Norah Head – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Norah Head 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Norah Head is about 24°C.
Water Temperature in Norah Head: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ Water in this range is comfortably warm and widely considered ideal for swimming. Most people can stay in the water for a long time without feeling cold. It works well for families, recreational swimming, and active water sports such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
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 Norah Head have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Norah Head will be 23.5°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 12 | 23.3°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 23.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 23.1°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 23.4°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 23.3°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 22.7°C | 24.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 23.3°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 23.5°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 23.6°C | 23.0°C | 23.6°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.3°C | 23.6°C | |
| Mar 22 | 22.5°C | 23.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 25 | 23.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 22.3°C | 23.5°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 Norah Head 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
Norah Head sits on a rugged headland on the Central Coast of New South Wales, south of Newcastle, facing the open Tasman Sea. Water temperatures here follow a clear seasonal cycle typical of this stretch of coast. In summer, the ocean is at its warmest, usually around 22–26 °C, which feels comfortable for regular swimming. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to roughly 20–23 °C, still pleasant for most swimmers. Winter is cooler but far from extreme, with sea temperatures generally between 16–20 °C. Spring sees a steady warm-up from about 18 °C into the low twenties as conditions become more settled.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 19°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 15°C | 19°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 21°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 19°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Norah Head: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Gravelly Beach
Lifeboat Beach
Cabbage Tree Harbour
Norah Head
Nimbin Beach
Soldiers Beach
Pelican Beach
Jenny Dixon
Hargraves Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed and enjoyed around Norah Head, though conditions vary depending on location and weather. The nearby ocean beaches are exposed to swell, so waves and rips can be present, particularly after strong winds or rough seas, making them better suited to confident swimmers. On calmer days, the water is clean and refreshing, with straightforward access from the sand. Rock pools and more sheltered spots near the headland offer gentler alternatives, especially when the surf is up. With limited patrols, choosing the right day and paying attention to conditions is important for a safe and enjoyable swim in this scenic coastal area.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Sunset
Soldiers Beach
Backdoor 4
Boat Ramp
Little Bombie
Pelican Beach
JD Reef
Lakes Beach
Triangles
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: 2263
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
