Kiama – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Kiama in New South Wales. 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 Kiama is about 16°C.
Water Temperature in Kiama: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.
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
While water temperatures in Kiama declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Kiama will be 17.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 15.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 15.4°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 17 | 15.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 16.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 15.8°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 20 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| Aug 21 | 16.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 22 | 15.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 23 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | 16.0°C |
| Aug 24 | 18.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| Aug 25 | 18.3°C | 16.5°C | |
| Aug 26 | 18.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| Aug 27 | 18.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| Aug 28 | 18.3°C | 17.3°C | |
| Aug 29 | 18.3°C | 17.6°C | |
| Aug 30 | 18.3°C | 17.8°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 Kiama 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
Kiama sits on the Illawarra coast beside the Tasman Sea and experiences water temperatures that follow a clear seasonal cycle. In summer, the ocean usually warms to around 21–24 °C, which is comfortable for swimming, snorkelling, and spending longer periods in the water. Autumn often holds onto that warmth, with sea temperatures commonly ranging from 19–22 °C, while spring starts cooler at about 17–20 °C as conditions gradually improve. Winter brings the coldest water, typically around 16–18 °C, which can feel brisk but is still swimmable for short sessions, especially for locals or anyone wearing a wetsuit.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 19°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Kiama: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Kendalls Beach
Kiama Surf Beach
Black Beach
Easts Beach
Bombo Beach
Loves Beach
The Boneyard Beach
Jones Beach
Minnamurra
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Kiama is allowed and well catered for, with a mix of ocean beaches and protected ocean pools. While the open beaches are exposed to Tasman Sea swells and can have waves and currents, they are popular with confident swimmers on calmer days, particularly in the warmer months. The local ocean pools provide a safer and more sheltered option, offering year-round access to seawater without the full force of the surf. This variety means swimmers can usually find suitable conditions regardless of season. Overall, Kiama offers reliable seasonal water temperatures and diverse swimming options, making it a consistent choice for coastal swimming along the Illawarra.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Kiama Pool
Kiama Wedge
Bombo Beach
Boneyard
Werri Beach
Mystics
The Farm
Werri Point
Seven Mile Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Municipality of Kiama
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
