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Shoal Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Shoal Bay 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.

Shoal Bay
Shoal Bay © Cheryl Maceren

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.5°C
Today
20.2°C
Yesterday
19.8°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Shoal Bay is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in Shoal Bay: 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

From September 15 to October 15

Water temperatures in Shoal Bay 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 Shoal Bay 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

Date Current Average Forecast
Oct 719.5°C19.3°C
Oct 819.5°C19.8°C
Oct 919.8°C19.8°C
Oct 1019.9°C19.8°C
Oct 1119.9°C20.0°C
Oct 1219.8°C19.5°C
Oct 1319.9°C20.0°C
Oct 1420.2°C19.8°C
Oct 1520.5°C19.8°C20.5°C
Oct 1619.3°C20.5°C
Oct 1719.3°C20.4°C
Oct 1819.7°C20.4°C
Oct 1919.7°C20.3°C
Oct 2019.7°C20.3°C
Oct 2120.0°C20.3°C
Oct 2220.0°C20.2°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 Shoal Bay 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

Shoal Bay sits at the eastern end of Port Stephens in New South Wales, opening out to the Tasman Sea while still benefiting from a relatively sheltered setting. Water temperatures here are comfortable for swimming through much of the year. In summer, the sea usually warms to around 22–26 °C, which feels ideal for long, relaxed swims. Autumn brings a gentle cooling, with temperatures typically in the 20–23 °C range. Winter is cooler but still manageable for many swimmers, generally sitting between 16–20 °C, while spring sees a steady rise from about 18 °C into the low twenties as conditions become calmer and more settled.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January20°C23°C27°C
February21°C24°C27°C
March20°C24°C27°C
April21°C23°C26°C
May19°C22°C25°C
June17°C21°C22°C
July16°C20°C21°C
August16°C19°C21°C
September16°C19°C22°C
October16°C20°C22°C
November18°C20°C24°C
December18°C21°C27°C

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

Shoal Bay: Weather Forecast

October 16

16°C / 18°C
light rain
humidity: 67% | wind: 14 kmh

October 17

16°C / 18°C
light rain
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

October 18

14°C / 19°C
clear sky
humidity: 71% | wind: 14 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Shoal Bay

⭐ 4.6/5
20.1°C

Box Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
20.6°C

Wreck Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
19.9°C

Zenith Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
19.9°C

Nelson Bay

⭐ 3.9/5
20.8°C

Fly Roads

⭐ 3.5/5
20.7°C

Shark Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
21.4°C

Fingal Bay

⭐ 5.0/5
20.8°C

Nelson Bay Marina

⭐ 3.9/5
21.6°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed and very popular in Shoal Bay, largely because of its sheltered bay and clear, clean water. The curved beach is protected from the full force of ocean swells, which usually means smaller waves and fewer strong rips compared to exposed surf beaches. This makes it suitable for a wide range of swimmers, including families and less experienced ocean swimmers. Entry from the sand is easy, and the water often feels calm and inviting. During busy periods, parts of the beach are patrolled, adding an extra level of safety. Thanks to its gentle conditions and pleasant water temperatures, Shoal Bay is considered one of the more reliable swimming spots on this stretch of coast.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Zenith Beach

⭐ 2/5
19.5°C

Box Beach

⭐ 3/5
21.4°C

Fingal Bay

⭐ 2/5
20.4°C
3 km away 📍 Beach and point

Fly Roads

⭐ 2/5
20.9°C

One Mile Beach

⭐ 3/5
20.5°C

Anna Bay-Morna Point

⭐ 3/5
19.7°C

Little Gibber - Dark Point

⭐ 3/5
21.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Shoal Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Shoal Bay in the Tasman Sea today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoal Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Shoal Bay typically ranges from 18°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoal Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Shoal Bay typically ranges from 19°C to 27°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoal Bay during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Shoal Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoal Bay during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Shoal Bay typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Shoal Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Shoal Bay area include: Shoal Bay, Box Beach, Wreck Beach, Zenith Beach, Fly Roads.
What are the nearest surf spots to Shoal Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Shoal Bay include Zenith Beach, Box Beach, Fingal Bay.