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 19°C.
Water Temperature in Parsons Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.
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 Beach 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 Parsons Beach will be 19.3°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 | 19.5°C | 20.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 20.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.3°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.4°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 19.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 19.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.8°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.9°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.8°C | 19.8°C | 18.8°C |
| Mar 21 | 19.5°C | 18.9°C | |
| Mar 22 | 20.3°C | 18.9°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.8°C | 19.1°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.5°C | 19.3°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
March 21
March 22
March 23
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
