Rottnest Island – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Rottnest Island in Western 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Rottnest Island is about 23°C.
Water Temperature in Rottnest Island: 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
Water temperatures in Rottnest Island have remained fairly stable over the past 30 days, though a cooler trend has emerged in the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Rottnest Island will be 22.5°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 12 | 23.8°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 23.9°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 24.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 23.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 22.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 22.9°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 22.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 22.8°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 22.9°C | 23.0°C | 22.9°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 22 | 23.3°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.3°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 24 | 22.7°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 25 | 23.0°C | 22.6°C | |
| Mar 26 | 22.3°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 23.0°C | 22.5°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 Rottnest Island 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
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Rottnest Island sits just offshore from Perth and is famous for its clear water, sheltered bays, and some of the best swimming conditions in Western Australia. Water temperatures here are generally a touch warmer than the mainland coast. In summer, from December to February, the sea usually ranges between 22–25°C, feeling warm and very comfortable for long swims. Autumn remains inviting at around 20–23°C, while winter cools to roughly 17–19°C, which is still manageable for short swims. Spring brings a steady warm-up again, typically sitting between 19–22°C as the weather improves.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| February | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 19°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| June | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| October | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| November | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| December | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Rottnest Island: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Ricey Beach
Bathurst Lighthouse
Pinky Bay
Pearse Lakes
Longreach Beach
Herschel Lake
The Basin
Little Parakeet Bay
Swimming Conditions
Swimming on Rottnest Island is allowed and strongly encouraged, with dozens of bays and beaches suited to all skill levels. Many of the island’s beaches are protected by reefs and headlands, which keeps the water calm, clear, and relatively free of strong currents. These conditions make Rottnest ideal for families, casual swimmers, and snorkelling, especially in summer when the water is at its warmest. Most people swim without wetsuits during the warmer months, while spring and autumn are perfect for relaxed dips. Winter swimming tends to attract locals who are used to cooler water. Overall, Rottnest Island offers some of the safest and most enjoyable swimming in the region, combining mild water temperatures with exceptionally sheltered and scenic coastal settings.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Salmon Point
Chicken Reef
Strickland Bay
Stark Bay
Radar Reef
Cathedral Rock
Cottesloe Beach
Main Beach
Leighton Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Cockburn
Place Tags:BeachCoastal TownSwimming Spot
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
