Darwin – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Darwin in Northern Territory. 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 Darwin is about 29°C.
Water Temperature in Darwin: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ Water at this temperature is very warm and feels almost tropical. Swimming is comfortable for most people, even for long periods, with no sensation of cold. These conditions are ideal for relaxed swimming, floating, and water play, especially for families and casual swimmers. However, during very hot weather, the water may feel less refreshing, and short breaks are often welcome.
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 Darwin 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 Darwin will be 28.6°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 | 29.2°C | 30.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 28.9°C | 30.8°C | |
| Apr 30 | 28.8°C | 30.5°C | |
| May 1 | 28.8°C | 30.0°C | |
| May 2 | 28.7°C | 29.5°C | |
| May 3 | 28.6°C | 29.5°C | |
| May 4 | 28.9°C | 29.5°C | |
| May 5 | 28.8°C | 29.3°C | |
| May 6 | 28.7°C | 29.3°C | 28.7°C |
| May 7 | 29.0°C | 28.7°C | |
| May 8 | 28.8°C | 28.7°C | |
| May 9 | 28.8°C | 28.6°C | |
| May 10 | 28.8°C | 28.6°C | |
| May 11 | 28.5°C | 28.6°C | |
| May 12 | 28.5°C | 28.6°C | |
| May 13 | 28.5°C | 28.6°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 Darwin 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
Darwin sits on the Timor Sea and has a fully tropical marine climate, which means the water is warm all year round. Sea temperatures stay high regardless of season. During the wet season and build-up, roughly from November to April, the water typically ranges between 28–31°C, often feeling very warm and sometimes almost bath-like. In the dry season, from May to October, temperatures ease slightly but remain comfortable, usually around 25–27°C. Even at their coolest, Darwin’s sea temperatures are warmer than summer water in most southern parts of Australia.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28°C | 31°C | 32°C |
| February | 27°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| March | 27°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| April | 27°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| May | 25°C | 29°C | 32°C |
| June | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| July | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| September | 25°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| October | 24°C | 30°C | 33°C |
| November | 29°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| December | 28°C | 31°C | 33°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Darwin: Weather Forecast
May 7
May 8
May 9
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Mindil Beach
Cullen Bay
Cullen Beach
Kahlin Beach
Nebraska Beach
Vesteys Beach
Lameroo Beach
Fannie Bay
Sunset Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Darwin is allowed, but it’s highly location- and season-dependent. Open beaches are generally not recommended for swimming due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles and, in the warmer months, marine stingers. Because of this, locals tend to swim in managed areas such as the Darwin Waterfront Lagoon or during the dry season at times when risks are lower and warnings are not in place. These controlled swimming spots provide safe, calm water despite the natural hazards offshore. Wetsuits are never needed due to the warm water. Overall, Darwin offers consistently warm sea temperatures, but safe swimming relies on choosing the right locations and following local advice rather than heading straight into the open sea.