Opossum Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Opossum Bay in Tasmania. 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 Opossum Bay is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Opossum 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 Opossum 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 Opossum Bay will be 16.7°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 | 17.2°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 17.1°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 16.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 16.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.1°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 17.2°C | 17.3°C | 17.2°C |
| Mar 21 | 16.8°C | 17.1°C | |
| Mar 22 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| Mar 23 | 17.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 24 | 16.8°C | 16.9°C | |
| Mar 25 | 17.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| Mar 26 | 16.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 27 | 17.0°C | 16.7°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 Opossum 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
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Opossum Bay sits on the shores of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel in Tasmania’s south-east, where the water is influenced by the Tasman Sea but remains relatively sheltered from heavy ocean swell. Water temperatures here are cool but more forgiving than on exposed coastlines. In summer, from December to February, the sea usually reaches around 16–19 °C, making it comfortable for swimming on warm days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to about 14–17 °C, while winter is colder, typically around 11–13 °C. During spring, the water slowly warms again, generally sitting between 13–15 °C as conditions become more settled.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| February | 15°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| March | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| April | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| June | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| July | 10°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| October | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| December | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Opossum Bay: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Musks Beach
South Arm Beach
Gorringes Beach
Fort Beach
Tyndall Beach
Mortimer Bay
Priscilla Park
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Opossum Bay is allowed and is very popular, especially during summer. The bay’s protected setting means calmer water, smaller waves, and safer conditions for relaxed swims, paddling, and cooling dips close to shore. Even at the height of summer, the water remains refreshing rather than warm, so many swimmers keep sessions fairly short, with wetsuits common outside peak season. Tides and boat traffic can influence conditions at times, so awareness is important. Overall, Opossum Bay offers some of the most approachable swimming conditions in southern Tasmania, particularly for those who prefer sheltered, calm water and clear summer days.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
The Wedge
Rebounds
Cape Direction (Hurdies)
Goats Bluff
Hope Beach
Clifton Beach
Howrah Beach
Lauderdale Point
Cremorne Point
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Clarence
Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
