Rose Bay – water temperature at Parramatta River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Rose Bay, located on the Parramatta River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Parramatta River at Rose Bay today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Parramatta River at Rose Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Rose Bay have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Rose Bay will be 11.8°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 15 | 12.1°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 16 | 11.8°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 17 | 11.8°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 18 | 11.9°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 19 | 12.2°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 20 | 12.2°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 21 | 12.4°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 22 | 12.4°C | 11.7°C | 12.4°C |
| Aug 23 | 11.7°C | 12.3°C | |
| Aug 24 | 11.7°C | 12.2°C | |
| Aug 25 | 11.7°C | 12.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 11.7°C | 12.1°C | |
| Aug 27 | 11.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 28 | 11.7°C | 11.9°C | |
| Aug 29 | 11.7°C | 11.8°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| February | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| March | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| April | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| June | 10°C | 12°C | 13°C |
| July | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| December | 13°C | 24°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Rose Bay is a harbourside suburb in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, set along the calm waters of Sydney Harbour with the Tasman Sea just beyond the heads. Water temperatures here are generally milder and more stable than at open ocean beaches. In summer, harbour water temperatures typically sit around 22–26 °C and can feel especially warm in shallow, sheltered areas on still days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 20–23 °C. Winter is cooler but still swimmable for many, with temperatures usually between 16–20 °C, while spring sees a steady rise from about 18 °C into the low twenties as air temperatures warm.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed and popular at Rose Bay, largely because of its sheltered harbour setting. The absence of surf means there are no waves or ocean rips, creating calm conditions suited to relaxed swimming. Designated swimming areas and nearby harbour baths provide safer options away from boat traffic. Water quality is generally good, though it can vary after heavy rain, so calmer, dry periods are best. Easy access from sandy beaches and steps makes entry straightforward. Overall, Rose Bay offers comfortable, low-energy swimming for much of the year, especially for those who prefer calm harbour water over open-ocean conditions.