Can you swim at Oriental Bay in December? — 19.0°C water
Yes, but expect a fresh dip
Average sea · December
19.0°C
Live water now
…
Recommended wetsuit
Shorty 2mm
mild
It depends. Oriental Bay sits around 19.0°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 Oriental Bay live page for full conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average sea temperature at Oriental Bay in December?
Oriental Bay averages 19.0°C in December, based on long-run climatology for the Tasman Sea.
Is the sea warm enough to swim at Oriental Bay in December?
It is swimmable but fresh; confident swimmers will be fine without a wetsuit.
Do I need a wetsuit at Oriental Bay in December?
A 2 mm shorty is comfortable for sessions over 30 minutes.
