Cape May — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Cape May (New Jersey, United States). 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 Cape May help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Cape May in the Atlantic Ocean today is 12°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear.
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 Cape May has risen over the last week and month. Currently, the sea water at this location is slightly warmer than average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Cape May will be 11.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 10 | 9.8°C | 10.0°C | |
| APR 11 | 9.8°C | 10.0°C | |
| APR 12 | 10.0°C | 10.0°C | |
| APR 13 | 10.3°C | 10.3°C | |
| APR 14 | 10.7°C | 10.0°C | |
| APR 15 | 11.2°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 16 | 11.5°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 17 | 11.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 18 | 12.2°C | 10.5°C | 12.2°C |
| APR 19 | 10.3°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 20 | 11.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| APR 21 | 10.8°C | 11.8°C | |
| APR 22 | 11.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| APR 23 | 11.3°C | 11.6°C | |
| APR 24 | 11.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| APR 25 | 11.5°C | 11.4°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
Cape May, located at the southern tip of New Jersey where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, is a long-established seaside destination known for its Victorian charm and broad sandy beaches. Water temperatures in the area vary substantially through the year. Winter months typically bring the coldest seas, often around 1–6 °C, while early spring sees a gradual rise to roughly 5–15 °C depending on late-season weather. Summer is when the water is warmest, generally ranging from about 18–24 °C in June through August, with peak warmth in July and August. Autumn cools the ocean again, with temperatures commonly falling into the 10–18 °C range by September through November.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| April | 4°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| October | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 8°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 13°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Cape May: Weather Forecast
April 19
April 20
April 21
April 22
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Cape May Beach
Beach Club Of Cape May
Steger Beach
Grant Street Beach
Congress Street Beach
Windsor Avenue Beach
Cape Island Creek Beach
Perry St. Beach
Broadway Beach
Swimming Conditions
These seasonal temperature patterns shape how visitors experience swimming and beach recreation in Cape May. The warm summer months offer comfortable conditions for swimming, wading, and family-oriented beach days, supported by lifeguard services on popular municipal beaches and facilities for rentals and concessions. Shoulder seasons can still be appealing for brisk swims and walks along the shore, but water tends to feel quite cool outside of mid-summer, so wetsuits or shorter swims are common for colder months. Beyond swimming, Cape May’s beaches suit sunbathing, shell collecting and birdwatching, making it a versatile coastal destination for a range of seaside holidays.