Norries Head – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Norries 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

21.4°C

Today

21.6°C

Yesterday

21.6°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Norries Head is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in Norries 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 September 15 to October 15

Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Norries Head have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Norries Head will be 21.9°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
Oct 7	21.7°C	21.3°C
Oct 8	21.5°C	21.5°C
Oct 9	21.6°C	21.5°C
Oct 10	21.5°C	21.3°C
Oct 11	21.6°C	21.3°C
Oct 12	21.6°C	21.5°C
Oct 13	21.6°C	21.5°C
Oct 14	21.6°C	21.5°C
Oct 15	21.4°C	21.5°C	21.4°C
Oct 16		21.8°C	21.5°C
Oct 17		21.8°C	21.5°C
Oct 18		21.5°C	21.6°C
Oct 19		21.8°C	21.7°C
Oct 20		21.8°C	21.8°C
Oct 21		22.3°C	21.8°C
Oct 22		21.8°C	21.9°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 Norries 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

Norries Head sits on the far north coast of New South Wales, overlooking the Coral Sea and influenced by warm subtropical currents. Water temperatures in this area stay relatively mild throughout the year. During summer, the sea commonly reaches around 25–27 °C, providing comfortable conditions for swimming and spending extended time in the water. Autumn often remains warm, with temperatures typically between 23–25 °C and generally settled weather. Spring begins cooler at roughly 21–23 °C before warming steadily as summer approaches. Winter is the coolest season, but ocean temperatures usually stay around 19–21 °C, which many locals still find suitable on calm, sunny days.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	23°C	26°C	28°C
February	25°C	27°C	29°C
March	23°C	26°C	29°C
April	22°C	25°C	28°C
May	20°C	23°C	26°C
June	20°C	22°C	25°C
July	19°C	21°C	23°C
August	18°C	21°C	23°C
September	18°C	21°C	23°C
October	19°C	22°C	26°C
November	21°C	23°C	26°C
December	22°C	25°C	27°C

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

Norries Head: Weather Forecast

October 16

14°C / 18°C

light rain

humidity: 79% | wind: 11 kmh

October 17

14°C / 20°C

light rain

humidity: 68% | wind: 11 kmh

October 18

14°C / 21°C

overcast clouds: 85-100%

humidity: 71% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Cabarita Beach

⭐ 3.9/5

21.8°C

Norries Head

⭐ 3.9/5

20.7°C

Cabarita Beach

⭐ 3.4/5

21.6°C

Bogangar Beach

⭐ 3.9/5

22.5°C

Maggies Beach

⭐ 3.9/5

21.8°C

Casuarina Beach

⭐ 5.0/5

21.8°C

Cudgera Beach

⭐ 4.5/5

22.1°C

South Kingscliff Beach

⭐ 3.2/5

21.3°C

Pottsville Beach

⭐ 4.9/5

21.6°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed around Norries Head, particularly in the more sheltered areas near the headland. While the open coastline can experience strong waves and currents, protected spots can offer calmer water when conditions are right. The clear water and stable temperatures make swimming appealing during much of the year, especially outside peak swell periods. Swimmers should remain mindful of changing conditions, as exposed sections can become challenging when surf is up. Overall, Norries Head offers reliable water temperatures and good swimming opportunities for confident swimmers who choose suitable conditions and locations along this distinctive stretch of coast.