Why do surfers in California need to wear wet suits most of the year?

Surfers in California do not need to wear wet suits most of the year. The water temperature along the California coast is relatively mild, ranging from 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. This allows surfers to wear boardshorts or bikinis for most of the year. In fact, many surfers in California don't wear wet suits at all, even in the coldest months.