Month-specific sea-surface temperature · Portugal

Azores - São Miguel Sea Temperature in December

18.5°C

65.3°F

In December, sea-surface temperature near Azores - São Miguel has a historical monthly average of 18.5°C. This is not the reading for any particular holiday date.

Across 2023–2025, the lowest and highest yearly December monthly means were 17.8–18.9°C. These are not daily extremes.

Previous month

November · 20.0°C

Change into December: -1.5°C

Next month

January · 17.7°C

Change into next month: -0.8°C

Can you swim or snorkel in Azores - São Miguel in December?

At 18.5°C our temperature-only guide describes the water as cool water. Comfort depends on your cold tolerance, immersion time and wind. A historical average cannot determine whether conditions are safe on any given day.

Do you need a wetsuit?

A 3 mm shorty or full wetsuit will make longer snorkels more comfortable.

Which beach should you choose?

Look for a beach sheltered from the actual forecast waves and wind on your visit. Exposure, currents and entry conditions vary even where water temperatures are similar. Follow local warnings.

Check the current waves, wind and snorkeling forecast →

A live forecast does not predict a future December. Check again close to your trip.

Azores - São Miguel Sea Temperature: All 12 Months

Choose a month for available historical evidence, month comparisons and swim guidance. Missing history is clearly marked and never presented as a long-term normal.

January 17.7°C February 16.9°C March 16.4°C April 16.9°C May 18.3°C June 20.4°C July 22.4°C August 24.4°C September 23.7°C October 22.3°C November 20.0°C December 18.5°C

Data source and limitations

Source: Open-Meteo Marine API, MeteoFrance sea-surface temperature; 2023–2025. Marine model grid near 37.74, -25.68. Based on 3 yearly monthly means and 2232 recorded samples. Source methodology.

Modelled sea-surface temperatures do not establish underwater visibility, wildlife, calm currents or safe entry.