Milk Beach – water temperature at Parramatta River

This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Milk Beach, located on the Parramatta River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.

Current Water Temperature

15.8°C

Today

15.9°C

Yesterday

16.2°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Parramatta River at Milk Beach today is 16°C.

Water Temperature in Parramatta River at Milk Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Milk Beach 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 Milk Beach will be 14.4°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
Apr 28	16.3°C	14.3°C
Apr 29	16.2°C	14.3°C
Apr 30	16.2°C	14.3°C
May 1	16.3°C	14.3°C
May 2	16.3°C	14.3°C
May 3	16.1°C	14.3°C
May 4	16.0°C	14.3°C
May 5	15.9°C	14.3°C
May 6	15.8°C	14.3°C	15.8°C
May 7		14.3°C	15.6°C
May 8		14.3°C	15.4°C
May 9		14.3°C	15.2°C
May 10		14.3°C	15.0°C
May 11		14.3°C	14.8°C
May 12		14.3°C	14.6°C
May 13		14.3°C	14.4°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	15°C	24°C	27°C
February	21°C	24°C	27°C
March	20°C	22°C	24°C
April	16°C	18°C	21°C
May	11°C	14°C	17°C
June	10°C	12°C	13°C
July	9°C	11°C	13°C
August	10°C	12°C	14°C
September	12°C	15°C	18°C
October	16°C	19°C	22°C
November	18°C	21°C	25°C
December	13°C	24°C	26°C

Location & Local Information

Milk Beach is a small, secluded harbour beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, set along the calm waters of Sydney Harbour with the Tasman Sea beyond the heads. Water temperatures here are generally more stable than at open surf beaches. In summer, the harbour usually sits around 22–26 °C and can feel pleasantly warm in the shallows on still days. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to roughly 20–23 °C. Winter is cooler but still comfortable for many swimmers, with temperatures typically between 16–20 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up from about 18 °C into the low twenties as air temperatures rise.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed and popular at Milk Beach, largely because of its sheltered location. The absence of surf means there are no waves or ocean rips, creating calm, low-energy swimming conditions. Entry from the sand is easy, and the water is usually clear, especially during dry weather. Boat traffic exists farther out in the harbour, but the nearshore swimming area is generally quiet. Water quality can drop after heavy rain, so settled conditions are best. Overall, Milk Beach offers relaxed, comfortable swimming for much of the year, particularly for those who prefer calm harbour water over open-ocean conditions.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Parramatta River at Milk Beach?

The water temperature in Parramatta River at Milk Beach today is 16°C.

What is the water temperature in Parramatta River at Milk Beach during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Parramatta River at Milk Beach typically range from 13°C to 27°C.

Is it possible to swim in Parramatta River at Milk Beach (New South Wales)?

Yes — you can swim at Milk Beach on the Parramatta River, but tidal flows, boat traffic and water temperature make conditions variable, so it’s best suited to confident swimmers who take basic safety precautions. Always check local water-quality alerts (NSW Health/local council), obey on-site signage, avoid swimming after heavy rain, consider a wetsuit outside the warmest months and never swim alone.