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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

22.6°C
Today
22.6°C
Yesterday
22.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Magnetic Island is about 23°C.

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

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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 May 22 to June 21

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 22.5°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
Jun 1322.8°C23.5°C
Jun 1422.9°C23.5°C
Jun 1522.9°C23.3°C
Jun 1622.8°C23.3°C
Jun 1722.8°C23.0°C
Jun 1822.7°C23.5°C
Jun 1922.7°C23.0°C
Jun 2022.6°C23.0°C
Jun 2122.6°C23.0°C22.6°C
Jun 2223.3°C22.6°C
Jun 2322.8°C22.6°C
Jun 2422.8°C22.6°C
Jun 2523.0°C22.6°C
Jun 2622.8°C22.6°C
Jun 2722.5°C22.5°C
Jun 2823.5°C22.5°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

June 22

18°C / 24°C
light rain
humidity: 82% | wind: 11 kmh

June 23

17°C / 24°C
light rain
humidity: 80% | wind: 14 kmh

June 24

16°C / 23°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Alma Bay

⭐ 3.9/5
21.9°C

Geoffrey Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
23.5°C

Florence Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
22.5°C

Magnetic Island

⭐ 3.2/5
23.4°C

Horseshoe Bay

⭐ 5.0/5
22.4°C

Picnic Bay

⭐ 5.0/5
21.6°C

Picnic Bay Foreshore

⭐ 3.5/5
21.4°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 23°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.