George Town – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at George Town in Tasmania. 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 George Town is about 19°C.
Water Temperature in George Town: 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
Water temperatures in George Town have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in George Town will be 18.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 18.2°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 18.7°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 18.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 18.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 18.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 18.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.4°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.4°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.7°C | 19.3°C | 18.7°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.3°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.5°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.5°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 26 | 18.5°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.0°C | 18.6°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 George Town 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
George Town sits at the mouth of the Tamar River on Tasmania’s north coast, where river and sea meet before opening into the Bass Strait. This mix influences local water temperatures, which remain cool across the year. In summer, from December to February, sea temperatures usually reach around 15–17 °C, while the river can feel slightly milder on calm, sunny days. Autumn sees water temperatures ease back to about 13–15 °C, winter is coldest at roughly 11–12 °C, and spring brings a gradual rise to around 12–14 °C as conditions become more settled.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| February | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| March | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 13°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| June | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| July | 10°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| September | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| December | 13°C | 16°C | 20°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
George Town: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Gibsons Beach
East Beach
Greens Beach
Bellbuoy Beach
Nudists Beach
Pebble Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in George Town is allowed, but it’s generally more suitable in sheltered areas rather than fully exposed coastal waters. The Tamar River estuary and nearby protected beaches offer calmer conditions than the open Bass Strait, making short swims possible during summer and early autumn. Even then, the water feels brisk, so most people limit their time in the water, with wetsuits common outside the warmest months. Strong tides and currents can occur near the river mouth, especially after rain or during tidal changes, so awareness of local conditions is important. Overall, George Town provides viable cold-water swimming options, best enjoyed in summer and in sheltered spots where conditions are more predictable.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
East Beach
Tam O'Shanter
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: George Town Council
Place Tags:Coastal TownEstuary
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
