Darwin Region – Water Temperature Overview
This page provides information on Darwin 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 Darwin Region today is within the range of 27-28°C. Thus, the average water temperature is about 27°C. This is warm water that suits almost everyone. Swimming feels easy and pleasant, even for extended stays, and there is little risk of discomfort from cooling. These temperatures are ideal for family swimming, snorkelling, and most water activities, offering a good balance between comfort and refreshment.
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 water temperature in the Darwin has decreased by -2°C. 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 | 28°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| February | 27°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| March | 27°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| April | 27°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| May | 25°C | 29°C | 32°C |
| June | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| July | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 25°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| October | 24°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| November | 29°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| December | 29°C | 31°C | 33°C |
Darwin sits on Australia’s tropical north coast, where the Timor Sea and Arafura Sea create consistently warm sea water temperatures throughout the year. Unlike southern regions, Darwin experiences only modest seasonal variation in water temperature. During the dry season, typically from May to October, sea water temperatures usually range from about 25°C to 27°C, offering warm and comfortable conditions. In the wet season, from November to April, water temperatures increase further, commonly reaching 28°C to 31°C, with shallow coastal areas sometimes feeling even warmer. Changes in water temperature are subtle, and day-to-day conditions are influenced more by tides, wind and weather than by seasonal cooling.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Darwin’s coastal waters is allowed, but it is strongly shaped by local safety considerations rather than temperature. While the sea is warm year-round, the presence of saltwater crocodiles and the seasonal arrival of marine stingers during the wet season mean that open-sea swimming is often discouraged. As a result, swimming is most common in designated safe areas such as managed waterfronts, enclosed swimming zones and popular locations where risks are controlled. During the dry season, calmer weather and reduced marine hazards make swimming more practical, although people still tend to follow local advice closely. In the wet season, despite very warm water, swimming in the open sea is generally avoided. Overall, Darwin offers tropical sea temperatures all year, but swimming opportunities depend heavily on season, location and safety management rather than comfort or warmth alone.