Adelaide – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Adelaide in South Australia. You can view recent sea temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, nearby beaches with similar conditions, local weather information, and a summary of swimming conditions to help you assess how suitable the water is for swimming.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Adelaide is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Adelaide: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.
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.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Adelaide have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Adelaide will be 15.9°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 16.4°C | 15.0°C | |
| Oct 8 | 16.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| Oct 9 | 16.2°C | 14.8°C | |
| Oct 10 | 16.8°C | 15.3°C | |
| Oct 11 | 16.7°C | 15.3°C | |
| Oct 12 | 16.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| Oct 13 | 16.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| Oct 14 | 16.8°C | 15.3°C | |
| Oct 15 | 16.6°C | 15.3°C | 16.6°C |
| Oct 16 | 15.3°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 17 | 15.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| Oct 18 | 16.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| Oct 19 | 16.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| Oct 20 | 16.3°C | 16.1°C | |
| Oct 21 | 15.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| Oct 22 | 15.8°C | 15.9°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual near-shore water temperatures in Adelaide can vary by several degrees from the values shown, particularly after heavy rain, strong southerlies, or prolonged windy conditions. Certain wind patterns can trigger upwelling, where cooler, deeper water is pushed to the surface and replaces the warmer top layer, leading to noticeable short-term changes in water temperature.
Our water temperature forecast is produced using a proprietary mathematical model that combines real-time measurements with long-term historical patterns, local weather conditions, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each coastal region. To improve accuracy, we cross-check data from nearby locations and use multiple sources, including offshore buoys, satellite-based sea surface maps, and observations provided by local authorities.
Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month
Monthly Water Temp Ranges
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Adelaide sits along the eastern edge of the Great Australian Bight, and its coastal waters follow a mild but distinctly southern seasonal pattern. In summer, the sea is at its warmest and most inviting, usually ranging from about 20–23°C, which suits swimming on hot days without feeling overly warm. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 18–21°C, while winter is noticeably cooler, often around 14–16°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C, influenced by sunshine, winds and calmer weather periods.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 17°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| February | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| March | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| April | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| May | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| June | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| July | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 15°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Adelaide: Weather Forecast
October 16
October 17
October 18
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Grange Beach
Henley Beach
Henley Beach South
West Beach
Tennyson Dunes
Semaphore South Beach
Glenelg Beach
Glenelg North Beach
Semaphore Main Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed along Adelaide’s metropolitan beaches and is a popular year-round activity, particularly during the warmer months. The coastline is generally sandy with gently sloping shores, making swimming approachable for casual swimmers when conditions are calm. Many beaches are patrolled in summer, improving safety as currents and rips can still form at times. The sheltered nature of the gulf side of the coast often results in manageable conditions compared to more exposed southern beaches. Outside peak summer, many swimmers choose wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Adelaide offers reliable and accessible swimming, with clean water and seasonal temperatures that suit regular recreational use close to the city.
