Can You Swim In Tampa In December?

Yes, you can swim in Tampa Bay in December. You can also swim in Tampa FL which is an actual city within the area of Tampa Bay FL. The average temperature drops quite a bit in December. The Gulf of Mexico averages around 69 degrees and can be as low as the mid sixties or as warm as the very low seventies on rare occasions.

Tampa FL

South Florida Beaches

South Florida Beaches are typically a little warmer averaging 77 degrees. Needless to say that is somewhat more comfortable. Being on the Atlantic coast has it's advantages. The sea temperature is very comfortable on South Beach and Key West gets even better. The water temperature of the Gulf Coast has more of a white sandy beach but alas, the warmest beaches in December are Miami Beach- South Beach.

Southern And Northern Florida In December

West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Delray Beach and the Beaches in Fort Lauderdale are also swimmable in December weather. They get a little cooler because the gulf stream is further offshore than in Miami Beach. The further you go up the east coast the cooler the beaches will get as well as the outside temperature. Central Florida in December is still very tolerable for surfing or swimming especially with a wetsuit.

The Cold Water But Stunning Beaches Northern Portion Of The Sunshine State

The Emerald Coast has cold water temperatures in the winter months. It may seem odd for the sunshine state but alas it is true. The best beaches are in Tampa Bay overall. But the pristine white sands of Grayton Beach, Panama City Beach, Destin and Fort Walton Beach are what makes that area a spring break hot spot.

Why Tampa Bay?

Tampa Bay is by far the best choice for a December visit. You can still enjoy swimming and even crystal clear waters year round here. Not to mention this is the best month for visiting the theme parks, state parks and shaking off those winter blues. See you soon over at one of the amazing beaches in Tampa Bay.