Dover — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Dover (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 Dover help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Dover in the English Channel 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 Dover today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Dover will be 18.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 19.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 14 | 19.4°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.4°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 18 | 19.4°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 18.9°C | 18.3°C | 18.9°C |
| SEP 22 | 18.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 25 | 17.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.0°C | 18.4°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 17.3°C | 18.2°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
Dover sits on the southeastern tip of England overlooking the English Channel and is best known for its white chalk cliffs and busy harbour. Sea temperatures in the Dover area follow the temperate British pattern and remain cool for much of the year: winter water commonly ranges from about 6–8 °C, spring usually brings 8–13 °C, summer peaks typically between 15–19 °C, and autumn cools to roughly 12–16 °C. These figures vary with weather, wind direction and tidal conditions, so a warm spell can lift local readings a degree or two while northerly winds or strong tides can make the water feel noticeably colder. Shallow bays and sheltered spots warm more quickly than exposed headlands, but overall the Channel here rarely attains what many would call warm bathing temperatures.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| February | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| March | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| April | 7°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| July | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Dover: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Dover Harbour Beach
Shakespeare Beach
Dover Beach
Abbot's Cliff Beach
Lydden Spout Beach
Samphire Hoe Beach
St Margaret's Bay Beach
The Warren Beach
Kingsdown Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Dover is primarily an open-water experience rather than a classic sandy beach holiday. The coastline is largely shingle or pebbly with a few smaller bays and man-made coastal areas that provide access to the sea; facilities and promenades in the town make it suitable as a base for seaside breaks. Because water temperatures are moderate even in summer, many recreational swimmers use wetsuits outside peak months, and organised sea-swim groups operate when conditions allow. Visitors should be mindful of shipping lanes, strong currents and variable weather, and note that lifeguard cover and designated bathing areas are limited, so checking local guidance before entering the water is advisable. For those prepared for cooler sea conditions, Dover offers scenic coastal swims framed by dramatic cliffs and easy access to coastal walking and other seaside activities.