Duck — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Duck (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 Duck help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Duck in the Atlantic Ocean today is 22°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience.
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 Duck 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 Duck will be 21.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 22.5°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 22.5°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 22.5°C | 22.8°C | |
| OCT 8 | 21.7°C | 22.8°C | |
| OCT 9 | 21.7°C | 22.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 21.4°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 11 | 21.5°C | 22.8°C | |
| OCT 12 | 21.8°C | 21.8°C | |
| OCT 13 | 22.0°C | 21.8°C | 22.0°C |
| OCT 14 | 22.0°C | 21.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 22.3°C | 21.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.8°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.3°C | 21.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.3°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.0°C | 21.4°C | |
| OCT 20 | 20.5°C | 21.3°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
Duck, North Carolina, sits on the Currituck Banks of the Outer Banks where the Atlantic Ocean meets protected sound waters, and seasonal water temperatures reflect that coastal setting. Typical offshore ocean temperatures run from about 9–12 °C in the coldest winter months to roughly 21–26 °C in midsummer, with spring generally warming through 11–18 °C and autumn cooling back through 16–23 °C. The shallow Pamlico/ Currituck sound on the inland side tends to be a few degrees warmer than the ocean, especially in summer, because it heats more quickly and is more sheltered. Short-term fluctuations are common: cold snaps, warm spells, storms and tidal currents can all move temperatures by a few degrees, and the nearby Gulf Stream influences broader seasonal trends.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| February | 5°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| March | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| April | 9°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| May | 13°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| July | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| August | 22°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| September | 22°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| October | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| November | 13°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| December | 9°C | 12°C | 18°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Duck: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Duck Beach
Hillcrest Beach Access
Hillcrest Drive Access
Triangle Park
Pine Island Beach Club
Kitty Hawk Pier
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation in Duck are shaped by those temperature patterns and by local conditions. Summer months with water in the low to mid-20s °C are most comfortable for prolonged ocean swims, while the warmer, calmer sound is often preferred for families, paddling and wading. Lifeguard coverage and public beach access are provided seasonally, but swimmers should always be aware of rip currents on the ocean side and check local advisories and water-quality updates. In spring and autumn, many visitors use spring or summer wetsuits for longer swims; in winter the ocean is usually too cold for casual swimming without substantial thermal protection. Overall, Duck offers a mix of surf, calmer sound water and nearby amenities that make it suitable for both active beach holidays and gentler family outings, with timing largely driven by water temperature.