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Cactus Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Cactus Beach in South Australia. 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.

Cactus Beach
Cactus Beach © Jay

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.6°C
Today
18.7°C
Yesterday
19.0°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Cactus Beach is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Cactus 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

From February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Cactus 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 Cactus Beach will be 19.4°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 1217.4°C19.5°C
Mar 1317.8°C19.5°C
Mar 1419.0°C19.3°C
Mar 1519.1°C19.8°C
Mar 1618.8°C19.8°C
Mar 1718.7°C20.0°C
Mar 1818.9°C19.5°C
Mar 1918.7°C19.8°C
Mar 2018.6°C19.8°C18.6°C
Mar 2119.7°C18.7°C
Mar 2219.7°C18.8°C
Mar 2319.7°C18.9°C
Mar 2419.7°C19.0°C
Mar 2520.0°C19.2°C
Mar 2619.7°C19.3°C
Mar 2718.3°C19.4°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 Cactus 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Cactus Beach sits on the wild edge of South Australia, facing the open sweep of the Great Australian Bight, and the water here reflects that exposed setting. Sea temperatures are on the cool side year-round, with summer (December to February) usually hovering around 17–19°C, occasionally nudging 20°C on calm, sunny spells. Autumn sees a gradual drop to about 15–17°C, while winter is cold, often just 12–14°C. Spring brings a slow warm-up, typically 14–16°C, but the water can still feel brisk thanks to strong southerly swells and constant movement in the Bight.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January16°C20°C22°C
February17°C20°C22°C
March16°C20°C23°C
April16°C19°C21°C
May14°C17°C20°C
June13°C16°C18°C
July12°C15°C17°C
August11°C14°C17°C
September11°C14°C17°C
October12°C15°C18°C
November13°C17°C19°C
December16°C18°C21°C

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

Cactus Beach: Weather Forecast

March 21

18°C / 22°C
clear sky
humidity: 69% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

19°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 65% | wind: 11 kmh

March 23

20°C / 24°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 67% | wind: 7 kmh

March 24

20°C / 25°C
clear sky
humidity: 63% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Cactus Beach

⭐ 3.3/5
18.9°C

Long Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
19.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Cactus Beach is possible, but it’s very much for confident and well-prepared swimmers. There are no patrols, no facilities, and conditions can change quickly with powerful waves, rips, and a rugged reef break that makes this spot famous with surfers. On rare flat days, especially in summer, a quick dip can be refreshing rather than punishing, though most people opt for a wetsuit even then. In cooler months, swimming without thermal protection is short and sharp at best. Overall, Cactus Beach suits those who understand remote coastal conditions and respect the ocean, rather than casual beachgoers looking for an easy swim.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Caves

⭐ 3/5
18.7°C

Spoggies

⭐ 4/5
18.3°C

Crushers

⭐ 3/5
17.6°C

Supertubes

⭐ 3/5
18.7°C

Cactus

⭐ 3/5
19.0°C

Castles

⭐ 2/5
19.1°C

Cunns

⭐ 3/5
19.5°C

Backdoors

⭐ 3/5
18.5°C

Witzigs

⭐ 3/5
17.9°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Penong SA

Place Tags:BeachSurf Spot

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Cactus Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Cactus Beach in the Great Australian Bight today is 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Cactus Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Cactus Beach typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Cactus Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Cactus Beach typically ranges from 14°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Cactus Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Cactus Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Cactus Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Cactus Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Cactus Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Cactus Beach area include: Cactus Beach, Long Beach, Chadinga Conservation Reserve.
What are the nearest surf spots to Cactus Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Cactus Beach include Crushers, Caves, Spoggies.