Big Lagoon — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Lagoon, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Lagoon today is 15.8°C.
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
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 16.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 16.7°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.3°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.9°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 16.5°C | 15.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 16.5°C | 16.0°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.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| February | 6°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| March | 2°C | 8°C | 14°C |
| April | 8°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 16°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 18°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 16°C | 23°C | 30°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| October | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| December | 9°C | 11°C | 14°C |
Big Lagoon: Water Temperature by Location
Big Lagoon: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Big Lagoon, located along California’s northern coast in Humboldt County, tends to have cool, often brackish water that reflects both ocean tides and freshwater inflows. Seasonal surface temperatures are typically lowest in winter, roughly 45–50°F (7–10°C), spring sees modest warming to about 48–58°F (9–14°C), and summer brings the warmest conditions, generally 55–65°F (13–18°C). Autumn temperatures commonly fall in the 50–59°F (10–15°C) range as ocean and weather patterns shift. Local factors such as tide stage, the lagoon’s connection to the ocean, freshwater runoff after rain, and wind can change temperatures noticeably from day to day and with depth.
Swimming in Big Lagoon is generally allowed from a regulatory standpoint, but it is not a typical recreational swimming destination for most visitors because of the consistently cool water and safety considerations. There are no lifeguards on duty in the state park, water temperatures can cause cold-water shock or rapid heat loss, and some areas are ecologically sensitive with eelgrass beds and bird habitat. Visitors who choose to swim should be prepared for chilly conditions, exercise caution near the lagoon mouth and tidal flows, and follow posted park guidance to protect both personal safety and the environment.