Can you swim at Big Wave Bay in December? — 16.0°C water

Yes, but expect a fresh dip
Average sea · December
16.0°C
Live water now
Recommended wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
mild

It depends. Big Wave Bay sits around 16.0°C in December; confident swimmers will be fine, casual bathers may prefer short sessions.

Monthly averages set expectations, but the specific beach today depends on wind, swell and recent weather. Check the live value at the top of this page or open the Big Wave Bay live page for full conditions.

Best months to swim
June · July · August · September

Frequently asked questions

What is the average sea temperature at Big Wave Bay in December?

Big Wave Bay averages 16.0°C in December, based on long-run climatology for the South China Sea.

Is the sea warm enough to swim at Big Wave Bay in December?

It is swimmable but fresh; confident swimmers will be fine without a wetsuit.

Do I need a wetsuit at Big Wave Bay in December?

A 2 mm shorty is comfortable for sessions over 30 minutes.