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Cape Paterson – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Cape Paterson in Victoria. 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 Paterson
Cape Paterson © By Dalysporter, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.3°C
Today
18.3°C
Yesterday
18.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Cape Paterson is about 18°C.

Water Temperature in Cape Paterson: 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 Cape Paterson 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 Paterson will be 18.8°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 1219.1°C19.5°C
Mar 1319.1°C19.0°C
Mar 1418.5°C19.0°C
Mar 1518.5°C19.0°C
Mar 1618.3°C19.0°C
Mar 1718.1°C19.0°C
Mar 1818.2°C18.5°C
Mar 1918.3°C18.8°C
Mar 2018.3°C18.8°C18.3°C
Mar 2119.0°C18.4°C
Mar 2218.7°C18.4°C
Mar 2319.0°C18.5°C
Mar 2419.0°C18.6°C
Mar 2518.7°C18.7°C
Mar 2619.0°C18.7°C
Mar 2718.7°C18.8°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 Paterson 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 Paterson sits on the East Coast of Victoria, overlooking the Bass Strait, and water temperatures here reflect the cooler southern ocean conditions. In summer, the sea generally warms to around 18–22 °C, which feels refreshing but comfortable enough for swimming on warm, settled days. Autumn often remains mild, with water temperatures commonly between 16–20 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 14–18 °C as the ocean slowly warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures typically drop to about 11–14 °C, which is cold and usually limits swimming to short dips or those wearing wetsuits.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January15°C19°C22°C
February17°C19°C22°C
March17°C19°C21°C
April15°C18°C20°C
May14°C16°C18°C
June12°C14°C16°C
July10°C13°C15°C
August10°C12°C14°C
September11°C13°C15°C
October12°C14°C16°C
November14°C16°C18°C
December15°C18°C21°C

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

Cape Paterson: Weather Forecast

March 21

15°C / 18°C
clear sky
humidity: 77% | wind: 14 kmh

March 22

17°C / 19°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 71% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

17°C / 19°C
clear sky
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

March 24

18°C / 19°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 79% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Cape Paterson

⭐ 4.6/5
18.2°C

F Break Beach

⭐ 3.4/5
19.0°C

Harmers Haven

⭐ 3.1/5
18.3°C

Shack Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
19.5°C

Eagles Nest

⭐ 3.5/5
17.5°C

Flat Rocks

⭐ 3.5/5
18.1°C

Cutlers Beach

⭐ 3.4/5
18.4°C

Inverloch Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
19.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Cape Paterson is allowed and can be enjoyable when conditions are right. The beach is exposed to Bass Strait swells, so waves and rips are common and conditions can change quickly with wind and tide. This makes swimming best suited to confident swimmers, particularly during summer when the water is warmest and the sea is calmer. On good days, the water is clean and clear, offering refreshing swims close to shore. Less experienced swimmers often prefer calmer conditions or shorter sessions. In cooler months, most locals either keep swims brief or avoid the water altogether. Overall, Cape Paterson offers clean coastal water, clear seasonal temperature changes, and rewarding swimming opportunities when approached with proper care and awareness of the ocean.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Cape Paterson

⭐ 1/5
19.5°C
1 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Eagles Nest

⭐ 3/5
18.1°C

Suicides

⭐ 2/5
18.6°C

Wonthaggi

⭐ 1/5
19.0°C

Kilcunda

⭐ 3/5
18.0°C
20 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Shelly Beach

⭐ 3/5
18.9°C

Magic Lands

⭐ 3/5
18.5°C

Woolamai

⭐ 3/5
19.3°C

Anzacs

⭐ 3/5
19.7°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Cape Paterson today?
Sea water temperature in Cape Paterson in the Bass Strait today is 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Paterson during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Cape Paterson typically ranges from 15°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Paterson during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Cape Paterson typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Paterson during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Cape Paterson typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Paterson during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Cape Paterson typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Cape Paterson area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Cape Paterson area include: Cape Paterson, Cape Paterson Coastal Reserve, F Break Beach, Harmers Haven, Shack Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to Cape Paterson?
Some of the closest surf spots near Cape Paterson include Cape Paterson, Eagles Nest, Suicides.