Mid North Coast – Water Temperature Overview
This page provides information on Mid North Coast Region locations where sea water temperature data is available, including current conditions, monthly ranges and historical records.
Current Water Temperature
The current water temperature in the Mid North Coast today is 25°C. Thus, the average water temperature is about 25°C. Water in this range is comfortably warm and widely considered ideal for swimming. Most people can stay in the water for a long time without feeling cold. It works well for families, recreational swimming, and active water sports such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
It’s important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in settled weather. When air temperatures drop below 20°C — and sometimes even below 25°C — swimming can feel uncomfortable, even when water temperatures are relatively high.
Sea Temperature Trends
Over the past month, the sea water temperature has remained largely unchanged. Overall, the sea water temperature is within the range expected based on historical data for this month.
Water Temperature and Swimming Conditions by Month
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| February | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| March | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| April | 23°C | 25°C | 26°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| June | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| July | 19°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| August | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| October | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| November | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| December | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
The Mid North Coast of New South Wales offers a diverse range of swimming opportunities, with its coastline stretching from the Manning River up to the Coffs Coast. This region is renowned for its subtropical climate, which keeps the Tasman Sea relatively comfortable for much of the year. During the peak of summer in February, sea water temperatures typically reach a pleasant range of 23°C to 26°C. Even as the seasons transition into winter, the water rarely drops below 18°C or 19°C in August. While dedicated ocean swimmers and surfers often continue their activities year-round, many casual visitors find a light wetsuit helpful during the cooler months when the offshore winds pick up.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is widely allowed and encouraged across the region's numerous beaches, estuaries, and heritage-listed ocean baths. Most popular locations, such as those in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour, are patrolled by professional lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers, particularly during the summer months and school holidays. Local authorities strongly advise swimming between the red and yellow flags, as these markers indicate the safest zones free from dangerous rips and currents. Although there is no legal prohibition against swimming at unpatrolled beaches, it is generally discouraged for those unfamiliar with the local surf conditions. Furthermore, it is wise to avoid the water for at least twenty-four hours following heavy rain to ensure water quality remains high and free from urban runoff.