Temperature:

Your Favorite Locations:

Your favorites list is empty.

Moonta – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Moonta in South 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.

Moonta
Moonta © By Dream of the dolphin, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

21.3°C
Today
21.3°C
Yesterday
21.7°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Moonta is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in Moonta: 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 Moonta have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Moonta will be 20.6°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 1220.4°C20.8°C
Mar 1320.8°C21.0°C
Mar 1421.7°C20.8°C
Mar 1521.3°C20.5°C
Mar 1621.4°C20.5°C
Mar 1721.4°C20.5°C
Mar 1821.3°C20.5°C
Mar 1921.3°C20.3°C
Mar 2021.3°C20.3°C21.3°C
Mar 2120.3°C21.2°C
Mar 2220.3°C21.1°C
Mar 2320.7°C21.0°C
Mar 2420.3°C20.9°C
Mar 2520.7°C20.8°C
Mar 2620.3°C20.7°C
Mar 2720.0°C20.6°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 Moonta 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

Moonta sits on the eastern side of the Yorke Peninsula, overlooking the sheltered waters of Spencer Gulf, and this location gives it some of the more comfortable water temperatures in South Australia. In summer, the sea is at its warmest, usually ranging from about 20–24°C, which feels pleasant and inviting for swimming on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 18–21°C, while winter is cooler but still manageable, often around 13–15°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C, helped by sunshine and relatively calm gulf conditions.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January17°C21°C23°C
February18°C21°C23°C
March17°C20°C23°C
April16°C19°C22°C
May15°C18°C20°C
June13°C15°C17°C
July11°C14°C16°C
August11°C13°C15°C
September12°C14°C16°C
October12°C15°C18°C
November15°C17°C20°C
December16°C19°C21°C

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

Moonta: Weather Forecast

March 21

20°C / 25°C
clear sky
humidity: 55% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

20°C / 27°C
clear sky
humidity: 50% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

23°C / 28°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 45% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Moonta Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
20.8°C

Port Hughes

⭐ 3.8/5
21.7°C

Office Beach

⭐ 3.0/5
22.2°C

Wallaroo Bay

⭐ 4.5/5
21.9°C

Riley Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
21.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Moonta and is popular, particularly at the long, sandy beaches and jetty areas. The gulf setting means minimal surf and generally gentle water, making it well suited to casual swimmers and families when conditions are settled. Shallow areas can warm quickly in summer, adding to comfort for relaxed swims. While conditions are usually calm, tides and local currents can still play a role, so basic awareness is important. Outside peak summer, some swimmers choose wetsuits for longer sessions. Overall, Moonta offers easy and enjoyable swimming, with relatively warm water and a relaxed coastal environment ideal for regular recreational use.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Red Banks Reefs

⭐ 2/5
21.8°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Copper Coast

Place Tags:Coastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Moonta today?
Sea water temperature in Moonta in the Spencer Gulf today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Moonta during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Moonta typically ranges from 16°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Moonta during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Moonta typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Moonta during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Moonta typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Moonta during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Moonta typically ranges from 11°C to 17°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Moonta area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Moonta area include: Moonta Bay, Port Hughes, Office Beach, Wallaroo Bay, Riley Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Moonta?
Some of the closest surf spots near Moonta include Red Banks Reefs.