Gambia — Sea Water Temperature and Annual Ranges
Up-to-date sea water temperatures for the coasts of Gambia. 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
Coastal Seas and Oceans
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
Water Temperature Trends
The Gambia’s short Atlantic coastline generally offers warm seas that make swimming pleasant for most of the year. Sea surface temperatures typically range from roughly 21–24 °C (70–75 °F) in the coolest months of January to March, rising to about 24–27 °C (75–81 °F) in spring and early summer, and often reaching 25–28 °C (77–82 °F) during the warmer mid-year months. Temperatures usually ease back to the mid‑20s °C (about 75–79 °F) in autumn. These averages mean that wetsuits are rarely necessary for recreational swimming, and the water is generally comfortable for prolonged exposure.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is commonly allowed and popular along Gambia’s beaches and at resort stretches, but local conditions determine safety. The mouth of the Gambia River, tidal flows and occasional rip currents can create strong local currents and variable depths, and the rainy season (roughly June–October) can bring higher surf, muddier water and increased runoff that affects water quality. Lifeguard coverage is limited outside major tourist areas, so visitors should follow local guidance, avoid swimming alone, heed posted warnings, and favour supervised or well-known bathing spots. Marine life encounters are uncommon, but occasional jellyfish or debris after storms can occur. Overall, with normal precautions and attention to tides and weather, the Gambian coast offers year‑round swimming opportunities in comfortably warm waters.