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Cape Town
Water Temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town, South Africa: Current and Forecast
On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the sea temperature in Cape Town in South Africa, 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 Cape Town
16.7°C
TODAY
17.1°C
YESTERDAY
16.9°C
A WEEK AGO
Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature
Today sea water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town is 16.7°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 for Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town Over the Last 30 Days
The water temperature in Cape Town 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 Cape Town will rise slightly in the coming days and reach 18.1°C.
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 South Africa to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for Cape Town 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
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 4 | 16.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 5 | 16.6°C | 20.3°C | |
| Mar 6 | 16.5°C | 20.3°C | |
| Mar 7 | 16.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 8 | 16.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 9 | 16.7°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 10 | 17.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 11 | 17.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 12 | 18.8°C | 16.9°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.3°C | 17.6°C | |
| Mar 16 | 18.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| Mar 17 | 19.5°C | 17.9°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.5°C | 18.1°C |
Sea Temperature in Cape Town Throughout the Year
Throughout the year, the sea temperature in Cape Town exceeds 77°F (25°C) for 0 days, exceeds 72°F (22°C) for 0 days, and exceeds 64°F (18°C) for 87 days.
Below is the annual chart of sea temperature changes in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town.
January
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
February
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
March
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 14°C | 18.5°C | 23°C |
April
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
May
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 12°C | 15.5°C | 19°C |
June
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
July
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
August
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 12°C | 14.5°C | 17°C |
September
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 12°C | 14.5°C | 17°C |
October
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
November
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 13°C | 16.5°C | 20°C |
December
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 15°C | 18.5°C | 22°C |
Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town
You can explore detailed data on how the water temperature in Cape Town varies each month:
What Beaches Are There In and Around Cape Town?
Three Anchor Bay
Three Anchor Bay is a 4-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Cape Town. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Mouille Point
Mouille Point is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Cape Town. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Mouille Point is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.
Rocklands Beach
Rocklands Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés. Rocklands Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible. There is a shark hazard on the beach. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Graaff's Pool
Graaff's Pool is a 1-stars pebble beach, is located directly in Cape Town. There are cafés.
Milton Beach
Milton Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Cape Town. There are restrooms. There are cafés.
Sea Point
Sea Point is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Brokenbath Beach
Brokenbath Beach is a 2-stars pebble beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés.
Albatross Point
Albatross Point is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés. Albatross Point 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.
Dias Beach
Dias Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Cape Town. There are cafés. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Muizenberg Beach
Muizenberg Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Cape Town. It has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, ensuring high environmental and quality standards. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Snorkeling is possible. It is suitable for surfing. There is a shark hazard on the beach. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Queen's Beach
Queen's Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. It is suitable for surfing.
Saunders Beach
Saunders Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés. Saunders Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.
Bantry Bay
Bantry Bay is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés. Bantry Bay is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.
Clifton Beach
Clifton Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Cape Town. It has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, ensuring high environmental and quality standards. There are lifeguards on the beach. For those who prefer clothing-optional beaches, Clifton Beach is a designated nudist beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Clifton Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Camps Bay Beach
Camps Bay Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 5 km (3 miles) radius of Cape Town. It has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, ensuring high environmental and quality standards. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Camps Bay Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Glen Beach
Glen Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 5 km (3 miles) radius of Cape Town. It has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, ensuring high environmental and quality standards. There are lifeguards on the beach. For those who prefer clothing-optional beaches, Glen Beach is a designated nudist beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Glen Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Camps Bay Tidal Pool
Camps Bay Tidal Pool is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Cape Town. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés.
Barley Bay
Barley Bay is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Bakoven Beach
Bakoven Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are cafés. Bakoven Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Robyn's Beach
Robyn's Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Cape Town. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Robyn's Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing.
Cape Town Weather
MARCH 12
19°C / 20°C
clear skyhumidity: 86% | wind: 18 km/h
MARCH 13
19°C / 21°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%humidity: 79% | wind: 17 km/h
MARCH 14
19°C / 21°C
clear skyhumidity: 80% | wind: 4 km/h
MARCH 15
18°C / 20°C
clear skyhumidity: 89% | wind: 4 km/h
Sea Temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
The Western Cape region of South Africa, particularly its coastal areas, experience a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperatures range from 15°C in winter to 27°C in summer.
Cape Town is located in Africa in the Southern Hemisphere at a latitude of -34 degrees, along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Cape Town lies within the Western Cape in South Africa.
The average annual daytime air temperature in Cape Town is 22°C (72°F), with the average nighttime temperature being 12°C (54°F). The highest average daily temperature occurs in February, reaching 26°C (78°F), while the lowest is in July at 19°C (66°F). As for nighttime temperatures, the minimum average temperature of 8°C (47°F) is recorded in July, and the maximum is in February, reaching 16°C (60°F).
According to historical data, Cape Town experiences 82 rainy days per year, which accounts for 22 percent of all days in the year. On average, there are 7 rainy days each month. The wettest month is August, with 8 rainy days and 80 mm (3.2 inches) of precipitation, while the driest month is January, which typically has 6 rainy days and only 15 mm (0.6 inches) of precipitation.
The average annual water temperature in Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town is 17°C (63°F). In April, the water reaches its lowest point of the year at 12°C (54°F), while in January, it peaks at 23°C (73°F). In Cape Town, the water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean never consistently reaches a comfortable level for swimming in any month.
Geographical Location of Cape Town
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Town and its Water Temperatures
What is the current sea temperature in Cape Town?
The water temperature today in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town is 62°F (16.7°C).
In which months is the water temperature in Cape Town comfortable for swimming?
It cannot be guaranteed that the water temperature in Cape Town will be comfortable for swimming in any month of the year.
What is the water temperature in Cape Town during the winter?
The water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town during the winter ranges from 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F).
What is the water temperature in Cape Town during the spring?
The water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town during the spring ranges from 12°C to 23°C (54°F to 73°F).
What is the water temperature in Cape Town during the summer?
The water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town during the summer ranges from 12°C to 19°C (54°F to 66°F).
What is the water temperature in Cape Town during the fall?
The water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town during the fall ranges from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F).
Is it possible to swim in the sea in Cape Town at any time of the year?
The Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town is quite cool, and swimming is only possible in January, February, March, and December when the water temperature reaches 21°C (70°F).
Is Cape Town a popular tourist destination for beach vacations?
Cape Town a fairly popular beach destination, offering good conditions for swimming and relaxation, with a steady flow of tourists, especially during peak seasons.
What sea temperatures can I expect in Cape Town in the next month?
In April, the water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town will range between 54°F (12°C) and 68°F (20°C)