If you’re planning a summer trip to Dalian, get ready for warm days, muggy air, and the ever-present touch of the Yellow Sea. Average summer weather in Dalian means daytime temperatures usually hover between 21°C (69.8°F) and 27°C (81°F), with frequent rainfall thanks to the East Asian monsoon. This blend of heat and moisture really shapes what daily life feels like.
Summer isn’t just about higher temperatures; you’ll see more rain too. August often brings the heaviest downpours, making it the wettest month here. The rain can be intense, but it cools things off and keeps Dalian’s coastal scenery looking fresh and green.
The sea has a big hand in your summer experience. Water temperatures rise above 23°C (74°F), so swimming and beach days become super popular. On those sticky afternoons, the coastal breeze can take the edge off the humidity.
Overview of Dalian’s Summer Climate
Dalian’s summers feel warm and humid, with a mix of sun and rain. Its spot on the Liaodong Peninsula keeps conditions milder than you’d find inland, but you’ll still run into those seasonal monsoon rains.
Geographical Location and Influences
Dalian sits at the southern tip of the Liaodong Peninsula, with the Bohai Sea on one side and the Yellow Sea on the other. This maritime influence keeps extreme heat in check.
The seas around Dalian store up heat and moisture, which shows up in the daily weather. In summer, warm, humid air blows up from the tropics, pushing both temperature and humidity higher.
Because Dalian hugs the coast, it often feels cooler than inland cities at the same latitude. Sea breezes can make hot afternoons more bearable. Fog sometimes rolls in during late spring and early summer, especially when warm air meets cooler water.
Sometimes, typhoons show up between July and early October, but they usually weaken before they get here. These storms bring quick bursts of heavy rain and wind, but they don’t happen as often as in southern China.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
From June to August, average highs land between 26–29 °C (79–84 °F), while nights stay pretty mild at 20–22 °C (68–72 °F). Humidity cranks up in July and August, right when the East Asian monsoon brings more rain.
August gets the most rain, with about 145 mm falling on average. Showers often hit in sudden bursts, then give way to clearer skies. Compared to dry winter months, summer feels much wetter and a bit tropical.
In July, you’ll get about 7 hours of sunshine per day since clouds are more common. The sea warms up to 23–25 °C by late summer, so swimming is definitely on the table, though it can get muggy near the coast.
Strong winds don’t usually show up in summer, but sea breezes still affect how comfortable you feel. Hazy days happen now and then, but those big spring dust storms are rare this time of year.
Comparison to Other Chinese Cities
When you stack Dalian up against Beijing, which isn’t far inland, Dalian’s summer feels cooler and way less oppressive. Beijing can get above 35 °C (95 °F) with dry heat, but Dalian rarely hits those highs thanks to the sea.
Compared to Shanghai, Dalian is usually drier and a bit cooler. Shanghai’s summers are hotter, wetter, and more likely to get hit by typhoons, while Dalian mostly dodges those.
If you look further south, like in Guangzhou or Shenzhen, the climate gets downright tropical—long, hot, and super humid. Dalian’s shorter, breezier summer just feels more pleasant for being outside.
This mix of warmth, humidity, and manageable rain makes Dalian a favorite summer getaway for folks from northern China. The coastal winds and moderate sea temps give it a more temperate feel than most big cities in the country.
Average Summer Temperatures
Dalian’s summer brings warm days, sticky nights, and sea temperatures that climb steadily. June, July, and August each have their own vibe, with the hottest stretch usually hitting in mid-July.
Monthly Highs and Lows
In June, Dalian starts off with highs around 26°C (79°F) and lows near 20°C (68°F). July turns up the heat, with highs of 30°C (86°F) and lows of 25°C (77°F). August is still hot but backs off a bit, averaging highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 23°C (73°F).
Here’s a quick look at the numbers:
| Month | High °C (°F) | Low °C (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| June | 26 (79) | 20 (68) |
| July | 30 (86) | 25 (77) |
| August | 28 (82) | 23 (73) |
These temps show how the coast keeps things from getting too extreme. Still, the humidity often makes it feel warmer than the thermometer says.
Daytime Versus Nighttime Temperatures
During the day, you’ll feel steady warmth, with highs in the mid to upper 20s°C (mid-70s to mid-80s°F). The hottest July afternoons can reach 32°C (90°F), but the sea breeze helps a lot.
At night, it rarely drops below 20°C (68°F) in June, and July nights often stay around 25°C (77°F). Evenings can be muggy, especially when humidity spikes. After sunset, the air still holds a lot of heat, which can make nights feel heavy.
Most hotels and apartments use air conditioning. If you’re close to the water, you might notice the sea takes the edge off night heat.
Temperature Trends Through the Season
From early June to late August, things shift gradually. June feels warm but not too hot, with cooler nights and less risk of extremes. By mid-July, temperatures hit their highest points.
