Parsons Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Parsons Beach in South Australia. 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 Parsons Beach is about 14°C.
Water Temperature in Parsons Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.
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 Parsons Beachfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Parsons Beach will be 13.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14 | 13.9°C | 13.3°C | |
| Aug 15 | 13.9°C | 13.3°C | |
| Aug 16 | 14.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 17 | 14.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 14.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| Aug 19 | 14.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 14.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 21 | 13.9°C | 13.3°C | |
| Aug 22 | 14.0°C | 13.3°C | 14.0°C |
| Aug 23 | 13.3°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 24 | 13.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| Aug 25 | 13.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| Aug 26 | 13.3°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 27 | 13.5°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 28 | 13.5°C | 13.7°C | |
| Aug 29 | 13.5°C | 13.7°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 Parsons Beach 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
Parsons Beach sits along the southern coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula, facing the open waters of the Great Australian Bight, and its water temperatures reflect this exposed southern ocean environment. In summer, the sea is at its warmest, usually ranging from about 18–21°C, which feels refreshing but still cool on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 16–19°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often around 13–15°C. Spring warms slowly, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 14–17°C, influenced by sunshine, wind direction and passing weather systems.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| February | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| March | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| April | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| May | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| June | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| July | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 12°C | 14°C | 15°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| November | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Parsons Beach: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Parsons Beach
Coolawang Beach
Waitpinga Beach
Waitpinga Beach
Ballaparudda Beach
Callawonga Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Parsons Beach, but it is best suited to experienced and confident swimmers. The beach is open and energetic, with regular surf, strong rips and shifting sandbars that can make conditions challenging. There are no permanent patrols, so entering the water requires careful judgement and an understanding of local conditions. On calm summer days, short swims can be enjoyable despite the cooler water, while many swimmers choose wetsuits outside peak summer to stay comfortable. Overall, Parsons Beach offers clean, powerful ocean water in a natural setting, with swimming that rewards awareness and respect for the southern ocean.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Parsons Beach
Waitpinga
Tunkalilla
Petrel Cove
Victor Harbour (Shark Alley)
Dump Beach
Chiton Rocks
Boomer Beach
Horseshoe Bay 1
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: 9F99+JJ Waitpinga
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
