Quick Answer: Yes, you can absolutely swim in Miami in December! The ocean averages a comfortable 73-77°F (23-25°C), and air temperatures hover around 75-80°F (24-27°C) during the day. If you’re escaping from a colder climate, Miami’s December waters will feel like a warm summer swim. Even locals hit the beach, though they might joke about needing a wetsuit when it drops to 73°F!
Why December Swimming in Miami is Actually Perfect
I’ve been coaching swimmers in Miami for years, and December is honestly one of my favorite months to be in the water. Here’s why: the tourists haven’t completely taken over yet, the water is refreshingly cool (not cold!), and you get that perfect “I’m swimming while everyone back home is shoveling snow” feeling.
Last December, I had a family from Minnesota in for private lessons. They showed up in full wetsuits, worried about the “cold” 74°F water. Twenty minutes later, the kids had stripped down to their swimsuits and were begging to stay longer. The dad told me, “This is warmer than our lakes in July!”
That’s the Miami December experience in a nutshell—what locals consider “chilly” is paradise for visitors from colder climates.
Miami December Water Temperature: The Real Numbers
Let’s talk specifics because “comfortable” means different things to different people.
Water Temperature by Week
- Early December (1st-10th): 75-77°F (24-25°C) – Still holding summer warmth
- Mid-December (11th-20th): 74-76°F (23-24°C) – Slightly cooler but very comfortable
- Late December (21st-31st): 73-75°F (23-24°C) – Coolest but still great for swimming
Air Temperature
- Daytime highs: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
- Nighttime lows: 60-65°F (15-18°C)
- Humidity: Around 75% (much lower than summer’s 90%!)
What These Temperatures Actually Feel Like
If you’re from:
- Northern US/Canada: This will feel like a warm, refreshing summer swim. You’ll be totally comfortable.
- California: Similar to your ocean temps in August. Very pleasant.
- Texas/Southern States: Refreshing but not cold. Perfect for active swimming.
- Miami/South Florida: Okay, you’ll probably call it “cold.” But you’ll still swim.
The Local vs. Tourist Temperature Perspective (This is Hilarious)
One of my favorite things about Miami in December is watching the cultural clash over what “cold” means.
Miami Locals When It’s 70°F Outside:
- Breaking out winter jackets and scarves
- Complaining about the “freezing” weather
- Avoiding the ocean because it’s “too cold”
- Turning on home heaters
Tourists From Up North:
- Wearing shorts and t-shirts
- Jumping in the ocean with huge grins
- Posting Instagram photos captioned “Swimming in December!”
- Laughing at locals in winter gear
I’m guilty of this myself. When I moved to Miami, I thought locals were exaggerating. Now, after years here, when it drops to 65°F, I’m pulling out my “winter” jacket too. Your body adapts!
But here’s the thing: even when locals say it’s “too cold,” you’ll still see plenty of them at the beach. They just might not stay in the water as long as you will.
How Miami Compares to Other December Beach Destinations
Planning a winter beach vacation and wondering if Miami is your best bet? Here’s the honest comparison:
| Destination | Water Temp | Swimming Comfort | Travel Time from NYC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami, FL | 73-77°F | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | 3 hours |
| Key West, FL | 75-78°F | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | 3.5 hours |
| Fort Lauderdale | 72-75°F | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good | 3 hours |
| Caribbean | 79-82°F | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect | 4-5 hours |
| California Coast | 58-62°F | ⭐⭐ Cold | 6 hours |
| Cancun, Mexico | 77-80°F | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | 3.5 hours |
Bottom Line: Miami offers the warmest easily accessible ocean swimming in the continental US during December. Only the Caribbean and Mexico are warmer, but Miami is cheaper and no passport needed!
Best Miami Beaches for December Swimming
Not all Miami beaches are created equal in December. Here are my top picks based on swimming conditions, facilities, and what kind of experience you’re after.
1. South Beach – For the Full Miami Experience
Water Temperature: 73-77°F Crowd Level: Moderate to busy (holiday crowds pick up after Dec 20th) Best For: Social swimmers, people-watching, vibrant atmosphere
South Beach is Miami’s most iconic stretch, and even in December, it stays lively. The water is clear, facilities are excellent (bathrooms, showers, lifeguards), and you’re walking distance from restaurants and cafes.
Pro Tip: Go in the morning (8-10 AM) for fewer crowds and calmer water. The afternoon can get breezy, which makes the air feel cooler when you get out.
