Orford – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Orford 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 Orford is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Orford: 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 Orford 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 Orford will be 17.1°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 | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 17.2°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 17.4°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 17.1°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 17.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.1°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 17.3°C | 17.0°C | 17.3°C |
| Mar 21 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Mar 22 | 17.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| Mar 23 | 17.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| Mar 24 | 17.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| Mar 25 | 17.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| Mar 26 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| Mar 27 | 16.5°C | 17.1°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 Orford 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
Orford sits on Tasmania’s east coast beside the calm waters of Spring Bay, with the Tasman Sea just beyond Maria Island. This sheltered setting gives Orford some of the more pleasant swimming conditions in the state. Water temperatures follow a clear seasonal pattern. In summer, from December to February, the sea usually reaches around 17–19 °C, which is cool but comfortable for swimming on warm days. Autumn sees temperatures ease back to about 15–17 °C, while winter is colder, typically around 11–13 °C. During spring, the water slowly warms again, generally sitting between 13–15 °C as daylight increases and conditions become more settled.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| February | 15°C | 18°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 | 14°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 | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| December | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Orford: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Orford Beach
Our Park
Raspins Beach
Alginate Bay
Spring Beach
Windlass Bay
Stapleton Beach
Reids Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Orford is allowed and is very popular, especially during summer. Spring Bay is naturally sheltered from heavy Tasman Sea swell, which often means calm water with little wave action, making it well suited to relaxed swims, paddling, and family-friendly dips close to shore. Even in peak summer, the water feels refreshing rather than warm, so most swimmers keep sessions moderate in length, with wetsuits common outside the warmest weeks. Strong winds can occasionally affect conditions, but overall Orford offers some of the most reliable and comfortable cold-water swimming on Tasmania’s east coast, particularly for those who prefer calm, protected waters.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Orford Rivermouth
Shelly Point
Marion Bay
Little Swanport
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Glamorgan Spring Bay Council
Place Tags:Surf SpotCoastal TownEstuary
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
