Gloucester — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Gloucester (Massachusetts, 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 Gloucester help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Gloucester in the Atlantic Ocean today is 14°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 Gloucester 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 Gloucester will be 14.7°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 3 | 12.1°C | 11.8°C | |
| JUN 4 | 11.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| JUN 5 | 12.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| JUN 6 | 12.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 7 | 12.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 8 | 13.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 9 | 13.1°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUN 10 | 14.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 11 | 14.4°C | 14.0°C | 14.4°C |
| JUN 12 | 14.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| JUN 13 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 14 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 15 | 14.8°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 16 | 15.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 17 | 14.8°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 18 | 15.3°C | 14.7°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
Gloucester, on Cape Ann in Massachusetts, sits on the cooler waters of the Gulf of Maine and the Atlantic Ocean, so sea temperatures are noticeably seasonal. In winter (December–February) surface temperatures typically hover around 0–4°C, rarely dropping below freezing but feeling frigid to swimmers. Spring (March–May) brings gradual warming, with averages roughly 3–10°C as snowmelt and cold currents persist. Summer (June–August) is the warmest period for bathing, when sheltered coves and beaches commonly reach 14–20°C, with the highest readings in late July and August. In autumn (September–November) the water cools again, generally falling to about 8–15°C as air temperatures and daylight decrease and offshore waters draw heat away.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| February | 2°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| March | 2°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| April | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| May | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| June | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| August | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| September | 15°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| October | 9°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Gloucester: Weather Forecast
June 12
June 13
June 14
June 15
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Pavillion
Pavilion Beach
Cressy Beach
Niles Beach
Half Moon
Half Moon Beach
Cressy's
Good Harbor Beach
Niles
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Gloucester are shaped by these temperature swings and by the town’s mix of sandy beaches, rocky points and protected harbors. Public beaches are busiest in July and August when lifeguards, facilities and ferry services are most available and the water is at its most tolerable for bathing; outside those months many visitors prefer wetsuits or short swims. Conditions can change quickly with wind and tides, so swimmers should heed posted flags and local guidance. In addition to beach swimming, the harbor and nearby coves offer opportunities for paddle sports, boat-access beaches and shoreline walks, making Gloucester a good destination for a seaside visit though one should plan gear and expectations around the cool Atlantic waters.