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Sawtell – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Sawtell 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.

Sawtell
Sawtell © Mathew Knott

Current Sea Water Temperature

25.2°C
Today
25.0°C
Yesterday
24.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Sawtell is about 25°C.

Water Temperature in Sawtell: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ Water in this range is comfortably warm and widely considered ideal for swimming. Most people can stay in the water for a long time without feeling cold. It works well for families, recreational swimming, and active water sports such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.

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

From February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Sawtell have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Sawtell will be 25.0°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 1225.1°C25.8°C
Mar 1325.1°C25.5°C
Mar 1424.9°C26.0°C
Mar 1524.8°C25.5°C
Mar 1624.9°C25.5°C
Mar 1725.0°C25.5°C
Mar 1824.9°C25.3°C
Mar 1925.0°C25.8°C
Mar 2025.2°C25.8°C25.2°C
Mar 2125.3°C25.2°C
Mar 2225.0°C25.1°C
Mar 2325.3°C25.1°C
Mar 2424.8°C25.1°C
Mar 2524.5°C25.1°C
Mar 2624.8°C25.0°C
Mar 2724.3°C25.0°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 Sawtell 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

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.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January22°C26°C27°C
February24°C27°C29°C
March22°C26°C28°C
April23°C25°C27°C
May19°C23°C25°C
June18°C22°C24°C
July19°C21°C23°C
August18°C21°C22°C
September17°C21°C23°C
October19°C22°C24°C
November20°C22°C25°C
December21°C24°C27°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Sawtell: Weather Forecast

March 21

19°C / 24°C
light rain
humidity: 82% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

20°C / 24°C
moderate rain
humidity: 80% | wind: 11 kmh

March 23

20°C / 24°C
light rain
humidity: 77% | wind: 14 kmh

March 24

21°C / 25°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 65% | wind: 25 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Sawtell Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
25.3°C

Boambee Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
25.3°C

Gallows Beach

⭐ 4.2/5
23.5°C

Jetty Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
23.8°C

Park Beach

⭐ 3.7/5
22.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed and popular at Sawtell, particularly along the main beach where conditions are often more manageable than on more exposed stretches of coast. The long, gently curving shoreline can offer relatively consistent conditions, though waves and currents still vary with swell and wind. On calmer days, the water is clear and inviting, making it suitable for relaxed swimming as well as longer ocean sessions. During busier periods, patrolled areas provide added safety. Overall, Sawtell offers reliable water temperatures and solid swimming opportunities across most seasons, provided local surf conditions are taken into account before heading in.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Sawtell

⭐ 3/5
25.7°C

Sawtell-The Island

⭐ 3/5
26.4°C

Trapdoors

⭐ 3/5
25.3°C
2 km away 📍 Point/river

Gallows

⭐ 3/5
24.1°C
7 km away 📍 Reef and point

Coffs Harbour-North Wall

⭐ 2/5
23.7°C

Park Beach

⭐ 2/5
23.4°C

Diggers

⭐ 3/5
22.2°C

Nambucca Heads

⭐ 2/5
25.9°C

Shelly Beach

⭐ 2/5
26.4°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Sawtell today?
Sea water temperature in Sawtell in the Tasman Sea today is 25°C.
What is the water temperature in Sawtell during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Sawtell typically ranges from 21°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Sawtell during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Sawtell typically ranges from 19°C to 28°C.
What is the water temperature in Sawtell during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Sawtell typically ranges from 17°C to 25°C.
What is the water temperature in Sawtell during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Sawtell typically ranges from 18°C to 24°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Sawtell area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Sawtell area include: Sawtell Beach, Boambee Beach, Gallows Beach, Jetty Beach, Park Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Sawtell?
Some of the closest surf spots near Sawtell include Sawtell, Sawtell-The Island, Trapdoors.