Galway — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Galway (Connacht, 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 Galway help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Galway in the Atlantic Ocean 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
Water temperature in Galway today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Galway will be 15.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 3 | 18.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 4 | 17.9°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 5 | 17.8°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 6 | 17.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 7 | 17.1°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 8 | 17.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 9 | 17.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 10 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 11 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | 16.5°C |
| SEP 12 | 15.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 13 | 15.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 14 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 15.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 16 | 15.3°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 14.8°C | 15.3°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
Galway sits on the west coast of Ireland in the province of Connacht, where coastal waters are moderated by the North Atlantic and the influence of the Gulf Stream. As a result the sea is relatively temperate compared with more northerly Atlantic waters, but still remains cool year-round. Typical seasonal surface temperatures around Galway range from about 7–10 °C in winter, 8–13 °C in spring, 12–17 °C in summer, and 10–14 °C in autumn. Temperatures vary locally: sheltered bays and estuaries tend to be a degree or two warmer, while exposed Atlantic-facing shores in Connemara and beyond are often a bit cooler. Weather, tides and recent swell can all change conditions quickly, so short-term temperature and sea state will vary from these averages.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| February | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| March | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| May | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| June | 11°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| July | 12°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| August | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| September | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°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.
Galway: Weather Forecast
September 12
September 13
September 14
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Grattan Beach
South Park Beach
Deadmans Beach
Salthill Beach
Ladies Beach
Silverstrand Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays around Galway offer a mix of calm bay bathing and raw Atlantic coastline, with sandy coves, rocky headlands and promenaded swimming spots close to the city. Popular seaside areas attract swimmers in summer, but even at the warmest times the water is cool enough that many people use wetsuits for longer swims, open-water training or kayaking. Seasonal lifeguard coverage is available at some beaches, and organised open-water groups and events operate during the warmer months. Visitors should be prepared for variable conditions, respect tidal currents and check local advice before entering the water; the scenic beaches and sheltered bays provide enjoyable visits, but the ocean temperature means swimming tends to be brief or supported by thermal protection outside the warmest weeks.