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.

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.9°C

Today

21.0°C

Yesterday

21.5°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Glenelg is about 21°C.

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

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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 February 18 to March 20

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 20.6°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	19.9°C	20.8°C
Mar 13	20.5°C	21.3°C
Mar 14	21.5°C	21.5°C
Mar 15	21.5°C	20.8°C
Mar 16	21.1°C	20.8°C
Mar 17	21.1°C	20.8°C
Mar 18	20.9°C	20.5°C
Mar 19	21.0°C	20.8°C
Mar 20	20.9°C	20.8°C	20.9°C
Mar 21		20.3°C	20.9°C
Mar 22		20.3°C	20.8°C
Mar 23		20.0°C	20.8°C
Mar 24		20.0°C	20.7°C
Mar 25		19.5°C	20.7°C
Mar 26		20.5°C	20.7°C
Mar 27		19.5°C	20.6°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
January	17°C	21°C	23°C
February	18°C	21°C	23°C
March	17°C	20°C	23°C
April	16°C	19°C	22°C
May	15°C	17°C	20°C
June	13°C	15°C	17°C
July	11°C	14°C	16°C
August	11°C	13°C	15°C
September	12°C	14°C	16°C
October	12°C	15°C	18°C
November	15°C	17°C	20°C
December	16°C	19°C	21°C

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

Glenelg: Weather Forecast

March 21

20°C / 25°C

clear sky

humidity: 55% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

20°C / 27°C

clear sky

humidity: 50% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

23°C / 28°C

few clouds: 11-25%

humidity: 45% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Glenelg Beach

⭐ 5.0/5

21.3°C

Glenelg North Beach

⭐ 3.5/5

19.8°C

Wattle Reserve

⭐ 3.5/5

20.5°C

Somerton Beach

⭐ 5.0/5

20.5°C

Brighton Beach

⭐ 3.9/5

20.3°C

West Beach

⭐ 4.8/5

19.9°C

Brighton Beach - Adelaide

⭐ 3.7/5

19.8°C

Henley Beach South

⭐ 4.4/5

22.1°C

Seacliff Beach

⭐ 5.0/5

21.1°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.