Wadden 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 Wadden Sea today ranges from 16.2°C (Moddergat, Netherlands) to 18°C (Lemmer, Netherlands).
As of today, the minimum water temperature in the Wadden Sea ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people.
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 Wadden Sea has increased by 5°C. 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 | 1°C | 8°C |
| February | 2°C | 8°C |
| March | 2°C | 10°C |
| April | 5°C | 12°C |
| May | 8°C | 16°C |
| June | 11°C | 19°C |
| July | 15°C | 21°C |
| August | 15°C | 22°C |
| September | 14°C | 21°C |
| October | 9°C | 19°C |
| November | 6°C | 15°C |
| December | 2°C | 11°C |
The Wadden Sea is a shallow, tidally influenced coastal area where water temperatures change noticeably through the year. Because the sea is shallow and well mixed by tides, it warms relatively quickly in summer and cools rapidly in winter. Typical seasonal ranges are roughly 0–5 °C in winter, 6–12 °C in spring, 15–20 °C in summer, and 8–14 °C in autumn, with local and interannual variation that can push summer highs occasionally above 20 °C and winter lows near freezing. Temperatures also vary with location: sheltered bays and estuaries tend to be slightly warmer in summer and colder in winter than more open channels, and air temperature, wind and river inflow all influence short-term fluctuations.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Wadden Sea is generally permitted in many coastal bathing areas and around the inhabited islands, but it is subject to local rules and practical limitations. Much of the Wadden Sea is a protected natural area, so access can be restricted to protect wildlife and breeding grounds; furthermore, the tidal regime, strong currents in channels, soft mudflats and rapidly changing conditions make open swimming hazardous outside marked and supervised beaches. Lifeguarded, designated bathing spots are the safest places to swim, especially because water often remains cool even in summer and can cause cold shock without proper preparation. Visitors should follow local signage and regulations, stay in supervised zones when available, and be aware that some areas are closed to swimming to protect both people and the sensitive Wadden Sea environment.