Sandy Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Sandy 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 Sandy Beach is about 23°C.
Water Temperature in Sandy 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 Sandy 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 Sandy Beach will be 23.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 22.9°C | 25.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 22.8°C | 24.8°C | |
| Apr 30 | 22.5°C | 24.0°C | |
| May 1 | 22.5°C | 24.0°C | |
| May 2 | 22.8°C | 24.0°C | |
| May 3 | 23.1°C | 24.0°C | |
| May 4 | 23.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| May 5 | 23.2°C | 24.0°C | |
| May 6 | 23.0°C | 24.0°C | 23.0°C |
| May 7 | 24.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| May 8 | 23.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| May 9 | 23.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| May 10 | 23.0°C | 23.1°C | |
| May 11 | 23.5°C | 23.2°C | |
| May 12 | 23.3°C | 23.2°C | |
| May 13 | 23.0°C | 23.2°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 Sandy 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
Sandy Beach sits on the far north coast of New South Wales, just south of Woolgoolga, facing the Tasman Sea and shaped by a warm subtropical climate. Water temperatures here are generally comfortable for swimming through most of the year. In summer, the ocean typically warms to around 25–27 °C, making the water inviting for long swims and plenty of time in the sea. Autumn often holds onto that warmth, with temperatures commonly between 23–25 °C as weather patterns settle. Spring begins cooler at roughly 21–23 °C before steadily warming toward summer. Winter is the coolest season, but even then the sea usually sits around 19–21 °C, which many locals still find suitable for a swim on clear, sunny days.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 23°C | 26°C | 27°C |
| February | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| March | 22°C | 26°C | 27°C |
| April | 23°C | 25°C | 26°C |
| May | 19°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| July | 19°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| October | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| November | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| December | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Sandy Beach: Weather Forecast
May 7
May 8
May 9
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Sandy Beach
Fiddamans Beach
Sandy Beach
Woolgoolga Back Beach
Hearnes Lake Beach
Emerald Beach
Woolgoolga Beach
Darkum Beach
Mullaway Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed and popular at Sandy Beach, particularly when conditions are calm. The beach is open to the ocean, so waves and currents can vary depending on swell and wind, and swimmers need to stay aware of rips. On settled days, the water is clear and temperatures remain steady, offering enjoyable swimming along this stretch of coast. Patrolled areas during peak times add an extra level of safety. Overall, Sandy Beach offers reliable water temperatures and good swimming opportunities for much of the year, provided ocean conditions are checked and respected before entering the water.
