North Carolina — Water Temperature Today and Throughout the Year
Discover water temperatures in North Carolina (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
- Duck22°C
- Kill Devil Hills22°C
- Corolla21°C
- Emerald Isle25°C
- Nags Head22°C
- Carolina Beach25°C
- Atlantic Beach25°C
- North Topsail Beach24°C
- Surf City25°C
- Kitty Hawk22°C
- Holden Beach26°C
- Oak Island25°C
- Rodanthe24°C
- Salvo24°C
- Ocracoke25°C
- Avon25°C
- Topsail Beach24°C
- Ocean Isle Beach26°C
- Hatteras26°C
- Kure Beach25°C
- Southern Shores22°C
- Bald Head Island26°C
- Morehead City25°C
- Buxton25°C
- Indian Beach25°C
- Cape Lookout25°C
- Wrightsville Beach25°C
- Frisco25°C
- Crystal Coast25°C
- Cape Carteret25°C
- Caswell Beach26°C
- Oriental26°C
Coastal Seas and Oceans
Water Temperature in Lakes and Rivers
Popular Lakes
Popular Rivers
Popular Places
Water Temperature and Swimming Overview
Regions and Map
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Water Temperature Trends
North Carolina boasts a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, as well as numerous rivers and lakes, each offering distinct water temperature ranges. On the coast, the ocean water temperature can vary significantly depending on the season. During the summer months, ocean temperatures off the coast of North Carolina range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C), making it a popular destination for beachgoers. The warm water attracts swimmers, surfers, and boaters alike. In the winter, ocean temperatures drop to between 45°F and 55°F (7°C to 13°C), making the waters less appealing for recreational activities, especially in the northern parts of the state.
Inland, North Carolina's rivers, including the Cape Fear, Neuse, and Yadkin rivers, have cooler water temperatures that vary based on the season and location. In the warmer months, the rivers experience temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), which are perfect for activities like kayaking, fishing, and tubing. However, the temperatures can drop substantially in the fall and winter months, with river water cooling to between 40°F and 50°F (4°C to 10°C), especially in the mountain regions of the state. These cooler conditions mark the end of peak water-based recreation in the state's rivers.
North Carolina is also known for its abundant lakes, such as Lake Norman, Lake Lure, and the larger Fontana Lake. In the summer, water temperatures in these lakes typically range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), providing ideal conditions for boating, fishing, and swimming. As temperatures drop in the fall, the lakes begin to cool, with surface water temperatures ranging from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). In the winter, water temperatures in the deeper areas of the lakes can approach 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C), while shallower areas may experience slightly colder conditions.