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 17°C.
Water Temperature in George Town: 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
Water temperatures in George Town 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 George Town will be 17.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 17.1°C | 18.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 17.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| May 1 | 17.2°C | 17.8°C | |
| May 2 | 17.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| May 3 | 17.3°C | 17.3°C | |
| May 4 | 17.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| May 5 | 17.1°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 6 | 17.2°C | 16.8°C | 17.2°C |
| May 7 | 16.8°C | 17.2°C | |
| May 8 | 17.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| May 9 | 16.3°C | 17.3°C | |
| May 10 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| May 11 | 16.8°C | 17.3°C | |
| May 12 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| May 13 | 16.5°C | 17.3°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
May 7
May 8
May 9
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
