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Ethel Wreck Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Ethel Wreck Beach in South Australia. 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 Wreck Beach
Ethel Wreck Beach © Irene

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.3°C
Today
19.4°C
Yesterday
19.7°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Ethel Wreck Beach is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach: 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

From February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Ethel Wreck Beach 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 Ethel Wreck Beach will be 19.8°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 1219.7°C20.0°C
Mar 1319.9°C20.3°C
Mar 1419.7°C20.3°C
Mar 1519.8°C19.8°C
Mar 1619.3°C20.3°C
Mar 1719.5°C19.8°C
Mar 1819.4°C19.8°C
Mar 1919.4°C19.3°C
Mar 2019.3°C19.3°C19.3°C
Mar 2119.5°C19.4°C
Mar 2219.5°C19.4°C
Mar 2319.3°C19.5°C
Mar 2420.0°C19.6°C
Mar 2519.8°C19.7°C
Mar 2620.0°C19.7°C
Mar 2719.5°C19.8°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 Wreck 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 Wreck Beach sits on a rugged stretch of the Yorke Peninsula coastline, facing the open waters of the Great Australian Bight, and its water temperatures reflect this exposed southern ocean setting. In summer, the sea is at its warmest but still cool, usually around 17–20°C, which feels refreshing rather than warm on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 15–18°C, while winter is distinctly cold, often around 12–14°C. Spring is slow to warm, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 13–16°C, influenced by winds, swell and changing weather systems.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January16°C20°C22°C
February18°C20°C22°C
March18°C20°C21°C
April17°C19°C21°C
May14°C17°C19°C
June13°C15°C18°C
July12°C15°C16°C
August11°C14°C16°C
September12°C14°C16°C
October12°C15°C17°C
November14°C16°C19°C
December16°C18°C21°C

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

Ethel Wreck Beach: Weather Forecast

March 21

15°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 66% | wind: 11 kmh

March 22

16°C / 25°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 61% | wind: 11 kmh

March 23

16°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 73% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Ethel Wreck Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
19.2°C

Pondalowie Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
19.9°C

Dolphin Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
19.0°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Ethel Wreck Beach, but it is very much dependent on conditions and swimmer experience. The beach is open and powerful, with regular surf, strong rips and unpredictable currents that can make swimming hazardous, particularly for inexperienced swimmers. There are no patrols, and access can be challenging, so entering the water requires careful judgement. On calm summer days, short swims close to shore can be enjoyable, though many people wear wetsuits even then due to the cool water. Overall, Ethel Wreck Beach offers clean, wild ocean water in a dramatic setting, with swimming best suited to confident ocean users who respect the strength of the southern ocean.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

West Cape

⭐ 2/5
18.7°C

Ethel Wreck

⭐ 5/5
19.9°C

Chinamans

⭐ 3/5
18.7°C

Pondalowie Bay

⭐ 3/5
18.4°C

Rhino Head

⭐ 3/5
19.4°C

Baby Lizards

⭐ 2/5
18.7°C

A-Bay (Willyama Bay)

⭐ 3/5
19.8°C

Trespassers

⭐ 3/5
20.3°C

The Spit

⭐ 3/5
20.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach in the Great Australian Bight today is 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach typically ranges from 12°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Ethel Wreck Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Ethel Wreck Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Ethel Wreck Beach area include: Ethel Wreck Beach, Pondalowie Bay, Dolphin Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Ethel Wreck Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Ethel Wreck Beach include West Cape, Ethel Wreck, Pondalowie Bay.