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Airlie Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Airlie Beach in Queensland. 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.

Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach © By Richard N Horne, CC BY 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

27.8°C
Today
28.1°C
Yesterday
28.4°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Airlie Beach is about 28°C.

Water Temperature in Airlie Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ 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.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

From February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Airlie Beach have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Airlie Beach will be 28.4°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
Mar 1228.6°C29.5°C
Mar 1328.7°C28.5°C
Mar 1428.4°C28.8°C
Mar 1528.5°C28.8°C
Mar 1628.3°C28.8°C
Mar 1728.1°C28.8°C
Mar 1828.0°C28.5°C
Mar 1928.1°C28.3°C
Mar 2027.8°C28.3°C27.8°C
Mar 2128.0°C27.9°C
Mar 2228.3°C28.0°C
Mar 2328.3°C28.1°C
Mar 2427.7°C28.2°C
Mar 2527.7°C28.3°C
Mar 2628.7°C28.3°C
Mar 2728.0°C28.4°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 Airlie Beach 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Airlie Beach sits on Queensland’s North Coast at the heart of the Whitsundays, where the Coral Sea keeps water temperatures warm year round. In summer, from about December to March, the sea typically ranges between 27 and 29 °C, making it feel very comfortable for swimming and floating about. Winter, usually June to August, brings a gentle drop to around 22–24 °C, which is still mild and suits a swim on a sunny day. Spring and autumn are often the sweet spot, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 24–26 °C and generally settled weather.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January27°C29°C31°C
February27°C29°C31°C
March26°C29°C31°C
April25°C28°C30°C
May22°C26°C28°C
June20°C24°C26°C
July20°C23°C24°C
August20°C23°C24°C
September20°C24°C27°C
October22°C26°C29°C
November24°C27°C29°C
December26°C28°C30°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Airlie Beach: Weather Forecast

March 21

25°C / 26°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 72% | wind: 32 kmh

March 22

25°C / 26°C
moderate rain
humidity: 75% | wind: 40 kmh

March 23

25°C / 26°C
clear sky
humidity: 72% | wind: 40 kmh

March 24

24°C / 26°C
clear sky
humidity: 70% | wind: 25 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Airlie Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
28.0°C

Airlie Beach Lagoon

⭐ 4.4/5
28.3°C

The Point

⭐ 3.9/5
28.5°C

Boathaven Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
28.1°C

Shingley Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
28.3°C

Cannonvale Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
27.2°C

Ben's Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
28.1°C

Lion's Lookout

⭐ 3.6/5
27.5°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Airlie Beach is allowed and widely enjoyed, with the main swimming area being a purpose-built lagoon that offers safe, year-round access to the water. This is particularly popular during the warmer months, usually from November to May, when marine stingers can be present in the surrounding sea. Many people choose the lagoon at this time or wear stinger suits when heading into the ocean. Outside the stinger season, the nearby beaches and sheltered bays offer pleasant swimming in warm, clear water. With consistently mild sea temperatures and managed swimming options, Airlie Beach provides reliable conditions for swimmers who follow local safety advice.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Eimeo Point

⭐ 1/5
27.3°C

Dolphin Heads

⭐ 2/5
27.9°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Whitsunday Region

Place Tags:Coastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Airlie Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Airlie Beach in the Coral Sea today is 28°C.
What is the water temperature in Airlie Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Airlie Beach typically ranges from 26°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Airlie Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Airlie Beach typically ranges from 22°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Airlie Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Airlie Beach typically ranges from 20°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Airlie Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Airlie Beach typically ranges from 20°C to 26°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Airlie Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Airlie Beach area include: Airlie Beach, Airlie Beach Lagoon, The Point, Shingley Beach, Boathaven Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Airlie Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Airlie Beach include Eimeo Point, Dolphin Heads.