Mackay Harbour – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Mackay Harbour in Queensland. 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 Mackay Harbour is about 27°C.
Water Temperature in Mackay Harbour: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ This is warm water that suits almost everyone. Swimming feels easy and pleasant, even for extended stays, and there is little risk of discomfort from cooling. These temperatures are ideal for family swimming, snorkelling, and most water activities, offering a good balance between comfort and refreshment.
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 Mackay Harbour 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 Mackay Harbour will be 28.3°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 | 28.1°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 28.0°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 28.0°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 28.1°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 28.1°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 27.8°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 27.7°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 27.6°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 27.4°C | 28.0°C | 27.4°C |
| Mar 21 | 28.0°C | 27.5°C | |
| Mar 22 | 28.3°C | 27.7°C | |
| Mar 23 | 28.3°C | 27.8°C | |
| Mar 24 | 27.7°C | 27.9°C | |
| Mar 25 | 27.7°C | 28.1°C | |
| Mar 26 | 28.7°C | 28.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 28.0°C | 28.3°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 Mackay Harbour 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
Mackay Harbour sits on Queensland’s North Coast, opening onto the Coral Sea, where water temperatures remain warm through most of the year. In summer, from around December to March, the sea typically sits between 27 and 29 °C, making the water feel very comfortable despite the heat and humidity on land. During winter, usually June to August, temperatures drop only slightly to about 22–24 °C, which is still mild enough for swimming on sunny days. Spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions overall, with water temperatures commonly ranging from 24–26 °C and lighter coastal winds.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| May | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| June | 20°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| July | 20°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| November | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| December | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Mackay Harbour: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Mackay Beach
Harbour Beach
Illawong Beach
Jayel Rockpool
Lamberts Beach
Lamberts Lookout
Slade Bay
Far Beach
Blacks Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Mackay Harbour is allowed, but it is more situational than at nearby open beaches. The harbour area is an active working port, so swimming is generally limited to nearby sheltered sections and calmer conditions rather than busy shipping zones. Tides can influence water clarity and movement, and swimmers are best to be cautious and choose quiet areas. As with much of tropical Queensland, marine stingers may be present during the warmer months, typically from November to May, so stinger suits are commonly used at that time. Outside the stinger season, the warm water and sheltered setting can suit short, casual swims when conditions are calm and local advice is followed.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
South Wall Mackay Harbour
North Wall Mackay Harbour Beach
Lamberts Beach
Eimeo Point
Dolphin Heads
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Mackay Region
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
