[jcx456]

Where are the warmest water temps in florida during the winter months, the atlantic or the gulf? Do you need a wetsuit or can you just hit the beach in your trunks? Thanks.

[swatty5]

Originally Posted by jcx456

Where are the warmest water temps in florida during the winter months, the atlantic or the gulf? Do you need a wetsuit or can you just hit the beach in your trunks? Thanks.

Hi, Just a quick note, we were swimming in the Atlantic last year on new years day. Palm Beach.

[FLBob]

You're going to find the warmest waters in Florida during the winters in the Keys up to Miami.
I don't do more than put a foot in the water during the winter months. But my guess is that you'll find water temps near 70 most of the time during the coldest months of Dec, Jan, and Feb.

[beachmouse]

My college swim team used to take a training trip to Ft. Lauderdale after Christmas every year. We'd spend the time we weren't in the pool at the beach, and the water was very swimmable then, no wetsuit necessary.

[Chelito23]

The water temps are warmer in the Atlantic than in the Gulf during the winter.

Near Ft. Myers, the water temp can get as cold as 60 during cold spells.

Off Miami Beach, I have seen it dip into the mid 60s during the cold spells as well.

I think the poster who sound around 70 between the Palm Beaches and the Keys is a good description. Most people don't swim that time of year, but there usually are tourists from Europe or up north that do venture in sporadically. Never seen anyone using a wey suit in South Florida though.

I think if it is too "cold" (highs in the 60s) for swimming, people take walks on the beach instead.

[doggiebus]

Key West will have the warmest waters. I think the basic rule of thumb is you take the air temp and subtract 10 degrees and that is usually the water temp.

[Hawaii4evr]

I agree, the Gulf waters, while warmer in summer than the Atlantic Ocean, are much colder in wintertime. Southeast FL from WPB down to Key West on the Atlantic has the warmest water temps, usually around 72F. You'd be better off going to Hawaii or the Caribbean for warm winter ocean temperatures.

[SandmanSand]

Here's a good link to see current water temps, they will change as temps rise in the summer.
Florida water temperatures