Beachy Head — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Beachy Head (England, United Kingdom). 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 Beachy Head help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Beachy Head in the English Channel today is 11°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used.
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 Beachy Head has risen over the last week and month. 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 Beachy Head will be 10.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 10 | 10.5°C | 9.8°C | |
| APR 11 | 10.5°C | 9.3°C | |
| APR 12 | 10.6°C | 9.3°C | |
| APR 13 | 10.5°C | 9.0°C | |
| APR 14 | 10.4°C | 9.5°C | |
| APR 15 | 10.6°C | 9.8°C | |
| APR 16 | 10.9°C | 9.3°C | |
| APR 17 | 11.0°C | 9.3°C | |
| APR 18 | 11.1°C | 9.3°C | 11.1°C |
| APR 19 | 8.8°C | 11.0°C | |
| APR 20 | 9.3°C | 10.8°C | |
| APR 21 | 9.3°C | 10.7°C | |
| APR 22 | 9.8°C | 10.6°C | |
| APR 23 | 9.8°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 24 | 9.8°C | 10.3°C | |
| APR 25 | 10.3°C | 10.2°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
Beachy Head is a dramatic chalk headland on the Sussex coast overlooking the English Channel, known more for its towering cliffs and panoramic views than for broad sandy beaches. Sea temperatures here follow the typical seasonal pattern of the south coast: winter waters usually sit around 7–10 °C, early spring warms to roughly 9–13 °C, late spring and early summer move into the range of about 13–16 °C, with peak summer temperatures commonly between 15–20 °C on warmer years. Autumn sees a gradual cooling, with September and October often recording 11–16 °C before winter returns. These figures are averages and local conditions such as wind, tides and occasional warm spells can push temperatures a degree or two higher or lower.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| February | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| March | 6°C | 9°C | 10°C |
| April | 7°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| May | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| August | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| December | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Beachy Head: Weather Forecast
April 19
April 20
April 21
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Holywell Beach
Birling Gap Beach
Seven Sisters Beach
Eastbourne Beach
Eastbourne Royal Parade Beach
Cuckmere Haven Beach
Lumpit's Beach
Hope Gap
Kapa Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming directly beneath the cliffs is generally not recommended due to steep access, strong currents, tidal changes and the risk of falling rocks, but there are nearby coastal spots and Eastbourne’s beaches a short distance along the shore that offer safer bathing options. The shoreline near Beachy Head tends to be pebbly with limited space at high tide, so family beach holidays are usually based around Eastbourne where lifeguards operate in summer and facilities are more developed. Open-water swimmers do use the area, particularly with wetsuits when water is cooler, but should heed local advice, swim with companions or in marked zones, and be aware of boat traffic and changeable conditions. The location is excellent for coastal walking and seaside scenery, even if swimmers need to choose their entry points carefully.