Chania — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Chania (Crete, Greece). It includes the current water temperature, daily data for the last month presented in a simple chart, and a 7-day forecast. The page also compares today’s value with typical averages for this period, shows usual monthly ranges during the year, and lists nearby beaches with short descriptions. Local weather for the next few days and general details about Chania help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Chania in the Sea of Crete today is 17°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people.
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 Over the Last 30 Days
Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Chania will be 16.8°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 10 | 16.7°C | 16.5°C | |
| APR 11 | 16.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| APR 12 | 16.8°C | 16.5°C | |
| APR 13 | 16.9°C | 17.0°C | |
| APR 14 | 16.9°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 15 | 17.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| APR 16 | 16.9°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 17 | 16.7°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 18 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | 16.8°C |
| APR 19 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 20 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 21 | 17.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 22 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 23 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 24 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| APR 25 | 16.5°C | 16.8°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
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 to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for this location 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.
Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month
Monthly Water Temp Ranges
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Chania, on the northwest coast of Crete, enjoys a Mediterranean marine climate with sea temperatures that vary moderately through the year. Winter months typically see surface temperatures around 15–17 °C, while spring brings a gradual rise to roughly 16–20 °C. By early summer the water warms further, reaching about 22–26 °C in the warmest months of July and August. In autumn the sea remains pleasantly mild, generally falling to around 21–24 °C before cooling again as winter approaches. Local factors such as shallow lagoons, bays and prevailing winds can create small but noticeable differences from these averages along different beaches around Chania.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| February | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| March | 15°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| April | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| May | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| August | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| September | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| October | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| November | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Chania: Weather Forecast
April 19
April 20
April 21
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Nea Chora
Koum Kapi Beach
Chrissi Akti
Hrisi Akti Beach
Lazareta
Stavros Beach
Dyskos
Agii Apostoli
Yannis Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Chania are popular because of the extended season and the variety of coastal settings. From calm, shallow spots like Balos lagoon and some sheltered coves, which can feel warmer due to shallowness, to more exposed stretches on the west coast where waves and wind may cool conditions, there are options for families, snorkelers and watersport enthusiasts. The most comfortable swimming for most people tends to be from late May into October when sea temperatures are generally above 20 °C, while early spring and late autumn may require a short wetsuit or quicker exits for longer swims. Lifeguards are seasonal at many main beaches, and visitors should always be aware of local wind and current conditions that can change how warm the sea feels and how safe open-water swimming is on any given day.
