
December in Panama City, FL brings a noticeable shift from the sticky heat of summer. Average high temperatures sit around 62–65°F (17–18°C), while overnight lows can drop to the low 40s°F (around 5–6°C), especially mid-month and later. This is not beach weather by most standards — the Gulf is cool and the sea breeze adds a sharp chill, particularly in the evenings. Rainfall is relatively low in December compared to the summer months, averaging around 4–5 inches for the month, but brief cold fronts can sweep through and bring rain and wind. Layering is essential here. During the day, a long-sleeve shirt or lightweight sweater paired with jeans or chinos works well. For evenings out near Pier Park or along the waterfront, bring a proper jacket — a fleece-lined bomber or a wool blend coat will serve you well. Comfortable closed-toe shoes or ankle boots are a smarter choice than sandals this time of year. If you plan to spend time outdoors or on the water, pack a windproof outer layer. Light scarves and gloves are worth tossing in your bag for the coldest nights. Think smart-casual with an emphasis on warmth over style flexibility.
No outfits found for this style. Try a different filter.
Plan for cool to cold temperatures with daytime highs in the low 60s°F and chilly nights in the low 40s°F. Layer with a long-sleeve base, a mid-layer like a fleece or knit sweater, and a wind-resistant or insulated jacket for evenings. Jeans, chinos, and closed-toe shoes or ankle boots are practical choices throughout the day.
By Florida standards, yes — December in Panama City is genuinely cool. Daytime temperatures typically reach the low-to-mid 60s°F, but cold fronts can push highs into the 50s°F and overnight lows into the upper 30s to low 40s°F. It is not freezing, but it is cold enough that a proper jacket is necessary, especially near the coast where wind chill is a factor.
December is one of the drier months in Panama City, FL, but rain is still possible. The city averages around 4 inches of precipitation in December, often brought by passing cold fronts that can also cause temperatures to drop quickly. Pack a compact waterproof jacket or umbrella just in case, particularly if you are spending time outdoors.
Pack layers you can add or remove throughout the day — lightweight sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and at least one insulated or wool jacket for evenings. Bring jeans or heavier trousers, ankle boots or comfortable closed-toe shoes, and a light scarf and gloves for the coldest nights. A compact rain jacket is also worth including given the chance of frontal rain systems moving through.