Margaret River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Margaret River in Western Australia. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Margaret River today is 20°C.
Water Temperature in Margaret River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Margaret River have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Margaret River will be 21.0°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 19.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.1°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 20.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 20.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 20.2°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 20.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 20.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 20.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 20.0°C | 21.0°C | 20.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 21.0°C | 20.1°C | |
| Mar 22 | 21.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 21.0°C | 20.4°C | |
| Mar 24 | 21.0°C | 20.6°C | |
| Mar 25 | 21.0°C | 20.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 21.0°C | 20.8°C | |
| Mar 27 | 21.0°C | 21.0°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| February | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| March | 16°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| April | 13°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| June | 11°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| July | 11°C | 12°C | 13°C |
| August | 12°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| September | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| October | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
Location & Local Information
The Margaret River flows through forest, farmland, and coastal bushland before meeting the Indian Ocean at Prevelly, and its water temperatures are noticeably milder than the nearby ocean. In summer, from December to February, river temperatures usually sit around 20–24°C, making the water feel warm and inviting, especially on hot days. Autumn remains comfortable at roughly 18–22°C, while winter sees a clear cool-down, often around 12–15°C after rainfall and cooler nights. Spring brings a steady rise again, with temperatures commonly in the 16–20°C range as air temperatures improve and flow levels settle.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Margaret River is allowed and very popular, particularly in the calmer inland sections away from the river mouth. These stretches tend to have gentle currents, shaded banks, and deeper pools that suit relaxed swimming, floating, and family-friendly dips. In summer, the river is ideal for longer swims without the need for wetsuits, offering a peaceful alternative to the often windy coastline. During spring and autumn, shorter swims are still comfortable, while winter swimming is generally brief due to cooler water and higher flows. Overall, the Margaret River provides excellent swimming opportunities for much of the year, combining relatively warm freshwater with sheltered, easy-going conditions that suit a wide range of swimmers.