Port Kembla – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Port Kembla 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Port Kembla is about 23°C.
Water Temperature in Port Kembla: 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
Water temperatures in Port Kembla 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 Kembla will be 23.1°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 | 22.6°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 22.6°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 23.1°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 23.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 22.5°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 22.4°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 22.3°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 22.4°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 22.5°C | 23.0°C | 22.5°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.3°C | 22.6°C | |
| Mar 22 | 22.5°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 23 | 22.5°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.3°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 25 | 22.3°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.3°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 27 | 22.8°C | 23.1°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 Kembla 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 Kembla sits on the southern edge of the Illawarra coastline, where open beaches face directly into the Tasman Sea alongside a working harbour. Water temperatures here follow the typical open-ocean pattern for New South Wales. In summer, from December through March, the sea is generally at its warmest, usually around 21–24 °C, which is comfortable for most swimmers without a wetsuit. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 19–21 °C. Winter is the coldest season, with water temperatures commonly between 16–18 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up back into the 18–20 °C range as ocean currents and air temperatures begin to rise.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 22°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Port Kembla: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Port Kembla Beach
Mm Beach
North Beach
Parkyns Beach
Perkins Beach
Windang Beach
Wollongong City Beach
Kurrakwah Bay
Warilla Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Port Kembla Beach is allowed and popular, particularly at the main patrolled beach areas. As an exposed surf coastline, conditions can vary significantly depending on swell and wind, with waves and rip currents forming at times. When patrols are operating, swimmers should always stay between the red and yellow flags, as these zones offer the safest conditions. On calmer summer days, the beach suits a wide range of swimmers, from casual dippers to regular ocean swimmers. In cooler months, many locals wear wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Port Kembla offers reliable ocean swimming with good safety support when conditions and advice are respected.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Port Kembla Beach
Fairy Meadow
Towradgi
Oilies
Windang Island
Woonona
Wollongong South Beach
Bulli Beach
Barrack Point
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Wollongong
Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
