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Magnetic Island – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Magnetic Island 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.

Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island © Tom Silva

Current Sea Water Temperature

28.2°C
Today
28.3°C
Yesterday
29.0°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Magnetic Island is about 28°C.

Water Temperature in Magnetic Island: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ Water at this temperature is very warm and feels almost tropical. Swimming is comfortable for most people, even for long periods, with no sensation of cold. These conditions are ideal for relaxed swimming, floating, and water play, especially for families and casual swimmers. However, during very hot weather, the water may feel less refreshing, and short breaks are often welcome.

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

From February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Magnetic Island 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 Magnetic Island 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 1228.8°C29.5°C
Mar 1329.0°C29.3°C
Mar 1429.0°C29.0°C
Mar 1529.0°C29.0°C
Mar 1628.9°C29.0°C
Mar 1728.4°C28.8°C
Mar 1828.3°C28.8°C
Mar 1928.3°C28.8°C
Mar 2028.2°C28.8°C28.2°C
Mar 2128.5°C28.2°C
Mar 2229.0°C28.2°C
Mar 2328.0°C28.2°C
Mar 2428.3°C28.2°C
Mar 2527.8°C28.3°C
Mar 2628.3°C28.3°C
Mar 2728.5°C28.3°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 Magnetic Island 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Magnetic Island sits just offshore from Townsville on Queensland’s North Coast, with the Coral Sea keeping water temperatures warm for most of the year. In summer, from around December to March, sea temperatures are usually between 27 and 29 °C, making the water feel properly tropical. During winter, typically June to August, temperatures ease back to about 22–24 °C, which is still comfortable for swimming, especially on calm, sunny days. Spring and autumn often deliver the most balanced conditions, with water temperatures commonly in the 24–26 °C range and less humidity than mid-summer.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January27°C29°C31°C
February27°C29°C31°C
March27°C29°C31°C
April25°C28°C30°C
May22°C25°C28°C
June20°C24°C26°C
July20°C23°C25°C
August20°C23°C25°C
September21°C24°C27°C
October23°C26°C29°C
November25°C28°C30°C
December26°C28°C31°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Magnetic Island: Weather Forecast

March 21

24°C / 28°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 79% | wind: 14 kmh

March 22

22°C / 28°C
light rain
humidity: 79% | wind: 14 kmh

March 23

22°C / 28°C
clear sky
humidity: 74% | wind: 11 kmh

March 24

22°C / 29°C
light rain
humidity: 74% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Alma Bay

⭐ 3.9/5
27.8°C

Geoffrey Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
29.3°C

Florence Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
27.9°C

Magnetic Island

⭐ 3.2/5
27.7°C

Horseshoe Bay

⭐ 5.0/5
27.2°C

Picnic Bay

⭐ 5.0/5
27.7°C

Picnic Bay Foreshore

⭐ 3.5/5
28.2°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming on Magnetic Island is allowed and popular, particularly in the island’s many sheltered bays. These protected beaches often have calmer water than the mainland, making them suitable for relaxed swimming when conditions are right. During the warmer months, usually from November to May, marine stingers can be present, so swimmers commonly wear stinger suits or choose designated safe areas where available. Outside the stinger season, the clear, warm water and generally gentle conditions make ocean swimming straightforward and enjoyable. With a mix of sheltered beaches and consistently mild sea temperatures, Magnetic Island offers reliable swimming opportunities for most of the year when local conditions are taken into account.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Magnetic Island today?
Sea water temperature in Magnetic Island in the Coral Sea today is 28°C.
What is the water temperature in Magnetic Island during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Magnetic Island typically ranges from 26°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Magnetic Island during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Magnetic Island typically ranges from 22°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Magnetic Island during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Magnetic Island typically ranges from 21°C to 30°C.
What is the water temperature in Magnetic Island during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Magnetic Island typically ranges from 20°C to 26°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Magnetic Island area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Magnetic Island area include: Alma Bay, Geoffrey Bay, Florence Beach, Magnetic Island, Horseshoe Bay.