Long Neck — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Long Neck (Delaware, 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 Long Neck help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Long Neck in the Atlantic Ocean today is 59°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people.
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 Long Neck 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 Long Neck will be 61°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAY 10 | 56°F | 58°F | |
| MAY 11 | 57°F | 58°F | |
| MAY 12 | 57°F | 58°F | |
| MAY 13 | 57°F | 58°F | |
| MAY 14 | 58°F | 58°F | |
| MAY 15 | 57°F | 60°F | |
| MAY 16 | 57°F | 60°F | |
| MAY 17 | 58°F | 60°F | |
| MAY 18 | 59°F | 60°F | 59°F |
| MAY 19 | 60°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 20 | 61°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 21 | 61°F | 60°F | |
| MAY 22 | 61°F | 60°F | |
| MAY 23 | 61°F | 60°F | |
| MAY 24 | 61°F | 60°F | |
| MAY 25 | 61°F | 61°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
Monthly Water Temp Ranges
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Long Neck is a residential and recreational peninsula on Delaware’s inland bays, situated where shallow estuarine waters meet the Atlantic coastal system. Because the area is dominated by tidal bays and protected waterways rather than the open ocean, water temperatures tend to warm and cool more quickly than offshore. Typical seasonal ranges run from roughly 0–6 °C in the coldest part of winter, rising through spring to about 6–15 °C as air temperatures moderate. In summer the bays commonly reach 20–26 °C, and in warm years shallow coves can briefly climb higher, while autumn sees a gradual decline from the low 20s °C down toward single figures as the season progresses. Actual temperatures vary with weather patterns, tides and exact location within the bay system.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 34°F | 40°F | 50°F |
| February | 36°F | 40°F | 45°F |
| March | 37°F | 44°F | 50°F |
| April | 39°F | 51°F | 57°F |
| May | 46°F | 58°F | 68°F |
| June | 59°F | 68°F | 77°F |
| July | 66°F | 75°F | 82°F |
| August | 68°F | 76°F | 82°F |
| September | 64°F | 73°F | 81°F |
| October | 57°F | 68°F | 73°F |
| November | 46°F | 57°F | 64°F |
| December | 39°F | 47°F | 57°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Long Neck: Weather Forecast
May 19
May 20
May 21
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Lingo Inlet
Lingo Point
Holts Landing State Park
Nats Cove
Arrowhead Point
Rosedale Public Boat Ramp
Mallard Beach
Indian River Marina
South Indian River Inlet Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays around Long Neck are shaped by those sheltered bay conditions. The calm, shallow waters of the inland bays make for comfortable, often warmer swimming than the open ocean, extending pleasant bathing into late spring and early fall, and they are well suited to families, beginners, and activities such as wading and paddle sports. Public sandy ocean beaches with lifeguards are a short drive away for those seeking surf and wider shorelines, while local shorelines can include marshy or privately owned areas and small community beaches. Visitors should be aware of changing conditions — water quality advisories, occasional jellyfish or seaweed, and tidal currents near inlets — and check local guidance and lifeguard postings before entering the water.