Lake Leelanau — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Leelanau, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Leelanau today is 15°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
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 16.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 16.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 15.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.6°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.4°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 14.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 15.0°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| December | 3°C | 3°C | 8°C |
Lake Leelanau: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Leelanau: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake Leelanau’s water temperatures vary markedly through the year and between shallow bays and the deeper basins. In winter the lake often sits at or just above freezing, roughly 32–34°F (0–1°C), and ice cover is common. Spring sees a gradual warm-up, with surface temperatures typically in the mid-30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (about 2–13°C) depending on the month and weather. By summer, particularly July and August, surface temperatures in sheltered shallows generally reach the upper 60s to mid-70s °F (around 20–24°C), and on warm sunny days small bays can approach the mid-70s to about 77°F (24–25°C), while deeper water remains noticeably cooler. In fall the lake cools back through the 50s to 60s °F (10–18°C) as air temperatures drop.
Swimming in Lake Leelanau is commonly practiced and permitted from public beaches and private shorelines, but conditions determine whether it’s practical or safe. Warm summer surface temperatures make swimming comfortable for many people, whereas early- and late-season cold snaps risk cold-water shock and hypothermia. Boat traffic, sudden drop-offs, underwater vegetation, and occasional algal blooms can also affect safety and enjoyment, so swimmers should heed local advisories, use life jackets when appropriate, and choose monitored or well-known access points.