Morehead City — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Morehead City (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 Morehead City help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Morehead City in the Atlantic Ocean today is 26°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 79°F (26°C) to 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays.
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 Morehead City 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 Morehead City will be 26.8°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 7 | 23.5°C | 23.8°C | |
| JUN 8 | 23.0°C | 24.8°C | |
| JUN 9 | 23.0°C | 25.0°C | |
| JUN 10 | 23.6°C | 24.8°C | |
| JUN 11 | 24.5°C | 24.5°C | |
| JUN 12 | 24.9°C | 24.8°C | |
| JUN 13 | 24.8°C | 25.3°C | |
| JUN 14 | 25.4°C | 25.8°C | |
| JUN 15 | 26.4°C | 25.8°C | 26.4°C |
| JUN 16 | 25.3°C | 26.5°C | |
| JUN 17 | 25.3°C | 26.5°C | |
| JUN 18 | 25.5°C | 26.6°C | |
| JUN 19 | 26.0°C | 26.6°C | |
| JUN 20 | 26.0°C | 26.7°C | |
| JUN 21 | 26.0°C | 26.7°C | |
| JUN 22 | 25.8°C | 26.8°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
Morehead City sits on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, offering direct access to coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby sounds. Water temperatures vary by season, with winter months (December–February) typically ranging around 10–14 °C, spring (March–May) warming from about 13–20 °C, summer (June–August) reaching the warmest values near 22–28 °C, and autumn (September–November) cooling gradually to roughly 16–24 °C. These seasonal patterns are influenced by regional currents, tidal exchange with the sounds and estuaries, and occasional tropical weather, so short-term variations are common. Shallow estuaries warm earlier in spring and cool faster in fall compared with the open ocean, while deeper channels stay steadier.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| February | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| March | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| April | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| May | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| June | 21°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| July | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| August | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| September | 24°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| October | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| November | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| December | 14°C | 17°C | 22°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Morehead City: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Morehead City - Drain Pipe At 16th Street
Spoil Island West Of Ab High Rise
Ocean End Of New Bern Street
W Glenn St Public Beach Access
Ocean Blvd Public Beach Access
Mile Post 4 Beach
Circle Regional Beach Access
Ccc- Aquatic Education Location
Club Colony Dr Public Beach Access
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in the Morehead City area can suit a range of preferences, from ocean swimming and surf sessions to calmer paddling and wading in protected sounds and inlets. Summer months present the most comfortable ocean temperatures for prolonged swims without thermal protection, while spring and autumn often call for a wetsuit for extended activity. Local barrier island beaches and nearby state park shorelines provide sandy areas, picnic and recreation opportunities, and seasonal lifeguard coverage at some locations; visitors should be aware of changing tides, rip currents, and occasional marine life such as jellyfish. Beyond swimming, the coastal setting supports snorkeling near shallow reefs, stand-up paddleboarding, and family-friendly beach days, making Morehead City a practical base for a temperate seaside holiday.