Key West — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Key West (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 Key West help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Key West in the Gulf of America today is 74°F.
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 Key West rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. 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 Key West will be 73°F 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN 13 | 72°F | 71°F | |
| JAN 14 | 73°F | 73°F | |
| JAN 15 | 74°F | 72°F | |
| JAN 16 | 73°F | 70°F | |
| JAN 17 | 74°F | 72°F | |
| JAN 18 | 75°F | 70°F | |
| JAN 19 | 74°F | 73°F | |
| JAN 20 | 74°F | 72°F | |
| JAN 21 | 74°F | 72°F | 74°F |
| JAN 22 | 69°F | 74°F | |
| JAN 23 | 73°F | 74°F | |
| JAN 24 | 71°F | 74°F | |
| JAN 25 | 73°F | 74°F | |
| JAN 26 | 71°F | 74°F | |
| JAN 27 | 70°F | 73°F | |
| JAN 28 | 70°F | 73°F |
* 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
Average Monthly Water Temperature
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Key West sits at the southern tip of the continental United States and enjoys subtropical marine conditions, so sea temperatures are generally warm throughout the year. In winter months (December–February) surface water typically ranges from about 22 °C to 25 °C, providing mild swimming conditions compared with northern beaches. Spring sees a steady rise, with waters averaging roughly 24 °C to 27 °C from March through May. Summer and early fall (June–September) are the warmest, with surface temperatures often between 28 °C and 31 °C, while late autumn brings a gradual cooling back toward the mid-20s °C. Short-term variations can occur with weather fronts and storms, but the overall pattern is one of comfortably warm water for most of the year.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 66°F | 72°F | 75°F |
| February | 66°F | 72°F | 79°F |
| March | 68°F | 75°F | 81°F |
| April | 73°F | 78°F | 82°F |
| May | 75°F | 81°F | 90°F |
| June | 77°F | 84°F | 90°F |
| July | 82°F | 86°F | 91°F |
| August | 82°F | 87°F | 91°F |
| September | 82°F | 86°F | 91°F |
| October | 77°F | 83°F | 88°F |
| November | 72°F | 78°F | 84°F |
| December | 70°F | 75°F | 81°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Key West: Weather Forecast
January 22
January 23
January 24
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Higgs Beach
Rest Beach Park
Harvey Rest Beach Park
Smathers Beach
South Beach
Simonton Beach
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Sunset Key Beach
Boca Chica Beach
Swimming Conditions
These consistently warm waters make Key West attractive for a wide range of swimming and beach activities. Shallow, sheltered beaches and natural coves are well suited for casual swimming, families with children, snorkeling close to shore, and paddle sports, while nearby coral reefs and clear offshore areas offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving in warmer months. Currents are generally mild around the leeward beaches, but conditions can change, so swimmers should heed local advisories about rip currents, sea conditions, and marine life. Because water temperatures seldom fall below the low 20s °C, many visitors find that a beach-focused holiday in Key West offers comfortable swimming for most of the year, with the warmest and most popular months occurring in summer and early autumn.