Rye – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Rye 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Rye is about 19°C.
Water Temperature in Rye: 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 Rye 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 Rye will be 18.5°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 | 19.1°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.1°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 18.9°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 18.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.9°C | 19.0°C | 18.9°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.7°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 22 | 19.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 23 | 18.3°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.3°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.3°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 26 | 18.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.7°C | 18.5°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 Rye 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
Rye sits on the sheltered side of the Mornington Peninsula, facing Port Phillip Bay with the Bass Strait beyond, and water temperatures here are more stable than on the exposed ocean coast. In summer, the water usually warms to around 19–23 °C, which feels comfortable for swimming and spending long periods in the water. Autumn often remains mild, with temperatures commonly between 17–21 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 15–19 °C as the bay gradually warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures typically drop to about 13–15 °C, which feels cold but is still manageable for short swims, especially on sunny, calm days.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| December | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Rye: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Rye Beach
Number 16
Dimmicks 1
Orr Point
Pearses
Pearses 1
Blairgowrie Beach
Fowlers Beach
Montforts Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Rye is allowed and very popular thanks to the calm, family-friendly conditions. The bay beaches here are largely protected from strong Bass Strait swells, so waves are small and currents gentle, making swimming suitable for all abilities. Shallow water near the shore is ideal for families and relaxed swimmers, particularly in summer when the water is at its warmest. In cooler months, many locals still swim but keep sessions short or use wetsuits for comfort. Overall, Rye offers clean water, clear seasonal temperature changes, and some of the easiest and most reliable swimming conditions on the Mornington Peninsula.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Allisons
Rye Ocean Beach
St Andrews Beach
Pearses Beach
Gunnamatta Beach
Portsea Back Beach
Cape Schanck
Quarantine
Spooks
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Shire of Mornington Peninsula
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
