Nambucca Heads – water temperature at Nambucca River

This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Nambucca Heads, located on the Nambucca 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

18.8°C

Today

18.7°C

Yesterday

19.2°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads today is 19°C.

Water Temperature in Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads: 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 Nambucca Heads 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 Nambucca Heads will be 18.3°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	19.4°C	18.3°C
Apr 29	19.3°C	18.3°C
Apr 30	19.2°C	18.3°C
May 1	19.0°C	18.3°C
May 2	19.0°C	18.3°C
May 3	18.9°C	18.3°C
May 4	18.8°C	18.3°C
May 5	18.7°C	18.3°C
May 6	18.8°C	18.3°C	18.8°C
May 7		18.3°C	18.7°C
May 8		18.3°C	18.7°C
May 9		18.3°C	18.6°C
May 10		18.3°C	18.5°C
May 11		18.3°C	18.4°C
May 12		18.3°C	18.4°C
May 13		18.3°C	18.3°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	22°C	25°C	27°C
February	21°C	25°C	27°C
March	22°C	24°C	26°C
April	19°C	21°C	23°C
May	17°C	18°C	21°C
June	14°C	16°C	18°C
July	14°C	16°C	17°C
August	13°C	17°C	19°C
September	15°C	19°C	21°C
October	17°C	21°C	23°C
November	19°C	23°C	24°C
December	21°C	24°C	26°C

Location & Local Information

Nambucca Heads is a real coastal stunner on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, where the river meets the sea in a maze of turquoise sandbars. If you’re checking the water temperature for a dip, you’re in for a treat as it stays pretty mild all year round. During the peak of summer, the river water is like a warm bath, usually hitting between 24°C and 27°C, which is spot on for drifting along with the tide. Even when the winter chill sets in during August, the mercury rarely drops below 18°C or 20°C. While it might feel a bit fresh for a long soak then, it’s still much warmer than the southern rivers and perfect for a quick splash if the sun is out and about.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is absolutely allowed and is a massive part of the local lifestyle, especially at family favourites like Bellwood Park or the sandy shallows near the famous V-Wall. It’s a cracker of a spot because the estuary is generally crystal clear and protected from the heavy ocean swells. You’ve still got to use your noggin, though; the Nambucca is a powerful tidal system, and the currents can pull like a train near the river mouth when the tide is heading out. It’s also wise to steer clear of the water for a day or two after a heavy downpour to let any runoff clear. As long as you stick to the calm sandy reaches and keep an eye on the tides, it’s a legendary place to float your worries away.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads?

The water temperature in Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads today is 19°C.

What is the water temperature in Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads typically range from 21°C to 27°C.

Is it possible to swim in Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads (New South Wales)?

Yes — you can usually swim in the Nambucca River at Nambucca Heads, especially in sheltered bends and estuary pools, but always check local signage and water-quality alerts first. River conditions can change quickly (tides, currents, algal blooms or bacteria after heavy rain), so swim between the flags where possible and consult Nambucca Valley Council or NSW Health for current water-quality and safety information.