Winyah Bay — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Winyah Bay, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Winyah Bay today is 23°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 11 | 22.9°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 23.1°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 23.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 23.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 22.9°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.9°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.7°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 22.7°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 23.5°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 20 | 23.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| OCT 21 | 23.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| OCT 22 | 23.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| OCT 23 | 23.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| OCT 24 | 23.5°C | 23.2°C | |
| OCT 25 | 23.5°C | 23.2°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.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| February | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| March | 8°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| April | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 22°C | 29°C |
| June | 21°C | 27°C | 32°C |
| July | 22°C | 28°C | 34°C |
| August | 25°C | 30°C | 34°C |
| September | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| October | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| November | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| December | 8°C | 12°C | 15°C |
Winyah Bay: Water Temperature by Location
Winyah Bay: Weather Forecast
October 19
October 20
October 21
October 22
October 23
Location & Local Information
Winyah Bay is a tidal estuary on the South Carolina coast, so its waters behave more like a brackish bay than a still lake. Water temperatures fluctuate with the seasons and tidal exchange: in winter surface temperatures commonly range from about 45–60°F (7–16°C), spring typically sees 55–72°F (13–22°C), summer often warms to roughly 72–86°F (22–30°C), and fall usually falls back into the 60–75°F (16–24°C) band. Because the bay mixes freshwater from rivers with Atlantic tides, local temperatures can vary from spot to spot and change quickly with wind and currents.
Swimming in Winyah Bay is physically possible in many places but is not the same as swimming at a designated ocean beach. There is no blanket statewide ban on entering the water, yet safety and water-quality concerns often limit recreational swimming: strong tidal currents, shifting channels, boat traffic, submerged debris and oyster beds, and periodic bacterial contamination after heavy rains make some areas unsuitable. Many people prefer sanctioned public beaches or calm, monitored spots for swimming; where swimming occurs in the bay, observers recommend checking local advisories, choosing sheltered areas, and using appropriate clothing (wetsuits in cooler months) and caution.