OCEAN CONDITIONS
Water Temperatures
As can be expected, average water temperatures in Miami Beach are highest during the summer and cool as the winter progresses. Thermoclines can occur, but are more common during the winter months and are usually experienced in deeper waters.
Average water temperatures in Miami Beach are always warm in comparison to New England or West Coast water, ranging from a very warm 80'F - 85'F (May - October ) to a cooler 72'F - 79'F (Nov - April). The warmest water can always be found in the middle of August, and the coolest usually by mid-February.
Average water temperatures in Miami Beach are always warm in comparison to New England or West Coast water, ranging from a very warm 80'F - 85'F (May - October ) to a cooler 72'F - 79'F (Nov - April). The warmest water can always be found in the middle of August, and the coolest usually by mid-February.
Water Visibility
The breathtaking color of the water is what attracts many visitors to Miami Beach. It is here that the Atlantic waters mix with Caribbean waters, giving our coastline its well known palette of blues and greens.
The water visibility of Miami Beach will vary depending on atmospheric conditions (storms, high winds, rain) and man-made elements (stormwater runoff, coastal pollution) that can effect turbidity. You can expect to find that average visibility is 30 - 50 feet year round, making diving and snorkeling a fantastic outdoor activity throughout the year. The reefs in Miami Beach sit in around 20 - 35 ft. of water.
The water visibility of Miami Beach will vary depending on atmospheric conditions (storms, high winds, rain) and man-made elements (stormwater runoff, coastal pollution) that can effect turbidity. You can expect to find that average visibility is 30 - 50 feet year round, making diving and snorkeling a fantastic outdoor activity throughout the year. The reefs in Miami Beach sit in around 20 - 35 ft. of water.
Exposure Protection
Wetsuits and rashguards provide excellent protection against the elements you may be exposed to while snorkeling or scuba diving. Beyond providing skin protection from the sun, wet suits work well to provide insulation and protection from marine life stings or burns. It is recommended to wear a rashguard during your snorkel excursion, and a wetsuit if you will be scuba diving.
You will find that most divers choose to dive in a 5MM suit between late December - February, 3MM full suits from March - May and October - December, and a 3MM or 1MM shorty the remainder of the time.
You will find that most divers choose to dive in a 5MM suit between late December - February, 3MM full suits from March - May and October - December, and a 3MM or 1MM shorty the remainder of the time.