Atlantic Ocean Water Temperature Today & Regional Overview

Current Water Temperature

The water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean today ranges from 5.7°C (Nuuk, Greenland) to 33°C (Everglades, United States).

As of today, the minimum water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold.

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 and Swimming Conditions Throughout the Year

Month	Min	Max
January	-3°C	31°C
February	-3°C	32°C
March	-4°C	31°C
April	-3°C	32°C
May	-3°C	33°C
June	-3°C	32°C
July	-2°C	34°C
August	0°C	34°C
September	0°C	33°C
October	-2°C	32°C
November	-2°C	31°C
December	-3°C	31°C

The Atlantic Ocean spans a wide range of water temperatures because it crosses tropical, temperate and polar zones. In the tropical Atlantic waters typically stay warm year‑round at about 24–30 °C. Subtropical regions commonly range from roughly 18–28 °C, warming toward the higher end in summer. Temperate portions of the North and South Atlantic experience larger seasonal swings: summer surface temperatures often rise to about 15–24 °C, while winter values can fall to around 5–15 °C depending on latitude and local currents. Near the subpolar and polar margins, surface temperatures can be near freezing in winter, roughly −1–4 °C, and only rise to about 4–12 °C in summer. Coastal upwelling zones and major currents such as the Gulf Stream and the North Atlantic Drift can push local temperatures several degrees above or below these averages.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Atlantic is widely practiced and generally allowed where beaches and coastlines provide safe access, but suitability depends heavily on temperature and hazards. In tropical and many subtropical areas, water temperatures of 24–30 °C make swimming comfortable year‑round. In temperate zones, swimming is most comfortable in late spring through early autumn when surface temperatures reach 15–24 °C; many swimmers tolerate 15–20 °C with acclimation or wetsuits. Waters below about 15 °C increase the risk of cold shock and hypothermia for unprotected swimmers, and below 10 °C are hazardous without proper thermal protection. Beyond temperature, strong currents, rip tides, waves, water quality and local regulations determine whether swimming is advisable, so checking local guidance and safety flags is recommended before entering the water.

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