Can you swim here today?
Fern Grotto Beach
Santa Cruz, California · Beach pavillion
Cool water — ease in carefully
Use cautionAs of August 21, 2026, the water temperature at Fern Grotto Beach is 62°F (17°C), measured by NOAA buoy 46236, 15.5 miles away.
Cool water — ease in carefully: water temperature is 62°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.
- Water temperature is 62°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — NOAA buoy 46236, as of Aug 21, 10:00 PM UTC
- No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
Water temp
62°F
17°C
Official advisories
Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.
Live data from NOAA buoy 46236 (15.5 mi away), as of Aug 21, 10:00 PM UTC.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.