Moss Landing — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Moss Landing (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 Moss Landing help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Moss Landing in the Pacific Ocean today is 14°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 Moss Landing 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 Moss Landing will be 14.3°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 6 | 12.6°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 7 | 12.7°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 8 | 12.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| JUN 9 | 13.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 10 | 11.7°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 11 | 12.7°C | 12.8°C | |
| JUN 12 | 11.8°C | 13.3°C | |
| JUN 13 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 14 | 13.5°C | 13.0°C | 13.5°C |
| JUN 15 | 12.8°C | 13.6°C | |
| JUN 16 | 13.0°C | 13.7°C | |
| JUN 17 | 12.5°C | 13.8°C | |
| JUN 18 | 12.8°C | 13.9°C | |
| JUN 19 | 12.8°C | 14.1°C | |
| JUN 20 | 13.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| JUN 21 | 13.3°C | 14.3°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
Moss Landing sits on the central California coast at the northern edge of Monterey Bay, where the ocean is strongly influenced by upwelling and coastal currents. Water temperatures here are cool year-round compared with southern California. Typical seasonal ranges run roughly 10–12 °C in winter, 11–13 °C in spring, 13–17 °C in summer, and 12–15 °C in autumn, though short-term variations can occur with local weather, tides and larger oceanic patterns. Even in the warmest months the sea remains noticeably chilly to most swimmers, and surface temperatures can differ between exposed open-ocean spots and the more sheltered channels of Elkhorn Slough.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| February | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| March | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| April | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| May | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| June | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| September | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 16°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.
Moss Landing: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Moss Landing Harbor
Moss Landing Wildlife Area
Moss Landing State Beach
Sandholdt Lot
Salinas River State Beach - Potrero Entrance
Salinas River State Beach - Moss Landing Entrance
Moss Landing Marine Laboratory
Salinas River State Beach - Monterey Dunes Entrance
Zmudowski State Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming directly off Moss Landing is possible but limited by the cold water, strong currents and a shoreline that includes jetties and rocky areas as well as sandy stretches. Casual bathing and sunbathing are less common than walking, wildlife watching or launching kayaks and paddleboards; people who do enter the water typically wear wetsuits (often 3–5 mm or thicker depending on tolerance) and choose sheltered launch points or calmer days. Rip currents and changing surf mean swimmers should be cautious, stay close to shore, be aware of conditions and local guidance, and recognize that this area is better known for marine life viewing, fishing and board sports than for traditional warm‑water beach holidays.