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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

18.9°C
Today
19.3°C
Yesterday
19.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Glenelg is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Glenelg: 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

From April 6 to May 6

Water temperatures in Glenelg 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 Glenelg will be 17.9°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 2819.6°C20.5°C
Apr 2919.6°C20.3°C
Apr 3019.5°C18.5°C
May 119.4°C19.0°C
May 219.3°C18.5°C
May 319.4°C18.3°C
May 419.3°C17.8°C
May 519.3°C17.0°C
May 618.9°C17.0°C18.9°C
May 717.5°C18.8°C
May 818.0°C18.6°C
May 918.3°C18.5°C
May 1017.3°C18.3°C
May 1117.8°C18.2°C
May 1217.8°C18.1°C
May 1316.8°C17.9°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

May 7

12°C / 14°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 64% | wind: 18 kmh

May 8

14°C / 17°C
light rain
humidity: 81% | wind: 14 kmh

May 9

13°C / 17°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 11 kmh

May 10

14°C / 18°C
clear sky
humidity: 66% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Glenelg Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
18.3°C

Glenelg North Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
19.8°C

Wattle Reserve

⭐ 3.5/5
18.7°C

Somerton Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
17.7°C

Brighton Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
19.4°C

West Beach

⭐ 4.8/5
18.6°C

Henley Beach South

⭐ 4.4/5
18.0°C

Seacliff Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
18.6°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
18.9°C

Y-Steps

⭐ 3/5
19.0°C

South Port Adelaide

⭐ 2/5
19.8°C

Triggs Beach Adelaide

⭐ 2/5
18.3°C

Seaford Reef

⭐ 2/5
18.4°C

South Moana Reefs

⭐ 3/5
19.2°C

North Moana Beach

⭐ 2/5
19.7°C

The Trough

⭐ 1/5
19.4°C
28 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Maslin Beach

⭐ 2/5
20.2°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 19°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.