Provincetown — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Provincetown (Massachusetts, 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 Provincetown help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Provincetown in the Atlantic Ocean today is 15°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear.
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 Provincetown 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 Provincetown will be 16.2°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 | 12.3°C | 13.8°C | |
| JUN 7 | 12.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 8 | 12.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 9 | 12.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 10 | 13.6°C | 14.8°C | |
| JUN 11 | 14.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| JUN 12 | 14.2°C | 15.8°C | |
| JUN 13 | 14.8°C | 15.3°C | |
| JUN 14 | 14.7°C | 15.3°C | 14.7°C |
| JUN 15 | 16.0°C | 14.9°C | |
| JUN 16 | 16.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 17 | 16.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| JUN 18 | 15.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| JUN 19 | 16.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| JUN 20 | 16.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUN 21 | 17.3°C | 16.2°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
Provincetown, at the outer tip of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, sits between the cooler Atlantic Ocean and the more sheltered waters of Cape Cod Bay, producing a noticeable range of seasonal water temperatures. Winter sea surface temperatures typically fall close to freezing, around 0–3 °C in January and February, with early spring slowly rising through March to May into roughly 3–12 °C. By early summer the water generally warms to about 13–18 °C in June, reaching its warmest in July and August when bay and sheltered areas often register around 18–22 °C. Temperatures begin to decline in September and October to roughly 12–20 °C depending on the year and specific location, and by late autumn and early winter they usually cool back toward single digits, approximately 2–10 °C.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| February | 2°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| March | 2°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| April | 4°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| May | 6°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| June | 10°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| July | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| August | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 7°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Provincetown: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Atkins Lane
451 Commercial Street
Provincetown Ryder Street
333 Commercial Street
Court Street
637 Commercial Street
593 Commercial Street
West End Lot
Winston Avenue
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation in Provincetown reflect these temperature patterns and the local geography. Sheltered beaches and harbor areas tend to be calmer and slightly warmer than the exposed Atlantic-facing shores, making spots like Herring Cove more inviting for casual beachgoers, while Race Point and other ocean beaches offer dramatic scenery but colder water and stronger currents that can restrict safe bathing. During July through September most beaches have lifeguards and seasonal amenities, and many visitors swim, kayak, or take boat excursions; wetsuits extend comfortable swimming time outside the warmest weeks. Tidal variation and rip currents are important considerations on the ocean side, so swimmers are advised to use guarded areas, observe flag warnings, and respect local guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach holiday.