Macquarie Heads – current water temperature and swimming conditions

Water Temperature in Macquarie Heads: 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 Macquarie Heads declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Macquarie Heads will be 14.7°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month

Monthly Water Temp Ranges

30°C

25°C

20°C

15°C

10°c

5°C

0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Macquarie Heads sits at the entrance to Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania’s remote west coast, where sheltered harbour waters meet the open Indian Ocean. This setting creates a mix of conditions, but temperatures stay cold year-round. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures generally range from about 14–16 °C in the ocean, with slightly milder conditions inside the harbour on calm days. Autumn sees a gradual drop to around 13–15 °C, while winter is the coldest period, typically about 10–12 °C. Spring brings a slow and modest warm-up, with water temperatures usually sitting between 11–13 °C, often influenced by wind and changing weather.