Port Elliot – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Port Elliot 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Port Elliot is about 18°C.
Water Temperature in Port Elliot: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.
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
Water temperatures in Port Elliot 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 Port Elliot will be 18.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 19.7°C | 20.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.4°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 18.8°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 19.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 18.3°C | 19.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.4°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.2°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.2°C | 19.3°C | 18.2°C |
| Mar 21 | 20.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 22 | 20.0°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 23 | 20.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.8°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.3°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.5°C | 18.9°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 Port Elliot 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
Port Elliot sits on the southern edge of the Fleurieu Peninsula, where headlands create small bays along the Great Australian Bight, and this setting shapes local water temperatures. In summer, the sea is at its most comfortable, usually ranging from about 18–22°C, which suits swimming on warm days without feeling overly warm. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 16–19°C, while winter is noticeably cooler, often around 13–15°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 14–17°C, influenced by sunshine and coastal winds.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| February | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| March | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| April | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| May | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| June | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| July | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| November | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Port Elliot: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Port Elliot Beach
Ladies Beach
Ladies Bay
Knight Beach
Horseshoe Bay
Green Bay
Rocky Bay
Boomer Beach
Basham Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Port Elliot and is popular thanks to its protected swimming areas. Horseshoe Bay is well known for its sheltered conditions, with reduced swell and fewer strong currents compared to nearby open beaches, making it suitable for families and casual swimmers when conditions are right. Patrolled areas usually operate during the warmer months, adding an extra level of safety. Outside these sheltered spots, the coastline can be more exposed and challenging. Many swimmers choose wetsuits outside peak summer to stay comfortable in the cooler water. Overall, Port Elliot offers some of the most approachable swimming conditions on this part of the coast, combining cool, clear water with naturally protected bays.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Chicken Run Bashams Beach
Bashams Bommie
Horseshoe Bay 1
Frenchman's Rock (Frenchies)
The Dump
Boomer Beach
Middleton Point
Middleton Beach
Dump Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Alexandrina Council
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
