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Portland – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Portland in Victoria. 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.

Portland
Portland © Ashley Knight

Current Sea Water Temperature

17.2°C
Today
17.2°C
Yesterday
17.3°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Portland is about 17°C.

Water Temperature in Portland: 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 February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Portland 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 Portland will be 18.0°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 1217.0°C18.8°C
Mar 1317.0°C18.5°C
Mar 1417.3°C18.3°C
Mar 1517.4°C18.3°C
Mar 1617.3°C18.8°C
Mar 1717.3°C18.5°C
Mar 1817.3°C18.0°C
Mar 1917.2°C19.0°C
Mar 2017.2°C19.0°C17.2°C
Mar 2118.7°C17.3°C
Mar 2219.0°C17.4°C
Mar 2318.3°C17.5°C
Mar 2419.3°C17.6°C
Mar 2519.3°C17.8°C
Mar 2618.3°C17.9°C
Mar 2718.7°C18.0°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 Portland 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

Portland sits on Victoria’s far western coastline, looking out over the Great Australian Bight, and its water temperatures reflect this exposed southern ocean setting. In summer, the sea is usually at its warmest, generally ranging from about 17–20°C, which feels cool but refreshing on warm days. Autumn brings a steady drop to roughly 15–18°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often around 12–14°C. Spring sees a gradual warm-up, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 13–16°C, though conditions can shift quickly with changes in wind and swell.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January15°C19°C22°C
February17°C19°C22°C
March17°C19°C21°C
April15°C18°C20°C
May14°C16°C18°C
June12°C14°C16°C
July11°C13°C15°C
August11°C13°C14°C
September11°C13°C14°C
October12°C14°C16°C
November13°C16°C18°C
December15°C18°C21°C

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

Portland: Weather Forecast

March 21

14°C / 19°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 76% | wind: 11 kmh

March 22

15°C / 22°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 72% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

15°C / 18°C
light rain
humidity: 88% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Nuns Beach

⭐ 3.4/5
16.7°C

Sandy's Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
17.0°C

Pivot Beach Portland

⭐ 3.5/5
16.8°C

Blacknose Point

⭐ 3.5/5
16.1°C

Crumpets Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
18.1°C

Allestree Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
16.8°C

Murrells Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
18.1°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Portland and is supported by a mix of sheltered bays and more exposed beaches. Locations closer to the harbour and inside bays often have calmer water, making them more suitable for general swimming when conditions are right. Open-ocean beaches nearby can experience stronger waves and currents, so they are better suited to confident swimmers who pay close attention to conditions. During the warmer months, patrolled areas improve safety, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with the coastline. Outside peak summer, many locals wear wetsuits to stay comfortable in the cooler water. Overall, Portland offers accessible swimming options by southern Victorian standards, combining clean water with a variety of coastal environments.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Portland

⭐ 3/5
18.1°C
3 km away 📍 Beach and point

Blacknose Point

⭐ 3/5
16.0°C

Whites Reef

⭐ 3/5
16.3°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Portland today?
Sea water temperature in Portland in the Great Australian Bight today is 17°C.
What is the water temperature in Portland during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Portland typically ranges from 15°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Portland during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Portland typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Portland during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Portland typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Portland during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Portland typically ranges from 11°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Portland area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Portland area include: Nuns Beach, Sandy's Beach, Pivot Beach Portland, Blacknose Point, Crumpets Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Portland?
Some of the closest surf spots near Portland include Portland, Blacknose Point, Whites Reef.