Headstone Point – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Headstone Point in Norfolk Island. 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 Headstone Point is about 22°C.
Water Temperature in Headstone Point: 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
Water temperatures in Headstone Point 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 Headstone Point will be 22.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 22.6°C | 22.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 22.4°C | 23.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 22.2°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 1 | 22.1°C | 22.5°C | |
| May 2 | 21.8°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 3 | 21.8°C | 22.8°C | |
| May 4 | 21.9°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 5 | 21.7°C | 21.8°C | |
| May 6 | 21.9°C | 21.8°C | 21.9°C |
| May 7 | 22.0°C | 22.0°C | |
| May 8 | 21.8°C | 22.0°C | |
| May 9 | 22.8°C | 22.1°C | |
| May 10 | 22.8°C | 22.2°C | |
| May 11 | 22.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 12 | 22.5°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 13 | 22.0°C | 22.4°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 Headstone Point 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
Headstone Point sits on the rugged coastline of Norfolk Island, where the Pacific Ocean brings clear water and a mild, subtropical feel through most of the year. Sea temperatures here change gradually with the seasons rather than sharply. In summer, from December to February, the water usually sits around 23–25 °C, which feels comfortably warm for swimming. Autumn sees temperatures ease back to roughly 21–23 °C, while winter is cooler but still manageable at about 19–21 °C. During spring, the sea slowly warms again, typically ranging between 21–23 °C as calmer weather becomes more common.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| February | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| March | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| April | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| June | 18°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 21°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| September | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| October | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| November | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| December | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Headstone Point: Weather Forecast
May 7
May 8
May 9
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Emily Bay
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Headstone Point is allowed, but it’s not considered an easy or casual swimming location. The coastline here is exposed, with rocky edges, reef, and open ocean swell, which can create strong surge and unpredictable conditions. There are no sheltered sandy beaches at the point itself, so swimming is generally limited to very calm days and experienced swimmers who are confident with ocean conditions. Even with mild water temperatures, entry and exit can be challenging, and conditions can change quickly. For most visitors, Headstone Point is better suited to coastal walks and enjoying the dramatic scenery. Overall, it offers swimmable water temperatures for much of the year, but practical swimming opportunities depend heavily on calm seas and careful judgement.