Sea temperatures, water sports and vacation activities near Cape May, United States

Water temperatures throughout the year and general information about Cape May...

Cape May is a beach in the United States. The water temperature around Cape May varies dramatically year round. The temperature ranges from 3.5°C (38.4°F) in February up to 22.2°C (72°F) in the month of August, as illustrated below. The average water temperature throughout the year is 13°C (55°F) and the best time for water activities is late summer, since Cape May is located in the northern hemisphere.
Hover over the bars to see temperature for each month in Celsius and Fahrenheit.

What is the current water temperature at Cape May?

The current water temperature in the month of January at Cape May is about:

Are there surf spots close by?

Yes, there are several surf spots in proximity to Cape May. The nearest one is The Cove, Cape May, which is only 1.6km (1.3miles) away from Cape May. Click here for more information on The Cove, Cape May and its current water temperature. Other surfspots near Cape May are Poverty Beach, which is 2.1km (1.3miles) away, and Trestles, located ca 2.4km (1.5miles) from Cape May.

Are there any other beautiful beaches close by?

Yes, there are several gorgeous beaches in proximity to Cape May. The nearest one is Cape May Point, which is only 3.4km (2.1miles) away from Cape May. Another fun beach near Cape May is Wildwood Crest, which is 4.8km (3miles) away.

What kind of wetsuit thickness is needed for Cape May?

The water temperature at Cape May is warm, reaching up to 22°C (72°F) in the months of July, August, and September. During this time, in the late summer, a light top or a jumpsuit might be required for most people, but some might even be ok without a wetsuit for surfing, swimming, snorkelling, or diving at Cape May. Nevertheless, during January, February, and March, temperatures drop down to 4°C (38°F). During these months, a 5/6 drysuit with booties, hoddie and gloves is recommended to be able to stay in the water for a significant amount of time, but some might even be ok with a very high-quality 5/6mm wetsuit for very short amounts of time . For very chilly conditions and cold mornings/evenings, it might be better to bring a stack of extra warm clothing and hot drinks.

How is the scuba diving and fishing near Cape May?

Due to comparatively large water temperature changes during the year, scuba diving and fishing conditions alter a lot depending on the season. The temperature ranges from 4 to 9°C (38-47°F) during winter. Pollock, Winter Flounder, and Atlantic Cod are typical fish that can be found in waters of this temperature range. Nevertheless, the conditions typically change during July, August, and September when water temperatures range from 17 to 22°C (63-72°F). Fish that love this water temperature include: Bigeye Tuna, Blackfin Tuna, King Mackerel, Spotted Seatrout, and White Marlin.

Directions to Cape May: How do I get there?

Please follow the directions in the map below.

Some fun facts about Cape May...

Do you know what the the island Wight in United Kingdom, the city Cervicati in Italy, and the city Whitton in United Kingdom have in common with Cape May? Click on the links to find out...