Carolina Beach — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Carolina Beach (North Carolina, 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 Carolina Beach help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Carolina Beach in the Atlantic Ocean today is 26°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health.
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 Carolina Beach 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 Carolina Beach will be 26.3°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 6 | 23.6°C | 24.3°C | |
| JUN 7 | 23.6°C | 24.5°C | |
| JUN 8 | 23.4°C | 24.8°C | |
| JUN 9 | 23.8°C | 24.5°C | |
| JUN 10 | 24.2°C | 25.0°C | |
| JUN 11 | 24.6°C | 25.0°C | |
| JUN 12 | 24.9°C | 24.8°C | |
| JUN 13 | 25.1°C | 25.5°C | |
| JUN 14 | 25.9°C | 25.5°C | 25.9°C |
| JUN 15 | 25.3°C | 26.0°C | |
| JUN 16 | 25.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| JUN 17 | 26.0°C | 26.1°C | |
| JUN 18 | 26.0°C | 26.1°C | |
| JUN 19 | 26.0°C | 26.2°C | |
| JUN 20 | 26.0°C | 26.3°C | |
| JUN 21 | 26.3°C | 26.3°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
Carolina Beach, on the southern end of the Outer Banks near Wilmington, North Carolina, is a classic Atlantic barrier-island destination with broad sandy shorelines and a temperate coastal climate. Sea surface temperatures follow a distinct seasonal pattern: in winter months water typically cools to around 10–15 °C, early spring sees a gradual rise into the low-to-mid teens, and by late spring temperatures move into the high teens to low twenties. Peak summer conditions usually bring the warmest waters, commonly ranging from about 22–29 °C, while autumn waters slowly cool back into the mid-to-high teens—generally between 16–22 °C—before winter returns. Local variations occur with weather, tides and currents, so short-term shifts of a few degrees are normal.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| February | 10°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| March | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| May | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| June | 20°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| July | 26°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| August | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| September | 24°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| December | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Carolina Beach: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Harper Public Beach Access
Carolina Beach Head A
Hamlett Avenue In Kure Beach
Carolina Beach - Public Beach Access At Hamlet Avenue
Atlanta Public Beach Access
Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach Lake Park
Spartanburg Public Beach Access
North Carolina Public Beach Access
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation at Carolina Beach are most comfortable during the warm season when water temperatures are in the low to high 20s °C, supporting long swims, casual paddling and water sports without thermal protection. Lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer season, and the beach, boardwalk and nearby facilities cater to families and day visitors. Outside of summer, swimmers may find the water brisk and often use wetsuits or limit time in the surf; regardless of temperature, visitors should be aware of rip currents and changing surf conditions and follow posted safety guidance. The combination of accessible shorelines and predictable summer warmth makes Carolina Beach a popular choice for traditional beach holidays and recreational swimming.