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Ethel Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Ethel Beach in Christmas Island. 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.

Ethel Beach
Ethel Beach © Arash Eshaghi

Current Sea Water Temperature

26.9°C
Today
26.8°C
Yesterday
26.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Ethel Beach is about 27°C.

Water Temperature in Ethel Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This is warm water that suits almost everyone. Swimming feels easy and pleasant, even for extended stays, and there is little risk of discomfort from cooling. These temperatures are ideal for family swimming, snorkelling, and most water activities, offering a good balance between comfort and refreshment.

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

From July 23 to August 22

Water temperatures in Ethel Beachfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Ethel Beach will be 26.6°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
Aug 1526.9°C26.8°C
Aug 1626.8°C26.8°C
Aug 1726.9°C26.8°C
Aug 1826.8°C27.0°C
Aug 1926.9°C27.3°C
Aug 2026.9°C26.5°C
Aug 2126.8°C27.0°C
Aug 2226.8°C27.5°C
Aug 2326.9°C27.5°C26.9°C
Aug 2426.5°C26.9°C
Aug 2526.5°C26.8°C
Aug 2626.5°C26.8°C
Aug 2726.5°C26.7°C
Aug 2826.3°C26.7°C
Aug 2926.3°C26.6°C
Aug 3026.3°C26.6°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 Ethel Beach 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Ethel Beach sits on the rugged coast of Christmas Island, where tropical conditions keep the ocean warm all year round. Water temperatures here are far more consistent than on mainland Australia. During the drier months, roughly from May to October, the sea usually sits around 26–27 °C, which feels comfortably warm and inviting. In the wetter season, from November to April, temperatures often rise slightly to about 27–28 °C. Seasonal variation is minimal, so the water never feels cold, making Ethel Beach a year-round tropical swimming spot from a temperature point of view.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January27°C29°C30°C
February26°C29°C31°C
March27°C29°C31°C
April27°C29°C31°C
May27°C29°C31°C
June26°C28°C30°C
July25°C27°C29°C
August25°C27°C28°C
September24°C27°C28°C
October24°C27°C29°C
November25°C28°C30°C
December24°C28°C30°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Ethel Beach: Weather Forecast

August 23

26°C / 26°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 32 kmh

August 24

25°C / 26°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 74% | wind: 32 kmh

August 25

25°C / 26°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 72% | wind: 29 kmh

August 26

25°C / 26°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 74% | wind: 25 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Ethel Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
26.5°C

Gladys Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
28.1°C

Dolly Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
27.2°C

Isabel Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
27.5°C

Flying Fish Cove Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
28.1°C

Margaret Beaches

⭐ 3.5/5
27.8°C

Rhoda Beaches

⭐ 3.1/5
27.5°C

Dorothy Beach

⭐ 2.5/5
27.9°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Ethel Beach is allowed, but it’s best suited to confident swimmers who understand local conditions. Unlike the sheltered harbour at Flying Fish Cove, Ethel Beach is more exposed to ocean swell, and waves, currents, and surge can be present even on calm-looking days. On settled weather days, the warm, clear water is excellent for short swims and snorkelling close to shore, with no need for wetsuits. However, changing tides and sudden swell mean swimming is not always recommended, and conditions should be checked carefully before entering the water. Overall, Ethel Beach offers appealing warm-water swimming in a wild tropical setting, where enjoyment depends on calm conditions and sensible caution rather than water temperature.

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Place Tags:Beach

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Ethel Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Ethel Beach in the Indian Ocean today is 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Ethel Beach typically ranges from 24°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Ethel Beach typically ranges from 27°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Ethel Beach typically ranges from 24°C to 30°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Ethel Beach typically ranges from 25°C to 30°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Ethel Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Ethel Beach area include: Ethel Beach, Gladys Beach, Dolly Beach, Territory Day Park Lookout, Isabel Beach.