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Pondalowie Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Pondalowie 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.

Pondalowie Bay
Pondalowie Bay © Tahmina Dilshad

Current Sea Water Temperature

16.0°C
Today
15.9°C
Yesterday
15.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Pondalowie Bay is about 16°C.

Water Temperature in Pondalowie 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 September 15 to October 15

Water temperatures in Pondalowie Bay have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Pondalowie Bay will be 15.5°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
Oct 715.7°C15.3°C
Oct 816.1°C14.8°C
Oct 915.9°C14.8°C
Oct 1016.1°C15.0°C
Oct 1116.0°C14.8°C
Oct 1215.9°C15.0°C
Oct 1316.1°C15.0°C
Oct 1415.9°C15.0°C
Oct 1516.0°C15.0°C16.0°C
Oct 1615.3°C15.9°C
Oct 1715.5°C15.9°C
Oct 1815.5°C15.8°C
Oct 1915.8°C15.7°C
Oct 2015.8°C15.7°C
Oct 2115.3°C15.6°C
Oct 2215.3°C15.5°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 Pondalowie 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

Pondalowie Bay sits within Innes National Park on the Yorke Peninsula, looking into the waters of Spencer Gulf, and this location gives it slightly milder water temperatures than the open Great Australian Bight. In summer, the sea is at its warmest, usually around 19–23°C, which feels comfortable for swimming on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 17–20°C, while winter is cooler but manageable, often around 13–15°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 15–18°C, influenced by sunshine and calmer gulf conditions.

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.

Pondalowie Bay: Weather Forecast

October 16

14°C / 19°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

October 17

16°C / 22°C
clear sky
humidity: 72% | wind: 11 kmh

October 18

17°C / 23°C
clear sky
humidity: 66% | wind: 22 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Pondalowie Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
16.5°C

Ethel Wreck Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
15.9°C

Dolphin Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
15.8°C

Browns Beach

⭐ 3.8/5
15.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Pondalowie Bay, but it suits swimmers who are confident and aware of conditions. The bay is semi-sheltered compared to fully exposed ocean beaches, though it can still experience strong surf, rips and sudden changes in swell. On calmer days, swimming can be enjoyable, with clean water and a natural coastal feel. There are no patrols, so checking conditions before entering the water is essential. Many swimmers choose wetsuits outside peak summer for added comfort. Overall, Pondalowie Bay offers rewarding swimming in a remote setting, combining relatively mild gulf water with the need for caution and respect for the sea.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Pondalowie Bay

⭐ 3/5
15.4°C

West Cape

⭐ 2/5
16.4°C

Ethel Wreck

⭐ 5/5
16.6°C

Chinamans

⭐ 3/5
17.0°C

Baby Lizards

⭐ 2/5
16.6°C

Rhino Head

⭐ 3/5
15.1°C

A-Bay (Willyama Bay)

⭐ 3/5
17.1°C

Trespassers

⭐ 3/5
16.7°C

The Spit

⭐ 3/5
16.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Pondalowie Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Pondalowie Bay in the Spencer Gulf today is 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Pondalowie Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Pondalowie Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Pondalowie Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Pondalowie Bay typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Pondalowie Bay during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Pondalowie Bay typically ranges from 12°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Pondalowie Bay during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Pondalowie Bay typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Pondalowie Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Pondalowie Bay area include: Pondalowie Bay, Ethel Wreck Beach, Dolphin Beach, Browns Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Pondalowie Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Pondalowie Bay include Pondalowie Bay, West Cape, Ethel Wreck.