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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

12.9°C
Today
13.0°C
Yesterday
12.8°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Penguin is about 13°C.

Water Temperature in Penguin: 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

From July 23 to August 22

While water temperatures in Penguin declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Penguin will be 12.8°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 1412.6°C12.5°C
Aug 1512.8°C13.0°C
Aug 1612.8°C13.0°C
Aug 1712.8°C13.0°C
Aug 1812.8°C12.8°C
Aug 1912.8°C13.0°C
Aug 2013.0°C12.5°C
Aug 2113.0°C12.5°C
Aug 2212.9°C12.5°C12.9°C
Aug 2312.5°C12.9°C
Aug 2413.0°C12.9°C
Aug 2513.3°C12.8°C
Aug 2613.0°C12.8°C
Aug 2713.5°C12.8°C
Aug 2812.8°C12.8°C
Aug 2912.8°C12.8°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

August 23

11°C / 12°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 77% | wind: 14 kmh

August 24

10°C / 14°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 88% | wind: 11 kmh

August 25

7°C / 13°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 88% | wind: 7 kmh

August 26

8°C / 15°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 77% | wind: 4 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Johnsons Beach Penguin

⭐ 3.5/5
12.2°C

Watcombe Beach

⭐ 2.8/5
12.6°C

Johnson Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
13.6°C

Tioxide Beach

⭐ 2.6/5
13.0°C

Picnic Point Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
13.1°C

Buttons Beach

⭐ 4.9/5
13.0°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
11.9°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 13°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.