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Phillip Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Phillip Bay in New South Wales. 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.

Phillip Bay
Phillip Bay © By J Bar, CC BY 2.5

Current Sea Water Temperature

22.6°C
Today
22.2°C
Yesterday
21.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Phillip Bay is about 23°C.

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

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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

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

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Phillip Bay will be 23.2°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 1222.7°C23.5°C
Mar 1322.6°C22.8°C
Mar 1421.9°C23.3°C
Mar 1521.8°C23.3°C
Mar 1621.9°C23.3°C
Mar 1722.2°C23.0°C
Mar 1822.1°C22.5°C
Mar 1922.2°C23.0°C
Mar 2022.6°C23.0°C22.6°C
Mar 2122.8°C22.7°C
Mar 2223.3°C22.8°C
Mar 2322.5°C22.9°C
Mar 2423.5°C23.0°C
Mar 2523.0°C23.1°C
Mar 2623.5°C23.1°C
Mar 2723.8°C23.2°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 Phillip 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

Phillip Bay lies on Sydney’s southern edge near the entrance to Botany Bay, with water influenced by both the Tasman Sea and the more enclosed bay conditions. Water temperatures follow the familiar seasonal cycle of the Sydney coast. In summer, from December through March, the water is usually at its warmest, sitting around 21–24 °C and comfortable for most swimmers. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 19–21 °C. Winter is noticeably cooler, typically around 16–18 °C, while spring sees temperatures lift again into the 18–20 °C range as ocean conditions begin to stabilise.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January20°C23°C25°C
February22°C24°C26°C
March20°C23°C26°C
April19°C23°C25°C
May16°C21°C24°C
June15°C20°C23°C
July15°C19°C21°C
August15°C19°C20°C
September16°C18°C20°C
October16°C19°C21°C
November18°C20°C22°C
December18°C21°C25°C

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

Phillip Bay: Weather Forecast

March 21

19°C / 24°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 76% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

19°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 81% | wind: 4 kmh

March 23

20°C / 25°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 74% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Bumbora Point

⭐ 2.9/5
21.7°C

Phillip Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
22.4°C

Yarra Bay

⭐ 3.8/5
21.7°C

Congwong Beach

⭐ 4.9/5
21.6°C

Congwong Bay 2

⭐ 3.9/5
22.7°C

Frenchmans Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
21.6°C

Congwong Bay 1

⭐ 3.9/5
22.8°C

Henry Head

⭐ 3.5/5
22.9°C

Little Congwong Beach

⭐ 2.7/5
23.4°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Phillip Bay is allowed and generally calmer than at nearby open surf beaches. The bay setting reduces wave size and limits strong rips, making conditions more predictable and suitable for relaxed swimming on most days. This appeals to locals looking for quieter water and fewer crowds, especially during summer. While the area can be affected by wind and tidal movement, it rarely experiences heavy surf. The beach is not always patrolled, so swimmers should assess conditions carefully and avoid poor weather days. In cooler months, many regular swimmers wear wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Phillip Bay offers steady, low-energy ocean swimming for those after a more sheltered coastal experience.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Maroubra Beach

⭐ 3/5
23.5°C
5 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Malabar

⭐ 3/5
23.2°C

Coogee

⭐ 3/5
22.7°C
7 km away 📍 Beach reef and point

Lurline Bay

⭐ 3/5
22.9°C

Voodoo

⭐ 3/5
22.5°C

Clovelly Bombie

⭐ 3/5
23.3°C

Bronte Reef or Bunnies

⭐ 2/5
22.1°C

Bronte Beach

⭐ 3/5
21.2°C
9 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Green Hills

⭐ 2/5
22.9°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Phillip Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Phillip Bay in the Botany Bay today is 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Phillip Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Phillip Bay typically ranges from 18°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Phillip Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Phillip Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Phillip Bay during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Phillip Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Phillip Bay during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Phillip Bay typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Phillip Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Phillip Bay area include: Bumbora Point, Yarra Bay, Phillip Bay, Congwong Bay 2, Congwong Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Phillip Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Phillip Bay include Maroubra Beach, Malabar, Coogee.