Swimming in the Gulf of Mexico vs. Caribbean Sea

Can you swim in the Gulf of Mexico? Yes—it's a warm, semi-enclosed sea popular for swimming, fishing, boating. Check local advisories for currents, waves, or pollution.

Can you say you're swimming in the Caribbean Sea if you're in the Gulf? No. The Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea are distinct bodies of water, though connected via the Straits of Florida. Swimming in the Gulf means you're in the Gulf, not the Caribbean.