Saltwater – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Saltwater in New South Wales. 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 Saltwater is about 20°C.
Water Temperature in Saltwater: 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 Saltwater 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 Saltwater will be 20.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 21.3°C | 21.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 21.2°C | 21.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 20.1°C | 21.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.7°C | 21.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 19.7°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 19.7°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 19.9°C | 21.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 19.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 20.0°C | 21.0°C | 20.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 21.0°C | 20.1°C | |
| Mar 22 | 22.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| Mar 23 | 20.5°C | 20.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 20.8°C | 20.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 21.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| Mar 26 | 20.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 20.5°C | 20.6°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 Saltwater 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
Saltwater sits near Green Cape on the Far South Coast of New South Wales, right where the Tasman Sea meets a rugged, windswept shoreline. Water temperatures here reflect the cooler southern conditions and the exposed ocean setting. In summer, the sea usually warms to around 19–22 °C, which feels refreshing rather than warm but is still comfortable for swimming on sunny days. Autumn often stays mild, with temperatures commonly between 17–20 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 15–18 °C as the ocean slowly warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures typically drop to about 13–15 °C, which can feel very cold without a wetsuit and generally limits swimming to short, bracing dips.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| February | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| March | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| April | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| May | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| June | 15°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| July | 12°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| August | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| September | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| October | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| November | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| December | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Saltwater: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Saltwater is allowed, but conditions are best suited to experienced and confident swimmers. The coastline here is fully exposed to Tasman Sea swells, with strong waves, surge, and changing currents common, especially during windy weather. There are no sheltered bays, so swimming depends heavily on calm conditions and good ocean awareness. On rare settled summer days, the water can be clear and invigorating, offering a wild and memorable swim. In cooler months, most people either avoid swimming or wear wetsuits for warmth and safety. Overall, Saltwater offers clean ocean water, distinct seasonal temperature changes, and challenging swimming conditions in a remote and dramatic coastal setting.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Saltwater
Aisling's Beach
Asling's Beach
Lennards Island
Pambula Rivermouth
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Light to Light Walk, Green Cape NSW 2551
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
