New Orleans — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for New Orleans (Louisiana, 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 New Orleans help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in New Orleans in the Gulf of America today is 31°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature is above 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, which may feel almost hot to most people. Swimming in such conditions is perfect for those seeking relaxation and comfort in the water. These waters are often preferred for relaxation in hot weather, as the water temperature does not cool the body significantly. However, it is important to remember that in such warm waters, caution is necessary, as prolonged exposure without rest can lead to overheating.
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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans will be 29.7°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 23 | 28.7°C | 0.0°C | |
| JUN 24 | 28.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| JUN 25 | 29.1°C | 11.3°C | |
| JUN 26 | 29.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 27 | 29.7°C | 20.8°C | |
| JUN 28 | 30.0°C | 23.8°C | |
| JUN 29 | 30.0°C | 27.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 30.4°C | 30.0°C | |
| JUL 1 | 30.5°C | 30.0°C | 30.5°C |
| JUL 2 | 29.0°C | 30.4°C | |
| JUL 3 | 30.3°C | 30.3°C | |
| JUL 4 | 29.5°C | 30.2°C | |
| JUL 5 | 29.0°C | 30.1°C | |
| JUL 6 | 29.3°C | 30.0°C | |
| JUL 7 | 29.3°C | 29.8°C | |
| JUL 8 | 29.5°C | 29.7°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
New Orleans sits where the Mississippi River meets a large estuarine system linked to the Gulf of Mexico, and its water temperatures reflect that coastal, subtropical setting. Seasonal surface temperatures in nearby waters vary noticeably: in winter months you can expect roughly 12–18 °C, spring warms to about 18–24 °C, summer commonly reaches 26–31 °C, and autumn typically cools to around 20–26 °C. Shallow bays, marshes and Lake Pontchartrain tend to warm and cool more quickly than open Gulf waters, so surface readings around the city can swing a few degrees from those of offshore locations. Overall, annual surface temperatures in the New Orleans area generally range from the low teens to just above 30 °C.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| February | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| March | 12°C | 17°C | 24°C |
| April | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| May | 20°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| June | 25°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| July | 27°C | 30°C | 33°C |
| August | 27°C | 30°C | 33°C |
| September | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| October | 19°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| November | 14°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| December | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
New Orleans: Weather Forecast
July 2
July 3
July 4
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays are possible but take a different shape than in classic resort towns. Within the metropolitan area, public beaches and shoreline parks on Lake Pontchartrain offer local swimming when temperatures are comfortable—most people find late spring through early autumn best, when surface waters are in the mid‑20s °C and warmer. For sandy Gulf beaches and a more traditional seaside holiday, coastal barrier islands and Gulf Coast towns a short drive away provide more extensive shorelines and warmer open‑water swimming. Water quality can vary after heavy rains and river surges, and strong currents, boat traffic and occasional marine life mean swimmers should use designated areas, heed local advisories, and prefer lifeguarded beaches when available.