Ocean City — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Ocean City (New Jersey, 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 21°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience.
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 20.8°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 6 | 15.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 7 | 16.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 8 | 17.4°C | 18.3°C | |
| JUN 9 | 17.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 10 | 18.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| JUN 11 | 18.5°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUN 12 | 18.5°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUN 13 | 19.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| JUN 14 | 20.5°C | 19.5°C | 20.5°C |
| JUN 15 | 19.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| JUN 16 | 19.5°C | 20.6°C | |
| JUN 17 | 20.0°C | 20.6°C | |
| JUN 18 | 20.3°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUN 19 | 20.3°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUN 20 | 20.3°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUN 21 | 21.0°C | 20.8°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
Ocean City, New Jersey, sits on a barrier island along the southern Jersey Shore and is known for its broad sandy beaches and family-oriented atmosphere. The water temperature off the ocean side follows a distinct seasonal pattern: in winter months (December–February) sea temperatures commonly range from about 2 to 7 °C, rising through spring (March–May) to roughly 7–15 °C. Summer brings the warmest conditions, with typical highs of about 18 to 25 °C and peak values often occurring in July and August around 22–25 °C. During autumn (September–November) waters cool again, generally falling from near 20 °C in early September to about 10–15 °C by late October and lower by November. Local tides, currents and weather systems can produce short-term variations, and conditions differ somewhat between the exposed ocean side and the more sheltered back bay.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| March | 3°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| April | 4°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| May | 8°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| July | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 18°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 14°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| November | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 13°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Ocean City: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Peck Beach
34th Street Beach
Beesley's Point Beach
Waverly Beach
Surf Road Beach
East Atlantic Beach
Corson's Inlet State Park Beach
Somers Point Beach
Longport Dog Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation at Ocean City are centered on long public stretches of sand, a popular boardwalk, and lifeguarded swim areas during the high season. When sea temperatures reach the summer range, ocean swimming and water sports such as bodyboarding, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding are highly popular; the bay side provides calmer, shallower water for young children and less experienced swimmers. The official swimming season, staffed with lifeguards and beach patrols, typically runs from late spring through early fall, and municipal monitoring of water quality and posted advisories helps visitors choose safe days for entering the water. Even outside peak months, walkers and beachcombers enjoy the shoreline, while colder conditions favor brisk swims by seasoned cold-water enthusiasts or activities like kiteboarding when winds permit.