Cape Verde — Sea Water Temperature and Annual Ranges
Up-to-date sea water temperatures for the coasts of Cape Verde. Learn about today’s conditions, monthly averages, and how the surrounding seas and oceans vary by season. We find every place where you can swim and show you the water temperature there today and throughout the year.
Sea Water Temperature Along the Coast
Chart of Average Temperature Changes Over the Last 60 Days
Places with the Warmest Sea Water Today
The Most Popular Seaside Places
- Sal Island28°C
- Boa Vista28°C
- Santa Maria28°C
- Sao Vincente28°C
- Mindelo28°C
- Praia28°C
- Santiago28°C
- Pombas28°C
- Tarrafal28°C
- Ponta Verde28°C
- Vila Do Maio28°C
- Ribeira da Barca28°C
- Palmeira28°C
- Porto Novo28°C
- Pedra Lume28°C
- Sal Rei28°C
- Porto Dos Mosteiros28°C
- Maio28°C
- Santo Antao28°C
- Sao Filipe28°C
- Calheta28°C
- Ponta Do Sol28°C
- Cidade Velha28°C
- Porto Mosquito28°C
- Ponta Rincao28°C
- Fogo28°C
- Ribeira Grande28°C
- Ribeira da Prata28°C
- Praia Baixo28°C
- Sao Nicolau28°C
- Santa Luzia28°C
- Tarrafal De Sao Nicolau28°C
- Curral Velho28°C
- Fajazinha28°C
- Monte Leao28°C
- Furna28°C
- Brava28°C
- Ilha de Cima28°C
- Ponta do Sino28°C
- Ponta da Fragata28°C
Coastal Seas and Oceans
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
Water Temperature Trends
Cape Verde’s coastal waters are pleasantly warm most of the year, making the islands attractive for swimming and a variety of water sports. Typical sea-surface temperatures range from about 22–24 °C (72–75 °F) in the coolest months of December through February, rising to roughly 25–27 °C (77–81 °F) in summer, and reaching peak averages near 26–28 °C (79–82 °F) in early autumn. The archipelago sits in the eastern Atlantic and feels the influence of the cool Canary Current and local upwellings, so temperatures are milder than tropical equatorial seas but remain comfortable for prolonged in-water activity. Visibility is generally good around sandy bays and protected coves, which supports swimming, snorkeling, and freediving.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is broadly permitted and commonly practiced along sandy, sheltered beaches, particularly on leeward shores where currents and swell are reduced. However, some coastlines are exposed to strong Atlantic swells, rip currents and wind-driven surf, so caution is advised; many beaches lack permanent lifeguard services and conditions can change quickly. Rockier or reef-fringed areas may require care on entry and exit, though they often offer excellent snorkeling. Seasonal winds, especially the harmattan-influenced trade winds and winter swell, can make open-water swimming more challenging at times. Overall, water temperatures in Cape Verde are sufficiently warm for most swimmers year-round, but checking local conditions and choosing protected beaches will maximize safety and enjoyment.