Apollo Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Apollo Bay in Victoria. 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 Apollo Bay is about 18°C.
Water Temperature in Apollo Bay: 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 Apollo Bay 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 Apollo Bay will be 17.7°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 12 | 18.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 18.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 18.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 18.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 18.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.0°C | 18.0°C | 18.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.5°C | 17.9°C | |
| Mar 23 | 18.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| Mar 24 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Mar 25 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Mar 26 | 17.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.0°C | 17.7°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 Apollo Bay 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
Apollo Bay sits on a broad sweep of coastline near Cape Otway, facing the open waters of Bass Strait, and this gives it cool, clear ocean conditions through the year. In summer, the sea is usually at its warmest, sitting around 17–20°C, which feels refreshing rather than warm but is comfortable on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 15–18°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often around 12–14°C. Spring tends to warm slowly, with water temperatures commonly between 13–16°C, depending on weather patterns and swell.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| February | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| March | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 15°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| December | 14°C | 16°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Apollo Bay: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Apollo Bay
Skenes Creek
Station Beach
Kennett River Beach
Wye River Beach
Johanna Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Apollo Bay and is a major drawcard, especially in summer. The main town beach is more sheltered than many other Surf Coast locations, which often results in gentler waves and fewer strong rips, making it suitable for general swimming when conditions are calm. The beach is typically patrolled during the warmer months, adding an extra level of safety for visitors. Outside peak summer, many swimmers choose to wear wetsuits to stay comfortable in the cooler water. Overall, Apollo Bay offers some of the more approachable swimming conditions along this stretch of coast, combining scenic views with generally friendly ocean conditions.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Apollo Bay
Marengo
Boneyards
Kennet Rivermouth/Point
Castle Cove
Sawmills
Johanna
Wye River
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Colac Otway Shire
Place Tags:Surf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
