Cozumel Water Temperature Guide: Monthly Averages, Visibility, & Wetsuit Recommendations
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What is the water temperature in Cozumel?
December 4, 2025 : 28C / 83F
Cozumel Scuba Diving: Year-Round Warm Water Conditions
Cozumel is renowned as one of the world's top dive destinations, primarily due to its consistently warm water and phenomenal visibility. The water temperature is mild year-round, ranging from a low of 78°F (26°C) in the peak winter months to a high of 86°F (30°C) during the late summer.
This tropical climate means divers rarely need heavy exposure protection, and visibility remains excellent, typically ranging from 80–100+ feet (24–30+ meters) throughout the year.
Choosing Your Cozumel Wetsuit: Seasonal Recommendations
Your ideal wetsuit choice depends entirely on the season and your personal tolerance for cold. Divers doing multiple dives per day often prefer slightly more protection, even in warm water, to combat heat loss over time.
Winter Months (December to February)
Water Temp: 78°F–80°F (26°C–27°C)
Recommendation: A 3mm full wetsuit is the most common choice. Experienced divers who chill easily or those planning multiple dives per day may opt for a 5mm shorty or even a 5mm full suit for maximum comfort.
Shoulder Season (March to May & November)
Water Temp: 80°F–83°F (27°C–28°C)
Recommendation: Most divers are comfortable in a 3mm shorty or a simple skin/rash guard. For those doing only one or two dives, a rash guard is usually sufficient.
Summer Months (June to October)
Water Temp: 83°F–86°F (28°C–30°C)
Recommendation: A full rash guard or lycra skin suit is primarily used for protection against the sun and minor scrapes, not for warmth. Many divers opt for a swimsuit only.
Cozumel Average Water Temperatures
| Month | Avg. Water Temp (°F/°C) | Avg. Air Temp (°F/°C) | Recommended Wetsuit |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 78°F / 26°C | 81°F / 27°C | 3mm Full / 5mm Shorty |
| February | 78°F / 26°C | 82°F / 28°C | 3mm Full / 5mm Shorty |
| March | 80°F / 27°C | 84°F / 29°C | 3mm Shorty or Skin |
| April | 81°F / 27°C | 86°F / 30°C | 3mm Shorty or Skin |
| May | 82°F / 28°C | 88°F / 31°C | 3mm Shorty or Skin |
| June | 83°F / 28°C | 89°F / 32°C | Rash Guard or Swimsuit |
| July | 84°F / 29°C | 89°F / 32°C | Rash Guard or Swimsuit |
| August | 85°F / 29°C | 89°F / 32°C | Rash Guard or Swimsuit |
| September | 86°F / 30°C | 88°F / 31°C | Rash Guard or Swimsuit |
| October | 84°F / 29°C | 86°F / 30°C | Rash Guard or Swimsuit |
| November | 82°F / 28°C | 84°F / 29°C | 3mm Shorty or Skin |
| December | 80°F / 27°C | 82°F / 28°C | 3mm Full / 5mm Shorty |
1. What is the coldest water temperature in Cozumel?
The coldest water temperature in Cozumel is typically found in January and February, where the average low is around 78°F (26°C).
2. Do I need a wetsuit for diving in Cozumel?
Whether you need a wetsuit depends on the season and your personal preference. While the water is very warm, most visitors wear some form of thermal protection, if only a 3mm shorty or rash guard, to stay comfortable during hour-long dives and to protect against the sun and marine life (like fire coral).
3. What is the water visibility like in Cozumel?
Cozumel is famous for its exceptional clarity. Water visibility is consistently excellent year-round, typically ranging from 80 feet (24 meters) on a "poor" day to over 150 feet (45