May is a popular month to ask about Monterey State Beach because conditions can shift week to week along this coast. Expect the water near 13.0°C, with daily variation from wind, tides and recent storms. We refresh the live value from Open-Meteo Marine every hour, so the headline above always reflects the current state of the Pacific Ocean.
Monterey State Beach sea temperature in May — averages 13.0°C
The sea at Monterey State Beach in United States averages 13.0°C during May, based on long-run climatology for the Pacific Ocean. Use the live reading below for today's actual water and the monthly grid to compare with the rest of the year.
Average sea · May
13.0°C
cool · Fair
Live water now
…
Recommended wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
At 13.0°C you need a 4/3mm fullsuit, and many surfers add neoprene boots.
Monthly comparison
Cool — short dips or a shorty wetsuit · Monterey State Beach
Can you swim at Monterey State Beach in June? — 14.0°C water14.0°CCan you swim at Monterey State Beach in July? — 15.0°C water15.0°CCan you swim at Monterey State Beach in August? — 16.0°C water16.0°CCan you swim at Monterey State Beach in September? — 16.0°C water16.0°CCan you swim at Monterey State Beach in October? — 15.0°C water15.0°CCan you swim at Monterey State Beach in November? — 14.0°C water14.0°C
Frequently asked questions
What is the average sea temperature at Monterey State Beach in May?
Monterey State Beach averages 13.0°C in May, based on long-run climatology for the Pacific Ocean.
Is the sea warm enough to swim at Monterey State Beach in May?
Not without thermal protection — a wetsuit is recommended at 13.0°C.
Do I need a wetsuit at Monterey State Beach in May?
A 3/2 mm wetsuit makes longer swims comfortable.