Ivory Coast — Sea Water Temperature and Annual Ranges
Up-to-date sea water temperatures for the coasts of Ivory Coast. 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
Ivory Coast’s coastline on the Gulf of Guinea offers warm sea temperatures year-round, making it generally comfortable for swimming. Sea surface temperatures typically range from about 24 to 30 °C (75 to 86 °F) depending on the season and local conditions. The warmest months tend to be late dry season into the early rainy season, roughly March through May, when waters commonly reach around 28–30 °C (82–86 °F). The coolest period is often in the late summer to early autumn, roughly August to September, when coastal upwelling and seasonal changes can bring temperatures down to about 24–26 °C (75–79 °F). Even at the coolest times, the water remains mild compared with temperate seas, so swimmers usually find it pleasant without the need for wetsuits.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is widely practiced along popular beaches such as those near Grand-Bassam, Assinie and San Pédro, and the warm temperatures are a key reason the coast is suitable for recreation. However, local conditions affect safety and water quality: strong currents, tides and seasonal swells can create hazardous surf in places, and heavy rains increase runoff that may reduce water quality near river mouths and urban areas like Abidjan. Lifeguard coverage and beach facilities are not uniform, so swimmers should exercise usual coastal precautions—check local advice, avoid swimming alone, heed posted warnings, and be mindful of pollution after storms. Overall, the sea off Ivory Coast is warm enough for swimming throughout the year, but local weather, currents and water quality determine when and where it is advisable.