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Princetown Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Princetown Beach 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.

Princetown Beach
Princetown Beach © Mark Walford

Current Sea Water Temperature

17.3°C
Today
17.4°C
Yesterday
17.9°C
A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Princetown Beach: 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 Princetown Beach 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 Princetown Beach will be 17.3°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 1217.9°C18.5°C
Mar 1317.9°C18.8°C
Mar 1417.9°C18.3°C
Mar 1517.8°C18.0°C
Mar 1617.5°C17.8°C
Mar 1717.5°C18.5°C
Mar 1817.5°C18.3°C
Mar 1917.4°C18.0°C
Mar 2017.3°C18.0°C17.3°C
Mar 2118.8°C17.3°C
Mar 2218.5°C17.3°C
Mar 2318.0°C17.3°C
Mar 2418.5°C17.3°C
Mar 2518.5°C17.3°C
Mar 2617.5°C17.3°C
Mar 2718.0°C17.3°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 Princetown Beach 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

Princetown Beach sits near the mouth of the Gellibrand River, facing the open waters of the Great Australian Bight, and this location keeps water temperatures on the cool side throughout the year. In summer, the sea is usually at its warmest, generally ranging from about 16–19°C, which still feels brisk but can be refreshing on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 14–17°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often around 11–13°C. Spring warms slowly, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 12–15°C, and sudden changes can follow strong southerly weather.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January15°C19°C21°C
February16°C19°C21°C
March16°C18°C21°C
April15°C17°C19°C
May14°C16°C18°C
June12°C15°C16°C
July11°C14°C15°C
August11°C13°C15°C
September11°C13°C15°C
October12°C14°C16°C
November13°C15°C18°C
December14°C16°C21°C

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

Princetown Beach: Weather Forecast

March 21

14°C / 19°C
clear sky
humidity: 79% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

16°C / 22°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 64% | wind: 4 kmh

March 23

15°C / 19°C
light rain
humidity: 89% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Princetown Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
18.1°C

Rivernook Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
17.1°C

Gibson Steps

⭐ 3.5/5
17.7°C

Gibson Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
18.3°C

Gibson Steps Beach

⭐ 2.5/5
16.4°C

Moonlight Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
17.5°C

Twelve Apostles Beach

⭐ 2.6/5
17.4°C

Wreck Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
16.9°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Princetown Beach, but conditions need to be treated with care. The coastline here is exposed and known for strong swells, rips and unpredictable currents, making it unsuitable for relaxed or inexperienced swimmers. There are no regular patrols, so entering the water requires good judgement and an understanding of ocean conditions. On rare calm days, short swims close to shore can be possible, though wetsuits are commonly used even in summer due to the cold water. Overall, Princetown Beach offers clean, wild ocean water in a dramatic setting, with swimming best suited to confident ocean users who respect the power of the Great Australian Bight.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Point Ronald and Princetown

⭐ 3/5
18.0°C

Luna Park

⭐ 5/5
17.6°C

Gibson Steps

⭐ 3/5
16.8°C

The Jetty

⭐ 3/5
16.7°C

Easter Reef

⭐ 4/5
16.6°C
13 km away 📍 Reef/bombora

Johanna

⭐ 3/5
18.7°C
24 km away 📍 Beach and point

The Well

⭐ 3/5
18.4°C

Castle Cove

⭐ 2/5
18.3°C
29 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Massacres

⭐ 3/5
16.8°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Princetown Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Princetown Beach in the Great Australian Bight today is 17°C.
What is the water temperature in Princetown Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Princetown Beach typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Princetown Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Princetown Beach typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Princetown Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Princetown Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Princetown Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Princetown Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Princetown Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Princetown Beach area include: Princetown Beach, Rivernook Beach, Gibson Steps, Gibson Steps Beach, Moonlight Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Princetown Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Princetown Beach include Point Ronald and Princetown, Gibson Steps, Luna Park.