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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
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
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 12 | 19.5°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.3°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.6°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 20.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 20.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 20.2°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 20.1°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 20.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 20.1°C | 19.3°C | 20.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 22 | 19.3°C | 19.9°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.5°C | 19.9°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.3°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.3°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.3°C | 19.6°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.0°C | 19.5°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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| December | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Melbourne: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Port Melbourne Beach
Sandridge
Station Pier
South Melbourne Beach
Webb Dock Beach
Middle Park Beach
Point Gellibrand
St. Kilda Beach
St Kilda Pier
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.
