Palm Cove – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Palm Cove in Queensland. 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 Palm Cove is about 28°C.
Water Temperature in Palm Cove: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ Water at this temperature is very warm and feels almost tropical. Swimming is comfortable for most people, even for long periods, with no sensation of cold. These conditions are ideal for relaxed swimming, floating, and water play, especially for families and casual swimmers. However, during very hot weather, the water may feel less refreshing, and short breaks are often welcome.
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 Palm Cove 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 Palm Cove will be 28.5°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 | 29.2°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 29.3°C | 29.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 29.6°C | 29.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 29.6°C | 29.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 29.4°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 28.9°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 28.8°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 28.8°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 28.1°C | 29.0°C | 28.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 28.3°C | 28.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 28.5°C | 28.2°C | |
| Mar 23 | 28.3°C | 28.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 28.5°C | 28.3°C | |
| Mar 25 | 28.5°C | 28.4°C | |
| Mar 26 | 29.3°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 28.8°C | 28.5°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 Palm Cove 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
Palm Cove is a well-known beachside village on Queensland’s Far North Coast, overlooking the Coral Sea and enjoying consistently warm water temperatures. Through the tropical wet season, roughly from November to April, sea temperatures usually range between 27–30 °C, often feeling pleasantly warm even early in the morning. During the drier winter months from May to October, the water cools slightly but remains comfortable, typically sitting around 23–26 °C. There is no real cold-water season here, and the sea stays inviting year-round by Australian standards.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| May | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| June | 21°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| July | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| August | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| September | 23°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| October | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| November | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| December | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Palm Cove: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Palm Cove
Palm Cove Beach
Clifton Beach
Ellis Beach
Kewarra Beach
Kewarra Dog Beach
Trinity Beach
Borderline Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Palm Cove is generally well catered for, particularly in designated areas. The beach is often patrolled, and during the warmer months marine stinger nets are installed, allowing safer swimming despite seasonal jellyfish activity. While saltwater crocodiles are present in Far North Queensland waterways, they are uncommon along the open beachfront where swimming is managed. Thanks to these precautions, swimming is usually considered suitable within the marked areas when conditions are calm and safety measures are in place. Outside these zones, or during rough weather, caution is advised. Overall, Palm Cove combines warm Coral Sea water with organised safety infrastructure, making it one of the more reliable and comfortable spots for ocean swimming along the Queensland North Coast.
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Cairns Region
Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
