Santa Ana River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Santa Ana River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Santa Ana River today is 20.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOV 6 | 19.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 7 | 20.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 8 | 20.1°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 9 | 20.2°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 10 | 20.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 11 | 20.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 12 | 20.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 13 | 20.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 14 | 13.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| NOV 15 | 13.5°C | 19.6°C | |
| NOV 16 | 13.5°C | 19.3°C | |
| NOV 17 | 13.5°C | 18.9°C | |
| NOV 18 | 13.5°C | 18.6°C | |
| NOV 19 | 13.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| NOV 20 | 13.5°C | 17.9°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 | 3°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| February | 3°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| March | 3°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| April | 5°C | 14°C | 23°C |
| May | 8°C | 18°C | 27°C |
| June | 14°C | 22°C | 30°C |
| July | 17°C | 24°C | 32°C |
| August | 17°C | 24°C | 32°C |
| September | 11°C | 20°C | 30°C |
| October | 8°C | 18°C | 27°C |
| November | 3°C | 14°C | 24°C |
| December | 13°C | 6°C | 18°C |
Santa Ana River: Water Temperature by Location
Santa Ana River: Weather Forecast
November 14
November 15
November 16
November 17
November 18
Location & Local Information
Source Coon Creek
Mouth Pacific Ocean
• location Huntington Beach, Orange County
Length 96 mi (154 km)
The Santa Ana River in Southern California is a major waterway that flows through cities like Riverside and Orange, eventually emptying into the Pacific Ocean. The water temperature of the river can fluctuate depending on the time of year and weather conditions. During the hot summer months, from June to August, the water temperature generally ranges from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), which is relatively warm compared to other rivers in the area. However, due to the river's sometimes polluted waters and fast currents, swimming is not a common or recommended activity in most parts of the river.
In the winter months, the water temperature tends to cool down, falling to around 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C). These colder temperatures, combined with the river's variable flow and water quality, make swimming even less appealing. The Santa Ana River can experience significant fluctuations in flow, especially during heavy rain events, which can lead to stronger currents and more hazardous conditions for anyone who might consider swimming.
While the Santa Ana River isn't typically seen as a destination for swimming, it is popular for other recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching along its banks. Some areas of the river, particularly in more urbanized stretches, may have improved water quality and may be used for water sports like kayaking or tubing. However, swimming is generally avoided, and visitors are advised to enjoy the river's natural beauty from its shores or participate in safer water activities.