Cape Town — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Cape Town (South Africa). 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 Cape Town help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Cape Town in the Atlantic Ocean today is 14°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 Cape Town today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Currently, the sea water at this location is slightly cooler than average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Cape Town will be 15.5°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 6 | 16.1°C | 15.8°C | |
| JUN 7 | 15.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| JUN 8 | 15.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUN 9 | 15.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| JUN 10 | 14.8°C | 15.8°C | |
| JUN 11 | 14.2°C | 15.8°C | |
| JUN 12 | 14.1°C | 15.8°C | |
| JUN 13 | 13.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUN 14 | 14.0°C | 16.0°C | 14.0°C |
| JUN 15 | 16.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| JUN 16 | 16.3°C | 14.4°C | |
| JUN 17 | 16.0°C | 14.7°C | |
| JUN 18 | 16.5°C | 14.9°C | |
| JUN 19 | 16.3°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 20 | 16.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| JUN 21 | 16.3°C | 15.5°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
Cape Town’s coastal waters are strongly influenced by two different marine conditions: the cold Benguela current on the Atlantic side and the relatively warmer, more sheltered waters of False Bay on the eastern side. Sea temperatures vary with the seasons and location. On the Atlantic coast (Camps Bay, Clifton, Llandudno) summer temperatures typically range from about 14°C to 18°C, autumn from 13°C to 17°C, winter from 12°C to 15°C and spring from 13°C to 17°C. In False Bay (Muizenberg, Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town) waters are noticeably warmer, with summer values around 17°C to 21°C, autumn 16°C to 19°C, winter 14°C to 17°C and spring 15°C to 19°C. Local weather, wind and seasonal upwelling can shift these figures by a degree or two, so short-term conditions may differ from the averages.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| February | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| March | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| April | 12°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| May | 12°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| June | 13°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| July | 12°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| August | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| September | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| October | 12°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 13°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| December | 15°C | 17°C | 22°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Cape Town: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Three Anchor Bay
Milton Beach
Graaff's Pool
Mouille Point
Rocklands Beach
Albatross Point
Dias Beach
Sea Point
Brokenbath Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Cape Town suit a variety of preferences, from sheltered family beaches to surf breaks and scenic tidal pools. False Bay’s beaches are generally better for casual swimming and learners when the sea is calm, while the Atlantic side offers dramatic scenery and stronger surf that attracts surfers and cold-water swimmers. Many popular beaches have seasonal lifeguards and flagged swimming areas, and there are safe tidal pools and bays for less confident swimmers. Visitors should be prepared for cool water year-round—wetsuits are common for extended swimming—and heed local safety advice about rip currents, changing weather and marine life when planning beach activities.