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Burnett Heads – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Burnett 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.

Burnett Heads
Burnett Heads © Janet

Current Sea Water Temperature

23.7°C
Today
23.7°C
Yesterday
23.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Burnett Heads is about 24°C.

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

✅ Water in this range is comfortably warm and widely considered ideal for swimming. Most people can stay in the water for a long time without feeling cold. It works well for families, recreational swimming, and active water sports such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.

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 April 6 to May 6

While water temperatures in Burnett Heads declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Burnett Heads will be 23.9°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
Apr 2824.2°C26.0°C
Apr 2924.2°C26.0°C
Apr 3023.5°C24.3°C
May 123.5°C24.0°C
May 223.7°C24.5°C
May 323.3°C24.3°C
May 423.3°C24.3°C
May 523.7°C24.3°C
May 623.7°C24.3°C23.7°C
May 724.3°C23.7°C
May 824.8°C23.8°C
May 924.0°C23.8°C
May 1024.3°C23.8°C
May 1124.5°C23.9°C
May 1224.0°C23.9°C
May 1324.0°C23.9°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 Burnett 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

Burnett Heads sits just east of Bundaberg on the Central Queensland coast, where the Burnett River meets the Coral Sea and water temperatures stay fairly mild across the year. In summer, from around December to March, the sea typically sits between 25 and 27 °C, making the water comfortable for swimming even during hot, humid days. During winter, usually June to August, temperatures drop to about 19–21 °C, which can feel cool at first but is still quite manageable on sunny, low-wind days. Spring and autumn often bring the most pleasant balance, with water temperatures commonly ranging from 22–24 °C and generally settled conditions.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January24°C27°C29°C
February25°C27°C30°C
March25°C27°C29°C
April23°C26°C28°C
May21°C24°C26°C
June19°C22°C24°C
July18°C21°C24°C
August18°C21°C23°C
September19°C22°C24°C
October21°C23°C26°C
November22°C24°C27°C
December23°C26°C28°C

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

Burnett Heads: Weather Forecast

May 7

16°C / 23°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 65% | wind: 14 kmh

May 8

17°C / 20°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 62% | wind: 11 kmh

May 9

19°C / 21°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 59% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Ju Ju's Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
23.1°C

Kath Nielson Park

⭐ 3.4/5
24.6°C

Mon Repos

⭐ 5.0/5
23.2°C

Mon Repos Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
23.1°C

Kellys Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
24.4°C

Archies Beach Lookout

⭐ 3.3/5
24.2°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Burnett Heads is allowed and enjoyed, particularly at nearby beaches away from the main river mouth. The presence of the river means tides and currents can influence conditions, so swimmers usually choose calmer areas and suitable times of day. During the warmer months, typically from November to May, marine stingers may be present, and many swimmers wear stinger suits or keep to patrolled sections when available. Outside the stinger season, the combination of mild water temperatures, sandy beaches, and a relaxed coastal setting makes Burnett Heads suitable for casual swimming, especially for those who pay attention to local conditions and safety advice.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Archies

⭐ 2/5
23.8°C

Elliott Heads

⭐ 2/5
23.7°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Burnett Heads today?
Sea water temperature in Burnett Heads in the Coral Sea today is 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Burnett Heads during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Burnett Heads typically ranges from 23°C to 30°C.
What is the water temperature in Burnett Heads during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Burnett Heads typically ranges from 21°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Burnett Heads during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Burnett Heads typically ranges from 19°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Burnett Heads during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Burnett Heads typically ranges from 18°C to 24°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Burnett Heads area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Burnett Heads area include: Ju Ju's Beach, Kath Nielson Park, Mon Repos, Mon Repos Beach, Kellys Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Burnett Heads?
Some of the closest surf spots near Burnett Heads include Archies, Elliott Heads.