Cronulla – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Cronulla 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 Cronulla is about 20°C.
Water Temperature in Cronulla: 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 Cronulla 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 Cronulla will be 19.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 19.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| Oct 8 | 19.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| Oct 9 | 19.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| Oct 10 | 19.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| Oct 11 | 19.4°C | 19.3°C | |
| Oct 12 | 19.5°C | 19.3°C | |
| Oct 13 | 19.9°C | 19.3°C | |
| Oct 14 | 19.8°C | 19.5°C | |
| Oct 15 | 19.8°C | 19.5°C | 19.8°C |
| Oct 16 | 19.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| Oct 17 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| Oct 18 | 19.3°C | 19.7°C | |
| Oct 19 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| Oct 20 | 19.3°C | 19.6°C | |
| Oct 21 | 19.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| Oct 22 | 20.0°C | 19.5°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 Cronulla 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
Cronulla sits on Sydney’s southern coastline, facing straight into the Tasman Sea and offering a long stretch of open ocean beaches. Water temperatures here follow the typical seasonal pattern for the New South Wales coast. In summer, from December through March, the sea is usually at its warmest, ranging between 21–24 °C, which suits most swimmers without extra insulation. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to around 19–21 °C. Winter is the coldest time of year, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 16–18 °C, while spring sees a steady rise back into the 18–20 °C range as currents and air temperatures shift toward summer.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| March | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 19°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 15°C | 19°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 | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Cronulla: Weather Forecast
October 16
October 17
October 18
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Cronulla Beach
South Cronulla Beach
Blackwoods Beach
North Cronulla
Gunnamatta Park Beach
Elouera Beach
Sutherland Shire Beach
Greenhills Beach
Wanda Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Cronulla Beach is allowed and very popular, thanks to the area’s multiple patrolled beaches and clear safety management. As an open surf coastline, conditions can vary from calm to powerful, with waves and rip currents forming depending on swell and wind. For this reason, swimmers are expected to stay between the red and yellow flags when patrols are operating, as these areas offer the safest conditions. On calmer summer days, Cronulla suits a wide range of swimmers, from casual dippers to regular ocean swimmers. In cooler months, many locals wear wetsuits to stay comfortable. Overall, Cronulla provides reliable year-round ocean swimming, provided conditions and lifeguard advice are respected.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Cronulla -The Wall
Cronulla Point
Shark Island (Cronulla)
Elouera (Cronulla)
Green Hills
Cronulla
Voodoo
Marley
Garie Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Sutherland Shire
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
