Montecito — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Montecito (California, 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 Montecito help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Montecito in the Pacific Ocean today is 21°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 Montecito has risen over the last week and month. 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 Montecito will be 19.0°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 17 | 19.8°C | 18.3°C | |
| JUL 18 | 20.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUL 19 | 20.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUL 20 | 20.4°C | 18.8°C | |
| JUL 21 | 20.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUL 22 | 20.7°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUL 23 | 21.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUL 24 | 21.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUL 25 | 21.3°C | 18.5°C | 21.3°C |
| JUL 26 | 17.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUL 27 | 18.3°C | 20.6°C | |
| JUL 28 | 18.3°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 29 | 17.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 30 | 18.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| JUL 31 | 17.8°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 1 | 18.8°C | 19.0°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
Montecito sits along the southern California coast just east of Santa Barbara and experiences Pacific Ocean water temperatures that are cool by many beach standards. Seasonal averages typically range from about 12–14°C in the coldest winter months to roughly 16–21°C during the warmest late summer period. Spring temperatures generally sit between 13–16°C while autumn usually cools from the high teens into the mid to upper teens at around 15–19°C. Local upwelling of deeper, colder water can sometimes lower surface temperatures, so short-term dips below the seasonal averages are common even in summer. Overall, the water is noticeably cooler than the air for much of the year, which influences how visitors plan aquatic activities.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| February | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| March | 8°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| April | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| June | 12°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| July | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| August | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| October | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| November | 13°C | 16°C | 17°C |
| December | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Montecito: Weather Forecast
July 26
July 27
July 28
July 29
July 30
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Stairway To Beach
Butterfly Beach
Hammonds Beach
Miramar Beach
Fernald Point Beach
Summerland Beach
Lookout County Park
East Beach
Chase Palm Park
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Montecito are shaped by those temperature patterns and by the character of the coastline. Popular shorelines such as Butterfly Beach and nearby small coves offer calm stretches for wading and swimming when summer waters warm to about 18–21°C, making them the most comfortable months for bathers without thermal protection. Outside late summer, many visitors favor short wetsuits or layered swimwear, and activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding and kayaking remain appealing when visibility is good. Beachgoers should be mindful of changing surf and rip currents, limited lifeguard coverage at some spots, and occasional rocky shorelines; checking local conditions before entering the water helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable seaside stay.