King Island – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at King Island in Tasmania. 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 King Island is about 14°C.
Water Temperature in King Island: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.
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 King Islandfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in King Island will be 13.5°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 14 | 13.8°C | 12.8°C | |
| Aug 15 | 13.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 13.9°C | 13.3°C | |
| Aug 17 | 13.9°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 18 | 13.9°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 19 | 13.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 13.9°C | 12.8°C | |
| Aug 21 | 13.9°C | 12.8°C | |
| Aug 22 | 13.9°C | 12.8°C | 13.9°C |
| Aug 23 | 13.3°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 24 | 13.3°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 25 | 13.0°C | 13.7°C | |
| Aug 26 | 12.5°C | 13.7°C | |
| Aug 27 | 12.8°C | 13.6°C | |
| Aug 28 | 13.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 29 | 13.0°C | 13.5°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 King Island 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
King Island lies in the western Bass Strait between Tasmania and mainland Australia, and its position gives it some of the coolest and most energetic coastal waters in the region. Sea temperatures remain low throughout the year. In summer, from December to February, the water generally reaches around 15–17 °C, which is refreshing but never truly warm. Autumn brings a gradual drop to about 13–15 °C, while winter is coldest, often sitting near 11–12 °C. Spring sees a slow recovery, with temperatures usually ranging between 12–14 °C as weather systems become more settled.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| February | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| March | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 15°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| December | 14°C | 16°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
King Island: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
British Admiral Beach
Colliboi Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming on King Island is allowed, but conditions vary greatly depending on location. Much of the coastline is exposed to strong Bass Strait swells, powerful winds, and currents, which makes open-ocean swimming suitable only for experienced and confident swimmers. On calmer days, sheltered beaches and bays provide safer options for short swims and cooling dips, particularly in summer. Even then, most swimmers limit their time in the water due to the cold, and wetsuits are common outside peak season. Overall, King Island offers striking coastal scenery and refreshing cold-water swimming, best enjoyed with careful attention to weather, sea conditions, and local knowledge.
