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 Island23°C
- Santa Maria24°C
- Boa Vista24°C
- Sao Vincente24°C
- Ponta Verde25°C
- Sal Rei24°C
- Mindelo24°C
- Tarrafal25°C
- Praia25°C
- Ervatao24°C
- Ponta do Sino24°C
- Ponta da Fragata24°C
- Santiago25°C
- Ponta Do Sol24°C
- Ilha de Cima24°C
- Fogo25°C
- Palmeira23°C
- Brava24°C
- Santa Luzia23°C
- Ponta Preta24°C
- Porto Novo24°C
- Maio24°C
- Vila Do Maio24°C
- Porto Dos Mosteiros25°C
- Ribeira Grande24°C
- Sao Nicolau24°C
- Porto Mosquito25°C
- Fajazinha25°C
- Ponta Rincao25°C
- Pombas24°C
- Santo Antao24°C
- Ribeira da Barca25°C
- Sao Filipe25°C
- Furna24°C
- Monte Leao23°C
- Curral Velho24°C
- Cidade Velha25°C
- Calheta25°C
- Ribeira da Prata25°C
- Pedra Lume23°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.