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Port Stephens – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Port Stephens 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.

Port Stephens
Port Stephens © By happysnapper 2, CC BY 2.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

21.8°C
Today
21.5°C
Yesterday
22.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Port Stephens is about 22°C.

Water Temperature in Port Stephens: 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

From February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Port Stephens 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 Stephens will be 22.4°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
Mar 1223.2°C23.0°C
Mar 1322.7°C23.3°C
Mar 1422.9°C23.0°C
Mar 1522.0°C23.0°C
Mar 1621.7°C23.5°C
Mar 1721.6°C23.0°C
Mar 1821.5°C23.3°C
Mar 1921.5°C23.0°C
Mar 2021.8°C23.0°C21.8°C
Mar 2123.3°C21.9°C
Mar 2223.8°C22.0°C
Mar 2323.0°C22.1°C
Mar 2423.3°C22.2°C
Mar 2522.5°C22.3°C
Mar 2622.5°C22.3°C
Mar 2723.0°C22.4°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 Stephens 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 Stephens, just north of Newcastle in New South Wales, sits where sheltered bays meet the Tasman Sea and is known for relatively comfortable water temperatures most of the year. In summer, the sea usually warms to around 22–26 °C, which feels ideal for long swims and relaxed time in the water. Autumn brings a gentle cooling, with temperatures commonly in the 20–23 °C range. Winter is cooler but still swimmable for many, generally sitting between 16–20 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up from about 18 °C into the low twenties as calmer weather returns.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January20°C23°C27°C
February21°C24°C27°C
March21°C24°C27°C
April20°C23°C26°C
May19°C22°C25°C
June17°C20°C22°C
July16°C20°C21°C
August16°C19°C21°C
September16°C19°C22°C
October16°C20°C22°C
November18°C20°C24°C
December19°C21°C27°C

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

Port Stephens: Weather Forecast

March 21

18°C / 24°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 74% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

20°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 75% | wind: 11 kmh

March 23

20°C / 24°C
light rain
humidity: 75% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Stockton Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
22.2°C

Mallabula Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
21.7°C

Banks Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
21.6°C

Birubi Point

⭐ 5.0/5
22.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed and very popular throughout Port Stephens, largely because of the wide variety of conditions on offer. Sheltered beaches and bays inside the port usually have calmer water, minimal swell, and fewer rips, making them well suited to families and casual swimmers. More exposed ocean-facing beaches provide a classic surf swim, with clean water and rolling waves, though conditions there depend on swell and wind. Many beaches are patrolled during peak periods, which adds an extra layer of safety. This mix of protected and open-water spots means swimmers can usually find a suitable place year-round by matching their choice of beach to the day’s conditions.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Anna Bay-Morna Point

⭐ 3/5
20.7°C

One Mile Beach

⭐ 3/5
21.5°C

Box Beach

⭐ 3/5
22.7°C

Fly Roads

⭐ 2/5
22.3°C

Fingal Bay

⭐ 2/5
22.3°C
20 km away 📍 Beach and point

Zenith Beach

⭐ 2/5
22.0°C

Stockton Beach

⭐ 2/5
22.8°C

Newcastle - Stratts Spit

⭐ 3/5
22.7°C

Newcastle -The Harbour

⭐ 3/5
23.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Port Stephens today?
Sea water temperature in Port Stephens in the Tasman Sea today is 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Stephens during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Port Stephens typically ranges from 19°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Stephens during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Port Stephens typically ranges from 19°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Stephens during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Port Stephens typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Port Stephens during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Port Stephens typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Port Stephens area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Port Stephens area include: Stockton Beach, Mallabula Beach, Banks Beach, Birubi Point.
What are the nearest surf spots to Port Stephens?
Some of the closest surf spots near Port Stephens include Anna Bay-Morna Point, One Mile Beach, Fly Roads.