Alaska — Water Temperature Today and Throughout the Year
Discover water temperatures in Alaska (United States), with real-time data and annual trends. Find all locations in the region and check the water temperature in them. 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 Rivers
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
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Water Temperature Trends
Alaska, with its vast coastline along the Pacific Ocean and numerous rivers and lakes, experiences some of the coldest water temperatures in the United States. The water along Alaska's coastline, especially in areas like the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea, remains very cold year-round. In the summer months, the water temperature in the coastal regions can range from 40°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C), making swimming or prolonged water exposure challenging for most people. Even in the warmer summer months, the temperature rarely exceeds 60°F (16°C), with some regions staying much colder. The winter months can see coastal waters dipping down to around 30°F to 35°F (-1°C to 2°C), with ice coverage forming in more northern areas.
Inland, Alaska's rivers and lakes also experience extreme temperature variations. The rivers, particularly in the interior of the state, tend to be cold throughout the year. During the summer months, river temperatures in areas like the Yukon or Kenai rivers might reach around 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C), though they are often colder due to the glacial meltwater that feeds these rivers. The spring and early summer are when these rivers are most swimmable, though they remain chilly, even in peak summer. In the colder months, river water temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes reaching below freezing in certain areas where ice is prevalent.
Alaska’s many lakes also experience similar cold temperatures. The larger lakes, such as Lake Iliamna and Lake Clark, have waters that can range from 40°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C) during summer, making them suitable for boating and fishing but not comfortable for swimming. As with rivers, lake temperatures drop considerably in the fall and winter, often falling to below 40°F (4°C). In winter, many of these lakes freeze over, and activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling become more popular than water-based recreation. Despite the chilly waters, Alaska’s natural beauty draws visitors for fishing, kayaking, and exploring, but preparation for cold temperatures is essential for any water-related activities.