Daintree River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Daintree River in Queensland. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Daintree River today is 23°C.
Water Temperature in Daintree River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River water between 20 and 25°C is ideal for swimming and offers very comfortable conditions for most people. Combined with warm air temperatures and settled weather, this range is perfect for extended swims and family-friendly activities. Rivers may still feel slightly cooler than lakes due to gentle currents, which many swimmers find refreshing. Even on partly cloudy days, swimming remains enjoyable.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Daintree River have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Daintree River will be 23.5°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 24.6°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 13 | 23.3°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 14 | 23.2°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 15 | 23.2°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 16 | 23.3°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 17 | 23.4°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 18 | 23.4°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 19 | 23.2°C | 23.7°C | |
| Mar 20 | 23.1°C | 23.7°C | 23.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.7°C | 23.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 23.7°C | 23.2°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.7°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.7°C | 23.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 23.7°C | 23.4°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.7°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 23.7°C | 23.5°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| February | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| March | 20°C | 24°C | 25°C |
| April | 21°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| May | 21°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| June | 20°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| July | 20°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| August | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| September | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| November | 24°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| December | 25°C | 27°C | 31°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Daintree National Park, Great Dividing Range
• location below Kalkajaka
• coordinates 16.3929°S 145.2025°E
• elevation 1,270 m (4,170 ft)
Mouth Coral Sea
• location Cairns Marine Park
• coordinates 16.2889°S 145.4525°E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 140 km (87 mi)
The Daintree River is a proper icon of the Far North, winding through some of the oldest rainforest on the planet. When it comes to the water temperature, it stays pretty tropical all year round, which might tempt you to jump straight in. During the wet season, the water is like a warm bath, often hovering between 26°C and 28°C, while in the cooler months, it rarely drops below a comfortable 22°C. Even though the temperature is spot on for a soak, you have to be mindful of the local conditions. The river is a massive ecosystem, and the water clarity can change quickly depending on the rainfall up in the ranges, often turning a bit murky when the heavens open.
Swimming Conditions
Despite the inviting warmth, swimming in the main channel of the Daintree River is a massive no-go and definitely not recommended. The reason for this is pretty simple: it’s prime crocodile country. Estuarine crocodiles call these waters home, and they are top-tier predators that you don't want to tangle with. While the river is a ripper of a spot for a boat tour to see the wildlife, taking a dip in the deep water is asking for trouble. If you’re desperate for a cool down, you’re much better off sticking to the crystal-clear freshwater swimming holes in the nearby creeks where the water flows fast and shallow, as the main river belongs to the salties.