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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Cape Tribulation is about 23°C.
Water Temperature in Cape Tribulation: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.
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
Water temperatures in Cape Tribulation have remained fairly stable over the past 30 days, though a cooler trend has emerged in the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Cape Tribulation will be 23.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 23.1°C | 24.3°C | |
| Aug 16 | 23.6°C | 23.8°C | |
| Aug 17 | 23.3°C | 24.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 23.3°C | 23.8°C | |
| Aug 19 | 23.4°C | 24.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 23.1°C | 24.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 23.1°C | 23.8°C | |
| Aug 22 | 23.1°C | 23.5°C | |
| Aug 23 | 22.9°C | 23.5°C | 22.9°C |
| Aug 24 | 24.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| Aug 25 | 24.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 24.3°C | 23.2°C | |
| Aug 27 | 24.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| Aug 28 | 24.5°C | 23.4°C | |
| Aug 29 | 24.0°C | 23.4°C | |
| Aug 30 | 24.8°C | 23.5°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 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 26°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| May | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| June | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| August | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| September | 23°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| October | 23°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| November | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| December | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Cape Tribulation: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Cape Tribulation
Great Barrier Reef Drive
Kulki Lookout
Myall Beach
Emmagen Creek
Thornton Beach
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
