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Pennington Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Pennington Bay 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.

Pennington Bay
Pennington Bay © Colin Slark

Current Sea Water Temperature

17.8°C
Today
18.2°C
Yesterday
18.0°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Pennington Bay is about 18°C.

Water Temperature in Pennington Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.

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 April 6 to May 6

Water temperatures in Pennington Bay 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 Pennington Bay will be 17.9°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
Apr 2817.9°C19.8°C
Apr 2918.0°C19.5°C
Apr 3018.0°C19.5°C
May 118.0°C18.3°C
May 218.0°C18.0°C
May 318.1°C18.3°C
May 418.1°C17.5°C
May 518.2°C17.3°C
May 617.8°C17.3°C17.8°C
May 717.0°C17.8°C
May 817.3°C17.8°C
May 918.3°C17.8°C
May 1018.0°C17.8°C
May 1117.0°C17.9°C
May 1218.0°C17.9°C
May 1317.8°C17.9°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 Pennington Bay 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

Pennington Bay lies on the south-east coast of Kangaroo Island, fully exposed to the open waters of the Great Australian Bight, and its water temperatures reflect this wild southern ocean setting. In summer, the sea is at its warmest, usually around 17–20°C, which still feels cool but can be refreshing on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 15–18°C, while winter is distinctly cold, often sitting between 12–14°C. Spring warms slowly, with water temperatures commonly around 13–16°C, and conditions can change quickly with shifts in wind and swell.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January16°C20°C22°C
February18°C20°C22°C
March18°C20°C21°C
April17°C19°C21°C
May14°C17°C19°C
June13°C15°C18°C
July12°C15°C16°C
August11°C14°C16°C
September12°C14°C16°C
October12°C15°C17°C
November14°C16°C19°C
December16°C18°C21°C

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

Pennington Bay: Weather Forecast

May 7

12°C / 14°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 64% | wind: 18 kmh

May 8

14°C / 18°C
light rain
humidity: 78% | wind: 18 kmh

May 9

14°C / 16°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 76% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Pennington Bay

⭐ 4.2/5
18.3°C

Island Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
17.9°C

Baudin Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
17.2°C

Baudin Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
16.9°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Pennington Bay, but it is best suited to experienced and confident ocean swimmers. The beach is known for strong surf, powerful rips and fast-moving currents, making conditions challenging even when the weather looks calm. There are no patrols, and the exposed coastline means careful judgement is essential before entering the water. On rare calm days in summer, short swims close to shore can be possible, though wetsuits are commonly worn due to the cool water. Overall, Pennington Bay offers clean, energetic ocean water in a dramatic setting, with swimming that rewards awareness and respect for the strength of the southern ocean.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Pennington Bay

⭐ 1/5
17.0°C

D'Estrees Bay

⭐ 1/5
17.3°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Pennington Bay Rd, Pelican Lagoon SA 5222

Place Tags:BeachSurf Spot

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Pennington Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Pennington Bay in the Great Australian Bight today is 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Pennington Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Pennington Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Pennington Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Pennington Bay typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Pennington Bay during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Pennington Bay typically ranges from 12°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Pennington Bay during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Pennington Bay typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Pennington Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Pennington Bay area include: Pennington Bay, Island Beach, Baudin Beach, Baudin Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Pennington Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Pennington Bay include Pennington Bay, D'Estrees Bay.