K'gari – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at K'gari 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 K'gari is about 24°C.
Water Temperature in K'gari: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ Water in this range is comfortably warm and widely considered ideal for swimming. Most people can stay in the water for a long time without feeling cold. It works well for families, recreational swimming, and active water sports such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
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 K'gari 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 K'gari will be 23.8°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 | 24.2°C | 25.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 24.2°C | 26.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 24.0°C | 24.5°C | |
| May 1 | 24.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| May 2 | 23.8°C | 24.3°C | |
| May 3 | 23.8°C | 24.0°C | |
| May 4 | 23.6°C | 24.8°C | |
| May 5 | 23.8°C | 24.0°C | |
| May 6 | 23.9°C | 24.0°C | 23.9°C |
| May 7 | 24.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| May 8 | 24.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| May 9 | 24.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| May 10 | 23.8°C | 23.9°C | |
| May 11 | 23.5°C | 23.9°C | |
| May 12 | 23.8°C | 23.8°C | |
| May 13 | 23.3°C | 23.8°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 K'gari 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
K’gari sits off the Central Queensland coast in the Coral Sea, and the water temperature here reflects its position between the tropics and the subtropics. In summer, from around December to March, sea temperatures are usually in the 24–26 °C range, making the water feel warm and inviting on hot days. During winter, typically June to August, temperatures drop to about 18–20 °C, which can feel cool at first but is still swimmable under clear skies and light winds. Spring and autumn often offer the most comfortable balance, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 21–23 °C and more settled weather conditions.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| February | 25°C | 28°C | 29°C |
| March | 25°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| April | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| May | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| July | 18°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| August | 18°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| September | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| November | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| December | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
K'gari: Weather Forecast
May 7
May 8
May 9
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Swimming Conditions
Swimming on K'gari is allowed, but it comes with important considerations. The island’s eastern beaches face the open ocean and are known for strong currents, powerful surf, and sudden drop-offs, which means swimming in the open sea is generally not recommended. Instead, many visitors choose to swim in the island’s freshwater lakes and creeks, which offer calm, clear water in natural settings. During the warmer months, marine stingers may also be present in the surrounding sea, adding another reason for caution. Overall, while ocean swimming is limited by conditions, K’gari still offers excellent swimming opportunities in safer inland waters, provided local advice is followed.
