Djerba in winter: mild days, a calm island

Is Djerba a good idea in winter?

Yes, as long as you are not coming to swim. From November to March, Djerba has mild, bright afternoons (around 17 to 19 degrees from December to February), an almost deserted beach and an island without crowds. The sea, however, drops to 14 to 16 degrees: you look at it and walk beside it, and only the very brave go in.

It is a different kind of stay from summer: long walks, visits without queues, the hammam on the way home and quiet as the main luxury. If you want warm water, read our article Djerba in September instead.

What is the weather in Djerba from November to March?

The figures below are indicative averages taken from climate guides to the island; they vary by source and by year.

November: about 20 degrees in the afternoon (up to 22), sea around 20 degrees. The mildest month of the period.

December: about 19 degrees in the afternoon, 10 to 12 at night, sea around 16 degrees. About 6 rainy days in the month.

January: about 17 degrees in the afternoon, 7 to 10 at night, sea at 14 or 15 degrees. The coolest month; the sun sets around 5:30 pm.

February: about 18 degrees in the afternoon, 10 at night, sea at 14 or 15 degrees, about 5 rainy days.

March: the sea climbs back to around 16 degrees and the days get longer.

Overall, most days stay sunny; showers happen but rarely last.

Can you swim in Djerba in winter?

In November, yes, if you like cool water: the sea is still around 20 degrees. From December to March it falls to 14 to 16 degrees, and only the bravest swim. For warmth, the Dar El Bhar spa offers a traditional hammam, a scrub with the kessa glove, a massage with warm oils and a jacuzzi; treatments are booked at reception, ideally the day before for massages.

We do not publish a pool temperature here: please ask reception when you book.

What is there to do in Djerba in winter?

Walk first: Sidi Mehrez beach, where the house stands, becomes wide and empty again, and its firm sand is made for long walks. Then explore: from the hotel, count about 15 minutes to Houmt Souk and about 20 to Djerbahood, two outings you can do without crowds in the low winter light. Our island guide covers these places, as well as Guellala and its potters.

Food lovers can read Djerbian cooking in five dishes, and anyone curious about the ritual can read The hammam, a user's guide. Djerbahood, the street-art village of Erriadh, is visited outdoors and free of charge; it has its own article in this journal.

Why come to Djerba in winter rather than summer?

For the calm, the light and the pace. The Dar El Bhar guide describes mild, bright winters, perfect for walking on the deserted beach and exploring the island without anyone else around. It also suits remote workers and couples who want to slow down, with a hammam to end the day.

Pack layers (mornings and evenings are cool, especially in January), a windproof jacket, something for rainy days and good walking shoes. Keep a swimsuit for the jacuzzi.

Where to stay in Djerba in winter?

Dar El Bhar is a boutique seafront hotel on Sidi Mehrez beach in Mezraia. In winter, guests come for the spa, the quiet beach and the closeness of Houmt Souk and Djerbahood. You book direct on the hotel website, with no intermediary; the dates and rates shown by the booking engine are the ones that count.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Djerba in winter? About 17 to 19 degrees in the afternoon from December to February, up to 20 in November, with nights of 7 to 12 degrees and a few rainy days a month.

Is the sea warm enough to swim? Generally not: 14 to 16 degrees from December to March, about 20 in November.

What is the coldest month in Djerba? January, with about 17 degrees in the afternoon and nights between 7 and 10 degrees.

What is there to do in Djerba when it is too cool for the beach? Walk the empty beach, visit Houmt Souk, Djerbahood and Guellala, and end the day at the hammam.

Is Djerba in winter right for a relaxing stay? Yes: calm, light, the hammam and visits without crowds, as long as you do not expect to swim.