in advance for the best rates.
Rent a BikeBook Fiji Experiences
Pair your trip with the best of Fiji — the Cloud 9 floating bar, the Navua River safari, Modriki Island day trips and snorkel cruises to the reef. Book ahead for the festive season to secure your spot.
Book ExperiencesThings to Do in Fiji in December
December is a lush, green, rewarding month to experience Fiji — the reefs are vivid, the waterfalls are full, and the festive season brings a special atmosphere to the islands. Snorkel the coral gardens of the Mamanucas, take a day trip to the Cloud 9 floating bar, sail the Navua River through the interior highlands, or day-trip to Modriki Island, where Cast Away was filmed. Time your boat trips for the morning, when the weather is most settled, and keep a rain shell in your day bag. Browse and book some of the most popular Fiji experiences below.
What to Wear in Fiji in December: In Pictures
From linen and swimwear to reef-safe snorkelling and sunset evenings — here is a visual guide to dressing for Fiji in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Fiji in December?
In Fiji in December, wear light, breathable clothing — linen shirts, cotton shorts, sundresses and kaftans — over swimwear, with comfortable sandals and a wide-brimmed hat for the strong equatorial sun. Add a rash vest for snorkelling, reef shoes for rocky and coral shorelines, and reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+). Pack a lightweight rain shell for the tropical showers that mark the start of the wet season, and a modest outfit for any village visits. Fiji style is relaxed and tropical — stick to light colours and natural fibres, and you'll be comfortable from the beach to the resort bar.
How warm is Fiji in December?
Fiji in December is hot and humid, with daytime highs typically around 30-31°C (86-88°F) and night-time lows around 22-23°C (72-73°F). December marks the start of the wet season, so humidity is high and the air feels heavy, especially in the middle of the day. The sea is warm — around 27-28°C — perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving. You'll want light clothing, swimwear and plenty of sun protection, plus a light rain shell — but no warm layers beyond the air-conditioned interiors.
Does it rain a lot in Fiji in December?
December is the start of Fiji's wet season, so rainfall is high — typically around 250-350 mm across the month, with rain on roughly 15-20 days. The rain usually arrives as heavy, warm, tropical showers and the occasional thunderstorm, often in the afternoon or overnight, rather than all-day downpours. A lightweight, packable rain shell that fits in your day bag is the right gear; heavy rainwear is too hot and won't dry. Most December days still have long sunny spells between the showers, and the rain is warm rather than chilling.
Is December a good time to visit Fiji?
December is a mixed month in Fiji. The sea is at its warmest, the diving and snorkelling are excellent, and the islands are lush and green after the first rains. The trade-off is the heat, humidity and the higher chance of rain, and the possibility — though rare — of a tropical cyclone. Resort rates drop after the dry-season peak, so December can be good value, and the festive season brings a special atmosphere. If you love hot, tropical weather and don't mind a shower, December is a rewarding time to visit; if you prefer dry, comfortable heat, the May-October dry season is a better choice.
What should I pack for snorkelling in Fiji in December?
For snorkelling in Fiji in December, pack swimwear you love, a rash vest with UPF protection for sun cover in the water, reef shoes for getting in and out over coral and rocky shorelines, a well-fitting mask and snorkel (or plan to rent at the resort), and reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+) — reef-safe matters because standard sunscreen damages the coral you've come to see. A small dry bag for your phone and wallet, and a lightweight sarong or cover-up for the boat, round out the kit. The water is warm enough that you won't need a wetsuit.
Can I wear shorts in Fiji in December?
Yes — lightweight shorts are perfect for Fiji in December and are a daily essential for the beach, the resort and the boat. Linen or cotton shorts in light colours are the most comfortable choice in the humid heat. For village visits, however, shorts are not appropriate — Fijian culture is conservative, and you should cover your shoulders and knees. A sulu (sarong) is the traditional and respectful choice for village wear, and most villages will lend or sell you one.
What should I wear for a village visit in Fiji?
For a village visit in Fiji, modesty is the key — Fijian culture is conservative and beachwear is not appropriate. Pack a light, loose top that covers your shoulders and knees, light trousers or a longer skirt, and comfortable walking shoes or trainers. A sulu (sarong) is the traditional and respectful choice and is worn by both men and women; most villages will lend or sell you one at the entrance. Avoid singlets, short shorts, swimwear and revealing dresses. A hat and sunscreen are still essential for the tropical sun.
Do I need a wetsuit for diving in Fiji in December?
No — the sea in Fiji in December is warm, around 27-28°C, so a wetsuit is not necessary for most diving or snorkelling. A thin lycra rash vest or a shorty wetsuit (1-2mm) is enough for most reef dives, and many divers and snorkellers are comfortable in just a rash vest or swimwear. If you're doing multiple dives a day or deeper, longer dives, a 3mm full wetsuit will keep you comfortable. Most dive operators in Fiji rent wetsuits, so there's no need to pack one unless you have your own.
Pack Light, Stay Sun-Safe, Enjoy Fiji in December
Dressing for Fiji in December comes down to a few simple principles: light, breathable natural fibres, swimwear that dries fast (pack a few sets), a rash vest for snorkelling, reef shoes for rocky shorelines, serious sun protection, and a lightweight packable rain shell for the tropical showers. Add a modest outfit for any village visits, and a compact water-resistant day bag. Pack these essentials and you are ready for everything a December trip to Fiji can offer — from a sunrise snorkel on the reef to a sunset cocktail on the beach and a warm, festive evening under the palms.