Oak Island — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Oak Island (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 Oak Island help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Oak Island 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 Oak Island 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 Oak Island will be 26.4°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 7 | 24.2°C | 24.3°C | |
| JUN 8 | 24.2°C | 24.5°C | |
| JUN 9 | 23.8°C | 25.3°C | |
| JUN 10 | 24.3°C | 24.8°C | |
| JUN 11 | 24.6°C | 25.0°C | |
| JUN 12 | 24.8°C | 25.5°C | |
| JUN 13 | 25.1°C | 25.0°C | |
| JUN 14 | 25.3°C | 25.3°C | |
| JUN 15 | 26.2°C | 25.3°C | 26.2°C |
| JUN 16 | 25.8°C | 26.2°C | |
| JUN 17 | 26.0°C | 26.3°C | |
| JUN 18 | 25.5°C | 26.3°C | |
| JUN 19 | 26.0°C | 26.3°C | |
| JUN 20 | 25.8°C | 26.4°C | |
| JUN 21 | 26.0°C | 26.4°C | |
| JUN 22 | 26.3°C | 26.4°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
Oak Island, a barrier island on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, enjoys a temperate coastal climate with notable seasonal shifts in sea temperature. Around Oak Island, Atlantic water temperatures typically range from roughly 9–15 °C in winter (December–February), rise through spring to about 12–20 °C (March–May), peak in summer near 22–28 °C (June–August), and cool again to roughly 18–24 °C in autumn (September–November). Local conditions can change with wind, tides and weather systems; shallow sound areas and inlets often warm or cool more quickly than the open ocean. Storms, freshwater runoff and upwelling can also produce short-term departures from these averages, so observed temperatures at any given day may differ from seasonal norms.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| February | 10°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| March | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 14°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| May | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| June | 21°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| July | 26°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 | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| December | 11°C | 14°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Oak Island: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Ocean Pier Between 14th And 15th Place East And Beach Drive
Middleton Public Access
Public Access At Southeast 46th Street And East Beach Drive - Oak Island
Public Access At Southeast 55th Street And East Beach Drive - Oak Island
Oak Island Pier
Oak Island Beach
Dutchman Inlet Park
Caswell Beach Public Access #2
East End
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation on Oak Island suit a range of preferences and skill levels, with Atlantic beaches offering surf and stronger currents and the inland creeks and sounds providing calmer water for wading and paddle sports. Summer months, when water commonly reaches the mid-to-high 20s °C, are the most comfortable for extended swims and family beach days; spring and fall can be pleasant for briefer dips but may require a wetsuit for longer exposure. Lifeguard coverage is seasonal and varies by access point, and swimmers should remain aware of rip currents, changing tides and posted advisories. For quieter, gentler water activities, the sound-side areas and protected inlets are better choices, while the oceanfront is preferred for active swimming, bodyboarding and surfing when conditions allow.