Search for cities, countries, lakes and rivers
Gulf of Bothnia
Sundsbruk, Sweden © Md Marufur RAHMAN
Gulf of Bothnia Water Temperature: Current & Historical Data for Coastal Resorts
We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year
Current water temperature
31°F
minimal
32°F
average
33°F
maximum
Graph of Water Temperature Changes in the Gulf of Bothnia Over the Last 60 Days
Water temperature in the Gulf of Bothnia by month
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 28°F | 41°F |
| February | 30°F | 39°F |
| March | 28°F | 37°F |
| April | 28°F | 41°F |
| May | 28°F | 55°F |
| June | 34°F | 66°F |
| July | 48°F | 75°F |
| August | 52°F | 75°F |
| September | 43°F | 68°F |
| October | 32°F | 61°F |
| November | 32°F | 52°F |
| December | 28°F | 45°F |
What is known about the Gulf of Bothnia?
Ullanger, Sweden © Antonín VítThe Gulf of Bothnia, located between Sweden and Finland, experiences cold water temperatures throughout the year. During the summer months, from June to August, the water temperature ranges from 55–64°F (13–18°C), which is still considered cool, especially for those accustomed to warmer seas. The temperature can vary depending on the location, with northern parts of the Gulf being colder than the southern sections. In the winter months, from December to February, the water temperature can drop to 28–32°F (-2–0°C), causing the Gulf to freeze in many areas, making swimming virtually impossible.
Swimming in the Gulf of Bothnia is typically enjoyed during the summer months, though it remains a brisk experience due to the cool temperatures. Coastal cities like Oulu in Finland and Umeå in Sweden offer beach areas where locals and tourists take quick dips to cool off. Many swimmers use wetsuits to make the experience more comfortable, especially in the northern parts of the Gulf. The Gulf is also known for recreational activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing, which are more popular than swimming due to the cooler water temperatures. While swimming is possible, it is often accompanied by visits to saunas to warm up afterward, especially in Finland, where this tradition is well-loved.
List of Countries Bordering the Gulf of Bothnia
Popular Resorts of the Gulf of Bothnia with the Warmest Water Today
Popular Resorts on the Gulf of Bothnia Coast
- Oulu, Finland
- Umea, Sweden
- Turku, Finland
- Ullanger, Sweden
- Vaasa, Finland
- Kemi, Finland
- Jakobstad, Finland
- Rauma, Finland
- Dalsbruk, Finland
- Batskarsnas, Sweden
- Nordmaling, Sweden
- Kalix, Sweden
- Ljusne, Sweden
- Sundsvall, Sweden
- Lulea, Sweden
Naantali, Finland © Iiro Peltokangas
Nearest Seas and Oceans
Frequently Asked Questions About the Gulf of Bothnia
What is the water temperature in the Gulf of Bothnia right now?
The water temperature in the Gulf of Bothnia today ranges from 32°F (-0°C) in Bonhamn (Sweden) to 34°F (1°C) in Gammelstad (Sweden).
Is it possible to swim in the Gulf of Bothnia?
Swimming in the Gulf of Bothnia is possible, but the water temperature can be quite cold, especially during the colder months.
In which month does the Gulf of Bothnia have the highest and lowest water temperatures?
The highest water temperature in the Gulf of Bothnia occurs in July, reaching 75°F (24°C), while the lowest is in January, dropping to 28°F (-2°C).
Is the Gulf of Bothnia colder than the Baltic Sea?
Yes, the Gulf of Bothnia is slightly colder than the Baltic Sea, as its average annual water temperature is 45°F (7°C), while the Baltic Sea's is 48°F (9°C).
Which countries are washed by the Gulf of Bothnia?
The Gulf of Bothnia washes Finland, and Sweden.
Do you have any extended or additional information about the Gulf of Bothnia?
The Gulf of Bothnia is a bay in the northern part of the Baltic Sea, located between the west coast of Finland, the east coast of Sweden, separated from the main part of the sea by the Åland Islands. It is the largest and deepest bay in the Baltic Sea.
The shores of the bay are indented, along which there are many islands and skerries. The largest islands are Aland (on the border), Hailuoto, Replot and Eugmu in Finland and Gres, Hertsen and Holmen in Sweden.
There is a counterclockwise flow on the surface. At depth - the movement of water from the Baltic Sea towards the Gulf of Bothnia. The average water temperature in February is 0 ° C, in August - 9-13 ° C. The water has low salinity (1-3 ‰ in the north and 4-5 ‰ in the south) due to the large influx of fresh water (181 km³ per year). Freezing up from November to early July.
Do you have a few more photos of the the Gulf of Bothnia?
Pargas, Finland © Ralf Hermansson
Dragsfjärd, Finland © Osmo Lampinen
Dragsfjärd, Finland © Ceaser Trio