2. Crandon Park Beach (Key Biscayne) – For Families
Water Temperature: 74-77°F Crowd Level: Moderate Best For: Kids, calm water, picnic-friendly environment
This beach has super shallow, calm water that’s perfect for children and less confident swimmers. The water tends to be slightly warmer here because of the shallow bay areas, and there’s plenty of shade for when you need a break.
My Students Love It: I bring my younger swimming students here often because the gentle waves make it ideal for practicing ocean swimming skills.
3. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park – For Nature Lovers
Water Temperature: 73-76°F Crowd Level: Low to moderate Best For: Peaceful swimming, avoiding crowds, scenic beauty
Want to escape the South Beach scene? This is your spot. Beautiful, quieter, with a historic lighthouse and nature trails. The beach here is pristine, and you can actually hear the waves instead of club music.
December Bonus: The park is especially beautiful in December with clear skies and perfect weather for a post-swim walk.
4. Matheson Hammock Park (Coral Gables) – For Warmest Water
Water Temperature: 75-78°F (warmest option!) Crowd Level: Low Best For: Young children, warmth-sensitive swimmers, unique experience
This beach features a man-made atoll pool that’s refreshed by tidal waters. Because it’s shallow and enclosed, it tends to be 2-3 degrees warmer than the open ocean. Perfect if you want that extra warmth or have small kids.
Insider Secret: The water in the atoll pool can be as warm as 78-80°F on sunny December days.
5. Haulover Beach – For Space and Freedom
Water Temperature: 73-76°F Crowd Level: Low to moderate Best For: Serious swimmers, privacy seekers, beach walkers
Haulover is Miami’s clothing-optional beach (though there are traditional sections too). Even if that’s not your thing, the beach is wide, clean, and much less crowded than South Beach. Great for long-distance swimming.
What to Bring for December Swimming in Miami
Based on years of coaching and my own swimming experience, here’s what you actually need:
Essential Items
✅ High SPF Waterproof Sunscreen (50+) The Miami sun doesn’t take December off. You’ll burn, trust me. Reapply every 90 minutes if you’re in and out of water.
✅ Good Sunglasses The sun reflecting off the water is intense, even in winter.
✅ A Light Cover-Up or Towel Beach breezes can feel cool when you first get out of the water, especially if it’s windy.
✅ Water Bottle You’d think being surrounded by water means you don’t need to hydrate, but you do. The sun and salt water are dehydrating.
✅ Reef-Safe Sunscreen Miami is serious about protecting marine life. Use reef-safe products.
Optional But Recommended
Light Rash Guard or Wetsuit Top Not necessary, but if you plan to swim for 45+ minutes or you’re sensitive to cooler water, a thin rash guard adds comfort. I wear one for my longer training swims.
Swim Cap Protects your hair from salt and sun damage. Plus, makes you more visible to lifeguards.
Waterproof Phone Case For photos! December Miami sunsets are spectacular.
What You DON’T Need
❌ Full Wetsuit – Unless you’re from the tropics, the water isn’t cold enough ❌ Heavy Beach Gear – You won’t need windbreaks or heavy blankets ❌ Indoor Pool Backup Plan – The ocean is genuinely swimmable
Swimming Safety in December
December is actually one of the safer months for ocean swimming in Miami, but you still need to be smart.
Why December is Great for Safety
✅ No Jellyfish Season: Peak jellyfish months are spring/summer ✅ Calmer Water: Hurricane season is over, waves are generally smaller ✅ Better Visibility: Less rain means clearer water ✅ Active Lifeguards: Popular beaches have year-round lifeguard coverage
Watch Out For
⚠️ Occasional Cold Fronts Every few years, a strong cold front pushes through around Christmas. This can drop air temps to the 50s-60s for 2-3 days. The water stays warmer, but getting out feels chilly. Check the forecast.
⚠️ Winter Wind December can be breezier than summer months. Wind makes you feel colder when you exit the water. Bring that light jacket or towel.
⚠️ Rip Currents Always swim near lifeguards and check flag warnings. Rip currents can occur year-round.
⚠️ Less Daylight Sunset is around 5:30 PM in December. Plan your swim accordingly—swimming at dusk is risky.
My Swimming Coach Safety Tips
- Swim parallel to the shore if you’re not a strong swimmer
- Never swim alone, especially in December when beaches are less crowded
- Check the flag system – Red flag = no swimming, yellow = caution, green = good conditions
- Start with 10-15 minutes if you’re not used to ocean swimming, then build up
- Stay hydrated – Bring water and drink before, during, and after your swim
Other Water Activities in December
Not just about swimming? December is prime time for tons of water activities in Miami.
