Dunnet — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Dunnet (Scotland, 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 Dunnet help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Dunnet in the North Sea 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 Dunnet 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 Dunnet will be 10.3°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 3 | 9.9°C | 10.0°C | |
| JUN 4 | 10.1°C | 10.0°C | |
| JUN 5 | 10.5°C | 10.3°C | |
| JUN 6 | 10.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| JUN 7 | 10.1°C | 10.3°C | |
| JUN 8 | 10.2°C | 10.8°C | |
| JUN 9 | 10.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| JUN 10 | 10.8°C | 10.5°C | |
| JUN 11 | 10.9°C | 10.5°C | 10.9°C |
| JUN 12 | 10.0°C | 10.8°C | |
| JUN 13 | 10.8°C | 10.7°C | |
| JUN 14 | 11.0°C | 10.6°C | |
| JUN 15 | 9.8°C | 10.5°C | |
| JUN 16 | 10.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| JUN 17 | 10.0°C | 10.4°C | |
| JUN 18 | 10.5°C | 10.3°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
Dunnet sits on the northern coast of Scotland near Dunnet Head, offering a rugged shoreline and a long sandy bay exposed to the cool waters of the North Sea. Sea temperatures around Dunnet are cold by temperate standards and vary through the year: winter months commonly see values down to about 5 °C, early spring typically ranges from 6–8 °C, late spring and early summer rise into the neighborhood of 8–11 °C, and the warmest weeks of July and August generally reach around 11–13 °C. Autumn temperatures fall back to roughly 8–10 °C. Because of the northerly location and influence of currents and weather, sudden changes are common and local conditions determine the exact temperature on any given day.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| February | 6°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| March | 6°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| April | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| May | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| June | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| July | 9°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| October | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| November | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| December | 8°C | 9°C | 11°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Dunnet: Weather Forecast
June 12
June 13
June 14
June 15
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Dunnet Beach
Murkle Bay
Peedie Sands
Castletown Beach
Dunnet Bay Castlehill
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays at Dunnet are best suited to those prepared for cold-water conditions and variable weather. The main bay provides space for open-water swims, paddling and surfing when wind and swell allow, while rocky outcrops and tidal pools give sheltered spots for brief dips or family exploration on calmer days. Many visitors use wetsuits or drysuits to extend comfort and safety; even in summer prolonged immersion is chilly. Tidal flows, waves and changing weather mean swimmers should choose sheltered spots, be mindful of currents and remain cautious rather than relying on lifeguard cover. For a beach holiday, Dunnet offers scenic coastal walking, birdlife and a peaceful setting for seaside activities, with the sea’s low temperatures a defining part of the experience.