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Black Head – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Black Head 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.

Black Head
Black Head © Ken Mac

Current Sea Water Temperature

17.9°C
Today
17.6°C
Yesterday
17.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Black Head is about 18°C.

Water Temperature in Black Head: 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

From July 23 to August 22

Water temperatures in Black Headfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Black Head will be 19.5°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
Aug 1517.6°C19.5°C
Aug 1617.6°C19.0°C
Aug 1717.9°C19.5°C
Aug 1817.9°C19.5°C
Aug 1917.6°C19.3°C
Aug 2017.6°C19.3°C
Aug 2117.9°C19.3°C
Aug 2217.6°C19.0°C
Aug 2317.9°C19.0°C17.9°C
Aug 2420.5°C18.1°C
Aug 2520.0°C18.4°C
Aug 2620.0°C18.6°C
Aug 2720.3°C18.8°C
Aug 2819.5°C19.1°C
Aug 2919.8°C19.3°C
Aug 3020.5°C19.5°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 Black Head 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

Black Head, on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, faces the Tasman Sea and enjoys water temperatures that stay fairly moderate through the year. In summer, the ocean is at its warmest, usually sitting between about 22–26 °C, which makes it comfortable for extended swims and plenty of time in the water. Autumn brings a gentle cooling to around 20–23 °C, still pleasant for most swimmers. Winter is cooler but far from extreme, with sea temperatures generally ranging from 17–20 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up from roughly 18 °C into the low twenties as conditions become more settled.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January21°C24°C27°C
February23°C25°C27°C
March22°C24°C27°C
April22°C24°C26°C
May19°C22°C25°C
June17°C21°C23°C
July16°C20°C22°C
August17°C20°C21°C
September17°C20°C22°C
October18°C21°C22°C
November19°C21°C24°C
December20°C22°C27°C

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

Black Head: Weather Forecast

August 23

13°C / 17°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 77% | wind: 11 kmh

August 24

14°C / 19°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 83% | wind: 14 kmh

August 25

16°C / 21°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 80% | wind: 18 kmh

August 26

14°C / 20°C
light rain
humidity: 86% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Black Head Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
17.5°C

Diamond Beach

⭐ 4.5/5
18.4°C

Red Head Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
18.6°C

Saltwater Beach

⭐ 2.8/5
17.8°C

Wallabi Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
17.4°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed and popular at Black Head, thanks to a mix of open beach and more protected areas near the headland. The main beach is exposed to ocean swell, so conditions can vary and rips may form, particularly after rough weather. Parts of the beach are often patrolled during busier periods, providing safer zones for swimming when conditions are suitable. On calmer days, the water is clean and refreshing, with easy access from the sand. Confident swimmers enjoy the open-ocean feel, while others tend to swim between the flags or choose quieter days for a more relaxed and safe experience.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Saltwater

⭐ 3/5
16.7°C

Tuncurry-North Wall

⭐ 3/5
18.0°C
12 km away 📍 Beach/breakwater

Forster Beach

⭐ 3/5
18.2°C

Elim

⭐ 2/5
16.3°C

Elizabeth Beach

⭐ 2/5
17.0°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Black Head today?
Sea water temperature in Black Head in the Tasman Sea today is 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Black Head during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Black Head typically ranges from 20°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Black Head during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Black Head typically ranges from 19°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Black Head during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Black Head typically ranges from 17°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Black Head during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Black Head typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Black Head area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Black Head area include: Black Head Beach, Diamond Beach, Red Head Beach, Saltwater Beach, Wallabi Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Black Head?
Some of the closest surf spots near Black Head include Saltwater, Tuncurry-North Wall, Forster Beach.