Updated

Cowell Beach
Beach · Santa Cruz, California
Cool water — ease in carefully
Use cautionCool water — ease in carefully: water temperature is 66°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.
- Water temp 66°F (19°C)
Live data from NOAA buoy 46236 (14.6 mi away), as of Oct 20, 8:00 AM UTC.
Why, sources & official advisories
- Water temperature is 66°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — NOAA buoy 46236, as of Oct 20, 8:00 AM UTC
- No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
Official advisories
Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.
Get an email when it’s warm enough
It’s 66°F at Cowell Beach now. We check the water daily and email you once when it reaches your temperature.
Things to Do Near Cowell Beach
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Weather at Cowell Beach
56°F, Overcast · H 69° / L 53° · 13% chance of rain3-day forecast









Frequently asked questions
- Where is Cowell Beach?
- Cowell Beach is a beach in Santa Cruz, California.
- What is the water temperature at Cowell Beach?
- As of October 20, 2026, the water temperature at Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California is 66°F (19°C), measured by NOAA buoy 46236, 14.6 miles away.
- Can you swim at Cowell Beach?
- Cool water — ease in carefully: water temperature is 66°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. Checked October 20, 2026.
- How is Cowell Beach rated?
- Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California has an average visitor rating of 4.4 out of 5, based on 455 reviews.
- What amenities does Cowell Beach have?
- Visitor-listed amenities at Cowell Beach include pet-friendly.
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Location & Contact
21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Santa Cruz, California 95060
Phone
+1 831-420-5270🏖️ Best times & visiting tips
- ›Arrive early for best parking and beach spot selection
- ›Check for lifeguard schedules and swim only in designated areas
- ›Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
- ›Watch for beach flags indicating water conditions
Features & amenities
Amenities
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