Coalcliff – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Coalcliff 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 Coalcliff is about 23°C.
Water Temperature in Coalcliff: 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 Coalcliff 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 Coalcliff will be 22.9°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 12 | 22.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 22.7°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 22.9°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 22.8°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 22.5°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 22.6°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 22.4°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 22.5°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 22.5°C | 23.3°C | 22.5°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.0°C | 22.6°C | |
| Mar 22 | 23.0°C | 22.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.0°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.0°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 25 | 22.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 27 | 22.5°C | 22.9°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 Coalcliff 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
Coalcliff sits beneath the Illawarra escarpment, with a narrow strip of coast facing straight into the Tasman Sea. Water temperatures here reflect full open-ocean conditions and follow the familiar seasonal pattern of the New South Wales coastline. In summer, from December through March, the sea usually ranges between 21–24 °C, which is comfortable for most swimmers without needing a wetsuit. Autumn brings a steady cool-down to around 19–21 °C. Winter is the coldest period, typically seeing water temperatures between 16–18 °C, while spring marks a gradual warm-up into the 18–20 °C range as currents and weather begin to shift.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 19°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Coalcliff: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Coalcliff Beach
Stanwell Park Beach
Wombarra Beach
Scarborough Beach
Bulgo Beach
Coledale Beach
Sharkies Beach
Werrong Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Coalcliff is allowed, but conditions can be challenging due to the beach’s exposed and compact nature. Coalcliff is not a large or consistently patrolled swimming beach, and it can experience strong waves and unpredictable rips, especially after heavy swell. For this reason, it is best suited to confident ocean swimmers who are experienced in reading conditions and choosing safe entry points. Calm summer days offer the most suitable windows for swimming. In the cooler months, wetsuits are common among regular swimmers. Overall, Coalcliff provides a raw, open-ocean swimming experience that rewards caution, experience, and respect for changing sea conditions.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Sharkies
Headlands
Stanwell Park
Wombarra
Thommos
Coalcliff
Scarborough Beach
Austinmer Pools
Little Austi and Main Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Wollongong
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
