Cork — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Cork (Republic of Ireland). 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 Cork help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Cork in the Celtic Sea today is 13°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear.
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
Water temperature in Cork rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Cork will be 13.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 1 | 14.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 2 | 14.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 3 | 14.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 4 | 14.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 5 | 14.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 6 | 13.9°C | 12.8°C | |
| JUN 7 | 13.6°C | 12.8°C | |
| JUN 8 | 13.1°C | 12.8°C | |
| JUN 9 | 12.7°C | 12.8°C | 12.7°C |
| JUN 10 | 12.8°C | 12.8°C | |
| JUN 11 | 13.3°C | 12.9°C | |
| JUN 12 | 13.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| JUN 13 | 13.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 14 | 13.0°C | 13.1°C | |
| JUN 15 | 13.8°C | 13.2°C | |
| JUN 16 | 13.3°C | 13.3°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
Cork, on Ireland’s southern coastline in Munster, enjoys relatively mild sea conditions compared with the west and north, thanks to the influence of the North Atlantic Drift. Seasonal water temperatures around Cork vary through the year: winter months typically see sea surface temperatures around 8–10 °C, spring usually ranges from about 8–12 °C as the water slowly warms, summer brings the highest readings of approximately 14–18 °C in July and August, and autumn waters commonly cool back to roughly 12–15 °C. Local variation is common, with sheltered estuaries and inner harbours often a degree or two warmer than exposed headlands and open Atlantic-facing shores. Tidal flows and onshore winds can also modify how the water feels from day to day.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| February | 8°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| March | 8°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| May | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| July | 13°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| August | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| September | 13°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| December | 9°C | 10°C | 13°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Cork: Weather Forecast
June 11
June 12
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays around Cork suit a mix of preferences, from short bracing sea dips to longer sheltered swims and family-friendly sandy beaches. Numerous bays and inlets provide calmer conditions ideal for less experienced swimmers and novice snorkelers, while more exposed stretches attract surfers, open-water swimmers and divers. Many popular beaches operate seasonal lifeguard services and have amenities such as car parks and cafes nearby, though facilities are more limited at isolated coves. Given the typical temperature range, wetsuits are commonly used outside the warmest weeks of summer, and swimmers should be mindful of tides, currents and changing weather. The combination of scenic coastline, varied swimming spots and coastal villages makes Cork a practical destination for beach breaks, water sports and short coastal excursions throughout the warmer months.