Cortez — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Cortez (Florida, 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 Cortez help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Cortez in the Gulf of America today is 24°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 Cortez 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 Cortez will be 24.6°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 | 23.2°C | 23.5°C | |
| APR 11 | 23.1°C | 23.0°C | |
| APR 12 | 22.9°C | 23.3°C | |
| APR 13 | 22.9°C | 23.3°C | |
| APR 14 | 22.9°C | 23.3°C | |
| APR 15 | 23.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| APR 16 | 23.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| APR 17 | 22.8°C | 24.0°C | |
| APR 18 | 23.6°C | 24.0°C | 23.6°C |
| APR 19 | 24.5°C | 23.7°C | |
| APR 20 | 25.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| APR 21 | 24.8°C | 24.0°C | |
| APR 22 | 24.5°C | 24.2°C | |
| APR 23 | 24.8°C | 24.3°C | |
| APR 24 | 25.0°C | 24.4°C | |
| APR 25 | 24.8°C | 24.6°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
Cortez is a small, historic fishing community on Florida’s Gulf Coast near Bradenton, characterized by shallow bays, seagrass flats and easy access to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Water temperatures in the Cortez area vary with the seasons: during winter months (December–February) surface temperatures typically sit around 16–20 °C, in spring (March–May) they rise to roughly 19–25 °C, and by summer (June–August) the water commonly reaches 26–31 °C. Autumn (September–November) usually sees a gradual cooling from the summer highs, with temperatures often between 24–28 °C. Local conditions can shift with weather patterns and occasional cold fronts, and short-term events such as upwelling or algal blooms may also influence surface readings.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| February | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| March | 16°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| April | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| May | 22°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| June | 26°C | 29°C | 32°C |
| July | 28°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| August | 28°C | 31°C | 34°C |
| September | 28°C | 30°C | 33°C |
| October | 23°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| November | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| December | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Cortez: Weather Forecast
April 19
April 20
April 21
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Cortez Beach
Bradenton Beach
Coquina Beach
Whitney Beach
Holmes Beach
Beer Can Island Beach
Anna Maria Beach
Bean Point Beach
Bayfront Park
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays around Cortez suit a range of preferences, from warm, shallow wading to more active ocean swims when conditions are calm. The region’s generally gentle tidal flats and protected inlets make it especially pleasant for families, paddle sports and snorkeling over seagrass beds when water clarity is good. For broader sandy beaches and typical sun-and-swim resort amenities, nearby barrier islands provide long stretches of sand and lifeguarded areas. Visitors should check current water temperatures and local advisories before entering the water, as conditions like strong winds, occasional jellyfish sightings or periodic red tide events can affect safety and water quality. Overall, late spring through early autumn offers the most consistently comfortable swimming temperatures.