After late July, things start to cool off. August still feels hot, but nights get a bit more comfortable. By the end of the month, highs drop to about 27°C (81°F), and evenings settle near 22°C (72°F).
The sea warms up too, going from about 24°C (75°F) in June to 27°C (81°F) by August. This keeps humidity high and delays any real cooling until autumn.
Summer Rainfall and Humidity
Dalian’s summer means lots of rain and plenty of humidity. Frequent showers, the occasional storm, and muggy air all shape how you’ll feel outdoors.
Monthly Precipitation Totals
Rain peaks in summer because of the East Asian monsoon. June, July, and August see the most, with August taking the prize for wettest month. On average, August gets about 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while June and July usually see 100–140 mm (3.9–5.5 in).
That’s a big jump from winter, when rain often drops below 10 mm. Summer rain makes up more than half of Dalian’s yearly total.
| Month | Avg. Rainfall (mm) | Avg. Rainfall (in) |
|---|---|---|
| June | ~120 | ~4.7 |
| July | ~135 | ~5.3 |
| August | ~155 | ~6.1 |
If you’re planning a visit, be ready for wetter weather in July and August, especially if you want to spend time outside or at the beach.
Rainy Days and Storm Patterns
Rain doesn’t fall every day, but showers happen often enough to mess with your plans. On average, you’ll get 8–10 rainy days per month from June to August. Most of these are short, heavy downpours instead of all-day rain.
Thunderstorms pop up more in July and August and sometimes bring gusty winds. Typhoons don’t usually hit Dalian directly, but the city can catch the edge of their rain bands, leading to sudden heavy showers.
Most rain falls in the late afternoon or evening, so mornings are usually clearer. That gives you a window for outdoor stuff before you need to duck inside later.
Humidity Levels in Summer
Humidity really ramps up in summer, and you’ll feel it right away. Average relative humidity runs from 75% to 84%, peaking in July and August.
High humidity, paired with temps around 21–27°C (70–81°F), can make things feel stickier than you’d expect. If you’re new to humid coastal weather, it might take some getting used to.
Evenings often stay sticky, even after dark. Lightweight clothing and plenty of water help you cope. Most hotels, restaurants, and public places crank the air conditioning, so you’ll find relief indoors.
Sea and Coastal Conditions
Dalian’s coast shapes its summer, with warm sea temperatures and steady marine influences. The Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea both play a big part in keeping things comfortable and bringing seasonal rain.
Sea Surface Temperatures
Sea temps climb from late spring and hit their peak in midsummer. By June, the water usually reaches 17–18 °C (63–64 °F), good enough for early swims. In July, it gets up to 22–23 °C (72–73 °F), and by August it’s often near 24 °C (75 °F).
Swimming conditions are about as good as you’ll get in northern China. Evenings cool off, but the sea holds its warmth, making late swims pretty pleasant.
Warmer water also helps out local fishing and boating. Marine activity picks up, though summer storms can stir up the surface and drop temps for a bit.
Influence of Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea
Dalian sits between the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea, and these waters keep the continental climate from getting too harsh.
Moist air from the Yellow Sea brings higher humidity and more rain in summer. The Bohai Sea, being shallower, heats up faster and can send warmer breezes ashore. Together, they make sure inland heat waves don’t hit the coast as hard.
The seas also shape the wind. You’ll often notice a sea breeze in the afternoon, which can drop the temperature by a few degrees. This makes the shoreline feel nicer than the city center during a heatwave.
Beach and Swimming Conditions
By mid-June, Dalian’s beaches start to fill up, with water warm enough for swimming. July and August are the sweet spot, with daytime highs around 26–28 °C (79–82 °F) and sea temps at their best.
Most public beaches have gentle slopes and sandy stretches, so families can enjoy them. After storms, strong currents sometimes show up, so check local warnings before diving in.
Larger beaches usually offer showers, shade, and lifeguard stations. Smaller coves might be quieter and less crowded, but don’t always have as many amenities. You can easily pick a spot that fits your style.
Wind, Fog, and Other Summer Phenomena
Dalian’s spot on the coast shapes its summer weather in ways beyond just heat and rain. The Yellow Sea influences bring steady winds, the occasional foggy morning, and sometimes tropical systems that can shake up daily life or travel plans.
Wind Patterns and Gale Days
Summer winds in Dalian come mostly from the south and southeast, thanks to the East Asian monsoon. These bring warm, moist air off the sea.
The winds can take the edge off the heat, but they also crank up the humidity.
People in Dalian notice strong winds, or gale days, several times each summer. They don’t blow every day, but they mess with ferry schedules and make outdoor plans along the coast a bit unpredictable.
Average wind speeds usually hover around 3–5 m/s (7–11 mph). Gusts get stronger during storms. If you’re by the coast or on an open beach, you’ll feel it more than folks further inland.
Before heading out for seaside fun, check local advisories. Strong winds can make swimming risky and turn outdoor dining or sightseeing into a challenge near the water.
