Donaghadee — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Donaghadee (Northen Ireland, 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 Donaghadee help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Donaghadee in the Irish Sea today is 15°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°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 Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperature in Donaghadee has risen over the last week and month. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Donaghadee will be 14.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 19 | 14.9°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUL 20 | 15.1°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUL 21 | 14.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUL 22 | 14.3°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUL 23 | 14.6°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUL 24 | 14.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUL 25 | 14.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUL 26 | 15.0°C | 14.8°C | |
| JUL 27 | 15.3°C | 14.8°C | 15.3°C |
| JUL 28 | 14.3°C | 15.2°C | |
| JUL 29 | 14.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| JUL 30 | 14.3°C | 14.9°C | |
| JUL 31 | 14.0°C | 14.8°C | |
| AUG 1 | 14.0°C | 14.7°C | |
| AUG 2 | 14.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| AUG 3 | 14.5°C | 14.4°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
Donaghadee sits on the east coast of County Down, Northern Ireland, overlooking the approaches to Belfast Lough and the Irish Sea. The coastal waters here are characteristically cool throughout the year, with seasonal variations typical of the Irish Sea. Winter sea temperatures generally range from about 7°C to 9°C, while spring brings a gradual rise to roughly 8°C–12°C. In summer the warmest months usually see water temperatures between approximately 13°C and 17°C, with late summer often the most comfortable for swimming. During autumn the sea begins to cool again, commonly falling back to around 10°C–13°C. Local conditions can shift with onshore winds, tides and weather patterns, so short-term variations from these averages are normal.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7°C | 9°C | 10°C |
| February | 7°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| March | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| April | 7°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| May | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| June | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| July | 10°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 15°C |
| November | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| December | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Donaghadee: Weather Forecast
July 28
July 29
July 30
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Ballyvester Beach
Donaghadee Beach
Millisle Lagoon Beach
North Down Bay Beach
Cove Bay Beach
Ballyferris Holiday Park
Groomsport Beach
Ballymacormick Carpark
Ballymacormick Point
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Donaghadee is popular in fair weather but best approached with an awareness of the cool water and local features. The harbour and surrounding waterfront offer sheltered spots where waters can feel calmer than exposed stretches, and there is a small sandy beach that attracts families and day visitors in summer. Water temperatures mean most people prefer brief dips or use of wetsuits for longer swims; open-water swimmers and wild swimmers frequent the area when conditions are suitable. Tidal flows, rocky piers and changing weather can create hazards, so swimmers should choose sheltered times and locations, swim with company where possible, and take care around slipways and groynes. For a beach holiday the emphasis in Donaghadee is on coastal scenery, walks and waterside recreation, with swimming feasible in summer months but generally cooler than many more southerly seaside destinations.