Can you swim at Ballard Down in August? — 17.0°C water
Yes, but expect a fresh dip
Average sea · August
17.0°C
Live water now
…
Recommended wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
mild
It depends. Ballard Down sits around 17.0°C in August; confident swimmers will be fine, casual bathers may prefer short sessions.
Monthly averages set expectations, but the specific beach today depends on wind, swell and recent weather. Check the live value at the top of this page or open the Ballard Down live page for full conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average sea temperature at Ballard Down in August?
Ballard Down averages 17.0°C in August, based on long-run climatology for the English Channel.
Is the sea warm enough to swim at Ballard Down in August?
It is swimmable but fresh; confident swimmers will be fine without a wetsuit.
Do I need a wetsuit at Ballard Down in August?
A 2 mm shorty is comfortable for sessions over 30 minutes.