Bay Street
beach
intermediate
Bay Street is the more powerful section of Santa Monica Beach.
Santa Monica water temperature today
Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica water temperature today is 72°F. Is it cold? It's warm for most people, so plan on boardshorts.
Water temperature refreshed hourly from an observed station reading.
Pack the right rubber and you'll extend your sessions in Santa Monica by an hour. Temps swing from upwelling lows to summer peaks, and the difference between a 3/2 and a 4/3 day can come overnight.
72°F1° this week
Boardshorts
Warm enough for boardshorts or a bikini
7-Day Temperature Trend
Data from Bay Street · Updated hourly
Beach Water Temperatures
Current water temperatures at each surf spot. Temperatures can vary based on local conditions, currents, and depth.
Surf spots in Santa Monica
Featured Beaches
3 spots
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Featured Beaches(3)
Spot guide for Santa Monica
Break types, ratings, and local tips for each beach.
Santa Monica Beach
beach
beginner
Santa Monica Beach near the iconic pier offers a wide, forgiving beach break.
Will Rogers State Beach
beach
beginner
Will Rogers State Beach offers a gentle, forgiving beach break.
What to know about water temperature
- Weekly temperature trends and seasonal averages
- Gear recommendations for dawn patrol versus midday
- Upwelling signals that drop temps overnight
- Health and recovery tips for long cold sessions
Surf Guides for Santa Monica
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
About surfing in Santa Monica
- Santa Monica water is 72°F today, which is warm for most people, so most surfers wear boardshorts. Wind, air temperature, and session length change how cold it feels.
- Santa Monica water is 72°F today. Readings differ from beach to beach and through the day, so check the per-beach temperatures on this page before you go.
- Water temperatures in Santa Monica typically range from 55-72°F. For summer, spring suit or 3/2mm is recommended. In winter, you'll want 4/3mm. Spring and fall may require adjusting based on your cold tolerance.
- Water temperatures in Santa Monica range from 55-72°F, so most surfers wear at least spring suit or 3/2mm even in summer. A wetsuit is recommended year-round for longer sessions and early morning surfs.
