Santa Catalina Island — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Santa Catalina Island (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 Santa Catalina Island help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Santa Catalina Island in the Pacific 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 Santa Catalina Island 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 Santa Catalina Island will be 19.2°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 5 | 18.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 6 | 18.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 7 | 18.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 8 | 18.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 9 | 19.1°C | 17.8°C | |
| JUN 10 | 19.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 11 | 19.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUN 12 | 19.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 13 | 19.8°C | 18.5°C | 19.8°C |
| JUN 14 | 17.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| JUN 15 | 18.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| JUN 16 | 18.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| JUN 17 | 18.0°C | 19.4°C | |
| JUN 18 | 18.3°C | 19.4°C | |
| JUN 19 | 18.8°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUN 20 | 18.5°C | 19.2°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
Santa Catalina Island, off the coast of Southern California in the United States, is known for its clear Pacific waters, rocky coastlines and extensive kelp forests. Sea surface temperatures around the island follow the typical Southern California pattern: during winter months (December–February) waters are coolest, generally about 12–14 °C. In spring (March–May) temperatures begin to rise, commonly reaching roughly 13–17 °C. The warmest period is late spring through summer (June–August), when surface temperatures typically range from about 18 to 22 °C, and into early fall (September–November) waters often remain mild, roughly 15–19 °C before cooling again. Local conditions can vary with upwelling, currents and seasonal weather, so short-term temperatures may deviate from these averages.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| February | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| March | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| April | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| May | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| June | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| December | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Santa Catalina Island: Weather Forecast
June 13
June 14
June 15
June 16
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Cabrillo Harbor Beach
Gibraltar Beach
Goat Harbor
Paradise Cove
Shark Harbor
Little Harbor Beach
Italian Gardens Beach
Lava Wall Beach
Rippers Cove
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation around Catalina are popular but shaped by those temperatures and by exposure. Sheltered coves and protected bays offer calmer, often clearer water ideal for snorkeling and casual swimming, while open-coast beaches and steeper shorelines can be colder and choppier. The island’s marine protected areas and kelp forests provide interesting snorkeling and diving opportunities, with marine life visible in summer and fall when visibility is best. Even at peak season many visitors find a light wetsuit comfortable for extended swims; for colder months thicker exposure protection is advisable. Access is by ferry, private boat or local dock facilities, and the variety of beaches and coves makes Catalina suitable for both relaxed beach holidays and active water-based outings, provided swimmers respect local conditions and currents.