Panama — Sea Water Temperature and Annual Ranges
Up-to-date sea water temperatures for the coasts of Panama. 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
- Panama City30°C
- Bocas del Toro30°C
- San Blas Islands30°C
- Nueva Gorgona30°C
- San Ignacio de Tupile30°C
- Puerto Pilon30°C
- Mulatupo Sasardi30°C
- Puerto Caimito30°C
- Garachine30°C
- Colón30°C
- Veracruz30°C
- Isla Grande30°C
- El Porvenir30°C
- Gardi Sugdub30°C
- Isla Colon30°C
- Iguana Island30°C
- Maria Chiquita30°C
- Ailigandi30°C
- Playon Chico30°C
- Chiriqui Grande30°C
- Puerto Armuelles29°C
- La Palma30°C
- Contadora Island30°C
- Rio Hato30°C
- Palmas Bellas30°C
- Portobelo30°C
- Kusapín30°C
- Pedasi29°C
- Isla Mamey30°C
Coastal Seas and Oceans
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
Water Temperature Trends
Panama’s seas are warm year-round, with only moderate seasonal variation between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. On the Caribbean side water temperatures typically range from about 27–29 °C (81–84 °F) through the year, remaining relatively stable thanks to the tropical currents. The Pacific coast shows a bit more fluctuation: typical sea surface temperatures are roughly 26–30 °C (79–86 °F), but localized upwelling and seasonal winds can cool Pacific waters to around 25–27 °C (77–81 °F) during the late dry season (roughly December to March), while the wet season (May to November) and transition months tend to see the warmest values near 28–30 °C (82–86 °F). Regional differences and coastal geography mean individual beaches or bays can vary by a degree or two from these averages.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is generally permitted and popular across Panama, from resort beaches and protected bays to coral-fringed snorkeling sites, because the waters are invitingly warm and accessible most of the year. However, conditions vary: some urban or river-mouth beaches may be affected by runoff or pollution after heavy rains, and strong currents or rip tides can occur on certain Pacific beaches, so local advisories should be heeded. Marine life encounters are common and usually harmless, though swimmers should be alert for jellyfish blooms or occasional hazardous currents, and note that lifeguards are not always present. For safe swimming, choose well-maintained tourist beaches or marine protected areas, check recent local water-quality reports and weather, and respect posted warnings and seasonal closures.