Gibson Steps – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Gibson Steps in Victoria. 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 Gibson Steps is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Gibson Steps: 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 Gibson Steps 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 Gibson Steps 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 17.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 17.9°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 17.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 17.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.4°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 17.3°C | 18.0°C | 17.3°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.8°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 18.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 25 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 26 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.0°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 Gibson Steps 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
Gibson Steps sits beneath towering limestone cliffs on a dramatic stretch of Victoria’s far western coastline, directly exposed to the Great Australian Bight. This open-ocean position keeps water temperatures cool year-round. In summer, the sea is usually around 16–19°C, which can feel quite cold even on warm days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 14–17°C, while winter is distinctly chilly, often around 11–13°C. Spring is slow to warm, with water temperatures commonly between 12–15°C, and sudden changes are possible after strong southerly weather.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| February | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| March | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 15°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| December | 14°C | 16°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Gibson Steps: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Gibson Beach
Gibson Steps Beach
Twelve Apostles Beach
Loch Ard Gorge
Gibson Steps
Princetown Beach
Rivernook Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Gibson Steps, but it is not generally recommended for casual swimmers. The beach is narrow, with strong waves, powerful rips and rapidly changing conditions, and access is affected by tides. There are no patrols, and the cliffs limit safe exit points if conditions worsen. Most people who enter the water do so only briefly and usually in wetsuits, even during summer. Overall, Gibson Steps offers clean, wild ocean water in a spectacular setting, but swimming here is best suited to experienced ocean users who carefully assess conditions and understand the risks of this exposed Great Australian Bight coastline.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Gibson Steps
Point Ronald and Princetown
The Jetty
Easter Reef
Luna Park
The Well
Massacres
Bay of Martyrs
Johanna
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: National Park, Great Ocean Rd, Port Campbell VIC 3269
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
