Durban — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Durban (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 Durban help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Durban in the Indian Ocean today is 23°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health.
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 Durban rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. Currently, the sea water at this location is slightly warmer than average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Durban will be 22.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 17 | 23.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 23.1°C | 21.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 23.3°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 20 | 23.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 21 | 22.6°C | 22.0°C | |
| OCT 22 | 22.6°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 23 | 22.7°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 24 | 22.9°C | 22.0°C | |
| OCT 25 | 23.0°C | 21.5°C | 23.0°C |
| OCT 26 | 21.5°C | 22.9°C | |
| OCT 27 | 21.5°C | 22.8°C | |
| OCT 28 | 22.0°C | 22.6°C | |
| OCT 29 | 21.5°C | 22.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 21.5°C | 22.4°C | |
| OCT 31 | 21.8°C | 22.3°C | |
| NOV 1 | 22.3°C | 22.2°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
Durban, on the subtropical east coast of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, enjoys a warm Indian Ocean influence that keeps coastal waters relatively mild year-round. Sea temperatures typically sit around 20°C during the coolest months of June to August and rise steadily through spring to peak in late summer, commonly reaching 26–28°C around January and February. Transitional months such as April and November often register comfortable mid-20s, making the water inviting for most visitors outside the brief winter dip. Local tidal and weather conditions can cause short-term variation, but overall the coastline benefits from consistently higher temperatures than much of South Africa’s Atlantic-facing shores.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| February | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| March | 23°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| April | 22°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| May | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| June | 21°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| July | 20°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| August | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| September | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 20°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| December | 22°C | 24°C | 28°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Durban: Weather Forecast
October 26
October 27
October 28
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Wedge Beach
Addington Beach
Snake Park Beach
Golden Mile Beach
Dairy Beach
South Beach
Ushaka Beach
The Point
Vetchos Pier
Swimming Conditions
These steady sea temperatures support a lively beach holiday scene with swimming opportunities for all skill levels. The Golden Mile and adjacent beaches provide sheltered stretches suitable for families, while more exposed breaks attract surfers and bodyboarders when swells pick up. Many popular beaches are patrolled by lifeguards and equipped with shark-mitigation measures, which contribute to safe swimming areas during the swimming season; nevertheless, swimmers should heed local flags and warnings, especially when rip currents are present. Beyond casual swimming, the warm water supports snorkeling, diving and water-sports operators who run trips year-round, making Durban a versatile coastal destination where water-based recreation is accessible in most seasons.