Caves Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Caves Beach in New South Wales. 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 Caves Beach is about 20°C.
Water Temperature in Caves Beach: 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
Water temperatures in Caves Beach 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 Caves Beach will be 19.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 13 | 20.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Jun 14 | 21.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| Jun 15 | 20.9°C | 20.3°C | |
| Jun 16 | 20.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Jun 17 | 19.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| Jun 18 | 19.8°C | 19.8°C | |
| Jun 19 | 19.8°C | 19.8°C | |
| Jun 20 | 19.7°C | 19.5°C | |
| Jun 21 | 19.7°C | 19.5°C | 19.7°C |
| Jun 22 | 19.7°C | 19.7°C | |
| Jun 23 | 19.7°C | 19.6°C | |
| Jun 24 | 19.3°C | 19.6°C | |
| Jun 25 | 19.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| Jun 26 | 19.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| Jun 27 | 19.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| Jun 28 | 19.3°C | 19.4°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 Caves Beach 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
Caves Beach, south of Newcastle on the New South Wales coast, faces the open Tasman Sea and has water temperatures that change steadily with the seasons. In summer, the ocean is usually at its warmest, sitting around 22–26 °C, which feels comfortable for longer swims and plenty of time in the water. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 20–23 °C, still pleasant for most swimmers. Winter is cooler but far from extreme, with sea temperatures typically between 16–20 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up from about 18 °C into the low twenties as weather conditions become more settled.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| February | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| March | 20°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| April | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| May | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| July | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| December | 19°C | 21°C | 27°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Caves Beach: Weather Forecast
June 22
June 23
June 24
June 25
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Caves Beach
Stinky Point
Hams Beach
Quarry Beach
Pinny
Blacksmiths
Heads Beach
Swansea Bay Beach
Middle Camp
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed and popular at Caves Beach, particularly along the wide, sandy main beach. The beach is often patrolled during peak periods, providing safer swimming areas when conditions are suitable. As an open-ocean beach, surf and rips can be present, especially after strong swell, so conditions vary from day to day. On calmer days, the water is clean and refreshing, with easy access from the sand. Confident swimmers enjoy the rolling surf, while families and casual swimmers tend to stay between the flags to make the most of the conditions safely.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Caves Beach
Caves Point
Crabbs Creek
Swansea Beach
Blacksmiths Beach
Frenchmans Reef
Catherine Hill Bay
Moonee
Frazer Park
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Lake Macquarie
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
