North West WA – Water Temperature Overview
This page provides information on North West Area 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 North West WA today is within the range of 22-31°C. Thus, the average water temperature is about 26°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 | 20°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| February | 20°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| March | 21°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| April | 20°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| May | 20°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| June | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| July | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| August | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| September | 17°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| October | 17°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| November | 18°C | 25°C | 32°C |
| December | 19°C | 26°C | 32°C |
North West Western Australia, home to the iconic Ningaloo Reef and the Kimberley coastline, offers a truly tropical swimming experience with some of the warmest ocean temperatures in the country. The region is defined by two distinct seasons: the wet and the dry. During the peak of the summer wet season in February, sea water temperatures are exceptionally balmy, often reaching between 28°C and 31°C. Even in the middle of the dry season around August, the water remains remarkably comfortable, typically hovering between 23°C and 25°C. This year-round warmth makes the North West a premier destination for snorkelling and swimming with marine giants like whale sharks, as the water is rarely cold enough to require more than a thin rash vest or a light 2mm shorty wetsuit for sun and stinger protection.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is permitted at many world-famous locations, such as Cable Beach in Broome and Turquoise Bay near Exmouth, but it is strictly regulated by seasonal safety warnings. The primary reason for these restrictions is the presence of hazardous marine life and environmental conditions. From November to May, the region enters stinger season, when dangerous jellyfish like the Box Jellyfish and Irukandji are prevalent in the water; during this time, swimming is only recommended in full-body lycra suits or within designated netted areas. Furthermore, the North West is crocodile country, particularly in the Kimberley, where saltwater crocodiles inhabit estuaries and occasionally venture onto beaches. Authorities advise swimming only at patrolled beaches or well-known safe spots, staying well away from river mouths and mangroves. By obeying local signage and swimming during the dry season, visitors can safely enjoy the spectacular clarity of these northern waters.