Snorkeling & Diving
Water Conditions: Excellent – visibility can reach 60-100 feet Top Spots: Biscayne National Park, Key Biscayne reefs Why December is Great: Calm, clear water and comfortable temperatures
I’ve had students who started with swimming lessons and graduated to snorkeling. December’s clear water makes it perfect for beginners.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking
Water Temperature: 73-77°F Best Locations: Oleta River State Park, Virginia Key, Biscayne Bay Bonus: Mild air temps mean you won’t overheat paddling
December is ideal because you’re comfortable on the water without the intense summer heat.
Boat Tours & Sunset Cruises
Why December Rocks: Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, stunning sunsets Popular Options: Biscayne Bay tours, island-hopping, dinner cruises
Pro tip: Sunset cruises around 5:00 PM are magical in December. The air cools just enough to be perfect.
Fishing
Season: Excellent for sailfish, wahoo, kingfish Options: Deep-sea charters, pier fishing, flats fishing
December is actually peak fishing season in Miami. The cooler water brings in game fish.
What to Do When You’re Not Swimming
Let’s be honest—even as much as I love swimming, you can’t spend 12 hours a day in the water. Here’s how to round out your Miami December beach vacation.
Art Basel Miami Beach (Early December)
One of the world’s premier art fairs takes over Miami in early December. Even if you’re not buying million-dollar artworks, the scene is incredible. Street art, pop-up galleries, parties—it’s the event of the season.
Holiday Events
- Miracle on Ocean Drive (festive pop-up bar)
- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden lights (runs through January)
- Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade (mid-December)
- King Mango Strut (December 29th – hilarious alternative parade)
Day Trips from the Beach
- Everglades National Park – Perfect weather for airboat tours
- Wynwood Walls – Street art district (45 minutes from South Beach)
- Vizcaya Museum – Beautiful gardens and architecture
- Little Havana – Cuban culture and amazing food
Common Questions About Swimming in Miami in December
“Is the water too cold if I’m from the tropics?”
Honestly? You might find it a bit cool at first. But most people adapt after a few minutes of moving around. Consider a rash guard for longer swims, and you’ll be fine.
“Can I swim in the morning or is it too cold?”
Morning swims (7-9 AM) are fantastic in December. The air is cooler (60s-70s), but the water temperature doesn’t change much. Once you’re in, you’re comfortable. Many of my training clients actually prefer morning swims in winter.
“What if it’s windy?”
Wind is the biggest variable in December. On windy days, bring a towel or light coverup for when you get out. The water itself stays comfortable, but the air feels cooler on wet skin. Some swimmers love it; others wait for calmer days.
“Are there heated pools nearby if the ocean is too cold?”
Most Miami hotels have heated pools, though honestly, if you find 73-77°F “too cold” for the ocean, a heated pool might be a better choice. But I’d encourage you to try the ocean first—most people are pleasantly surprised.
“Do I need swim insurance or special precautions?”
No special insurance needed. Just standard travel insurance is fine. Follow beach safety rules, swim near lifeguards, and you’re good to go.
“Is it safe to swim alone in December?”
I never recommend swimming alone, regardless of the month. December beaches can be less crowded, which means fewer people around if you need help. Always swim near lifeguards and let someone know your plans.
Week-by-Week December Swimming Guide
Week 1 (Dec 1-7): Best Overall Conditions
Water Temp: 75-77°F Crowds: Moderate Events: Art Basel brings energy to South Beach My Take: This is primo time. Water is still holding summer warmth, weather is perfect, and the holiday rush hasn’t started.
Week 2 (Dec 8-15): Cooling Slightly
Water Temp: 74-76°F Crowds: Moderate Events: Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade (around Dec 16) My Take: Still excellent swimming. You might notice the water is a touch cooler, but it’s barely perceptible.
Week 3 (Dec 16-23): Pre-Holiday Rush
Water Temp: 73-75°F Crowds: Increasing (schools start breaking) Events: Christmas events picking up My Take: Water is at its “coolest” but still very comfortable. Beaches start getting busier as families arrive for Christmas break.
Week 4 (Dec 24-31): Holiday Peak
Water Temp: 73-75°F Crowds: Heaviest (peak tourist season) Events: Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve celebrations My Take: Water is fine, but beaches are packed. Go early morning or try quieter spots like Bill Baggs or Matheson Hammock.
My Personal December Swimming Experience
I’ll be straight with you—I’m originally from a colder climate, and when I first moved to Miami, December ocean swimming blew my mind. Swimming outdoors at Christmas? While family back home was in parkas? It felt surreal.
