Sawtell – current water temperature and swimming conditions

Water Temperature in Sawtell: 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

Over the past month, water temperatures in Sawtell have stayed mostly steady, but a warming trend has developed over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Sawtell will be 20.2°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month

Monthly Water Temp Ranges

30°C

25°C

20°C

15°C

10°c

5°C

0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Sawtell sits on the mid–north coast of New South Wales, looking out over the Tasman Sea and enjoying a mild, subtropical coastal climate. Water temperatures here are comfortable for swimming for a large part of the year. In summer, the ocean usually warms to around 24–26 °C, which suits long swims and regular dips without feeling too warm. Autumn often brings very pleasant conditions, with water temperatures holding around 22–24 °C. Spring starts a little cooler, generally around 20–22 °C, then gradually warms as summer approaches. Winter is the coolest period, with sea temperatures typically sitting near 18–20 °C, still swimmable for many locals, especially on clear, sunny days.