Spain — Water Temperature in Seas, Lakes and Rivers
Check today’s water temperatures across Spain, including seas, lakes, and rivers. View real-time updates and seasonal ranges for both coastal and inland waters. 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 in Lakes and Rivers
Popular Lakes
Popular Rivers
Popular Places
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
Water Temperature Trends
Spain’s coastal waters vary with region and season. Along the Mediterranean shores — from Catalonia down through Valencia, Murcia and the Costa del Sol — sea temperatures typically run from roughly 13–16 °C (55–61 °F) in winter to 22–28 °C (72–82 °F) in summer, with autumn and spring falling between those bands. The Atlantic-facing northern coast (Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country) is cooler, often around 12–15 °C (54–59 °F) in winter and only 16–20 °C (61–68 °F) in summer, and it can be much rougher with stronger currents. The southern Atlantic coast around Cádiz and Huelva is milder, while the Canary Islands enjoy the warmest year-round sea temperatures — roughly 18–24 °C (64–75 °F) depending on season. These averages mean bathing is popular in summer across most coasts; in shoulder seasons and winter, swimming is still possible in the warmest areas but less common due to cooler water.
Swimming Conditions
Inland lakes, reservoirs and rivers show greater variability. Lowland reservoirs and river stretches warm quickly in summer and commonly reach 20–28 °C (68–82 °F), making them attractive for swimming, whereas high-altitude mountain lakes remain cold year-round, often below 15 °C (59 °F) even in summer. Swimming is generally permitted in many coastal beaches and in selected inland waters where signage and local regulations allow; authorities monitor water quality and may close sites for safety, contamination, strong currents or jellyfish presence. Lifeguard services and seasonal patrols are typical at popular beaches, so swimmers should follow local notices and respect any posted restrictions.