Now, after years of coaching here, December is when I do some of my best work with students. The water is comfortable, the beaches aren’t insanely crowded, and the weather is perfect for spending hours in the ocean without overheating.
Last December, I coached a triathlete from Chicago preparing for an Ironman. We did early morning ocean swims—6:00 AM, water around 74°F, air maybe 65°F. He’d get out of the water, and I’d see steam rising off his skin in the cool morning air. “This is incredible,” he kept saying. “I can actually train outside in December.”
That’s the magic of Miami in winter. What feels like “cool water” to locals is paradise for everyone else.
Is Miami Swimming Better Than Other Florida Cities in December?
Short answer: Yes, Miami has the warmest ocean water in Florida during December.
Miami vs. Other Florida Destinations
Miami/Fort Lauderdale/Key West (South Florida)
- Water: 73-77°F
- Verdict: Best swimming in Florida during December
Tampa/Clearwater/Sarasota (Gulf Coast)
- Water: 66-70°F
- Verdict: Cool but swimmable for cold-tolerant swimmers
Daytona/Jacksonville (North Florida)
- Water: 60-64°F
- Verdict: Too cold for comfortable swimming for most people
Destin/Panama City (Panhandle)
- Water: 58-62°F
- Verdict: Cold—wetsuit territory
The Geography Matters: Miami is as far south as you can get in mainland Florida, plus the Gulf Stream keeps Atlantic waters warmer. That’s why it’s the winter swimming capital of the state.
Tips From a Miami Swimming Coach
These are the insider tips I give my students and their families:
Before Your Trip
- Book hotels with beach access OR pool backup – Just in case there’s a random cold front
- Check December events calendar – Art Basel and holidays can spike hotel prices
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen – You’ll burn even in December
- Consider travel insurance – Weather is usually great, but cold fronts can surprise you
During Your Swim
- Go early (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM) – Fewer crowds, often calmer water
- Start with 15 minutes – Even if the water feels great, let your body adjust
- Stay moving – You’ll stay warmer if you’re actively swimming vs. just floating
- Swim parallel to shore – Easier to get help if needed
After Your Swim
- Rinse off quickly – Salt + sun can irritate skin
- Hydrate immediately – Ocean + sun = dehydration
- Put on something warm – Even though it’s not that cold, you’ll appreciate a light layer
Final Verdict: Should You Swim in Miami in December?
Absolutely, yes.
If you’re from anywhere that has actual winter, swimming in Miami in December will feel like a gift. The water is comfortable, the weather is near-perfect, and you get that amazing feeling of doing something in December that most people can only dream about.
Is it as warm as July? No. July water temps are around 85°F—basically bathwater. But December’s 73-77°F is the sweet spot: refreshing enough to feel good, warm enough to stay in as long as you want.
I’ve coached swimmers of all ages and abilities in December, and I’ve never had anyone say, “The water was too cold.” I’ve had people say, “Oh, I thought it would be colder!” or “This is perfect!” But never genuinely uncomfortable.
So yes, pack that swimsuit. Book that Miami trip. And get ready to post photos that will make everyone back home seriously jealous.
Ready to Make the Most of Your Miami Beach Trip?
Swimming in the ocean is incredible, but if you want to truly maximize your time in Miami’s waters—whether you’re learning to swim, improving your technique, or training for open water events—I offer private swimming lessons tailored to your goals.
As a certified swimming coach based in Miami, I work with everyone from kids learning their first strokes to triathletes preparing for competitions. December’s perfect conditions make it ideal for ocean swimming instruction.
[Book Your Private Swimming Lesson →]
Whether you’re swimming in Miami this December or planning ahead for your next visit, I hope this guide helps you feel confident about diving into those beautiful Atlantic waters.
See you at the beach! 🏊♀️🌊☀️
Quick Reference: Miami December Swimming Checklist
Essential Gear:
- SPF 50+ waterproof sunscreen (reef-safe)
- Swimsuit (bring 2 if swimming multiple days)
- Beach towel + light coverup
- Sunglasses & hat
- Water bottle
- Waterproof phone case
Optional But Helpful:
- Thin rash guard (for extended swims)
- Swim cap
- Snorkel gear (if you’re into that)
- Small beach bag for valuables
Don’t Forget:
- Check weather forecast day before
- Look up beach flag conditions
- Plan parking (South Beach gets full)
- Bring cash for meters/food trucks
Safety Reminders:
- Swim near lifeguards
- Never swim alone
- Check for rip current warnings
- Stay hydrated
- Know your limits
Article last updated: November 2025 Written by a certified swimming coach with 10+ years experience in Miami
