Bells Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Bells Beach 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 Bells Beach is about 19°C.
Water Temperature in Bells Beach: 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 Bells 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 Bells Beach will be 18.7°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 | 19.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.1°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 18.8°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 18.6°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 18.6°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.6°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.5°C | 18.8°C | 18.5°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.3°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 18.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 24 | 18.5°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 25 | 18.8°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 18.8°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.8°C | 18.7°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 Bells 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
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Bells Beach sits on an exposed stretch of the Surf Coast, facing straight into Bass Strait, and that gives it some of the coolest water temperatures in the region. In summer, the sea is typically around 16–19°C, which can feel quite cold at first but is manageable on warm, sunny days. Autumn sees temperatures ease back to roughly 14–17°C, while winter is distinctly chilly, often sitting between 11–13°C. Spring brings a slow and uneven warm-up, with water temperatures usually hovering around 12–15°C and occasional cold pulses after strong southerly systems.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| August | 10°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| December | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Bells Beach: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Addiscot Beach
Point Addis Beach
Bells Beach
Jan Juc Beach
Torquay Surf Beach
Rocky Point Lookout
Cosy Corner Beach
Anglesea Cliffs
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Bells Beach, but it is not generally considered a casual swimming spot. The beach is famous for its powerful surf, strong rips and deep water close to shore, which make conditions challenging even for confident swimmers. There are limited sheltered areas, and patrols are not always present, so caution is essential. Most people entering the water do so in wetsuits, even in summer, due to the cooler temperatures and exposure. Overall, Bells Beach offers clean, open-ocean water in a dramatic setting, but swimming here is best suited to experienced ocean users who understand and respect the demanding conditions.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Jarosite Reef
Southside
Centreside
Bells Beach - Bowl
Bells Beach - Rincon
Winki Pop
Steps
Point Addis
Boobs
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Surf Coast Shire
Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
