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Melbourne – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Melbourne in Victoria. 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.

Melbourne
Melbourne © By Canley, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.1°C
Today
20.0°C
Yesterday
19.6°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Melbourne is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in Melbourne: 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 February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Melbourne have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Melbourne will be 19.5°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
Mar 1219.5°C19.3°C
Mar 1319.3°C19.8°C
Mar 1419.6°C19.5°C
Mar 1520.9°C19.8°C
Mar 1620.5°C19.5°C
Mar 1720.2°C19.5°C
Mar 1820.1°C19.8°C
Mar 1920.0°C19.3°C
Mar 2020.1°C19.3°C20.1°C
Mar 2118.8°C20.0°C
Mar 2219.3°C19.9°C
Mar 2319.5°C19.9°C
Mar 2419.3°C19.8°C
Mar 2519.3°C19.7°C
Mar 2619.3°C19.6°C
Mar 2719.0°C19.5°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 Melbourne 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

Melbourne sits on the edge of Port Phillip Bay, with its coastal waters connected to the Bass Strait, and water temperatures here reflect a cool, temperate southern climate. In summer, bay water temperatures usually sit around 19–23 °C, which feels comfortable for swimming on warm days without being overly warm. Autumn often stays pleasant, with temperatures commonly between 17–21 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 15–19 °C as the water gradually warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures typically drop to about 13–15 °C, which feels cold but is still swimmable for short dips, especially on sunny, low-wind days.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January15°C20°C23°C
February17°C19°C23°C
March17°C19°C22°C
April15°C18°C21°C
May13°C16°C18°C
June11°C14°C16°C
July10°C12°C15°C
August10°C12°C14°C
September10°C12°C14°C
October11°C14°C17°C
November14°C16°C19°C
December15°C18°C21°C

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

Melbourne: Weather Forecast

March 21

15°C / 22°C
clear sky
humidity: 67% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

17°C / 25°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 52% | wind: 4 kmh

March 23

17°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 58% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Port Melbourne Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
20.4°C

Sandridge

⭐ 3.8/5
19.6°C

Station Pier

⭐ 5.0/5
19.4°C

South Melbourne Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
20.8°C

Webb Dock Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
19.4°C

Middle Park Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
21.0°C

Point Gellibrand

⭐ 4.2/5
19.1°C

St. Kilda Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
21.2°C

St Kilda Pier

⭐ 5.0/5
20.0°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Melbourne is allowed and widely enjoyed along the bay-facing beaches. These areas are protected from the full force of the Bass Strait, so waves are generally small and conditions calmer than on open ocean beaches. This makes swimming suitable for a broad range of people, from families and casual swimmers to regular bay swimmers. Shallow water close to shore adds to the sense of safety, particularly in summer when the water is at its warmest. Water quality is usually good in settled weather, though many locals avoid swimming right after heavy rain. Overall, Melbourne offers clean water, clear seasonal temperature changes, and relaxed, accessible swimming opportunities right alongside a major city.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Altona Pier

⭐ 1/5
19.5°C

Brighton Beach (Melbourne)

⭐ 2/5
20.0°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Melbourne today?
Sea water temperature in Melbourne in the Bass Strait today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Melbourne during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Melbourne typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Melbourne during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Melbourne typically ranges from 13°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Melbourne during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Melbourne typically ranges from 10°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Melbourne during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Melbourne typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Melbourne area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Melbourne area include: Port Melbourne Beach, Sandridge, Station Pier, Webb Dock Beach, South Melbourne Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Melbourne?
Some of the closest surf spots near Melbourne include Altona Pier, Brighton Beach (Melbourne).