San Francisco — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends

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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco will be 13.6°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month

Monthly Water Temp Ranges

30°C

25°C

20°C

15°C

10°c

5°C

0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

San Francisco sits where the cold California Current and coastal upwelling keep ocean temperatures low compared with more southerly California beaches. Surface water around the outer Pacific coast of the city typically ranges from about 10 to 14 °C through much of the year, with the coldest months near 9 to 12 °C in winter and slightly warmer conditions—often 12 to 16 °C—in late summer in more sheltered locations. The inner waters of San Francisco Bay are a bit more variable: they can cool to around 9 to 12 °C in winter and commonly rise into the low to mid teens, roughly 12 to 16 °C, during summer, with small, shallow spots occasionally reaching up toward 16 to 18 °C on warm, calm days. Weather factors such as wind, tides and fog influence surface readings and perceived chill.