Cape Douglas – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Cape Douglas 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Cape Douglas is about 16°C.
Water Temperature in Cape Douglas: 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
Water temperatures in Cape Douglas 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 Cape Douglas will be 18.0°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 12 | 16.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 16.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 17.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 16.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 16.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 16.2°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 16.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 16.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 16.1°C | 19.0°C | 16.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 19.3°C | 16.4°C | |
| Mar 22 | 19.3°C | 16.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.7°C | 18.0°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 Cape Douglas 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
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Cape Douglas sits along the rugged south-east coastline of South Australia, fully exposed to the Southern Ocean and the Great Australian Bight, and this keeps water temperatures cool year-round. In summer, the sea is usually at its warmest, typically around 17–20°C, which still feels brisk but can be refreshing on warm, calm days. Autumn brings a steady drop to roughly 15–18°C, while winter is distinctly cold, often sitting between 12–14°C. Spring warms slowly, with water temperatures commonly in the 13–16°C range, and sudden cold changes can follow strong southerly weather.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| February | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| December | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Cape Douglas: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Cape Douglas, but it is very much a conditions-dependent activity. The coastline here is open and energetic, with regular swell, strong currents and rips, making it unsuitable for casual or inexperienced swimmers. There are no regularly patrolled beaches, so entering the water requires careful judgement and experience with open-ocean conditions. On rare calm days, short swims close to shore can be possible, but wetsuits are commonly worn even in summer due to the cold water and wind exposure. Overall, Cape Douglas offers clean, wild ocean water in a remote natural setting, with swimming best suited to confident ocean users who respect the power of the Great Australian Bight.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Cape Northumberland
Douglas Point
Posties
Carpenters Rocks
Piccaninnie Ponds
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: District Council of Grant
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
