Lake Cootharaba – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Cootharaba in Queensland. Here you can view recent temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. A 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of swimming suitability are also included.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Lake Cootharaba today is 25°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Cootharaba: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ Lake water between 20 and 25°C offers very comfortable swimming conditions for most people. Combined with warm air temperatures and calm weather, this range is ideal for extended swims and family activities. Because lakes lack strong currents, the water often feels gentler and warmer than rivers. Even with light cloud cover, swimming remains enjoyable.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Cootharaba have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Cootharaba will be 23.9°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 25.2°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 13 | 25.1°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 25.8°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 26.0°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 24.8°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 24.8°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 24.8°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 24.8°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 24.6°C | 23.8°C | 24.6°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.8°C | 24.5°C | |
| Mar 22 | 23.8°C | 24.4°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.8°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.8°C | 24.2°C | |
| Mar 25 | 23.8°C | 24.1°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.8°C | 24.0°C | |
| Mar 27 | 23.8°C | 23.9°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual lake water temperatures may differ from the reported values by several degrees, particularly during periods of strong winds or rapid weather changes. Wind can mix surface and deeper layers in a lake, bringing cooler water to the surface, while shallow areas may warm more quickly under direct sunlight. Air temperature, sunshine, and cloud cover strongly influence how quickly a lake heats up or cools down. These factors can lead to noticeable temperature variations across different parts of the lake.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time lake temperature observations, historical trends, seasonal cycles, wind strength and direction, and region-specific air temperature. To enhance accuracy, we also incorporate data from nearby monitored locations and comparable lakes within Australia.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 23°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| February | 24°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| March | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| April | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| May | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| July | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| August | 13°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| October | 18°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| November | 21°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| December | 23°C | 24°C | 28°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Cootharaba is the largest lake in the Noosa system and sits just inland from the coast, exposed to open skies and steady coastal breezes. Water temperature here follows the Sunshine Coast’s subtropical climate but can feel cooler than nearby rivers due to wind and the lake’s broad, shallow expanse. In summer, the lake typically sits around 22–26°C, which is comfortable for swimming, though the breeze can make it feel cooler. Spring and autumn usually range between 18–22°C, still suitable on warm, calm days. During winter, water temperatures commonly drop to about 15–18°C, making swimming more refreshing and better suited to short dips.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Lake Cootharaba is allowed and enjoyed in sheltered areas, particularly near the shoreline where conditions are calmer. The lake is shallow and mostly freshwater, with gentle conditions and no surf, which suits casual swimming. However, it can become choppy when winds pick up, and water quality may vary slightly with weather and rainfall. After heavy rain, runoff can cool the water and reduce clarity for a short time. Overall, Lake Cootharaba offers seasonal swimming opportunities, best enjoyed in summer and calm weather, providing a relaxed inland option for those wanting open water without the waves of the nearby ocean.