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Port Macdonnell – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Port Macdonnell 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 Macdonnell
Port Macdonnell © Lee Merchant

Current Sea Water Temperature

16.4°C
Today
16.6°C
Yesterday
16.4°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Port Macdonnell is about 16°C.

Water Temperature in Port Macdonnell: 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

Over the last 30 days, water temperatures in Port Macdonnell have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Port Macdonnell will be 16.1°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
Apr 2816.3°C18.0°C
Apr 2916.3°C17.8°C
Apr 3016.4°C18.3°C
May 116.5°C16.8°C
May 216.5°C16.8°C
May 316.7°C17.0°C
May 416.6°C16.8°C
May 516.6°C16.3°C
May 616.4°C16.3°C16.4°C
May 716.7°C16.4°C
May 816.3°C16.3°C
May 916.0°C16.3°C
May 1016.3°C16.2°C
May 1116.0°C16.2°C
May 1216.0°C16.2°C
May 1316.0°C16.1°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 Macdonnell 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 Macdonnell sits on South Australia’s south-east coast, right on the edge of the Great Australian Bight, and its water temperatures reflect this exposed southern ocean setting. In summer, the sea reaches its most comfortable range, usually around 17–20°C, which still feels cool but is refreshing on warm days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 15–18°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often sitting between 12–14°C. Spring warms slowly, with water temperatures commonly around 13–16°C, and short cold spells can follow strong southerly winds or swell.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January15°C20°C23°C
February17°C20°C23°C
March17°C19°C22°C
April15°C18°C21°C
May13°C16°C18°C
June11°C14°C16°C
July10°C12°C15°C
August10°C12°C14°C
September10°C12°C14°C
October11°C14°C17°C
November14°C16°C19°C
December15°C19°C21°C

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

Port Macdonnell: Weather Forecast

May 7

12°C / 15°C
light rain
humidity: 66% | wind: 32 kmh

May 8

14°C / 16°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 76% | wind: 22 kmh

May 9

15°C / 16°C
light rain
humidity: 78% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Port Macdonnell

⭐ 5.0/5
17.0°C

Orwell Rocks

⭐ 3.1/5
15.5°C

French Point

⭐ 2.9/5
15.4°C

Racecourse Bay

⭐ 4.2/5
16.6°C

Finger Point Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
16.5°C

Blanche Bay

⭐ 2.9/5
15.4°C

Middle Point

⭐ 2.9/5
16.9°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Port Macdonnell, but conditions vary depending on location and weather. The town has some more sheltered areas near the harbour and within bays, where swimming can be enjoyable on calm days. Outside these protected spots, the coastline is exposed, with strong swells, rips and colder water typical of the Great Australian Bight, making it better suited to confident swimmers. Patrols may operate during the warmer months, improving safety when present. Wetsuits are commonly used outside peak summer to stay comfortable. Overall, Port Macdonnell offers clean, open-ocean swimming with a rugged coastal character, best enjoyed with an eye on conditions.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Cape Northumberland

⭐ 3/5
17.2°C

Posties

⭐ 3/5
15.8°C

Douglas Point

⭐ 3/5
17.0°C

Piccaninnie Ponds

⭐ 3/5
15.3°C

Glenelg Rivermouth

⭐ 3/5
16.2°C

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: District Council of Grant

Place Tags:Coastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Port Macdonnell today?
Sea water temperature in Port Macdonnell in the Great Australian Bight today is 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Macdonnell during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Port Macdonnell typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Macdonnell during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Port Macdonnell typically ranges from 13°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Macdonnell during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Port Macdonnell typically ranges from 10°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Macdonnell during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Port Macdonnell typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Port Macdonnell area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Port Macdonnell area include: Port Macdonnell, Orwell Rocks, Racecourse Bay, French Point, Finger Point Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Port Macdonnell?
Some of the closest surf spots near Port Macdonnell include Cape Northumberland, Posties, Douglas Point.