December is a popular month to ask about North Padre Island because conditions can shift week to week along this coast. Expect the water near 18.0°C, with daily variation from wind, tides and recent storms. We refresh the live value from Open-Meteo Marine every hour, so the headline above always reflects the current state of the Gulf of Mexico.
North Padre Island sea temperature in December — averages 18.0°C
The sea at North Padre Island in United States averages 18.0°C during December, based on long-run climatology for the Gulf of Mexico. Use the live reading below for today's actual water and the monthly grid to compare with the rest of the year.
Average sea · December
18.0°C
mild · Good
Live water now
…
Recommended wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
At 18.0°C a 3/2mm fullsuit is the standard wetsuit for surfing and watersports.
Monthly comparison
Yes, but expect a fresh dip · North Padre Island
Can you swim at North Padre Island in June? — 29.0°C water29.0°CCan you swim at North Padre Island in July? — 30.0°C water30.0°CCan you swim at North Padre Island in August? — 30.0°C water30.0°CCan you swim at North Padre Island in September? — 29.0°C water29.0°CCan you swim at North Padre Island in October? — 26.0°C water26.0°CCan you swim at North Padre Island in November? — 21.0°C water21.0°C
Frequently asked questions
What is the average sea temperature at North Padre Island in December?
North Padre Island averages 18.0°C in December, based on long-run climatology for the Gulf of Mexico.
Is the sea warm enough to swim at North Padre Island in December?
It is swimmable but fresh; confident swimmers will be fine without a wetsuit.
Do I need a wetsuit at North Padre Island in December?
A 2 mm shorty is comfortable for sessions over 30 minutes.