Gladstone – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Gladstone in Queensland. 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 Gladstone is about 20°C.
Water Temperature in Gladstone: 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
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Gladstone have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Gladstone will be 20.4°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 | 20.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| Aug 17 | 19.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 18 | 20.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 19 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| Aug 20 | 19.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 21 | 19.7°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 22 | 19.6°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 23 | 19.6°C | 19.8°C | 19.6°C |
| Aug 24 | 20.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| Aug 25 | 20.8°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 26 | 20.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 27 | 21.0°C | 20.1°C | |
| Aug 28 | 20.8°C | 20.2°C | |
| Aug 29 | 20.8°C | 20.3°C | |
| Aug 30 | 21.0°C | 20.4°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 Gladstone 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
Gladstone sits in Central Queensland on the edge of the Coral Sea, and the water here stays relatively warm across the year, though a touch cooler than further north. In summer, from around December to March, sea temperatures are typically in the 25–27 °C range, making the water comfortable for swimming despite the warmer air and humidity. During winter, usually June to August, temperatures ease back to about 19–21 °C, which can feel cool at first but is still swimmable on sunny, calm days. Spring and autumn often provide the most balanced conditions, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 22–24 °C and more settled weather.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| February | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| March | 25°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| April | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| May | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| July | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| September | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| November | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| December | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Gladstone: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Gladstone is allowed, but it is more location-specific than in smaller beach towns. Much of the coastline forms part of a busy harbour and port area, so swimming is generally limited to nearby beaches, bays, and designated safe spots rather than the main harbour waters. Tides can influence water clarity and movement, and conditions vary day to day. During the warmer months, usually from November to May, marine stingers may be present, so swimmers often wear stinger suits or choose managed areas. Outside the stinger season, calmer coastal spots around Gladstone can offer pleasant swimming when local conditions are right.
