News

When Does the Water Get Warm in the Outer Banks

Vacations are a must. We all need them to keep our sanity. A good vacation allows us to get out of town and away from our jobs wo that we don’t feel like we are just socialized robots. It’s refreshing for the mind and body.

Going to the beach is the #1 preference of people taking a vacation. The wide expanses of ocean, the sounds of the crashing waves and seagulls… it makes for a relaxing experience and is the perfect place for a change of environment.

But what happens if you get to the beach and the water is too cold to swim in? Some people don’t mind cold water and are just happy to be at the beach while others are gravely disappointed.

It’s important to know the best times to visit the beach so as to avoid freezing cold water temperatures. Since the Outer Banks is in North America and winter is a very real thing, there is an optimal window of opportunity.

Ocean temperatures in the Outer Banks lag behind air temperatures but peak in late summer due to the Gulf Stream influence and accumulated solar heating. July and August are the best summer months to swim in the ocean in the Outer Banks.

• July: Average around 78–80°F (26–27°C), often feeling very comfortable for extended swimming, surfing, and water activities.
• August: The warmest month overall, with averages around 80–82°F (27–28°C), sometimes peaking even higher (up to the low-to-mid 80s°F in ideal conditions). This is when the water feels the most “nice and warm,” like bathwater for many visitors.

If you don’t mind a little chilly water, then June should work fine as well. Tailoring your vacation to have as many variables as possible working in your favor is key.

There are plenty of other activities to do in the Outer Banks, NC area. It’s a laid-back beach town with plenty of natural excursions. There is a good selection of restaurants as well. Come by and check out our smoothie shop. We offer breakfast and lunch food options as well.