Rockport — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Rockport (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 Rockport help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Rockport in the Atlantic Ocean today is 20°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming.
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 Rockport rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Rockport will be 18.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 25 | 20.4°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 26 | 20.2°C | 19.5°C | |
| AUG 27 | 20.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 28 | 20.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 29 | 20.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 30 | 20.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| AUG 31 | 20.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| SEP 1 | 20.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 2 | 19.7°C | 18.8°C | 19.7°C |
| SEP 3 | 17.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 4 | 18.0°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 5 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 6 | 17.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 7 | 17.8°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 8 | 17.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 9 | 17.0°C | 18.1°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
Rockport, Massachusetts, sits on the rocky northeastern coast of Massachusetts at the tip of Cape Ann and faces the Atlantic Ocean and nearby harbors. Sea temperatures around Rockport follow a strong seasonal cycle: in winter (December–February) surface waters typically range from about 0 to 4 °C, spring (March–May) moves upward from roughly 4 to 12 °C, summer (June–August) brings the warmest conditions with averages around 15 to 20 °C at their peak, and autumn (September–November) cools again to roughly 10 to 16 °C. Local coves and sheltered areas can warm slightly faster than open coastlines, while windy or overcast conditions can keep temperatures lower than seasonal norms.
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 | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| May | 6°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| June | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| August | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| September | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| October | 9°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Rockport: Weather Forecast
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Flat Ledge Quarry
Old Garden Beach
Back Beach Landing
Back
Old Garden
Cathedral Rocks
Halibut Point Preservation
Gabriel & Selma Kleimola Reservation
Halibut Point State Park
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Rockport are centered on a mix of sandy beaches and rocky shoreline, with Good Harbor Beach and Front Beach among the more frequented spots for bathing and family outings. Summer provides the most comfortable sea temperatures for swimming, though even then water often feels brisk compared with more southern destinations, so many visitors prefer brief swims, beach activities, or using wetsuits for longer sessions and open-water swimming. Lifeguard coverage and amenities are usually seasonal, and the town supports kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in calmer inlets. Visitors should be prepared for changing tides, occasional currents, and cooler water outside mid-summer, planning clothing and equipment accordingly to enjoy Rockport’s coastal scenery and bathing opportunities.