Where is Cortez Basin?

Cortez Basin is a bay in Illinois.

What is the water temperature at Cortez Basin?

As of August 23, 2026, the water temperature at Cortez Basin in Illinois is 73°F (23°C), measured by NOAA buoy 45198, 6.8 miles away.

Updated June 13, 2026

Cortez Basin

Bay

Comfortable for a swim today

Good to swim

Comfortable for a swim today: water temperature is 73°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range.

Water temperature is 73°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range.

See full conditions ↓Can I swim today? →

Good to swimCool today

bay in Cook County, Illinois, United States of America

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Comfortable for a swim today

Good to swim

Comfortable for a swim today: water temperature is 73°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range.

Water temperature is 73°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range. — NOAA buoy 45198, as of Aug 23, 12:00 PM UTC

Water temp

73°F

23°C

No official beach-advisory feed for Illinois yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.

Live data from NOAA buoy 45198 (6.8 mi away), as of Aug 23, 12:00 PM UTC.

Live map near here →

Weather at Cortez Basin

H: 77° L: 61°

Overcast

63°

Feels like 63°

Precipitation

Humidity

88%

Wind

5 mph

UV Index

0.2

Water Conditions:

🥶Too cold for most swimmers

12 AM

65°

3 AM

62°

6 AM

62°

9 AM

68°

12 PM

76°

3 PM

77°

6 PM

74°

9 PM

70°

Pack smarter for Cortez Basin

Useful gear categories for this kind of water spot. These links open Amazon search results so you can compare current options.

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Water ShoesA flexible default for slick docks, rough entries, and hot pavement.

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Quick-Dry TowelEasy to pack and useful after swims, spray, or surprise rain.

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Reef-Safe SunscreenA smart baseline for exposed water days.

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Dry BagKeeps clothes and small essentials separated from wet gear.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Cortez Basin?: Cortez Basin is a bay in Illinois.
What is the water temperature at Cortez Basin?: As of August 23, 2026, the water temperature at Cortez Basin in Illinois is 73°F (23°C), measured by NOAA buoy 45198, 6.8 miles away.
Can you swim at Cortez Basin?: Comfortable for a swim today: water temperature is 73°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range. Checked August 23, 2026.

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Best Times to Visit

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Cool weather - dress warmly

General Tips:

›Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) are typically less crowded
›Check the forecast 2–3 days ahead for best planning
›Avoid holiday weekends for a quieter experience

Best Seasons:

☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

Illinois

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