LAKE TRAVIS WATER TEMPERATURE | TIDE UP BOAT RENTALS
Lake Travis Water Temperature
Find out when the water is perfect for swimming with our month-by-month temperature guide.
Planning a Lake Travis swim day? Water temperature matters! This guide shows you exactly what to expect each month so you can plan the perfect visit to Lake Travis.
Lake Travis water temperature varies dramatically throughout the year – from a chilly 50°F in winter to a bathwater-like 85°F+ in summer. Knowing what to expect helps you plan the best possible lake day.
Monthly Water Temperatures
🌡️ Lake Travis Average Water Temperature by Month
💡 Temperature Tip
Surface water is usually 2-5°F warmer than deeper water. On hot summer days, the top few feet can feel like a warm bath while deeper water stays cooler. Shallow coves warm up faster than open water!
Swimming Seasons at Lake Travis
☀️ Summer (June-August)
Peak swimming season! Water feels like a warm bath. Perfect for all-day floating and swimming. Most crowded but most comfortable temperatures.
🌸 Spring (April-May)
Shoulder season. Water warms up through spring. Late May is often swimmable. Fewer crowds, beautiful wildflowers on shore.
🍂 Fall (September-October)
Hidden gem season! Water stays warm from summer. September often rivals summer temps. October is the last comfortable swim month.
❄️ Winter (November-March)
Cruise only. Too cold for swimming. Great for scenic boat rides, lower prices, and enjoying the lake without the crowds.
Ready for Perfect Swimming Weather?
Book a boat during peak season and experience Lake Travis at its best!
Best Time to Swim at Lake Travis
🏊 Swimming Conditions by Month
June – August
Perfect! Warm water, long days, ideal conditions
September
Still great! Warm water, fewer crowds
May & October
Refreshing – some find it perfect
April & November
Cool – quick dips for the brave
December – March
Too cold – skip swimming
Factors That Affect Water Temperature
Time of Day
Water temperature stays relatively stable throughout the day, unlike air temperature. However, shallow coves and surface water warm slightly in afternoon sun.
Location on Lake
Shallow coves warm up faster than deep open water. The main body of the lake near Mansfield Dam tends to be cooler due to depth.
Recent Weather
A string of hot days warms the lake; cool snaps can drop temperatures. Heavy rain can temporarily cool surface water.
Depth
Surface water (top 3-5 feet) is warmest. Jump in and you might notice cooler water as you go deeper!
💡 Local Secret
September is an underrated gem for Lake Travis! The water is still summer-warm (80°F+), but crowds thin out dramatically after Labor Day. You get warm swimming conditions without fighting for space in the coves!
Planning Tips by Temperature
For Warm Water Swimming (75°F+)
- Visit late May through September
- Book early – this is peak season and boats fill up
- Stay hydrated – warm water and sun are exhausting
- Bring floats – you’ll want to stay in the water all day!
For “Refreshing” Swimming (65-74°F)
- Visit April, early May, or October
- Enjoy smaller crowds and better availability
- Bring a towel to warm up between swims
- Perfect if you like invigorating water!
For Scenic Cruising (Skip Swimming)
- Visit November through March
- Best prices of the year
- Beautiful without the crowds
- Bring layers – air can be cool on the water
Water Temperature FAQs
Lake Travis water temperature ranges from about 50°F in winter (January-February) to 85°F+ in summer (July-August). The most comfortable swimming temperatures (75-85°F) occur from May through September. Surface temperatures can be warmer than deeper water.
Lake Travis is typically warm enough for comfortable swimming from late April through early October. Peak swimming season is June through August when water temperatures reach 80-85°F. May and September offer pleasant 70-80°F temperatures with fewer crowds.
August is typically the warmest month at Lake Travis, with surface water temperatures reaching 84-86°F. July is nearly as warm at 82-85°F. These months offer the best conditions for swimming and water activities.
Yes, Lake Travis is too cold for comfortable swimming from November through March. Winter water temperatures drop to 50-60°F. However, winter is still great for scenic boat cruises – just skip the swimming and enjoy the views!
Book Your Perfect Lake Travis Day
Now that you know when the water’s perfect, book your boat!
Knowing Lake Travis water temperatures helps you plan the perfect visit. Whether you want warm swimming in summer or peaceful cruises in winter, there’s a perfect time for your lake adventure. Book with Tide Up and experience Lake Travis at the perfect temperature!