Garden Island – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Garden Island in Western 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Garden Island is about 18°C.
Water Temperature in Garden Island: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.
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
While water temperatures in Garden Island declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Garden Island will be 18.1°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 15 | 17.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 17.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 17.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 17.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 17.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 17.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 17.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 17.7°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 23 | 17.5°C | 18.5°C | 17.5°C |
| Aug 24 | 18.8°C | 17.6°C | |
| Aug 25 | 18.3°C | 17.7°C | |
| Aug 26 | 18.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| Aug 27 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 28 | 18.5°C | 17.9°C | |
| Aug 29 | 18.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 30 | 18.8°C | 18.1°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 Garden Island 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
Garden Island lies just off the coast of Rockingham and marks the transition between sheltered mainland waters and the open Indian Ocean. Sea temperatures here follow the Perth City Coast pattern and are generally pleasant for swimming. In summer, from December to February, the water typically ranges between 21–24°C, often feeling warm and clear on calm days. Autumn remains comfortable at around 19–22°C. Winter brings cooler conditions, usually about 16–18°C, which can feel brisk but are still manageable for short swims. Spring sees a steady warm-up again, generally sitting between 18–21°C as air temperatures rise.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| February | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| March | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| June | 17°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| November | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| December | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Garden Island: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Garden Island
John Point Beach
Cape Peron
Peron Foreshore Park
Palm Beach
Mangles Bay
Kwinana Beach
Shoalwater Bay
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Garden Island is allowed in designated public access areas, but much of the island is a restricted naval base, so access is limited and controlled. Where swimming is permitted, conditions are often very good, with clear water, sandy patches, and some protection from heavy swell depending on the side of the island. In summer, most people swim comfortably without wetsuits and can enjoy longer sessions in the water. Spring and autumn suit relaxed dips, while winter swimming tends to appeal to locals accustomed to cooler water or those using light thermal gear. Overall, Garden Island offers high-quality swimming in clean Indian Ocean water, with the added caveat that visitors must stick to approved areas and respect access restrictions.
