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
- Boa Vista24°C
- Santa Maria23°C
- Sao Vincente24°C
- Ponta Verde24°C
- Sal Rei23°C
- Mindelo24°C
- Tarrafal24°C
- Praia25°C
- Ervatao24°C
- Santiago25°C
- Ponta da Fragata23°C
- Ilha de Cima24°C
- Ponta do Sino23°C
- Porto Novo24°C
- Ponta Do Sol24°C
- Maio24°C
- Ponta Preta23°C
- Brava24°C
- Santa Luzia23°C
- Fogo24°C
- Fajazinha24°C
- Palmeira23°C
- Vila Do Maio24°C
- Porto Mosquito25°C
- Sao Nicolau24°C
- Porto Dos Mosteiros24°C
- Ribeira Grande24°C
- Pombas24°C
- Ponta Rincao25°C
- Ribeira da Barca25°C
- Santo Antao24°C
- Curral Velho24°C
- Furna24°C
- Sao Filipe24°C
- Monte Leao23°C
- Calheta24°C
- Pedra Lume23°C
- Cidade Velha25°C
- Tarrafal De Sao Nicolau23°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.