Kingscliff – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Kingscliff 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 Kingscliff is about 18°C.
Water Temperature in Kingscliff: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.
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 Kingscliff declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Kingscliff will be 20.3°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 | 18.1°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 16 | 18.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 17 | 17.9°C | 20.3°C | |
| Aug 18 | 18.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 18.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 18.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| Aug 21 | 18.2°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 22 | 18.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 18.2°C | 20.0°C | 18.2°C |
| Aug 24 | 21.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 25 | 20.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 26 | 21.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| Aug 27 | 21.0°C | 19.4°C | |
| Aug 28 | 20.8°C | 19.7°C | |
| Aug 29 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 30 | 21.3°C | 20.3°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 Kingscliff 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
Kingscliff sits on the far north coast of New South Wales, fronting the Coral Sea and enjoying a warm, subtropical marine climate. Water temperatures here are inviting for much of the year. Through summer, the ocean typically reaches around 25–27 °C, making swimming comfortable even for long sessions in the water. Autumn often holds onto that warmth, with sea temperatures commonly between 23–25 °C and relatively settled conditions. Spring begins cooler at roughly 21–23 °C, then warms steadily as the season progresses. Winter is the coolest time of year, but the sea usually stays around 19–21 °C, which many locals still find swimmable, especially on bright, calm days.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| February | 25°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| March | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| April | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| May | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| June | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| October | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| November | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| December | 22°C | 25°C | 27°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Kingscliff: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Kingscliff Beach
South Kingscliff Beach
Casuarina Beach
Dreamtime Beach
Bogangar Beach
Fingal Head Beach
Cabarita Beach
Norries Head
Letitia Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed and very popular in Kingscliff, thanks to its long sandy beaches and generally consistent conditions. Patrolled areas provide safer options, particularly during busier months, as surf and currents can vary depending on weather and swell. On calmer days, the water is clear and temperatures remain steady, making the beach suitable for both casual swimmers and those looking to spend more time in the ocean. Overall, Kingscliff offers reliable water temperatures and good swimming opportunities across most of the year, provided swimmers stay aware of daily conditions and choose appropriate areas to enter the water.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Fingal Point and Beach
Casuarina Beach
Dreamtime
Cabarita
Norries Head
Tweed River Breakwall
Greenmount
Snapper Rocks
Duranbah
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Northern Rivers, Tweed Shire
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
