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Glenelg – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Glenelg in South 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.

Glenelg
Glenelg © Vaughan Dunn

Current Sea Water Temperature

13.9°C
Today
13.8°C
Yesterday
13.7°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Glenelg is about 14°C.

Water Temperature in Glenelg: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

❌ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.

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

From July 23 to August 22

Water temperatures in Glenelg 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 Glenelg will be 13.3°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
Aug 1513.5°C13.0°C
Aug 1613.5°C13.3°C
Aug 1713.7°C13.0°C
Aug 1813.7°C13.3°C
Aug 1913.6°C13.0°C
Aug 2013.8°C13.0°C
Aug 2113.8°C13.3°C
Aug 2213.8°C13.3°C
Aug 2313.9°C13.3°C13.9°C
Aug 2413.0°C13.8°C
Aug 2513.5°C13.7°C
Aug 2613.3°C13.6°C
Aug 2713.3°C13.5°C
Aug 2813.5°C13.5°C
Aug 2913.0°C13.4°C
Aug 3013.3°C13.3°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 Glenelg 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Glenelg is one of South Australia’s best-known seaside spots, set on the sheltered side of the Great Australian Bight and right on Adelaide’s doorstep. Water temperatures here are relatively mild by southern standards. In summer, from December through February, the sea usually sits around 18–21°C, warm enough for comfortable swims without feeling tropical. Autumn stays pleasant at about 17–19°C, while winter brings cooler conditions, commonly 13–15°C, when the water feels brisk but still manageable for short dips. Spring sees a gradual rise again, typically 15–17°C, with calmer days feeling surprisingly inviting.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January17°C21°C23°C
February18°C21°C23°C
March17°C20°C23°C
April16°C19°C22°C
May15°C17°C20°C
June13°C15°C17°C
July11°C14°C16°C
August11°C13°C15°C
September12°C14°C16°C
October12°C15°C18°C
November15°C17°C20°C
December16°C19°C21°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Glenelg: Weather Forecast

August 23

13°C / 19°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 67% | wind: 7 kmh

August 24

12°C / 16°C
light rain
humidity: 89% | wind: 7 kmh

August 25

13°C / 15°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 82% | wind: 11 kmh

August 26

9°C / 15°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 77% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Glenelg Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
14.5°C

Glenelg North Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
14.9°C

Wattle Reserve

⭐ 3.5/5
15.0°C

Somerton Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
14.2°C

Brighton Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
12.7°C

West Beach

⭐ 4.8/5
13.6°C

Henley Beach South

⭐ 4.4/5
14.1°C

Seacliff Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
13.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Glenelg is not only allowed but actively encouraged, thanks to its sandy bottom, gentle gradient, and generally predictable conditions. The beach is patrolled during the warmer months, and the absence of major reefs or strong shore breaks makes it suitable for families and casual swimmers. On most summer days, the water is calm enough for an easy float or a long paddle, while winter swimming tends to attract locals used to cooler temperatures or those wearing wetsuits. Overall, Glenelg offers some of the most accessible and reliable swimming conditions in South Australia, combining cool but swimmable water with a safe, urban beach setting.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Christies Reef

⭐ 3/5
12.6°C

Y-Steps

⭐ 3/5
13.5°C

South Port Adelaide

⭐ 2/5
12.8°C

Triggs Beach Adelaide

⭐ 2/5
12.8°C

Seaford Reef

⭐ 2/5
13.0°C

South Moana Reefs

⭐ 3/5
15.1°C

North Moana Beach

⭐ 2/5
13.4°C

The Trough

⭐ 1/5
13.1°C
28 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Maslin Beach

⭐ 2/5
13.0°C
28 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Glenelg today?
Sea water temperature in Glenelg in the Great Australian Bight today is 14°C.
What is the water temperature in Glenelg during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Glenelg typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Glenelg during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Glenelg typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Glenelg during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Glenelg typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Glenelg during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Glenelg typically ranges from 11°C to 17°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Glenelg area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Glenelg area include: Glenelg Beach, Glenelg North Beach, Wattle Reserve, Somerton Beach, West Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Glenelg?
Some of the closest surf spots near Glenelg include Y-Steps, Christies Reef, South Port Adelaide.