Fairy Meadow – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Fairy Meadow 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 Fairy Meadow is about 22°C.
Water Temperature in Fairy Meadow: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.
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 Fairy Meadow 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 Fairy Meadow will be 22.7°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 12 | 22.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 22.7°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 22.9°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 22.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 22.1°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 22.1°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 22.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 22.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 22.1°C | 23.0°C | 22.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.0°C | 22.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 23.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.0°C | 22.4°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 25 | 22.0°C | 22.6°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.0°C | 22.6°C | |
| Mar 27 | 22.5°C | 22.7°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 Fairy Meadow 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
Fairy Meadow sits along the central Illawarra coastline, where a broad, open beach faces straight into the Tasman Sea. Water temperatures here follow the familiar seasonal cycle for this stretch of New South Wales. In summer, from December to March, the sea is usually at its warmest, around 21–24 °C, which most swimmers find comfortable without a wetsuit. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to roughly 19–21 °C. Winter is the chilliest period, with water temperatures typically between 16–18 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up back into the 18–20 °C range as ocean currents and air temperatures lift.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°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 | 19°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Fairy Meadow: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Fairy Meadow Beach
Wollongong North Beach
Vincent Schmidt
Towradgi Beach
Brighton Beach
Cove Beach
Corrimal Beach
Wollongong Beach
Wollongong City Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Fairy Meadow Beach is allowed and popular with locals, particularly during the warmer months. As an exposed surf beach, conditions can vary day to day, with waves and rip currents forming depending on swell and wind. The beach is patrolled during peak seasons, and swimmers are encouraged to stay between the red and yellow flags, where lifeguards manage the safest areas. On calm summer days, Fairy Meadow suits a wide range of swimmers, from casual dips to longer ocean swims. In cooler months, many regulars wear wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Fairy Meadow offers classic open-ocean swimming with good access and safety when conditions are respected.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Acids
Wollongong North Beach
Peggys
Wollongong South Beach
Bulli Beach
Woonona
The Bombie
Sandon Point
Oilies
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Wollongong
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
