Providence — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Providence (Rhode Island, 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 Providence help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Providence in the Atlantic Ocean today is 16°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people.
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 Providence today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Currently, the sea water at this location is slightly cooler than average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Providence will be 16.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 11 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 16.4°C | 17.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.4°C | 17.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.3°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 16.8°C | 15.5°C |
| OCT 20 | 16.8°C | 15.6°C | |
| OCT 21 | 16.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 22 | 16.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 23 | 16.8°C | 15.8°C | |
| OCT 24 | 16.8°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 25 | 16.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 26 | 16.8°C | 16.1°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
Providence sits at the head of Narragansett Bay where the Providence River flows into a tidal estuary, so water temperatures reflect a mix of oceanic and freshwater influence and strong seasonal swings. Typical sea surface temperatures in the bay near Providence range from around 0–4°C in the coldest months of winter, rising through spring to roughly 4–12°C as the region warms. By mid to late summer the water commonly reaches about 16–23°C on average, with peak warmth often occurring in July and August. In autumn temperatures fall back into the single to low double digits, roughly 8–16°C, and local conditions can vary with tides, wind, and recent weather patterns, producing short-term fluctuations around these seasonal averages.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| February | 2°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| April | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| May | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| June | 10°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 15°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| August | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 9°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 7°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Providence: Weather Forecast
October 20
October 21
October 22
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Field's Point
Edgewood Beach
Sabin Point Waterfront Park
Frank Moody State Beach
Lincoln Woods Beach
Governor Notte Park Beach
Twin Rivers Beach East
Governor Notte Park
Twin Rivers Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming directly in Providence’s waterways is less common than enjoying the nearby coastal beaches, though recreational paddling and supervised event swims do take place when conditions and water quality allow. For a traditional beach holiday, visitors and residents typically head to sandy shores along Narragansett Bay and the nearby South County and Aquidneck Island coastlines, where public beaches offer lifeguards and summer amenities; these spots are reached within a short drive from the city. Summer water temperatures around 16–23°C make swimming comfortable for many beachgoers, while spring and autumn swims often require a wetsuit or shorter sessions because waters are cooler. Beach facilities, crowding, and lifeguard coverage are seasonal, so planning around the July–August summer window will maximize traditional swimming opportunities.