Penguin – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Penguin 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 Penguin is about 18°C.
Water Temperature in Penguin: 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 Penguin have remained fairly stable over the past 30 days, though a cooler trend has emerged in the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Penguin will be 18.4°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 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 18.2°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 18.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 18.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 18.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.2°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.3°C | 18.8°C | 18.3°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.8°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 18.3°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 24 | 18.3°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 18.8°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 26 | 18.5°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.8°C | 18.4°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 Penguin 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
Penguin is a relaxed seaside town on Tasmania’s north coast, facing the open waters of the Bass Strait, which keeps the sea cool in every season. Water temperatures here follow a steady annual cycle. In summer, from December to February, the sea usually reaches about 15–17 °C, offering a refreshing swim on warm days. Autumn sees temperatures drop slightly to around 13–15 °C, while winter is coldest, commonly sitting near 11–12 °C. In spring, the water slowly warms again, generally ranging between 12–14 °C as calmer weather becomes more frequent.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| February | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| March | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| June | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| September | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 12°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 14°C | 16°C | 20°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Penguin: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Johnsons Beach Penguin
Watcombe Beach
Johnson Beach
Tioxide Beach
Picnic Point Beach
Buttons Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Penguin is allowed and is fairly popular, especially at the town’s main beach and nearby sheltered spots. Compared with more exposed Bass Strait beaches, local conditions are often gentler, with smaller waves during settled weather, making short swims and casual dips more comfortable. Even so, the water temperature means most people keep swims brief, and wetsuits are commonly used outside peak summer. After windy days, swell and currents can pick up, so it’s important to be mindful of conditions. Overall, Penguin offers good cold-water swimming by Tasmanian standards, best enjoyed in summer and during calm periods close to shore.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Devonport Rivermouth
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Central Coast Council
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
