Perth – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Perth in Western 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Perth is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Perth: 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
While water temperatures in Perth declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Perth 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 17.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 17.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 17 | 17.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 17.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 19 | 17.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 20 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 17.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 22 | 17.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| Aug 23 | 17.1°C | 18.5°C | 17.1°C |
| Aug 24 | 18.8°C | 17.3°C | |
| Aug 25 | 19.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| Aug 26 | 19.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| Aug 27 | 19.3°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 28 | 19.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 29 | 19.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| Aug 30 | 18.5°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 Perth 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
Perth stretches along the Indian Ocean with a long run of sandy beaches that are well suited to swimming for much of the year. Water temperatures here are among the most comfortable in southern Australia. In summer, from December to February, the sea typically sits around 21–24°C, feeling warm and inviting on hot days. Autumn remains very pleasant at roughly 19–22°C, while winter brings cooler but still swimmable conditions, usually around 16–18°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up again, generally ranging between 18–21°C as air temperatures rise and the weather settles.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| February | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| June | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| October | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| November | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Perth: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Dog Beach
Odyssea City Beach
City Beach
Hamptons City Beach
Grant Street Beach
Floreat Beach
Cottesloe Beach
North Cottesloe
North Cottesloe Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Perth is allowed and extremely popular, thanks to the variety of accessible, well-maintained beaches along the coast. Many beaches have sandy bottoms, gentle shore breaks, and seasonal patrols, making them suitable for families and casual swimmers when conditions are calm. Mornings are often best for swimming, as afternoon sea breezes can increase chop and swell. In summer, most people swim comfortably without wetsuits and enjoy long sessions in the water. Spring and autumn are ideal for relaxed dips, while winter swimming tends to attract locals who don’t mind cooler water or who use light thermal gear. Overall, Perth offers reliable and enjoyable swimming conditions, combining mild water temperatures with clean, open Indian Ocean beaches and easy coastal access.
