Gulf of Mexico Water Temperature

The Gulf of Mexico also shares its south western and south coastline with Mexico, and is bordered on the south by Cuba. The basin shaped gulf is 1500km wide at its widest point and 4,384 metres deep at the Sigsbee Deep, a trough 560km in length. Shallow continental shelf waters make up at least half of the entire Gulf of Mexico, allowing coastal waters to remain warm and inviting throughout the year. With regional variations taken into account, the water temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico area can range from 77F in Alabama waters in May to 84F in Florida’s Blackwater Sound region.

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However, by July the waters in all areas have reached an average of 84F to 87F with differences less marked.

During December Alabama has a water temperature of around 60F and Florida 64F. The Western portion of the gulf sees approximate water temperatures on the Texan coast of 85-87F in August to 59-62F in December and January.

Surfing areas on the Gulf of Mexico enjoy favourable throughout the year, with warm waters and well patrolled and maintained beaches such as St. Petersburg and Naples in Florida, and Galveston Pier for beginners or Boca Chica for more experienced surfers in Texas ensuring that there is plenty of choice. A plethora of sandbars, piers and jetties mean that the Gulf of Mexico surfing areas get great waves and breaks all year.

Best Time to Visit Gulf of Mexico
Warm days and long hours of sunshine allow water sports enthusiasts to really make the most of top surfing destinations like Naples, or the fabulous sailing throughout the entire Gulf of Mexico region during summer, from May till September. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures in some areas reaching 84.2F, but breezes from the water cool things down somewhat.

Great cities like New Orleans, Houston, Biloxi, Tampa and Mobile make the Gulf of Mexico a destination that appeals to all tastes, and ensure that it remains a top destination even in the cold season from November till March when temperatures can drop to approximately 60.8F.

Because the Gulf of Mexico encompasses a large stretch of coastline, temperatures can vary from area to area.

For example cold fronts on the Texan coast can see temperature drops of up to 20F in just a few hours in winter, while Florida with its warm temperate to sub-tropical climate is known for pleasant year round temperatures with variations less marked. The diverse natural habitats and magnificent history of the region are also an important factor in its popularity. From coastal marshlands in Texas, to the deltas and estuaries of the Mississippi in Louisianna and Mississippi, the Gulf of Mexico remains a top choice for holidaymakers all year round.
Activities around Gulf of Mexico

Swim on beautiful white sandy beaches from Galveston to the Florida Keys, sail in some of the calmest bluest waters imaginable, or try your hand at sports fishing on one of the many tours and excursions available on the Gulf of Mexico. On land golfing and tennis are massive attractions.