Ocean City — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Ocean City (Maryland, 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 Ocean City help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Ocean City in the Atlantic Ocean today is 51°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used.
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 Ocean 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 Ocean City will be 53°F 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 8 | 49°F | 51°F | |
| APR 9 | 49°F | 50°F | |
| APR 10 | 49°F | 50°F | |
| APR 11 | 50°F | 51°F | |
| APR 12 | 50°F | 50°F | |
| APR 13 | 50°F | 50°F | |
| APR 14 | 51°F | 51°F | |
| APR 15 | 52°F | 51°F | |
| APR 16 | 51°F | 51°F | 51°F |
| APR 17 | 51°F | 52°F | |
| APR 18 | 51°F | 52°F | |
| APR 19 | 52°F | 52°F | |
| APR 20 | 53°F | 52°F | |
| APR 21 | 54°F | 52°F | |
| APR 22 | 53°F | 53°F | |
| APR 23 | 53°F | 53°F |
* 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
Ocean City, Maryland, is a popular Atlantic shore destination known for its long sandy beaches and lively boardwalk. The ocean water temperature follows a clear seasonal pattern: winter months (December–February) are cold, typically around 2–8 °C, while spring (March–May) gradually warms to roughly 6–16 °C. Summer (June–August) brings the warmest water, commonly ranging from about 20–26 °C, with the highest readings in July and August. Autumn (September–November) sees a gradual cooling, generally from about 15–22 °C in early fall down toward the lower end of that range by November. These averages can vary year to year with weather patterns and coastal currents, but they give a useful guide for planning water activities.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 34°F | 41°F | 50°F |
| February | 36°F | 40°F | 46°F |
| March | 39°F | 45°F | 50°F |
| April | 41°F | 51°F | 61°F |
| May | 50°F | 60°F | 72°F |
| June | 61°F | 69°F | 79°F |
| July | 68°F | 76°F | 82°F |
| August | 70°F | 76°F | 84°F |
| September | 66°F | 73°F | 81°F |
| October | 59°F | 68°F | 73°F |
| November | 48°F | 58°F | 66°F |
| December | 39°F | 48°F | 55°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Ocean City: Weather Forecast
April 17
April 18
April 19
April 20
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Ocean City Beach
Surf Ave Beach
Homer Gudelsky Park
Ocean City Inlet Beach
Fenwick Island State Park Beach South
Lighthouse Rd Beach
Maryland Beach
State Line Beach
Fenwick Island State Park
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Ocean City are oriented around the warmer late spring and summer months when water temperatures are most comfortable for prolonged swims. The municipal beaches, extending along the famous boardwalk and northward into quieter stretches, are staffed with lifeguards during the main season—typically late May through early September—and water-quality monitoring is routine. Visitors should be mindful of typical ocean considerations such as waves, rip currents, and occasional jellyfish; wetsuits or short wetsuits are common for cooler spring and fall swims when water is below about 20 °C, while summer conditions above 22–24 °C are pleasant for most swimmers without thermal protection. Beyond swimming, the area supports activities like paddling and surfing when conditions permit, making it suitable for both family beach breaks and more active water recreation.