San Diego — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for San Diego (California, 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 San Diego help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in San Diego in the Pacific 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 San Diego has risen over the last week and month. Currently, the sea water at this location is slightly warmer than average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in San Diego will be 19.5°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 | 19.2°C | 18.8°C | |
| JUN 7 | 18.8°C | 18.3°C | |
| JUN 8 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 9 | 19.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| JUN 10 | 19.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 11 | 20.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 12 | 20.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUN 13 | 20.8°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUN 14 | 21.2°C | 19.3°C | 21.2°C |
| JUN 15 | 18.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 16 | 18.5°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUN 17 | 18.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| JUN 18 | 18.8°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUN 19 | 19.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUN 20 | 18.5°C | 19.8°C | |
| JUN 21 | 18.8°C | 19.5°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
San Diego’s coastal waters are shaped by the cool California Current and local wind-driven upwelling, so temperatures along the city’s coast are relatively mild but cooler than many southern California perceptions. Typical seasonal sea-surface temperatures range from about 13–15 °C in winter, through roughly 13–17 °C in spring when occasional upwelling can bring colder water nearshore, to a summer high of approximately 16–22 °C, with late summer and early fall often offering the warmest conditions around 20–22 °C. Sheltered areas such as Mission Bay, smaller coves, and some protected inlets can be a degree or two warmer than the open ocean, while strong upwelling or year-to-year climate variations like El Niño and La Niña can make local temperatures noticeably warmer or cooler than average.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| February | 13°C | 15°C | 16°C |
| March | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| April | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| May | 14°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| August | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| December | 14°C | 15°C | 18°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
San Diego: Weather Forecast
June 15
June 16
June 17
June 18
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Bird Rock Beach
Centennial Park Beach
Mission Bay
Coronado Tidelands Park
Coronado Beach
Coronado Shores Beach
Gator Beach At Naval Amphibious Base Coronado
Coronado Dog Beach
Spanish Landing Park Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in San Diego are popular year-round, with choices ranging from long sandy beaches suited to families and casual swimmers to rocky coves and kelp-fringed areas favored for snorkeling and diving. Summer months are most comfortable for swimming in just a swimsuit for many visitors, but spring and winter swimmers commonly use wetsuits or spring suits when waters are below about 18 °C. Lifeguard services, rental facilities for paddleboards and kayaks, and numerous beach access points support a wide array of water activities; however, swimmers should remain mindful of rip currents, changing surf, and occasional water-quality advisories after heavy rain. With appropriate gear and attention to conditions, San Diego offers broad opportunities for both relaxed beach days and active coastal water sports.