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Nelson Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Nelson Bay in New South Wales. 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.

Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay © By Kanwar Plaha, CC BY-SA 4.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

21.9°C
Today
21.8°C
Yesterday
22.1°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Nelson Bay is about 22°C.

Water Temperature in Nelson Bay: 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 Nelson Bay 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 Nelson Bay will be 22.4°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 1222.4°C23.3°C
Mar 1322.8°C23.3°C
Mar 1422.1°C23.0°C
Mar 1522.3°C23.0°C
Mar 1622.0°C23.3°C
Mar 1722.0°C23.5°C
Mar 1822.0°C22.8°C
Mar 1921.8°C23.0°C
Mar 2021.9°C23.0°C21.9°C
Mar 2123.5°C22.0°C
Mar 2224.3°C22.0°C
Mar 2323.5°C22.1°C
Mar 2423.8°C22.2°C
Mar 2522.5°C22.3°C
Mar 2622.8°C22.3°C
Mar 2723.0°C22.4°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 Nelson Bay 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

Nelson Bay sits on the shores of Port Stephens in New South Wales, with water influenced by the Tasman Sea but moderated by the bay’s sheltered shape. Water temperatures here are generally comfortable for swimming across much of the year. In summer, the water usually warms to around 22–25 °C, making it ideal for long swims and relaxed time in the water. Autumn often stays pleasant, with temperatures commonly between 20–23 °C, while spring is a little cooler at roughly 18–21 °C as the water gradually warms. During winter, temperatures typically drop to about 16–18 °C, which can feel cool but is still swimmable for short dips, especially on sunny days.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January20°C23°C27°C
February21°C24°C27°C
March20°C24°C26°C
April21°C23°C25°C
May19°C22°C25°C
June17°C21°C22°C
July16°C20°C21°C
August17°C19°C21°C
September16°C19°C22°C
October17°C20°C22°C
November18°C20°C24°C
December18°C21°C27°C

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

Nelson Bay: Weather Forecast

March 21

21°C / 25°C
light rain
humidity: 76% | wind: 11 kmh

March 22

20°C / 23°C
clear sky
humidity: 78% | wind: 11 kmh

March 23

19°C / 24°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 71% | wind: 11 kmh

March 24

20°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 68% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Nelson Bay Marina

⭐ 3.9/5
22.5°C

Bagnalls

⭐ 3.9/5
22.3°C

Nelson Bay

⭐ 3.9/5
22.3°C

Shoal Bay

⭐ 4.6/5
22.5°C

Conroy

⭐ 3.5/5
21.3°C

Corrie Island

⭐ 3.1/5
22.8°C

Corlette

⭐ 3.5/5
22.1°C

Fly Roads

⭐ 3.5/5
22.6°C

Zenith Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
21.2°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Nelson Bay is allowed and widely enjoyed thanks to the calm, protected conditions found around much of the bay. Unlike open ocean beaches, many swimming spots here are sheltered from strong Tasman Sea swells, resulting in smaller waves and gentler currents. This makes the area suitable for swimmers of all abilities, including families and casual swimmers. In summer, the water is often clear and inviting, while in cooler months locals still swim but tend to keep sessions shorter. Overall, Nelson Bay offers reliable seasonal water temperatures and easy, low-stress swimming in a well-protected coastal setting.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Fingal Bay

⭐ 2/5
22.2°C
4 km away 📍 Beach and point

Box Beach

⭐ 3/5
22.6°C

Zenith Beach

⭐ 2/5
22.5°C

One Mile Beach

⭐ 3/5
22.6°C

Fly Roads

⭐ 2/5
21.8°C

Anna Bay-Morna Point

⭐ 3/5
22.6°C

Little Gibber - Dark Point

⭐ 3/5
22.9°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Nelson Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Nelson Bay in the Tasman Sea today is 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Nelson Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Nelson Bay typically ranges from 18°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Nelson Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Nelson Bay typically ranges from 19°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Nelson Bay during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Nelson Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Nelson Bay during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Nelson Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Nelson Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Nelson Bay area include: Nelson Bay Marina, Bagnalls, Nelson Bay, Conroy, Shoal Bay.
What are the nearest surf spots to Nelson Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Nelson Bay include Box Beach, Fingal Bay, Zenith Beach.