Little Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Little Bay 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 Little Bay is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Little Bay: 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 Little Bay declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Little Bay will be 18.1°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 | 16.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| Aug 16 | 16.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 16.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 16.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 16.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 23 | 16.8°C | 18.3°C | 16.8°C |
| Aug 24 | 18.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| Aug 25 | 18.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| Aug 26 | 18.8°C | 17.4°C | |
| Aug 27 | 18.5°C | 17.6°C | |
| Aug 28 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 29 | 18.5°C | 17.9°C | |
| Aug 30 | 18.5°C | 18.1°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 Little Bay 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
Little Bay is a sheltered cove on Sydney’s southern coastline, opening to the Tasman Sea but protected by headlands that soften the impact of ocean swells. Water temperatures follow the usual seasonal cycle for this part of New South Wales. In summer, from December to March, the water is generally warmest, sitting around 21–24 °C and comfortable for most swimmers. Autumn sees a gradual cooling to roughly 19–21 °C. Winter brings the coldest conditions, typically around 16–18 °C, while spring marks a steady warm-up back into the 18–20 °C range as the season shifts.
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.
Little Bay: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Yarra Bay
Malabar Beach
Little Congwong Beach
Henry Head
Frenchmans Beach
Cruwee Cove Beach
Congwong Beach
Cape Banks
Bumbora Point
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Little Bay Beach is allowed and well suited to a wide range of abilities. Thanks to its bay-style layout, waves are usually smaller than on fully exposed surf beaches, and strong rips are less common. This makes Little Bay appealing for relaxed ocean swimming, snorkelling, and longer dips on calm days. The beach is often patrolled during peak periods, and swimmers are encouraged to use the safest areas when flags are in place. In cooler months, regular swimmers often wear wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Little Bay offers reliable, calmer ocean swimming while still delivering a genuine open-sea feel.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Malabar
Maroubra Beach
Lurline Bay
Coogee
Clovelly Bombie
Bronte Reef or Bunnies
Tamarama Reef
Mckenzies Bay
Bronte Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Randwick
Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
