Monterey — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Monterey (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 Monterey help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Monterey in the Pacific Ocean today is 13°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 Monterey rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Monterey will be 13.4°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 5 | 13.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 6 | 13.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 7 | 13.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 8 | 13.2°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 9 | 13.1°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 10 | 12.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 11 | 12.7°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 12 | 12.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 13 | 13.1°C | 13.0°C | 13.1°C |
| JUN 14 | 13.8°C | 13.1°C | |
| JUN 15 | 13.0°C | 13.2°C | |
| JUN 16 | 13.3°C | 13.2°C | |
| JUN 17 | 13.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 18 | 13.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 19 | 13.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 20 | 13.8°C | 13.4°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
Monterey, on California’s central coast, sits on the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean and Monterey Bay, where sea surface temperatures remain relatively low year-round compared with southern California. Seasonal averages typically range from about 9°C in the coldest months to around 16°C at the warmest, with winter months generally near 9–12°C, spring around 10–13°C, summer commonly between 11–16°C, and autumn cooling back toward 10–15°C. These temperatures reflect upwelling of deep, nutrient-rich waters that keep the bay biologically productive but chillier than many beach destinations. Weather and local currents can cause short-term variations, and fog or onshore winds often make conditions feel colder at the shore than the raw water temperature suggests.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| February | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| March | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| April | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| May | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| June | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| September | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| November | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| December | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Monterey: Weather Forecast
June 14
June 15
June 16
June 17
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Del Monte Beach
Fisherman's Wharf
Heritage Harbor
Municipal Wharf No. 2
San Carlos Beach
Breakwater Cove
Coast Guard Pier
San Carlos Beach Park
Aeneas Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Monterey are shaped by those cool waters and varied coastal geomorphology. Open-ocean swims are brisk and often undertaken with wetsuits—especially for longer swims, snorkeling, or diving—while calmer coves and some sandy stretches offer more sheltered, family-friendly paddling and wading when conditions are mild. Lifeguards are present at selected beaches during peak season, but rocky shorelines, kelp, and rip currents require attention and local knowledge. Beyond pure swimming, the area is well suited to kayaking, guided snorkeling and diving trips, and beachcombing, making it appealing for visitors who expect a temperate, nature-focused seaside experience rather than warm-water bathing.