Kurnell – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Kurnell 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

19.9°C

Today

19.9°C

Yesterday

19.2°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Kurnell is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in Kurnell: 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

From September 15 to October 15

Water temperatures in Kurnell have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Kurnell will be 19.6°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
Oct 7	19.1°C	18.8°C
Oct 8	19.1°C	19.3°C
Oct 9	19.2°C	19.3°C
Oct 10	19.4°C	18.8°C
Oct 11	19.4°C	19.3°C
Oct 12	19.5°C	19.3°C
Oct 13	19.9°C	19.5°C
Oct 14	19.9°C	19.3°C
Oct 15	19.9°C	19.3°C	19.9°C
Oct 16		19.3°C	19.9°C
Oct 17		19.3°C	19.8°C
Oct 18		19.5°C	19.8°C
Oct 19		19.3°C	19.7°C
Oct 20		19.3°C	19.7°C
Oct 21		19.5°C	19.7°C
Oct 22		19.8°C	19.6°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 Kurnell 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

30°C

25°C

20°C

15°C

10°c

5°C

0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Kurnell sits on the southern side of Botany Bay, where water conditions are shaped more by the enclosed bay than the open Tasman Sea. As a result, temperatures tend to be steady and follow Sydney’s familiar seasonal cycle. In summer, from December to March, water temperatures are usually around 21–24 °C, which most people find comfortable for regular swimming. Autumn brings a gradual drop to about 19–21 °C. Winter is the coolest period, typically sitting between 16–18 °C, while spring sees the water slowly warm again into the 18–20 °C range as air temperatures and sunshine increase.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	20°C	23°C	25°C
February	22°C	24°C	26°C
March	20°C	23°C	26°C
April	19°C	23°C	25°C
May	16°C	21°C	24°C
June	15°C	20°C	23°C
July	15°C	19°C	21°C
August	15°C	19°C	20°C
September	16°C	18°C	20°C
October	16°C	19°C	21°C
November	18°C	20°C	22°C
December	18°C	21°C	25°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Kurnell: Weather Forecast

October 16

15°C / 19°C

light rain

humidity: 65% | wind: 11 kmh

October 17

14°C / 19°C

clear sky

humidity: 65% | wind: 7 kmh

October 18

14°C / 19°C

clear sky

humidity: 75% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Silver Beach

⭐ 5.0/5

19.3°C

Kurnell Dog Beach

⭐ 3.9/5

19.8°C

Kurnell Beach

⭐ 3.3/5

20.3°C

Henry Head

⭐ 3.5/5

19.3°C

Towra Beach

⭐ 2.9/5

20.2°C

Congwong Beach

⭐ 4.9/5

20.4°C

Congwong Bay 2

⭐ 3.9/5

20.4°C

Frenchmans Beach

⭐ 3.5/5

19.2°C

Little Congwong Beach

⭐ 2.7/5

19.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Kurnell is allowed and generally well suited to relaxed, low-energy swimming. The bay setting means waves are usually small and conditions are calmer than at nearby ocean-facing beaches, with strong rips being uncommon. This makes Kurnell appealing for casual swimmers, families, and those who prefer quieter water. Conditions can still vary with wind direction, tides, and boat traffic, so awareness is important, especially outside peak times when patrols may be limited. In winter, many regular swimmers choose to wear wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Kurnell offers reliable swimming conditions in a sheltered bay environment, ideal for those seeking calmer water without venturing far from the coast.