Monkey Mia – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Monkey Mia in Western Australia. 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 Monkey Mia is about 19°C.
Water Temperature in Monkey Mia: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.
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
While water temperatures in Monkey Mia declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Monkey Mia will be 19.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 17.6°C | 19.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 17.4°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 17 | 17.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 17.5°C | 19.8°C | |
| Aug 19 | 17.6°C | 19.3°C | |
| Aug 20 | 18.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 18.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 18.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 18.5°C | 20.0°C | 18.5°C |
| Aug 24 | 20.3°C | 18.7°C | |
| Aug 25 | 20.3°C | 18.9°C | |
| Aug 26 | 21.0°C | 19.1°C | |
| Aug 27 | 20.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| Aug 28 | 21.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| Aug 29 | 20.3°C | 19.7°C | |
| Aug 30 | 20.3°C | 19.9°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 Monkey Mia 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
Monkey Mia sits within the sheltered waters of Shark Bay on Western Australia’s north-west coast, and that protection has a big impact on water temperature and swimming comfort. The sea here is warm for most of the year. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures usually sit around 26–29°C, often feeling pleasantly warm rather than refreshing. Autumn remains very comfortable at roughly 24–27°C. Winter brings only a mild drop, generally around 20–22°C, while spring warms steadily again to about 22–25°C as air temperatures rise and conditions settle.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| February | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| March | 23°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| April | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| May | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| June | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| July | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| August | 18°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| September | 19°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| October | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| November | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| December | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Monkey Mia: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Monkey Mia
Cape Rose
Little Lagoon
Big Lagoon
Denham Beach
Herald Bight
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Monkey Mia is allowed and popular, thanks to the calm, shallow water and gently sloping sandy shoreline. The bay is well sheltered from ocean swell, which keeps waves small and currents weak, making it suitable for relaxed swimming and floating, particularly in summer. Most people swim without wetsuits year-round due to the warm water. However, Monkey Mia is also famous for its dolphins, and strict rules apply around interactions, meaning swimming is kept separate from organised dolphin activities. Winter swimming is still comfortable for short sessions, especially on sunny days. Overall, Monkey Mia offers easy, low-stress swimming in warm, clear water, ideal for visitors looking for calm conditions in a unique and carefully managed coastal environment.
