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Rapid Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Rapid Bay 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.

Rapid Bay
Rapid Bay © Darren Hocknell

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.7°C
Today
19.9°C
Yesterday
20.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Rapid Bay is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in Rapid Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.

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 Rapid Bay 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 Rapid Bay will be 19.9°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 1219.6°C20.5°C
Mar 1320.1°C20.3°C
Mar 1420.5°C20.3°C
Mar 1520.2°C20.0°C
Mar 1620.0°C20.0°C
Mar 1720.0°C20.3°C
Mar 1819.8°C19.8°C
Mar 1919.9°C19.8°C
Mar 2019.7°C19.8°C19.7°C
Mar 2120.3°C19.7°C
Mar 2220.0°C19.8°C
Mar 2319.7°C19.8°C
Mar 2419.7°C19.8°C
Mar 2520.0°C19.9°C
Mar 2620.0°C19.9°C
Mar 2719.7°C19.9°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 Rapid Bay 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

Rapid Bay sits on the western side of the Fleurieu Peninsula, tucked into a small bay that offers some shelter from the full force of the Great Australian Bight. Water temperatures follow a cool southern pattern through the year. In summer, the sea is usually at its warmest, sitting around 18–22°C, which feels refreshing and comfortable on warm days. Autumn sees a gradual cooling to roughly 16–19°C, while winter brings noticeably colder water, often around 13–15°C. Spring is a slow warm-up period, with temperatures commonly between 14–17°C, influenced by sunshine, winds and changing sea conditions.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January17°C20°C22°C
February18°C20°C22°C
March17°C20°C22°C
April16°C19°C21°C
May14°C17°C19°C
June13°C15°C17°C
July12°C14°C16°C
August11°C14°C15°C
September12°C14°C16°C
October13°C15°C17°C
November15°C17°C19°C
December16°C19°C21°C

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

Rapid Bay: Weather Forecast

March 21

16°C / 23°C
clear sky
humidity: 65% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

17°C / 26°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 60% | wind: 4 kmh

March 23

18°C / 26°C
few clouds: 11-25%
humidity: 59% | wind: 4 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Rapid Bay

⭐ 4.3/5
19.9°C

Second Valley

⭐ 3.8/5
19.4°C

Second Valley Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
20.6°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Rapid Bay and is popular, especially around the jetty and within the bay itself. The sheltered setting often results in calmer water than nearby open beaches, making it suitable for casual swimmers when conditions are settled. The area is also well known for snorkelling and diving, thanks to clear water and marine life around the jetty pylons. While conditions are generally manageable, currents can still be present, particularly further from shore, so care is needed. Outside peak summer, many swimmers choose wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Rapid Bay offers approachable swimming with cool, clean water in a relaxed coastal setting.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Rapid Bay

⭐ 2/5
20.0°C

Tunkalilla

⭐ 2/5
19.7°C

Myponga Beach

⭐ 3/5
21.2°C

Parsons Beach

⭐ 2/5
17.8°C
28 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: St Vincent St, Gulfview Heights SA 5096

Place Tags:Surf Spot

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Rapid Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Rapid Bay in the Great Australian Bight today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Rapid Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Rapid Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Rapid Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Rapid Bay typically ranges from 14°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Rapid Bay during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Rapid Bay typically ranges from 12°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Rapid Bay during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Rapid Bay typically ranges from 11°C to 17°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Rapid Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Rapid Bay area include: Rapid Bay, Second Valley, Second Valley Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Rapid Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Rapid Bay include Rapid Bay, Tunkalilla, Myponga Beach.