Surf City — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Surf City (North Carolina, 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 Surf City help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Surf City in the Atlantic Ocean today is 26°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 79°F (26°C) to 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays.
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 Surf City today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Surf City will be 25.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 19 | 27.4°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 27.4°C | 25.8°C | |
| SEP 21 | 27.4°C | 26.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 27.4°C | 26.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 27.4°C | 26.3°C | |
| SEP 24 | 27.4°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 25 | 27.3°C | 25.3°C | |
| SEP 26 | 27.1°C | 25.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 26.2°C | 25.3°C | 26.2°C |
| SEP 28 | 25.3°C | 26.1°C | |
| SEP 29 | 25.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 30 | 25.5°C | 25.8°C | |
| OCT 1 | 25.5°C | 25.7°C | |
| OCT 2 | 25.5°C | 25.6°C | |
| OCT 3 | 25.5°C | 25.5°C | |
| OCT 4 | 25.5°C | 25.4°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
Surf City sits on Topsail Island along North Carolina’s southeastern coast and offers a classic Atlantic barrier island environment with wide sandy beaches and shifting surf. Water temperatures vary considerably through the year: in winter (December–February) seawater typically ranges from about 10 to 16 °C, making extended swims brisk for most people. Spring (March–May) sees a gradual warming, roughly 12 to 20 °C by late spring. Summer (June–August) brings the warmest conditions, commonly between 22 and 28 °C at the peak, when the ocean is most inviting for longer swims. In autumn (September–November) temperatures fall again, usually from around 24 °C in early September down to about 18 °C by November, so late-season beach days can still offer pleasant water conditions depending on the month.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| February | 11°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| March | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| May | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| June | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| July | 25°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| August | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| September | 24°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| November | 16°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| December | 13°C | 16°C | 22°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Surf City: Weather Forecast
September 28
September 29
September 30
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
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Public Access At South Shore Drive And Kinston Avenue
Public Access At Broadway Street And North Shore Drive - Topsail Beach
Public Beach Access #32
Stump Sound East Of Dixon Point
Regional Public Access At Mile Marker 12 On New River Inlet
Sea Haven Beach
Swimming Conditions
For visitors planning a beach holiday, Surf City provides straightforward swimming opportunities with broad beach access, seasonal lifeguard coverage at main access points during the summer, and a variety of accommodation options close to the shore. The surf is moderated by the island’s orientation, so coastal waters can be suitable for casual swimming, bodyboarding and beginner surfing when conditions are calm; when winds pick up or after storms, stronger waves and rip currents can limit safe swimming. The Surf City Pier and nearby public accesses are popular focal points for family beach days, and local outfitters offer lessons and rentals for paddle sports that pair well with beach stays. Because water temperature varies by season, most visitors prefer summer for extended time in the sea, while spring and early autumn can be pleasant for shorter swims or shoreline activities with appropriate attire.