Sri Lanka — Sea Water Temperature and Annual Ranges
Up-to-date sea water temperatures for the coasts of Sri Lanka. 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
- Colombo31°C
- Katunayake31°C
- Marawila31°C
- Negombo31°C
- Chilaw31°C
- Bentota30°C
- Galle30°C
- Tangalla30°C
- Trincomalee31°C
- Hikkaduwa30°C
- Kosgoda30°C
- Mirissa30°C
- Wattala31°C
- Weligama30°C
- Wadduwa30°C
- Matara30°C
- Beruwala30°C
- Unawatuna30°C
- Ahungalla30°C
- Batticaloa31°C
- Ambalangoda30°C
- Hambantota30°C
- Koggalla30°C
- Kalutara30°C
- Panadura30°C
- Dickwella30°C
- Kalmunai31°C
- Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia31°C
- Induruwa30°C
- Balapitiya30°C
- Jaffna31°C
- Moratuwa31°C
Coastal Seas and Oceans
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
Water Temperature Trends
Sri Lanka’s coastal waters are warm year-round, generally ranging from about 26 to 30 °C (79 to 86 °F). Seasonal differences are modest but noticeable by coast: the southwest and southern shores typically enjoy 27–30 °C (81–86 °F) through much of the year, with slightly cooler readings around June–August during the southwest monsoon. The east coast warms up most clearly in the May–September dry season, often reaching 28–30 °C (82–86 °F), while it can drop to nearer 26–27 °C (79–81 °F) in the northeast monsoon months of December–February. The northern and northwestern waters follow a similar pattern and usually sit between about 26 and 29 °C (79–84 °F). Overall, temperatures remain comfortably warm for swimming at almost any time of year.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is widely permitted and popular, but safety depends on season and location. During the monsoon periods and after storms, strong currents, high surf and rip tides can make some beaches hazardous and local authorities may impose temporary closures or flying red flags; popular bathing areas often have lifeguards during high season and lifeguarded stretches are the safest for casual swimmers. Visibility and calm water are best on the coast that experiences its dry season, which also favors snorkeling and other water activities. Visitors should follow local warnings, swim at monitored beaches when possible, and be cautious at remote or exposed shores where surf and undercurrents are common.