Barrack Point – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Barrack Point in New South Wales. 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 Barrack Point is about 19°C.
Water Temperature in Barrack Point: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.
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 Barrack Point 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 Barrack Point will be 18.9°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 | 18.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| Oct 8 | 18.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| Oct 9 | 18.6°C | 18.8°C | |
| Oct 10 | 18.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| Oct 11 | 18.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| Oct 12 | 18.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| Oct 13 | 19.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| Oct 14 | 19.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| Oct 15 | 19.1°C | 18.5°C | 19.1°C |
| Oct 16 | 19.0°C | 19.1°C | |
| Oct 17 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| Oct 18 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| Oct 19 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| Oct 20 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| Oct 21 | 18.8°C | 18.9°C | |
| Oct 22 | 19.0°C | 18.9°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 Barrack Point 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
Barrack Point sits on the southern side of Shellharbour, where the coastline opens directly onto the Tasman Sea and feels more exposed than nearby bays. Water temperatures here follow the standard seasonal pattern for the Illawarra coast. In summer, from December through March, the sea is usually at its warmest, sitting around 21–24 °C and comfortable for most swimmers without a wetsuit. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to roughly 19–21 °C. Winter is the coldest period, with water temperatures typically between 16–18 °C, while spring marks a steady warm-up back into the 18–20 °C range as ocean currents and air temperatures begin to lift.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 22°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Barrack Point: Weather Forecast
October 16
October 17
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
South Warilla Beach
Warilla Beach
Shellharbour North Beach
Shellharbour South Beach
Bassett Park
Kiyong Beach
Kurrakwah Bay
Windang Beach
Killalea Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Barrack Point is allowed, but conditions can be challenging due to the area’s exposure to swell. The coastline here experiences regular waves and can develop strong currents, particularly during or after rough weather. There are no consistently patrolled swimming zones, so swimmers need to carefully assess conditions and choose calm days. For confident ocean swimmers, summer mornings often provide the most suitable conditions. In cooler months, wetsuits are commonly worn to stay comfortable. Overall, Barrack Point offers a raw, open-ocean swimming experience that suits experienced swimmers who are confident reading the sea and respecting changing conditions.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Cowries
Barrack Point
Windang Island
The Farm
Mystics
Port Kembla Beach
Boneyard
Towradgi
Bombo Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Shellharbour
Place Tags:Surf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
