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Burleigh Heads – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Burleigh Heads in Queensland. 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.

Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads © By Herry Lawford, CC BY 2.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.7°C
Today
20.7°C
Yesterday
25.2°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Burleigh Heads is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in Burleigh Heads: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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 February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Burleigh Heads 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 Burleigh Heads will be 24.2°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 1225.2°C26.0°C
Mar 1325.2°C25.8°C
Mar 1425.2°C24.8°C
Mar 1523.9°C25.0°C
Mar 1620.6°C24.5°C
Mar 1720.7°C24.8°C
Mar 1820.7°C24.5°C
Mar 1920.7°C26.0°C
Mar 2020.7°C26.0°C20.7°C
Mar 2125.7°C21.2°C
Mar 2226.0°C21.7°C
Mar 2325.7°C22.2°C
Mar 2425.7°C22.7°C
Mar 2526.3°C23.2°C
Mar 2625.7°C23.7°C
Mar 2726.3°C24.2°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 Burleigh Heads 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

Burleigh Heads sits on the central Gold Coast, facing the Coral Sea, and enjoys water temperatures that make ocean swimming appealing for most of the year. In summer, from around December to March, sea temperatures are typically between 24 and 26 °C, giving the water a warm, comfortable feel that suits regular swims and longer dips. During winter, usually June to August, temperatures ease back to about 20–22 °C, which can feel fresh on entry but is still pleasant on sunny, calm days. Spring and autumn often offer the best balance, with water temperatures commonly sitting around 22–24 °C and generally settled beach conditions.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January24°C26°C28°C
February25°C27°C29°C
March24°C26°C29°C
April23°C25°C28°C
May20°C24°C26°C
June20°C22°C25°C
July19°C21°C23°C
August18°C21°C23°C
September19°C21°C23°C
October19°C22°C26°C
November21°C23°C26°C
December22°C25°C27°C

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

Burleigh Heads: Weather Forecast

March 21

20°C / 24°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 84% | wind: 11 kmh

March 22

19°C / 23°C
light rain
humidity: 87% | wind: 14 kmh

March 23

21°C / 24°C
light rain
humidity: 85% | wind: 22 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Burleigh Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
21.3°C

Justins Park

⭐ 3.5/5
20.8°C

Tallebudgera Creek Beach

⭐ 3.8/5
20.8°C

Tallebudgera Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
20.1°C

Murlong Park

⭐ 3.6/5
20.7°C

Miami Beach

⭐ 3.7/5
20.9°C

Tricarico Park

⭐ 3.5/5
20.2°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Burleigh Heads is allowed and very popular, helped by the area’s natural headland protection. The point helps break up swell, often creating calmer water near the beach compared with more exposed sections of the Gold Coast. This makes Burleigh suitable for a wide range of swimmers when conditions are right. Surf lifesaving patrols operate regularly, and swimming between the red and yellow flags is strongly recommended, as currents can still be present. Marine stingers are uncommon this far south, though occasional appearances can occur during warmer months. With clean water, reliable seasonal temperatures, and a mix of shelter and surf, Burleigh Heads offers excellent swimming conditions for those who follow local safety advice.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Burleigh Heads

⭐ 5/5
21.5°C

Miami State High School

⭐ 2/5
20.2°C

Tallebudgera

⭐ 5/5
20.8°C
2 km away 📍 Breakwater

Mermaid Beach

⭐ 3/5
20.6°C

Palm beach

⭐ 2/5
22.6°C
4 km away 📍 Breakwater

Nobby's Beach

⭐ 3/5
20.9°C

Currumbin Point

⭐ 5/5
24.0°C

Broadbeach

⭐ 2/5
23.5°C

Tugun

⭐ 3/5
26.3°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Burleigh Heads today?
Sea water temperature in Burleigh Heads in the Coral Sea today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Burleigh Heads during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Burleigh Heads typically ranges from 22°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Burleigh Heads during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Burleigh Heads typically ranges from 20°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Burleigh Heads during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Burleigh Heads typically ranges from 19°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Burleigh Heads during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Burleigh Heads typically ranges from 18°C to 25°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Burleigh Heads area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Burleigh Heads area include: Burleigh Beach, Justins Park, Mick Schamburg Park Lookout, Tricarico Park, Miami Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Burleigh Heads?
Some of the closest surf spots near Burleigh Heads include Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera, Miami State High School.