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 19°C.
Water Temperature in Rottnest Island: 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
Water temperatures in Rottnest Island 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 Rottnest Island will be 19.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 13 | 20.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| Jun 14 | 20.5°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 15 | 20.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| Jun 16 | 20.2°C | 20.8°C | |
| Jun 17 | 19.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| Jun 18 | 19.1°C | 20.8°C | |
| Jun 19 | 19.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Jun 20 | 18.9°C | 20.7°C | |
| Jun 21 | 18.9°C | 20.7°C | 18.9°C |
| Jun 22 | 21.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| Jun 23 | 20.7°C | 19.1°C | |
| Jun 24 | 20.7°C | 19.2°C | |
| Jun 25 | 20.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| Jun 26 | 20.7°C | 19.4°C | |
| Jun 27 | 20.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| Jun 28 | 20.0°C | 19.6°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
June 22
June 23
June 24
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
