Salcombe — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Salcombe (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 Salcombe help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Salcombe in the English Channel today is 18°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 Salcombe 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 Salcombe will be 16.9°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 26 | 18.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 18.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| AUG 28 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| AUG 29 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| AUG 30 | 18.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| AUG 31 | 18.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 1 | 18.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 2 | 18.4°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 3 | 18.0°C | 17.3°C | 18.0°C |
| SEP 4 | 16.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 8 | 16.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 9 | 16.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 10 | 16.8°C | 16.9°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
Salcombe sits on the southern coast of Devon where the Kingsbridge Estuary meets the English Channel, giving the area a mix of sheltered waters and more exposed coastal conditions. Sea temperatures follow a typical south-coast pattern, influenced by tidal flow and seasonal warming. In winter (December–February) surface temperatures are usually around 8–10 °C, rising in spring (March–May) to roughly 10–14 °C. Summer months (June–August) bring the warmest water, commonly 15–19 °C, occasionally reaching the high teens on calm, sunny stretches. In autumn (September–November) temperatures gradually fall back to about 12–16 °C. Local microclimates mean that shallow estuary areas warm more quickly than open-coast beaches, while windy or rainy spells can cool surface waters noticeably.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| February | 8°C | 10°C | 11°C |
| March | 8°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| May | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| July | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| August | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| September | 15°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| October | 14°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| December | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Salcombe: Weather Forecast
September 4
September 5
September 6
September 7
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Sunny Cove Beach
Small's Cove
North Sands Beach
Mill Bay Beach
East Portlemouth Beach
Salcombe North Sands Beach
Salcombe South Sands Beach
Gara Rock Beach
Moor Sands Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in and around Salcombe suits a variety of beach-holiday styles, from family paddling in the estuary’s calmer bays to more adventurous open-water swims off nearby sandy coves. Beaches such as the sands at North and South locations provide easy access to bathing and are popular in summer for short swims when the sea is at its warmest; deeper or coastal swims expose swimmers to stronger tides and swell, especially near the estuary mouth and headlands. The area is also well used for paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling where visibility and shelter permit. Visitors commonly use wetsuits for longer swims outside peak summer, and should pay attention to tide, weather and local advice when planning sea activities. Overall Salcombe offers varied bathing experiences, with the estuary offering gentler conditions and nearby open-coast beaches appealing to those seeking a more traditional seaside holiday.