Sitka — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Sitka (Alaska, 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 Sitka help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Sitka in the Pacific Ocean today is 13°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 Sitka 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 Sitka will be 12.7°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 4 | 13.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| AUG 5 | 13.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| AUG 6 | 13.6°C | 14.3°C | |
| AUG 7 | 13.4°C | 13.8°C | |
| AUG 8 | 13.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| AUG 9 | 13.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 13.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| AUG 11 | 13.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 13.3°C | 13.5°C | 13.3°C |
| AUG 13 | 12.0°C | 13.2°C | |
| AUG 14 | 12.5°C | 13.1°C | |
| AUG 15 | 14.0°C | 13.1°C | |
| AUG 16 | 13.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| AUG 17 | 12.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| AUG 18 | 12.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| AUG 19 | 12.5°C | 12.7°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
Sitka, on Baranof Island in southeastern Alaska, sits within cool coastal waters influenced by the North Pacific and local currents. Sea surface temperatures are low year‑round: winter months typically range from about 3°C to 6°C, spring from roughly 4°C to 8°C, summer generally warms to about 8°C to 12°C at the warmest, and autumn cools back to approximately 6°C to 9°C. These values can vary with weather patterns, tides and depth, and surface temperatures nearshore are often a degree or two different from offshore readings. Fog, rain and seasonal winds also affect perceived warmth along the shoreline, so even summer water rarely feels warm compared with temperate or tropical destinations.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| April | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| May | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| June | 6°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| July | 8°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| August | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| September | 8°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| October | 7°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Sitka: Weather Forecast
August 13
August 14
August 15
August 16
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation in Sitka reflect those chilly conditions. Traditional barefoot swimming is uncommon except for very brief dips during the warmest weeks of July and August; most visitors who enter the water use wetsuits or drysuits and limit exposure to avoid cold shock and hypothermia. The coastline is mostly rocky with some small sandy or cobble beaches and sheltered coves suitable for wading, tidepooling and launching kayaks, while harbor swims are possible under calm conditions. Wildlife, tides and local currents require attention, and many people combine seaside relaxation with boating, wildlife viewing and shore walks rather than prolonged open‑water bathing.