East London — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for East London (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 East London help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in East London in the Indian Ocean today is 19°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming.
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 East London 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 East London will be 19.9°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 28 | 19.6°C | 20.8°C | |
| JUN 29 | 19.5°C | 20.8°C | |
| JUN 30 | 18.6°C | 19.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 18.9°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 2 | 18.8°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 3 | 18.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 4 | 18.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| JUL 5 | 18.6°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 6 | 18.5°C | 20.0°C | 18.5°C |
| JUL 7 | 21.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| JUL 8 | 20.8°C | 18.9°C | |
| JUL 9 | 20.8°C | 19.1°C | |
| JUL 10 | 20.8°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUL 11 | 20.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| JUL 12 | 20.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| JUL 13 | 20.3°C | 19.9°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
East London, on South Africa’s Eastern Cape, sits on the warm Agulhas-influenced stretch of the Indian Ocean, so its sea temperatures are milder than those along the west coast. Seasonal water temperatures typically range from around 16°C in the coldest winter months to roughly 23°C at the height of summer. In summer (December to February) swimmers can expect about 20°C to 23°C, while autumn (March to May) usually sees a gradual cooling to roughly 19°C to 22°C. Winter (June to August) brings the coolest conditions, commonly between 16°C and 19°C, and spring (September to November) warms again into the high teens and lower twenties, approximately 17°C to 21°C. These averages mean water can feel brisk outside of mid-summer, but rarely reaches extreme lows.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| February | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| March | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| April | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| June | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 18°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| December | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
East London: Weather Forecast
July 7
July 8
July 9
July 10
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Orient Beach
Gonubie Beach
Beacon Bay East Beach
Fuller's Bay
Nahoon Beach
Bonza Bay Beach
Cove Rock
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in East London cater to a mix of preferences, from family-friendly tidal pools and guarded stretches ideal for casual swimming to surfable breaks that attract board riders. During the warmer months many visitors swim without thermal protection, while in winter a wetsuit or shorter sessions are common for comfort. Lifeguarded beaches operate seasonally and local flags should be heeded because rip currents can occur along the open coast. Tidal pools, estuary mouths, and sheltered bays offer calmer options for children and less confident swimmers, and the city’s coastline provides enough variety for relaxed beach days, active water sports, and scenic coastal walks throughout the year.