Sea temperatures have soared by 4 degrees in two weeks in Devon and Cornwall, read on for the low down
Surfers in Cornwall and Devon are feeling the mercury rising. A huge increase in ocean temperature is worrying, a bit scary, and at the same time a bit of a treat after a long cold winter. Strange times in the south west surf scene.
“Even early surfs before work have been noticeably warmer and most of us are in our thinner wetsuits much earlier, the water temperature feels more like July than May,” said Women and Waves lead instructor Elaine Uff.
It is official, experts at the Met Office and National Oceanography Centre confirm that temperatures have risen between 2 and 4 degrees along the west coast of the UK and up as far as Scotland.
Why are sea temperatures around the south west of England happening
We have had a very mild spring, with higher than average air temperatures, and this has allowed the surface water to warm. The warmer than average wind has also assisted this.
This spike in temperature is not just a one off. Scientists point to a combination of global warming, unusual ocean currents, and persistent high pressure weather systems trapping warmth near the surface. The result, local sea life is in for a shake up, and so are we. It is a hot topic of conversation amongst surfers in line ups along the south west coast, no pun intended.
Our May coaching weekend in Cornwall had a stiff northerly breeze, yet even after 3 plus hours in the water most guests did not feel the cold.
What are the ecological changes
The most intense marine heat wave on record is bound to cause changes to those that call the ocean home. There is confusion in the ecosystem and we are seeing ocean life that generally has not been experienced in our waters. Only last week, a leatherback turtle was spotted off the coast of Cornwall and while the novelty is undeniable, the implications are worrying.
Incredible marine visitors, what has been spotted
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Higher than average numbers of barrel jellyfish, the gentle giant
Barrel jellyfish are making early appearances along the South West coast. These gentle giants can reach up to a metre in diameter, and are generally harmless to swimmers. -
More sightings of Risso’s dolphin, playful and curious
Risso’s dolphins are often spotted in deeper offshore waters, the warmth can bring them closer in. Keep your eyes peeled just beyond the lineup. -
Higher numbers in the octopus population, the master of disguise
Octopuses are sensitive to changing conditions. As the sea heats up, we are seeing more of these curious creatures in tidal pools and rocky coves. -
Leatherback turtle recorded, the ocean nomad
Spotting a leatherback turtle in UK waters is rare. These globe trotting giants follow jellyfish, warmer seas can draw them closer to shore.
What does this mean for surfers and sea lovers
We all need to be aware of what to expect if these conditions continue. Our Women and Waves staff team share daily tales of changes they have experienced during their surf sessions.
Warmer paddling, no complaints here, early thinner suit sessions could be on the cards, and we are already seeing people in shorties in May, usually uncommon.
Wildlife encounters, nothing major to worry about, but remember, all ocean creatures need space and respect. Enjoy them from a distance, never touch or disturb marine life.
Environmental responsibility, marine heatwaves are a symptom of bigger environmental challenges. Every choice counts, from reducing plastic use to supporting ocean friendly businesses. We are all for this, and it is a strong reminder to act with the environment in mind.
Global warming is real, and it is happening on our doorstep. This heatwave is another urgent reminder that our actions matter. We donate monthly to Mossy Earth to help rewild and protect habitats. What more can each of us do to help this environmental emergency.
What else can we expect from these changes
- From a surfer’s point of view, less neoprene required. Thinner wetsuits and even shorties earlier in the season, not just the warmest months.
- For dippers, the early morning sea swim will be considerably less bracing.
- More jellyfish sightings, and potential harmful algae blooms, keep dogs away from strange coloured froth on the foreshore.
Will it end or is it here forever
It is usually a two to three week affair, this one has occurred steadily over two months so it is a bit of a phenomenon. Women and Waves are watching it closely as we run a range of coaching weekends and events in Devon and Cornwall each year. Plus, we love the mother ocean. An expert from the Met Office, Dr Ségolène Berthou, said it is super intense at the moment, it has really soared this week. We can confidently say it has had no effect on the waves. It has been a great 2025, an incredible winter of waves followed by a fun, consistent spring.
Stay tuned, surf responsibly
For now, the outcome is that the sea is warmer, in the short term this makes surfing more pleasant. We will keep a close eye on this developing situation. Global warming is real, another reminder that we all need to do what we can for the environment. Watch our socials for updates, and do not let this stop you enjoying the ocean and having a brilliant summer in the water.
Please watch our social media for future updates. If you want to join a coaching weekend with us this summer, and experience the warmer than average water, book your place here. If you prefer structured progression, take a look at our Newquay Intermediate Surfer Programme as well.
We are all about giving back to the ocean that gives us so much. That is why we support Mossy Earth and the Marine Conservation Society UK, both doing important work to protect our seas and the wild places we love. If you are keen to make a difference too, check them out, get involved, or chip in with a donation. Every little helps, and together we can keep our oceans thriving for years to come.
