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Is it too cold to swim in Pismo Beach today?
The latest reading is 67°F (19.6°C), measured November 5, 2026 at 6:30 AM PST at Port San Luis. That is cold water.
Between 60°F and 70°F, which the National Center for Cold Water Safety rates as dangerous. It recommends a wetsuit or drysuit below 70°F. Temperature is only one factor: check rip current and surf alerts, and swim near lifeguards.
How cold is too cold to swim?Water temperature this week
Hourly water temperature at Port San Luis
Water temperature through the year
Average water temperature by month, satellite 2016–2025. Warmest in September.
Average ocean temperature by month
| Month | Average | Coldest year | Warmest year |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 56°F | 54°F | 57°F |
| February | 55°F | 53°F | 57°F |
| March | 55°F | 52°F | 57°F |
| April | 54°F | 52°F | 55°F |
| May | 55°F | 53°F | 56°F |
| June | 57°F | 56°F | 59°F |
| July | 59°F | 58°F | 61°F |
| August | 61°F | 59°F | 62°F |
| September | 62°F | 60°F | 65°F |
| October | 60°F | 57°F | 62°F |
| November | 58°F | 54°F | 62°F |
| December | 57°F | 54°F | 58°F |
Other water temperature readings nearby
| Source | Water | Distance | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|
| NASA JPL MUR satellite nearest water | 68°F | 0.5 mi | Nov 3 |
| Avila Beach Nearshore, CA (285) buoy | 68°F | 5.0 mi | 2 h ago |
| Diablo Canyon, CA (076) buoy | 69°F | 12 mi | 2 h ago |
| Morro Bay - BM1 T-Pier, CA shore station | 68°F | 19 mi | 3 h ago |
| SANTA MARIA - 21NM NW of Point Arguello, CA buoy | 68°F | 24 mi | 2 h ago |
Water temperatures at nearby beaches
Frequently asked questions
Is it too cold to swim in Pismo Beach today?
The latest reading is 67°F (19.6°C), measured November 5, 2026 at 6:30 AM PST at Port San Luis. That is cold water. Between 60°F and 70°F, which the National Center for Cold Water Safety rates as dangerous. It recommends a wetsuit or drysuit below 70°F. Temperature is only one factor: check rip current and surf alerts, and swim near lifeguards. How cold is too cold?
When is the water warmest at Pismo Beach?
Based on satellite data from 2016 to 2025, the water is warmest in September (average 62°F) and coldest in April (average 54°F).
Where does this water temperature come from?
From Port San Luis, a tide station operated by NOAA National Data Buoy Center, 6.0 mi away. See the methodology.
Sources: NOAA National Data Buoy Center; NASA JPL MUR satellite analysis; forecast and alerts from the National Weather Service. Readings are provisional. All California water temperatures · Methodology