Clifton Springs – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Clifton Springs 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Clifton Springs is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Clifton Springs: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.
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 Clifton Springs 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 Clifton Springs will be 16.6°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 28 | 17.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 17.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 17.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| May 1 | 17.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| May 2 | 17.2°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 3 | 17.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| May 4 | 17.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| May 5 | 17.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| May 6 | 16.9°C | 16.5°C | 16.9°C |
| May 7 | 16.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| May 8 | 15.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 9 | 16.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 10 | 16.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| May 11 | 15.8°C | 16.7°C | |
| May 12 | 16.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| May 13 | 16.8°C | 16.6°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 Clifton Springs 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
Clifton Springs sits on the western side of Port Phillip Bay, and its water temperatures reflect the bay’s relatively sheltered and shallow conditions. In summer, the water is at its warmest, usually ranging from about 19–23°C, which makes it comfortable for swimming and paddling on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 17–20°C, while winter is cooler but still milder than the open ocean, often around 13–15°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 15–18°C, influenced by sunshine and local winds.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| August | 10°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| December | 15°C | 17°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Clifton Springs: Weather Forecast
May 7
May 8
May 9
May 10
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Clifton Springs East
Hermsley
Point Richards West
Grand Scenic Beach
Portarlington Beach
Portarlington Jetty
Seabrae-Sands
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Clifton Springs, although it tends to be more popular for relaxed dips rather than energetic surf swimming. The bay here is generally calm, with minimal wave action and no strong surf, making it suitable for casual swimmers and those looking for sheltered conditions. The shallow shoreline means the water can feel warmer in summer, but it can also be affected by tides and seagrass, which may limit swimming at times. Many locals swim during the warmer months when conditions are clearest. Outside peak summer, wetsuits are sometimes used for comfort. Overall, Clifton Springs offers gentle, bay-style swimming with relatively warm water by southern Victorian standards.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Raffs Beach
13th Beach-The Bluff
Point Lonsdale
13th Beach-The Beacon
Quarantine
Spooks
Bancoora
Portsea Back Beach
Point Impossible
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Greater Geelong
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
