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Port Lincoln – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Port Lincoln 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.

Port Lincoln
Port Lincoln © By Ghoongta, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.0°C
Today
18.7°C
Yesterday
18.7°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Port Lincoln is about 18°C.

Water Temperature in Port Lincoln: 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 April 6 to May 6

Water temperatures in Port Lincoln 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 Lincoln will be 17.4°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
Apr 2818.9°C19.8°C
Apr 2918.9°C19.0°C
Apr 3018.7°C18.3°C
May 118.8°C18.0°C
May 218.8°C18.3°C
May 318.5°C18.0°C
May 418.6°C17.3°C
May 518.7°C17.8°C
May 618.0°C17.8°C18.0°C
May 718.0°C17.9°C
May 818.3°C17.8°C
May 916.5°C17.7°C
May 1017.0°C17.6°C
May 1117.8°C17.6°C
May 1217.3°C17.5°C
May 1317.8°C17.4°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 Port Lincoln 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

Port Lincoln sits at the southern end of Spencer Gulf on the Eyre Peninsula, and its water temperatures reflect a balance between sheltered gulf conditions and the nearby open Southern Ocean. In summer, the sea is at its most inviting, usually ranging from about 19–23°C, which feels comfortable for swimming on warm days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 17–20°C, while winter is noticeably cooler, often around 14–16°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C, influenced by sunshine and generally lighter winds inside the gulf.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January16°C20°C22°C
February17°C20°C22°C
March16°C20°C23°C
April16°C19°C21°C
May14°C17°C20°C
June13°C16°C18°C
July12°C15°C17°C
August11°C14°C17°C
September11°C14°C17°C
October12°C15°C18°C
November13°C17°C19°C
December16°C18°C21°C

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

Port Lincoln: Weather Forecast

May 7

13°C / 15°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 62% | wind: 22 kmh

May 8

15°C / 17°C
light rain
humidity: 77% | wind: 18 kmh

May 9

16°C / 17°C
light rain
humidity: 74% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Cemetery Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
18.1°C

Rock Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
17.8°C

Picnic Beach

⭐ 2.6/5
17.5°C

Squeaky Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
17.7°C

Tiatukia Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
19.2°C

Woodcutters Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
19.0°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Port Lincoln and is popular, especially in sheltered bays and around town beaches. The natural harbour and surrounding headlands provide protection from strong swell, creating calmer conditions suitable for casual swimmers when the weather is settled. Water clarity is often good, adding to the appeal for swimming and snorkelling. Outside these sheltered spots, conditions can be more exposed and cooler. Many swimmers choose wetsuits outside peak summer to stay comfortable for longer sessions. Overall, Port Lincoln offers a range of swimming opportunities, combining relatively mild gulf water with protected coastal settings that suit relaxed recreational swimming.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Sleaford Bay (Wreck Beach)

⭐ 2/5
18.5°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: City of Port Lincoln

Place Tags:City

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Port Lincoln today?
Sea water temperature in Port Lincoln in the Spencer Gulf today is 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Lincoln during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Port Lincoln typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Lincoln during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Port Lincoln typically ranges from 14°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Lincoln during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Port Lincoln typically ranges from 11°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Lincoln during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Port Lincoln typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Port Lincoln area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Port Lincoln area include: Cemetery Beach, Rock Beach, Picnic Beach, Squeaky Beach, Tiatukia Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Port Lincoln?
Some of the closest surf spots near Port Lincoln include Sleaford Bay (Wreck Beach).