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Is it too cold to swim in Santa Barbara?
The latest NASA JPL satellite analysis, dated November 3, 2026, gives 72°F (22.0°C) at the nearest water pixel. That is mild water.
Between 70°F and 77°F: above the 70°F level where the National Center for Cold Water Safety recommends thermal protection, though below 77°F cold can start to affect breathing control. Temperature is only one factor: check rip current and surf alerts, and swim near lifeguards.
How cold is too cold to swim?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 | 58°F | 56°F | 60°F |
| February | 57°F | 55°F | 59°F |
| March | 56°F | 54°F | 59°F |
| April | 57°F | 55°F | 59°F |
| May | 58°F | 57°F | 60°F |
| June | 63°F | 62°F | 64°F |
| July | 65°F | 63°F | 68°F |
| August | 66°F | 64°F | 70°F |
| September | 67°F | 63°F | 69°F |
| October | 65°F | 61°F | 67°F |
| November | 62°F | 59°F | 65°F |
| December | 59°F | 57°F | 61°F |
Other water temperature readings nearby
| Source | Water | Distance | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|
| EAST SANTA BARBARA - 12NM Southwest of Santa Barbara, CA buoy | 72°F | 13 mi | 2 h ago |
Water temperatures at nearby beaches
Frequently asked questions
Is it too cold to swim in Santa Barbara?
The latest NASA JPL satellite analysis, dated November 3, 2026, gives 72°F (22.0°C) at the nearest water pixel. That is mild water. Between 70°F and 77°F: above the 70°F level where the National Center for Cold Water Safety recommends thermal protection, though below 77°F cold can start to affect breathing control. 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 Santa Barbara?
Based on satellite data from 2016 to 2025, the water is warmest in September (average 67°F) and coldest in March (average 56°F).
Where does this water temperature come from?
We show NASA JPL’s daily MUR satellite analysis for the nearest water, about 0.2 mi away, when no suitable current in-water sensor is available. Satellite values are typically a degree or two cooler than afternoon readings at the shore. Satellite vs. buoy temperatures.
Sources: NASA JPL MUR satellite analysis; NOAA National Data Buoy Center; forecast and alerts from the National Weather Service. Readings are provisional. All California water temperatures · Methodology