South China Sea Water Temperature: Current & Historical Data for Coastal Resorts

The water temperature in the South China Sea today ranges from 61°F (16°C) in Chenghua (China) to 86°F (30°C) in Perai (Malaysia).

Yes, it is possible to swim in the South China Sea, as its warm waters make it a popular destination for beachgoers and swimmers.

The highest water temperature in the South China Sea occurs in April, reaching 91°F (33°C), while the lowest is in January, dropping to 55°F (13°C).

Yes, the South China Sea is slightly colder than the Sibuyan Sea, as its average annual water temperature is 79°F (26°C), while the Sibuyan Sea's is 84°F (29°C).

The South China Sea washes Macao, Singapore, China, Brunei, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The most popular beach destinations on the South China Sea are Hoi An (Vietnam), Da Nang (Vietnam), Sanya (China), Nha Trang (Vietnam), Hong Kong (Hong Kong), Mui Ne (Vietnam), Langkawi (Malaysia), Dadunhai (China), Yalong Bay (China), Ha Long (Vietnam).

The South China Sea is a semi-enclosed Pacific Ocean off the coast of Southeast Asia, between the Indochina Peninsula, the islands of Kalimantan, Palawan, Luzon and Taiwan.

The South China Sea is characterized by the so-called northern invasions. This term is understood as the rapid spread of masses of cold air in winter, from the north, at a speed of about 15 m / s, to the northern and middle parts of the sea up to 15 ° N. sh., lasting at least 24 hours. These cold intrusions either spread directly to a large area, or cover it gradually, over 1-3 days. The frequency of northern incursions is different in different years, and their intensity also changes. Invasions of relatively cold air from the east, from the ocean, are sometimes observed.

The wave regime of the South China Sea is formed mainly under the influence of the monsoon system. The winds of the winter monsoon are very stable and strong, which favors the development of storm surges and swell. The most intense waves are observed in the northern part of the sea, the least in the southern. During the action of monsoon winds, waves can reach large sizes, not differing much from the sizes of ocean waves. During the period of the winter monsoon, the wave height can reach 7 m with a length of 175 m. The wind speed is relatively high and usually exceeds 12 m / s. Summer monsoon winds are weak and erratic. In this regard, a strong and moderate swell is relatively rare (from 5 to 32%). Even in the northern part of the sea, over 60% of the time, there is a weak swell or its complete absence.