Saltwater Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Saltwater Beach 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 Beach is about 22°C.
Water Temperature in Saltwater Beach: 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
While water temperatures in Saltwater Beach declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Saltwater Beach will be 23.4°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 | 24.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 23.9°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 21.7°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 21.8°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 21.7°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 21.6°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 21.7°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 21.6°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 21.9°C | 23.8°C | 21.9°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.8°C | 22.1°C | |
| Mar 22 | 24.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 25.3°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 24.3°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 25 | 24.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 26 | 24.0°C | 23.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 24.5°C | 23.4°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 Beach 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 Beach, on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales and facing the Tasman Sea, experiences water temperatures that follow a clear seasonal cycle. During summer, the ocean is at its warmest, usually sitting between about 22–26 °C, which feels comfortable for longer swims and plenty of time in the water. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to around 20–23 °C. In winter, the sea is cooler but still manageable for many swimmers, with temperatures generally ranging from 17–20 °C. Spring marks a steady warm-up from roughly 18 °C into the low twenties as weather conditions become more settled.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| February | 23°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| March | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| April | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| June | 17°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| July | 16°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 21°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 18°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| November | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| December | 20°C | 22°C | 27°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Saltwater Beach: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Saltwater Beach
Red Head Beach
Wallabi Beach
Diamond Beach
Old Bar Beach
Black Head Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Saltwater Beach, but it is very much an open-ocean environment. The beach is exposed to swell, so wave height and currents can vary from day to day, and rips may form, particularly after rough weather. On calm days, the water is clean and refreshing, and entry from the sandy shoreline is straightforward for confident swimmers. With no regular patrols, it’s important to assess conditions carefully before entering the water. Choosing days with smaller swell and lighter winds makes swimming here safer and more enjoyable, especially for those used to natural, uncrowded coastal beaches.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Saltwater
Tuncurry-North Wall
Forster Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Diamond Beach
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
