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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.

Norah Head
Norah Head © zorro gamarnik

Current Sea Water Temperature

22.3°C
Today
23.1°C
Yesterday
22.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Norah Head is about 22°C.

Water Temperature in Norah Head: 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 April 6 to May 6

Water temperatures in Norah Head 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 Norah Head will be 21.3°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
Apr 2822.9°C23.8°C
Apr 2922.9°C23.5°C
Apr 3022.9°C22.5°C
May 122.9°C22.3°C
May 223.2°C22.3°C
May 323.1°C22.3°C
May 423.1°C22.0°C
May 523.1°C22.0°C
May 622.3°C22.0°C22.3°C
May 721.3°C22.2°C
May 821.0°C22.0°C
May 921.0°C21.9°C
May 1020.8°C21.7°C
May 1120.8°C21.6°C
May 1220.8°C21.4°C
May 1320.8°C21.3°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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

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
January20°C23°C25°C
February21°C23°C26°C
March21°C23°C26°C
April19°C23°C25°C
May16°C21°C24°C
June15°C20°C22°C
July15°C19°C21°C
August15°C19°C20°C
September16°C18°C20°C
October16°C20°C21°C
November18°C20°C22°C
December19°C21°C25°C

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

Norah Head: Weather Forecast

May 7

7°C / 17°C
clear sky
humidity: 45% | wind: 18 kmh

May 8

10°C / 20°C
clear sky
humidity: 59% | wind: 14 kmh

May 9

12°C / 20°C
clear sky
humidity: 73% | wind: 7 kmh

May 10

16°C / 21°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Gravelly Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
21.6°C

Lifeboat Beach

⭐ 4.9/5
21.4°C

Cabbage Tree Harbour

⭐ 4.3/5
21.4°C

Norah Head

⭐ 4.3/5
22.7°C

Nimbin Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
21.2°C

Soldiers Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
22.6°C

Pelican Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
22.1°C

Jenny Dixon

⭐ 5.0/5
22.0°C

Hargraves Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
21.6°C

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

⭐ 2/5
21.4°C

Soldiers Beach

⭐ 2/5
22.6°C
1 km away 📍 Beach reef and point

Backdoor 4

⭐ 3/5
21.8°C

Boat Ramp

⭐ 3/5
21.8°C

Little Bombie

⭐ 4/5
23.0°C

Pelican Beach

⭐ 2/5
22.6°C

JD Reef

⭐ 5/5
21.2°C

Lakes Beach

⭐ 2/5
21.6°C

Triangles

⭐ 2/5
21.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Norah Head today?
Sea water temperature in Norah Head in the Tasman Sea today is 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Norah Head during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Norah Head typically ranges from 19°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Norah Head during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Norah Head typically ranges from 16°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Norah Head during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Norah Head typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Norah Head during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Norah Head typically ranges from 15°C to 22°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Norah Head area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Norah Head area include: Gravelly Beach, Lifeboat Beach, Cabbage Tree Harbour, Norah Head, Soldiers Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Norah Head?
Some of the closest surf spots near Norah Head include Sunset, Soldiers Beach, Backdoor 4.