Plymouth — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Plymouth (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 Plymouth help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Plymouth in the English Channel today is 49°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing 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 Plymouth 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 Plymouth will be 50°F 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN 31 | 50°F | 49°F | |
| FEB 1 | 50°F | 50°F | |
| FEB 2 | 50°F | 49°F | |
| FEB 3 | 50°F | 50°F | |
| FEB 4 | 49°F | 50°F | |
| FEB 5 | 49°F | 49°F | |
| FEB 6 | 49°F | 50°F | |
| FEB 7 | 49°F | 50°F | |
| FEB 8 | 49°F | 50°F | 49°F |
| FEB 9 | 49°F | 49°F | |
| FEB 10 | 51°F | 49°F | |
| FEB 11 | 49°F | 49°F | |
| FEB 12 | 49°F | 49°F | |
| FEB 13 | 49°F | 50°F | |
| FEB 14 | 50°F | 50°F | |
| FEB 15 | 48°F | 50°F |
* 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
Average Monthly Water Temperature
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Plymouth sits on the sheltered Plymouth Sound on England’s south coast, giving the city relatively mild sea conditions compared with more exposed Atlantic shores. Water temperatures vary through the year: in winter (December–February) sea temperatures typically sit around 7–9 °C, spring (March–May) sees a gradual rise to roughly 8–13 °C, and summer (June–August) brings the warmest conditions, often 14–18 °C and occasionally reaching 19–20 °C in particularly warm years. Autumn (September–November) normally cools back to about 11–15 °C. Local factors such as tides, weather patterns and the degree of shelter within different parts of the sound can cause short-term variations, so temperatures at individual beaches may differ slightly from these averages.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 46°F | 50°F | 52°F |
| February | 46°F | 49°F | 52°F |
| March | 45°F | 49°F | 52°F |
| April | 46°F | 50°F | 54°F |
| May | 48°F | 53°F | 57°F |
| June | 52°F | 58°F | 64°F |
| July | 57°F | 61°F | 66°F |
| August | 57°F | 62°F | 68°F |
| September | 59°F | 62°F | 64°F |
| October | 57°F | 59°F | 63°F |
| November | 54°F | 57°F | 61°F |
| December | 50°F | 53°F | 57°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Plymouth: Weather Forecast
February 9
February 10
February 11
February 12
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Row Cove Beach
Cellar Beach
Plymouth Hoe
Batten Bay Beach
Firestone Bay
Barn Pool Beach
Bovisand Bay Beach
Leekbed Bay
Crownhill Bay
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Plymouth offers a range of options for visitors and locals, from sandy family beaches to rocky coves and a historic tidal lido. Popular spots for sea bathing and paddling include nearby sandy shores and more secluded Bays that provide gentler gradients suitable for families, while headlands and underwater kelp beds attract snorkellers and divers where visibility allows. A number of beaches are monitored or provide seasonal lifeguard cover, and organised open-water swim groups operate when conditions permit; however, tides and currents can be strong in places, and water remains cool outside the height of summer, so many swimmers wear wetsuits for comfort. Amenities such as promenades, cafes and car parks make beach days accessible, but swimmers should always check local conditions and safety information before entering the water.