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
The average sea water temperature today in Kurnell is about 16°C.
Water Temperature in Kurnell: 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 Kurnell declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Kurnell will be 18.0°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 | 15.9°C | 17.3°C | |
| Aug 16 | 15.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 16.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 18 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 15.9°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 20 | 16.2°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 21 | 16.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 22 | 16.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 16.3°C | 18.0°C | 16.3°C |
| Aug 24 | 18.8°C | 16.5°C | |
| Aug 25 | 18.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| Aug 26 | 18.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| Aug 27 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Aug 28 | 18.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 29 | 18.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| Aug 30 | 18.5°C | 18.0°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
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
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Silver Beach
Kurnell Dog Beach
Kurnell Beach
Henry Head
Towra Beach
Congwong Beach
Congwong Bay 2
Frenchmans Beach
Little Congwong Beach
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.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Green Hills
Voodoo
Cronulla
Elouera (Cronulla)
Shark Island (Cronulla)
Cronulla -The Wall
Cronulla Point
Maroubra Beach
Malabar
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Sutherland Shire
Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