Fog and Visibility
Dalian gets plenty of summer fog, especially in June and July. When warm, wet air slides over the cooler sea, you get those stubborn patches of low visibility.
You’ll probably run into several foggy mornings each month. Fog usually burns off by midday, but sometimes it hangs around longer near the shore and harbor.
Fog can throw a wrench into travel plans. Flight delays, ferry cancellations, and slower traffic all happen when the fog thickens. If you’re hoping for scenic views, you might have to wait until the fog lifts.
If you’re traveling, keep your plans flexible. Fog doesn’t usually last all day, but it can mess with tight schedules for flights or photography tours.
Typhoons and Extreme Weather Events
Dalian sits further north than China’s main typhoon zone, but late summer storms still make themselves known. Most typhoons lose their punch before reaching the city, but their leftovers bring heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas.
July and August are the riskiest months, right in the heart of the western Pacific typhoon season. Even storms far away can send big waves crashing onto Dalian’s coast, making swimming and boating a bad idea.
Sometimes, these systems dump a lot of rain in a short time, and you might see some flooding. The city’s infrastructure usually handles it, though. Wind damage doesn’t happen often, but it’s possible if a storm tracks closer to the Liaoning coast.
For safety, keep an eye on official weather updates in late summer. If a storm’s on the way, you’ll probably see ferry suspensions, beach closures, and flight delays.
Sunshine Hours and Cloud Cover
Dalian’s summer days are long, but sunshine and clouds trade places all season. Some days you’ll get clear, bright skies, and others are hazy or rainy.
Average Daily Sunshine
Dalian racks up about 2,700–2,770 hours of sunshine per year, so that’s roughly 7–8 hours each day. In summer, daylight stretches out, and June and July often give you 8–9 hours of sun.
The sunniest days show up in May and June, with about 9 hours daily. By August, clouds and rain cut that back a bit, but you’ll still see around 7 hours.
That steady sunshine makes summer great for outdoor plans. Still, the humidity can make even sunny days feel a bit heavy.
| Month | Avg. Sunshine Hours/Day |
|---|---|
| May | ~9.4 hours |
| June | ~8.8 hours |
| July | ~8.2 hours |
| August | ~7.5 hours |
Cloudiness Trends
Cloud cover in Dalian drops off as spring turns to summer. Early summer brings more clear days and blue skies. Come July and August, rain picks up and clouds roll in with the monsoon.
On average, skies are overcast or mostly cloudy about 35–40% of the time in summer. You’ll see a mix—bright mornings, then clouds or rain, especially during the wettest stretches.
Smog and haze sometimes cut down sunshine hours, but coastal winds blow much of it away. Dalian’s spot by the sea helps keep both the clouds and air quality in check compared to cities further inland.
UV Index and Sun Protection
The UV index in Dalian peaks during summer, often hitting high or very high levels. Around midday, the sun is at its strongest, and unprotected skin can burn in just 20–30 minutes.
It’s smart to use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), pop on a hat, and grab sunglasses if you’re outside. Lightweight, breathable clothes help too, especially when it’s muggy.
Clouds take the edge off the sunlight, but they don’t block UV rays completely. Even on cloudy days, you can get burned. A little planning keeps beach days and park strolls comfortable.
Seasonal Activities and Travel Tips
Summer in Dalian means warm temps, sticky air, and regular rain. The coastline, festivals, and outdoor activities are all on offer, but you’ll want to prep for surprise weather shifts.
Best Times for Beach Visits
Dalian’s beaches are at their best from late June to early September. The sea warms up to 23–25 °C, so swimming is much nicer than in spring or fall.
July and August draw the biggest crowds, especially at Xinghai Beach and Golden Pebble Beach. If you like things quieter, try early mornings or weekdays in June or September.
Rain hits hardest in July and August, and you might get caught in a quick downpour. Pack light clothes that dry fast, and check the forecast before heading out.
Popular Summer Events
Summer in Dalian brings a bunch of well-known festivals and events. The Dalian International Beer Festival happens in July or August at Xinghai Square, pulling in big crowds with food, music, and lots of beer.
You might catch the Dalian Chinese Scholar Tree Blossom Festival in late spring or early summer, which shows off local culture and blooming trees.
Sports events and seaside concerts pop up along the waterfront during peak season. These make the city lively, but they also mean heavier traffic and pricier hotels. Booking early saves you from scrambling later.
Packing and Safety Recommendations
Pack light, breathable clothes like T-shirts, shorts, skirts, and sandals. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—summer brings 7–9 hours of sunshine a day.
Toss in a light rain jacket or maybe an umbrella, since heavy showers show up a lot, especially in July and August. Bring comfortable walking shoes if you want to explore those coastal parks or wander around the city.
Humidity often hits 70–80%, so you really need to keep hydrated. If you’re out in the evening, insect repellent helps a lot.
Typhoons could happen from late summer, though they’re rare, so it’s smart to check weather reports before heading out on day trips or catching a ferry.