Salish Sea Water Temperature Today & Regional Overview
We find every place where you can swim and show you the water temperature there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in the Salish Sea today ranges from 9.9°C (Telegraph Cove, Canada) to 12.5°C (Tacoma, United States).
As of today, the minimum water temperature in the Salish Sea ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used.
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.
Sea Temperature Trends
Over the past month, the water temperature in the Salish Sea has remained almost unchanged. In general, the sea water temperature remains within the statistical range for this time of year.
Water Temperature and Swimming Conditions Throughout the Year
| Month | Min | Max |
|---|---|---|
| January | 5°C | 11°C |
| February | 4°C | 11°C |
| March | 4°C | 11°C |
| April | 5°C | 13°C |
| May | 6°C | 15°C |
| June | 6°C | 19°C |
| July | 8°C | 20°C |
| August | 9°C | 20°C |
| September | 8°C | 18°C |
| October | 8°C | 15°C |
| November | 6°C | 13°C |
| December | 5°C | 12°C |
The Salish Sea, spanning the Strait of Georgia, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound, experiences cool temperate water temperatures that vary by season, location and depth. Typical winter surface temperatures range from about 5 °C to 8 °C, while spring sees a gradual rise into the neighborhood of 8 °C to 12 °C. Summer surface temperatures generally run from roughly 12 °C to 18 °C in many inshore and sheltered areas, with shallow, southern or enclosed bays occasionally reaching around 20 °C during warm spells. In autumn the surface cools back toward the 8 °C to 13 °C range. Deeper channels and areas influenced by upwelling remain colder year-round, and localized conditions such as freshwater runoff, tidal exchange and solar heating can make a marked difference from one beach to another.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Salish Sea is commonly practiced and permitted along numerous public beaches, parks and recreational sites, but conditions make it a different experience than warmer coastal seas. The cool temperatures mean short unprotected swims are tolerable for many, but prolonged exposure risks cold shock and hypothermia, so wetsuits are often advisable for extended swims or open-water swimming. Swimmer safety is also affected by strong currents, tides, boat traffic and occasional poor water quality advisories after heavy rains or algal events, so local advisories and tide forecasts should be checked before entering the water. When conditions and temperatures are favorable, the Salish Sea offers ample opportunities for recreational swimming, though adequate preparation and awareness of local hazards are important.