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Nanaimo

Water Temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo, British Columbia: Current, Historical Data and Forecast

On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the sea temperature in Nanaimo in British Columbia, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.

Current Water Temperature in Nanaimo

44°F

TODAY

44°F

YESTERDAY

44°F

A WEEK AGO

Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature

Today sea water temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo is 6.8°F. This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold.

It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.

Water Temperature Chart for Salish Sea in Nanaimo Over the Last 30 Days

The water temperature in Nanaimo today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Today's sea temperature is generally in line with historical values for this day.

According to our forecast, the sea temperature in Nanaimo will remain nearly unchanged in the coming days, its value will be 45°F.

Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts across Canada to enhance accuracy.

Water temperature data for Nanaimo and nearby towns and resorts is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

DateCurrentAverageForecast
Feb 1544°F45°F
Feb 1644°F44°F
Feb 1744°F45°F
Feb 1844°F45°F
Feb 1944°F46°F
Feb 2044°F45°F
Feb 2144°F45°F
Feb 2244°F44°F
Feb 234644°F
Feb 244544°F
Feb 254544°F
Feb 264645°F
Feb 274545°F
Feb 284645°F
Mar 14645°F
Mar 24545°F
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Sea Temperature in Nanaimo Throughout the Year

Throughout the year, the sea temperature in Nanaimo never exceeds 64°F (18°C).

Below is the annual chart of sea temperature changes in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo.

January

MinimumAverageMaximum
43°F46°F48°F

February

MinimumAverageMaximum
43°F46°F48°F

March

MinimumAverageMaximum
43°F46°F50°F

April

MinimumAverageMaximum
45°F49°F54°F

May

MinimumAverageMaximum
45°F52°F59°F

June

MinimumAverageMaximum
48°F56°F64°F

July

MinimumAverageMaximum
50°F58°F66°F

August

MinimumAverageMaximum
50°F58°F66°F

September

MinimumAverageMaximum
46°F55°F63°F

October

MinimumAverageMaximum
48°F53°F57°F

November

MinimumAverageMaximum
45°F49°F54°F

December

MinimumAverageMaximum
43°F46°F50°F

Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for Salish Sea in Nanaimo

You can explore detailed data on how the water temperature in Nanaimo varies each month:

What Beaches Are There In and Around Nanaimo?

Nanaimo Blueback

Nanaimo Blueback is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Nanaimo. Nanaimo Blueback is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Link to the location of the beach

Kinsman Park

Kinsman Park is a 1-stars sandy beach, located in a 5 km (3 miles) radius of Nanaimo.

Link to the location of the beach

Departure Bay Beach

Departure Bay Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 5 km (3 miles) radius of Nanaimo. There is parking. There are cafés. Departure Bay Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.

Link to the location of the beach

Wheatcroft Park

Wheatcroft Park is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Nanaimo. There is parking. Wheatcroft Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.

Link to the location of the beach

Morningside Park

Morningside Park is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 8 km (5 miles) radius of Nanaimo. There is parking. Morningside Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.

Link to the location of the beach

Brannen Lake Beach

Brannen Lake Beach is a 1-stars sandy beach, located in a 10 km (6 miles) radius of Nanaimo.

Link to the location of the beach

Nanaimo Weather

FEBRUARY 23

45°F / 46°F
moderate rain

humidity: 91% | wind: 2 mph

FEBRUARY 24

43°F / 45°F
light rain

humidity: 95% | wind: 4 mph

FEBRUARY 25

41°F / 45°F
moderate rain

humidity: 95% | wind: 1 mph

FEBRUARY 26

43°F / 48°F
overcast clouds: 85-100%

humidity: 86% | wind: 2 mph

British Columbia, CanadaBritish Columbia, CanadaBritish Columbia, Canada

Sea Temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities

Original name
Nanaimo
The Local Time
10:47 AM
Time Zone
UTC-8
Sunrise
07:11 AM
Sunset
05:47 PM
Length of the day
10 h 36 m

The coastal area in the region of British Columbia, Canada is characterized by a temperate oceanic climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Precipitation is higher in the winter, but the region also experiences foggy and windy conditions throughout the year due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean.

Nanaimo is located in North America in the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of 49 degrees, along the shores of the Salish Sea. Nanaimo lies within the British Columbia in Canada.

The average annual daytime air temperature in Nanaimo is 12°C (54°F), with the average nighttime temperature being 7°C (45°F). The highest average daily temperature occurs in August, reaching 22°C (72°F), while the lowest is in December at 3°C (37°F). As for nighttime temperatures, the minimum average temperature of 2°C (35°F) is recorded in January, and the maximum is in August, reaching 14°C (56°F).

According to historical data, Nanaimo experiences 152 rainy days per year, which accounts for 42 percent of all days in the year. On average, there are 13 rainy days each month. The wettest month is November, with 18 rainy days and 266 mm (10.5 inches) of precipitation, while the driest month is August, which typically has 7 rainy days and only 49 mm (1.9 inches) of precipitation.

The average annual water temperature in Salish Sea in Nanaimo is 11°C (52°F). In January, the water reaches its lowest point of the year at 6°C (43°F), while in July, it peaks at 19°C (66°F). In Nanaimo, the water temperature in the Salish Sea never consistently reaches a comfortable level for swimming in any month.

Geographical Location of Nanaimo

Frequently Asked Questions About Nanaimo and its Water Temperatures

What is the current sea temperature in Nanaimo?

The water temperature today in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo is 44°F (6.8°C).

In which months is the water temperature in Nanaimo comfortable for swimming?

It cannot be guaranteed that the water temperature in Nanaimo will be comfortable for swimming in any month of the year.

What is the water temperature in Nanaimo during the winter?

The water temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo during the winter ranges from 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F).

What is the water temperature in Nanaimo during the spring?

The water temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo during the spring ranges from 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F).

What is the water temperature in Nanaimo during the summer?

The water temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo during the summer ranges from 9°C to 19°C (48°F to 66°F).

What is the water temperature in Nanaimo during the fall?

The water temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo during the fall ranges from 7°C to 17°C (45°F to 63°F).

Is it possible to swim in the sea in Nanaimo at any time of the year?

In Nanaimo, the Salish Sea is quite cold, and swimming is almost impossible as the water temperature never reaches 21°C (70°F).

Is Nanaimo a popular tourist destination for beach vacations?

Nanaimo has a moderate level of popularity for beach vacations; while it does receive some visitors, it is not among the top seaside destinations, as other locations may offer more favorable conditions.

What sea temperatures can I expect in Nanaimo in the next month?

In March, the water temperature in the Salish Sea in Nanaimo will range between 43°F (6°C) and 50°F (10°C)