What is the best time to go to the ocean?

The Best Months for Beach Vacations
  • Summer: July and August.
  • Fall: September, October and November.
  • Winter: December, January and February.
  • Spring: March, April, May and June.




The "best" time to go to the ocean depends on whether you value swimming conditions, wildlife viewing, or solitude. For swimming and clear snorkeling in the Indian Ocean (Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles), the sweet spot is typically December to April, when the seas are calm and the weather is dry. If you are visiting the Atlantic or Pacific coasts of the northern hemisphere, late August and September are often best, as the water has had all summer to warm up, reaching its peak temperature even as the air begins to cool. For those seeking "scenic drama" and fewer crowds, the "shoulder seasons" of May and October provide beautiful lighting for photography and cheaper rates. If your goal is wildlife, such as seeing blue whales in Sri Lanka, March is the premier month. Generally, a morning visit (around 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) is best regardless of the season, as winds are typically lighter, the water is calmer, and the marine life is more active before the midday sun and crowds arrive.

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Go early—or go late. late morning, ending with early lunch at the beach, or head there postnap for late-afternoon seaside bonding. The point is, avoid spending a huge chunk of time at the beach in the middle of the day, when UV rays are strongest.

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Unless there is a frontal passage or squall line blowing through, early to midmorning tends to be calmer than later in the day. The winds tend to die down overnight, and since winds generate waves, the waves tend to lay down.

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Breathing begins to be affected. This is why the official water temperature required for Olympic swimming competition is 77-82F (25-28C). 70F (21C) Treat any water temperature below 70F with caution.

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Not only is the salty air good for you, but so is the salt water. Salt water is excellent for cleaning up infections and acts as an antibacterial. There is iodine in the water as well, which is known to help boost your immune system.

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If you go to the beach, lake, or outdoor pool early enough in the morning, chances are it will be quiet. Basking in the cool morning water, listening to the waves and watching the sun wake up for the day is an invigorating and even meditative process.

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Swimming after dark is one of the best ways to avoid getting a sunburn or irritating existing burns. Your muscles are at their peak: By the end of the day, your body has spent hours stretching and moving. Your muscles are limber and warmed up, which can make your workout more effective.

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