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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

14.5°C
Today
14.6°C
Yesterday
14.6°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Cape Douglas is about 15°C.

Water Temperature in Cape Douglas: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.

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 July 23 to August 22

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 12.1°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
Aug 1514.6°C12.3°C
Aug 1614.7°C12.8°C
Aug 1714.6°C12.8°C
Aug 1814.6°C12.5°C
Aug 1914.6°C12.5°C
Aug 2014.6°C12.3°C
Aug 2114.6°C12.5°C
Aug 2214.6°C11.3°C
Aug 2314.5°C11.3°C14.5°C
Aug 2411.7°C14.2°C
Aug 2511.0°C13.8°C
Aug 2611.3°C13.5°C
Aug 2711.7°C13.1°C
Aug 2811.7°C12.8°C
Aug 2911.0°C12.4°C
Aug 3011.7°C12.1°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

August 24

11°C / 13°C
moderate rain
humidity: 90% | wind: 14 kmh

August 25

11°C / 14°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 77% | wind: 22 kmh

August 26

10°C / 13°C
clear sky
humidity: 73% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Douglas Point

⭐ 3.1/5
13.9°C

Blanche Bay

⭐ 2.9/5
13.4°C

Middle Point

⭐ 2.9/5
13.4°C

Finger Point Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
15.2°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
13.8°C

Douglas Point

⭐ 3/5
15.3°C

Posties

⭐ 3/5
15.5°C

Carpenters Rocks

⭐ 3/5
15.0°C
23 km away 📍 Reef and bombora

Piccaninnie Ponds

⭐ 3/5
15.0°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 15°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.