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Cape Schanck – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Cape Schanck 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 Schanck
Cape Schanck © By Marshlung, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.8°C
Today
18.9°C
Yesterday
19.2°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Cape Schanck is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Cape Schanck: 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 Schanck 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 Schanck will be 18.5°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°C19.3°C
Mar 1319.3°C19.0°C
Mar 1419.2°C18.8°C
Mar 1518.8°C18.8°C
Mar 1618.8°C19.3°C
Mar 1718.6°C19.0°C
Mar 1818.7°C18.5°C
Mar 1918.9°C19.0°C
Mar 2018.8°C19.0°C18.8°C
Mar 2118.7°C18.8°C
Mar 2219.0°C18.7°C
Mar 2318.3°C18.7°C
Mar 2419.3°C18.6°C
Mar 2519.3°C18.6°C
Mar 2618.3°C18.5°C
Mar 2718.7°C18.5°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 Schanck 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 Schanck marks one of the most exposed points on the Mornington Peninsula, where the coastline meets the open Bass Strait, and water temperatures here reflect the cool, powerful southern ocean. In summer, the sea usually warms to around 18–22 °C, which feels refreshing rather than warm but is comfortable for swimming on clear, 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 gradually warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures typically drop to about 11–14 °C, which is very cold and generally 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
July11°C13°C15°C
August11°C13°C14°C
September11°C13°C14°C
October12°C14°C16°C
November13°C16°C18°C
December15°C18°C21°C

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

Cape Schanck: Weather Forecast

March 21

15°C / 20°C
clear sky
humidity: 74% | wind: 11 kmh

March 22

17°C / 24°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 66% | wind: 4 kmh

March 23

16°C / 22°C
clear sky
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Bushranger Bay

⭐ 2.8/5
19.4°C

Gunnamatta Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
18.8°C

Gunnamatta Ocean Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
19.3°C

Simmons Bay

⭐ 3.0/5
18.8°C

St Andrews Beach

⭐ 4.1/5
17.9°C

Cairn Beach

⭐ 3.4/5
18.3°C

Cairns Bay

⭐ 2.9/5
19.2°C

Rye Ocean Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
19.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Cape Schanck is allowed, but conditions are best suited to experienced and confident swimmers. The coastline here is rugged and fully exposed to Bass Strait swells, with strong waves, surge, and unpredictable currents common throughout the year. There are no sheltered beaches or calm entry points, and conditions can change quickly with wind and tide. On rare calm summer days, the water can be clear and inviting for a brief, bracing swim close to shore, but caution is essential. In cooler months, most people avoid swimming altogether. Overall, Cape Schanck offers clean water, sharp seasonal temperature changes, and challenging swimming conditions in a dramatic natural setting that rewards respect for the ocean.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Cape Schanck

⭐ 3/5
18.5°C

Gunnamatta Beach

⭐ 3/5
19.2°C

Bushrangers Bay

⭐ 3/5
18.0°C

St Andrews Beach

⭐ 2/5
17.8°C

Allisons

⭐ 2/5
19.4°C

Gunnery

⭐ 2/5
18.9°C

Cyrils and Big Left

⭐ 2/5
18.6°C

Farm

⭐ 2/5
19.8°C
13 km away 📍 Reef and point

Meanos

⭐ 3/5
18.4°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Shire of Mornington Peninsula

Place Tags:Surf SpotCoastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Cape Schanck today?
Sea water temperature in Cape Schanck in the Bass Strait today is 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Schanck during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Cape Schanck typically ranges from 15°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Schanck during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Cape Schanck typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Schanck during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Cape Schanck typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Schanck during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Cape Schanck typically ranges from 11°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Cape Schanck area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Cape Schanck area include: Bushranger Bay, Gunnamatta Beach, Gunnamatta Ocean Beach, St Andrews Beach, Simmons Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to Cape Schanck?
Some of the closest surf spots near Cape Schanck include Cape Schanck, Gunnamatta Beach, Bushrangers Bay.