Lighthouse Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Lighthouse Beach 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 Lighthouse Beach is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Lighthouse Beach: 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
Water temperatures in Lighthouse Beach have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Lighthouse Beach will be 18.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 17.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 17.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 17.7°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 17.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 17.2°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 17.1°C | 19.0°C | 17.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 19.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.7°C | 17.5°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.0°C | 18.4°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 Lighthouse Beach 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
Lighthouse Beach sits on Tasmania’s wild west coast, facing the full force of the Indian Ocean, and the water here reflects that exposure year-round. Sea temperatures are consistently low, even in the warmer months. During summer, from December to February, the water usually sits around 14–16 °C, which feels cold despite milder air temperatures. Autumn brings a slight cooling to roughly 13–15 °C, while winter is the coldest period, often around 10–12 °C. In spring, the ocean slowly warms again, generally ranging between 11–13 °C, though rapid weather changes can make the water feel colder at times.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| February | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| March | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| June | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| December | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Lighthouse Beach: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Lighthouse Beach is allowed, but it’s not suited to casual or inexperienced swimmers. The beach is fully exposed to powerful Indian Ocean swells, with strong waves, persistent currents, and frequent rough conditions. Calm days do occur, mainly in summer, but they are the exception rather than the rule. When conditions allow, confident swimmers may take short dips close to shore, usually wearing wetsuits to manage the cold and wind. For most visitors, swimming is secondary to coastal walks and enjoying the dramatic scenery. Overall, Lighthouse Beach offers true cold-water ocean swimming in a remote setting, where safety depends heavily on weather, swell, and local awareness.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Lighthouse Beach
Nettley Bay Point
Nettley Bay Reefs
Greens Point Beach
Mount Cameron
Church Bay
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
