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Patches Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Patches Beach in New South Wales. 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.

Patches Beach
Patches Beach © Michael Doyle

Current Sea Water Temperature

21.3°C
Today
21.3°C
Yesterday
21.4°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Patches Beach is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in Patches Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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

From September 15 to October 15

Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Patches Beach have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Patches Beach will be 21.9°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
Oct 721.3°C21.3°C
Oct 821.3°C21.8°C
Oct 921.4°C21.5°C
Oct 1021.3°C21.5°C
Oct 1121.2°C22.0°C
Oct 1221.1°C21.5°C
Oct 1321.2°C21.5°C
Oct 1421.3°C22.0°C
Oct 1521.3°C22.0°C21.3°C
Oct 1622.0°C21.4°C
Oct 1722.0°C21.5°C
Oct 1822.3°C21.6°C
Oct 1922.3°C21.7°C
Oct 2022.5°C21.8°C
Oct 2122.5°C21.8°C
Oct 2223.0°C21.9°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 Patches 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Patches Beach lies on the far north coast of New South Wales, facing the Coral Sea and influenced by the region’s warm subtropical climate. Water temperatures here are generally comfortable for swimming through most of the year. In summer, the ocean typically warms to around 25–27 °C, making conditions ideal for long swims and relaxed time in the water. Autumn often holds onto that warmth, with sea temperatures commonly between 23–25 °C as weather patterns settle. Spring begins cooler at roughly 21–23 °C before steadily warming toward summer. Winter is the coolest period, but even then the water usually sits around 19–21 °C, which many locals still find swimmable on clear, sunny days.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January24°C26°C28°C
February25°C27°C29°C
March24°C27°C29°C
April23°C25°C27°C
May22°C24°C26°C
June20°C23°C25°C
July19°C22°C23°C
August18°C22°C23°C
September19°C22°C23°C
October20°C22°C26°C
November20°C23°C26°C
December22°C25°C27°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Patches Beach: Weather Forecast

October 16

16°C / 18°C
light rain
humidity: 75% | wind: 18 kmh

October 17

16°C / 19°C
light rain
humidity: 72% | wind: 14 kmh

October 18

16°C / 20°C
light rain
humidity: 70% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Patches Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
20.5°C

Robins Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
21.6°C

Broadwater Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
21.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Patches Beach, though it suits swimmers who are comfortable with open-ocean conditions. The beach is exposed, so waves and currents can vary depending on swell, wind, and tide. On calm days, the water is clear and inviting, with steady temperatures typical of this stretch of coast. There are no sheltered swimming areas, so choosing the right conditions is important for a safe and enjoyable swim. Overall, Patches Beach offers reliable water temperatures and good swimming opportunities for much of the year, best enjoyed when the sea is settled and conditions are carefully assessed before heading in.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

North wall

⭐ 3/5
20.3°C
12 km away 📍 Beach/groyne/river

Ballina South Wall

⭐ 2/5
20.4°C
12 km away 📍 Beach/breakwater

Ballina North Wall

⭐ 3/5
20.2°C
12 km away 📍 Point/breakwater

Backsides

⭐ 3/5
20.3°C

Flat Rock

⭐ 2/5
21.9°C

Evans Head-Airforce Beach

⭐ 3/5
22.3°C

Evans Head-South Wall

⭐ 3/5
20.9°C

Chinamans

⭐ 3/5
22.0°C
19 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Lennox Head

⭐ 4/5
22.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Patches Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Patches Beach in the Coral Sea today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Patches Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Patches Beach typically ranges from 22°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Patches Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Patches Beach typically ranges from 22°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Patches Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Patches Beach typically ranges from 19°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Patches Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Patches Beach typically ranges from 18°C to 25°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Patches Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Patches Beach area include: Patches Beach, Robins Beach, Broadwater Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Patches Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Patches Beach include North wall, Ballina North Wall, Ballina South Wall.