Brisbane Water – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Brisbane Water in New South Wales. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Brisbane Water today is 16°C.
Water Temperature in Brisbane Water: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Brisbane Water have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Brisbane Water will be 14.8°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 17.2°C | 14.7°C | |
| Apr 29 | 17.1°C | 14.7°C | |
| Apr 30 | 16.9°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 1 | 16.6°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 2 | 16.6°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 3 | 16.5°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 4 | 16.4°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 5 | 16.2°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 6 | 16.1°C | 14.7°C | 16.1°C |
| May 7 | 14.7°C | 15.9°C | |
| May 8 | 14.7°C | 15.7°C | |
| May 9 | 14.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| May 10 | 14.7°C | 15.4°C | |
| May 11 | 14.7°C | 15.2°C | |
| May 12 | 14.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| May 13 | 14.7°C | 14.8°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| February | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| March | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| April | 14°C | 18°C | 25°C |
| May | 11°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| July | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| August | 9°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| September | 11°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| October | 13°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 26°C |
| December | 17°C | 21°C | 28°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Narara Creek
• location Gosford
• coordinates 33°26′00″S 151°19′39″E
Mouth Broken Bay
• location Wagstaffe Point – Ettalong Beach
Length 17.72 km (11.01 mi)
Brisbane Water is a broad tidal river system on the Central Coast of New South Wales, sheltered from the open Tasman Sea and influenced by both freshwater inflow and ocean tides. Water temperatures here are generally a little warmer and more stable than along nearby surf beaches. In summer, the river commonly sits around 22–26 °C, and can feel even warmer in shallow, sheltered bays on still days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 20–23 °C. Winter is cooler but still manageable for many swimmers, with temperatures usually around 16–20 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up from about 18 °C into the low twenties as air temperatures rise.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed and popular in Brisbane Water, particularly in calm bays and along sandy shorelines away from boat channels. The sheltered nature of the river means there are no waves and far fewer hazards than the open ocean, making it suitable for relaxed swimming and paddling. However, water quality can vary depending on rainfall, tides, and boat activity, so choosing clear, calm days is important. Strong tidal flows can occur in narrow sections, and boat traffic is common in some areas. When conditions are right, Brisbane Water offers gentle, accessible swimming with warmer-feeling water and a peaceful estuary setting.