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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.

Penguin
Penguin © By Stuart Edwards, Public Domain

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.3°C
Today
18.2°C
Yesterday
18.5°C
A Week Ago

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

From February 18 to March 20

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 1218.3°C19.0°C
Mar 1318.2°C19.3°C
Mar 1418.5°C18.8°C
Mar 1518.5°C18.5°C
Mar 1618.3°C19.0°C
Mar 1718.3°C19.5°C
Mar 1818.3°C19.3°C
Mar 1918.2°C18.8°C
Mar 2018.3°C18.8°C18.3°C
Mar 2118.8°C18.3°C
Mar 2218.5°C18.3°C
Mar 2318.3°C18.4°C
Mar 2418.3°C18.4°C
Mar 2518.8°C18.4°C
Mar 2618.5°C18.4°C
Mar 2718.8°C18.4°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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

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
January15°C18°C21°C
February16°C18°C21°C
March16°C19°C21°C
April15°C18°C21°C
May14°C16°C19°C
June12°C15°C18°C
July11°C14°C16°C
August11°C13°C16°C
September10°C13°C16°C
October11°C14°C17°C
November12°C14°C18°C
December14°C16°C20°C

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

Penguin: Weather Forecast

March 21

13°C / 21°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

13°C / 19°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 80% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

11°C / 20°C
light rain
humidity: 82% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Johnsons Beach Penguin

⭐ 3.5/5
17.4°C

Watcombe Beach

⭐ 2.8/5
17.1°C

Johnson Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
19.2°C

Tioxide Beach

⭐ 2.6/5
17.2°C

Picnic Point Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
18.3°C

Buttons Beach

⭐ 4.9/5
18.4°C

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

⭐ 3/5
19.0°C
25 km away 📍 Point/river

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Penguin today?
Sea water temperature in Penguin in the Bass Strait today is 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Penguin during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Penguin typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Penguin during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Penguin typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Penguin during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Penguin typically ranges from 10°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Penguin during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Penguin typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Penguin area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Penguin area include: Johnsons Beach Penguin, Watcombe Beach, Johnson Beach, Tioxide Beach, Picnic Point Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Penguin?
Some of the closest surf spots near Penguin include Devonport Rivermouth.