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Cape Tribulation – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Cape Tribulation in Queensland. 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 Tribulation
Cape Tribulation © By Luxure, CC BY 3.0 au

Current Sea Water Temperature

26.1°C
Today
26.1°C
Yesterday
26.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Cape Tribulation is about 26°C.

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

✅ This is warm water that suits almost everyone. Swimming feels easy and pleasant, even for extended stays, and there is little risk of discomfort from cooling. These temperatures are ideal for family swimming, snorkelling, and most water activities, offering a good balance between comfort and refreshment.

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 April 6 to May 6

Water temperatures in Cape Tribulation 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 Tribulation will be 26.6°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
Apr 2826.6°C28.0°C
Apr 2926.5°C28.3°C
Apr 3026.5°C27.3°C
May 126.3°C26.8°C
May 226.2°C27.0°C
May 326.1°C26.3°C
May 426.0°C26.8°C
May 526.1°C26.5°C
May 626.1°C26.5°C26.1°C
May 726.0°C26.2°C
May 826.8°C26.2°C
May 925.8°C26.3°C
May 1026.0°C26.4°C
May 1126.5°C26.5°C
May 1226.8°C26.5°C
May 1326.0°C26.6°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 Tribulation 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 Tribulation lies where the rainforest meets the Coral Sea in Far North Queensland, and the water temperature reflects the area’s fully tropical setting. Through the warmer wet season from around November to April, sea temperatures usually sit between 27–30 °C, making the water feel almost bath-like on calm days. In the drier months from May to October, the Coral Sea cools only slightly, with typical temperatures around 23–26 °C. Even in mid-winter, the water remains mild by Australian standards and rarely feels cold.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January27°C29°C31°C
February27°C29°C31°C
March27°C29°C31°C
April26°C28°C31°C
May24°C26°C28°C
June21°C24°C27°C
July21°C24°C26°C
August22°C24°C26°C
September23°C25°C27°C
October23°C27°C29°C
November25°C28°C30°C
December26°C29°C31°C

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

Cape Tribulation: Weather Forecast

May 7

20°C / 28°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 82% | wind: 7 kmh

May 8

21°C / 27°C
light rain
humidity: 82% | wind: 14 kmh

May 9

21°C / 24°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 83% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Cape Tribulation

⭐ 5.0/5
25.4°C

Great Barrier Reef Drive

⭐ 3.5/5
25.4°C

Kulki Lookout

⭐ 3.4/5
25.1°C

Myall Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
26.5°C

Emmagen Creek

⭐ 2.5/5
25.8°C

Thornton Beach

⭐ 4.4/5
27.2°C

Swimming Conditions

Despite these comfortable temperatures, swimming at Cape Tribulation is generally restricted and often discouraged. The open beaches are unpatrolled and exposed, with strong currents and changing conditions, and the area is known for saltwater crocodiles, especially near river mouths and mangroves. During the warmer months, marine stingers can also be present. For these reasons, swimming in the ocean is usually only considered in clearly marked areas or at times when conditions are declared safe by local authorities. Many visitors choose instead to enjoy short paddles in designated sections or opt for nearby freshwater creeks where permitted. Overall, while the Coral Sea here stays warm year-round, safety factors play a much bigger role than water temperature in determining whether swimming is suitable.

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Shire of Douglas

Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Cape Tribulation today?
Sea water temperature in Cape Tribulation in the Coral Sea today is 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Tribulation during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Cape Tribulation typically ranges from 26°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Tribulation during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Cape Tribulation typically ranges from 24°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Tribulation during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Cape Tribulation typically ranges from 23°C to 30°C.
What is the water temperature in Cape Tribulation during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Cape Tribulation typically ranges from 21°C to 27°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Cape Tribulation area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Cape Tribulation area include: Cape Tribulation, Great Barrier Reef Drive, Kulki Lookout, Myall Beach, Emmagen Creek.