Coles Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Coles Bay in Tasmania. 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 Coles Bay is about 18°C.
Water Temperature in Coles Bay: 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 Coles Bay have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Coles Bay will be 17.1°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 | 17.4°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 17.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 17.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 17.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 17.4°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.6°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 17.9°C | 17.3°C | 17.9°C |
| Mar 21 | 17.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| Mar 22 | 17.3°C | 17.7°C | |
| Mar 23 | 17.7°C | 17.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 17.3°C | 17.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 17.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 26 | 16.7°C | 17.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 17.0°C | 17.1°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 Coles Bay 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
Coles Bay sits on Tasmania’s east coast beside the sheltered waters of Great Oyster Bay, with the Tasman Sea moderated by the presence of Freycinet Peninsula. This geography gives the area some of the most inviting water conditions in the state. Sea temperatures change gently through the year. In summer, from December to February, the water typically reaches around 17–20 °C, which feels cool but very comfortable on warm days. Autumn sees a gradual drop to about 15–17 °C, while winter is colder, usually around 11–13 °C. During spring, temperatures slowly rise again, commonly sitting between 13–15 °C as sunshine and calmer weather return.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| February | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| March | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| April | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 15°C |
| July | 10°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| October | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| December | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Coles Bay: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Muirs Beach
Richardson's Beach
Honeymoon Bay
Honeymoon Beach
Sandpiper Beach
Cape Tourville
Hazards Beach
Swan River Camping
Wineglass Bay
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Coles Bay is allowed and is one of the area’s most popular activities, especially in summer. The bay is well sheltered from heavy Tasman Sea swell, resulting in clear, calm water with minimal wave action, which suits relaxed swimming, snorkelling, and family-friendly dips close to shore. Even at the height of summer, the water remains refreshing rather than warm, so swims are often moderate in length, with wetsuits commonly used outside peak season. Exposed beaches further out can experience stronger wind and chop, but within the bay conditions are usually gentle. Overall, Coles Bay offers some of the best cold-water swimming in Tasmania, combining calm conditions with reliable summer comfort.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Friendly Beaches
Swansea Point
Buxton Point
Redbill Beach
Governors Island
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Glamorgan Spring Bay Council
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
