December is a popular month to ask about Padre Island National Seashore 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.
Padre Island National Seashore sea temperature in December — averages 18.0°C
The sea at Padre Island National Seashore 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 · Padre Island National Seashore
Can you swim at Padre Island National Seashore in July? — 30.0°C water30.0°CCan you swim at Padre Island National Seashore in August? — 30.0°C water30.0°CCan you swim at Padre Island National Seashore in September? — 29.0°C water29.0°CCan you swim at Padre Island National Seashore in October? — 26.0°C water26.0°CCan you swim at Padre Island National Seashore in November? — 21.0°C water21.0°CCan you swim at Padre Island National Seashore in December? — 18.0°C water18.0°C
Frequently asked questions
What is the average sea temperature at Padre Island National Seashore in December?
Padre Island National Seashore averages 18.0°C in December, based on long-run climatology for the Gulf of Mexico.
Is the sea warm enough to swim at Padre Island National Seashore in December?
It is swimmable but fresh; confident swimmers will be fine without a wetsuit.
Do I need a wetsuit at Padre Island National Seashore in December?
A 2 mm shorty is comfortable for sessions over 30 minutes.
Compare Padre Island National Seashore with nearby beaches
Padre Island National Seashore vs Padre Balli ParkPadre Island National Seashore vs North Padre Island BeachPadre Island National Seashore vs North Padre Island BeachPadre Island National Seashore vs North Padre IslandPadre Island National Seashore vs Mustang Island BeachPadre Island National Seashore vs Mustang Island Beach