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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.

Cape Douglas
Cape Douglas © Lee Merchant

Current Sea Water Temperature

16.1°C
Today
16.3°C
Yesterday
17.0°C
A Week Ago

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

From February 18 to March 20

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 1216.9°C19.0°C
Mar 1316.9°C18.5°C
Mar 1417.0°C18.5°C
Mar 1516.5°C18.5°C
Mar 1616.4°C18.5°C
Mar 1716.2°C18.8°C
Mar 1816.2°C18.3°C
Mar 1916.3°C19.0°C
Mar 2016.1°C19.0°C16.1°C
Mar 2119.3°C16.4°C
Mar 2219.3°C16.6°C
Mar 2319.3°C16.9°C
Mar 2419.3°C17.2°C
Mar 2519.3°C17.5°C
Mar 2619.0°C17.7°C
Mar 2718.7°C18.0°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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

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
January15°C20°C23°C
February17°C20°C23°C
March17°C19°C22°C
April15°C18°C21°C
May13°C16°C18°C
June11°C14°C16°C
July10°C12°C15°C
August10°C12°C14°C
September10°C12°C14°C
October11°C14°C17°C
November14°C16°C19°C
December15°C19°C21°C

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

Cape Douglas: Weather Forecast

March 21

16°C / 20°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

March 22

15°C / 20°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 66% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

15°C / 21°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 73% | wind: 18 kmh

March 24

18°C / 24°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 67% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Douglas Point

⭐ 3.1/5
17.3°C

Blanche Bay

⭐ 2.9/5
16.5°C

Middle Point

⭐ 2.9/5
17.3°C

Finger Point Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
15.5°C

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

⭐ 3/5
16.0°C

Douglas Point

⭐ 3/5
16.9°C

Posties

⭐ 3/5
15.5°C

Carpenters Rocks

⭐ 3/5
16.1°C
23 km away 📍 Reef and bombora

Piccaninnie Ponds

⭐ 3/5
16.8°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: District Council of Grant

Place Tags:Coastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Cape Douglas today?
Sea water temperature in Cape Douglas in the Great Australian Bight today is 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Douglas during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Cape Douglas typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Douglas during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Cape Douglas typically ranges from 13°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Douglas during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Cape Douglas typically ranges from 10°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Douglas during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Cape Douglas typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Cape Douglas area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Cape Douglas area include: Douglas Point, Blanche Bay, Middle Point, Finger Point Beach, Nene Valley Conservation Park.
What are the nearest surf spots to Cape Douglas?
Some of the closest surf spots near Cape Douglas include Cape Northumberland, Douglas Point, Posties.