Nelson Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

Water Temperature in Nelson Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.

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

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 18.4°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

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 lies on Tasmania’s remote west coast, facing the open Indian Ocean, where the sea is cold, energetic, and strongly shaped by weather coming straight off the Southern Ocean. Water temperatures remain low throughout the year. In summer, from December to February, the ocean here typically reaches around 14–16 °C, which is cool even on the warmest days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to about 13–15 °C, while winter is the coldest period, often around 10–12 °C. During spring, the water slowly lifts again, generally sitting between 11–13 °C, though frequent wind and swell can make it feel colder in practice.