Manteo — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Manteo (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 Manteo help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Manteo in the Atlantic Ocean today is 18°C.
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 Manteo 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 Manteo will be 16.0°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOV 5 | 18.2°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 6 | 18.4°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 7 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| NOV 8 | 18.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 9 | 18.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| NOV 10 | 17.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 11 | 17.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| NOV 12 | 17.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| NOV 13 | 17.7°C | 16.8°C | 17.7°C |
| NOV 14 | 16.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 15 | 15.8°C | 17.2°C | |
| NOV 16 | 15.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| NOV 17 | 15.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| NOV 18 | 15.3°C | 16.5°C | |
| NOV 19 | 15.3°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 20 | 15.5°C | 16.0°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
Manteo, on Roanoke Island in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, sits between the calmer sounds and the open Atlantic, so water temperatures vary with location and season. The shallow waters of Roanoke and Pamlico Sound warm and cool more quickly than the ocean; in winter months (December–February) typical surface temperatures in the area fall to roughly 5–10 °C. Spring brings a steady rise, with waters often between 10 and 18 °C from March through May. Summer (June–August) is the warmest period, when sound temperatures commonly reach 20–27 °C, while adjacent ocean waters are usually a few degrees cooler. Early autumn (September–November) sees a gradual decline, with most locations averaging 16–24 °C as the season progresses.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| February | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| March | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| April | 9°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| June | 17°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| July | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| September | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| October | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| November | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 10°C | 12°C | 19°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Manteo: Weather Forecast
November 15
November 16
November 17
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Washington Baum Bridge Boat Ramp
Southeast Side Of Mann's Harbor Bridge
Jockey's Ridge Soundside Access
Harvey Soundside Park
Roanoke Sound - Danube Street Drain Pipe South Nags Head
Jennette's Pier
Nags Head Beach
Epstein Public Beach Access
Forrest Street Beach Access
Swimming Conditions
Swimming opportunities around Manteo reflect that variety. The sound’s shallow, sheltered stretches are well suited to family swimming, paddle sports and wading when water temperatures climb into the low to mid 20s °C in summer, offering gentler conditions than the surf-exposed oceanfront at nearby barrier beaches. The ocean provides classic beach holidays with surf and fishing but tends to be cooler even in summer, often in the high teens to low 20s °C, and can present stronger currents and waves. Visitors should plan swim activities seasonally—late spring through early fall offers the warmest and most comfortable water—and remain aware of local conditions such as tides, rip currents and occasional jellyfish.