Fairlie — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Fairlie (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 Fairlie help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Fairlie in the North Sea today is 16°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 Fairlie 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 Fairlie will be 14.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 9 | 15.4°C | 14.8°C | |
| AUG 10 | 15.4°C | 15.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 15.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| AUG 12 | 15.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| AUG 13 | 15.6°C | 15.3°C | |
| AUG 14 | 15.6°C | 15.3°C | |
| AUG 15 | 16.6°C | 14.8°C | |
| AUG 16 | 16.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| AUG 17 | 16.2°C | 15.3°C | 16.2°C |
| AUG 18 | 14.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| AUG 19 | 14.5°C | 15.8°C | |
| AUG 20 | 14.8°C | 15.6°C | |
| AUG 21 | 15.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| AUG 22 | 15.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| AUG 23 | 14.3°C | 15.1°C | |
| AUG 24 | 14.5°C | 14.9°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
Fairlie sits on the eastern shore of the Firth of Clyde in North Ayrshire and experiences the cool maritime conditions typical of western Scotland. Sea temperatures here remain low compared with more southerly coasts, varying by season: winter waters typically range from 6–8°C, spring from about 7–11°C, summer from roughly 12–16°C at their warmest, and autumn usually drops to around 10–12°C. Local temperatures fluctuate with tides, weather and offshore currents, so short-term readings can differ from these averages. The water is clear at times but can be bracing even in high summer, and conditions are often influenced by wind exposure and river outflow after heavy rain.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7°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 | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| June | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| August | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| November | 10°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Fairlie: Weather Forecast
August 18
August 19
August 20
August 21
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Fairlie Beach
Beach Bothy
Pencil Beach
Millport Beach
Hunterston Sands
Newton Beach
The Secret Beach
Largs Beach
Bell Bay
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Fairlie is primarily a wild, coastal experience rather than a conventional beach resort offering long sandy shorelines and heated amenities. Small pebble and shingle stretches and sheltered inlets provide entry points for open-water swimmers, paddleboarders and kayakers, and the village can serve as a convenient base for exploring nearby bays and islands. Because of the generally cool temperatures, many visitors use wetsuits for longer swims; casual paddling and brief dips are more common among beachgoers on warm days. Facilities such as parking and refreshments exist locally but are modest, and swimmers are advised to check tides, weather and local guidance before entering the water.