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Shoalhaven Heads – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Shoalhaven Heads 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.

Shoalhaven Heads
Shoalhaven Heads © KS

Current Sea Water Temperature

22.3°C
Today
22.3°C
Yesterday
22.2°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Shoalhaven Heads is about 22°C.

Water Temperature in Shoalhaven Heads: 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 February 18 to March 20

While water temperatures in Shoalhaven Heads declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads will be 22.3°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 1222.6°C23.3°C
Mar 1322.5°C23.3°C
Mar 1422.2°C23.3°C
Mar 1522.5°C23.3°C
Mar 1622.4°C22.8°C
Mar 1722.2°C22.8°C
Mar 1822.2°C22.8°C
Mar 1922.3°C22.8°C
Mar 2022.3°C22.8°C22.3°C
Mar 2122.3°C22.3°C
Mar 2222.8°C22.3°C
Mar 2323.0°C22.3°C
Mar 2422.8°C22.3°C
Mar 2522.0°C22.3°C
Mar 2622.3°C22.3°C
Mar 2722.5°C22.3°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 Shoalhaven Heads 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

Shoalhaven Heads sits where the Shoalhaven River meets the Tasman Sea on the South Coast of New South Wales, and local water temperatures follow a clear seasonal pattern. In summer, the ocean usually warms to around 21–24 °C, making swimming comfortable and appealing on hot days. Autumn often remains mild, with temperatures commonly between 19–22 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 17–20 °C as the sea gradually warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures typically drop to about 16–18 °C, which can feel cold without a wetsuit but is still manageable for short swims, especially in calm weather.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January19°C23°C25°C
February22°C23°C26°C
March21°C23°C25°C
April19°C22°C25°C
May16°C21°C24°C
June15°C19°C23°C
July15°C19°C21°C
August15°C18°C20°C
September16°C18°C20°C
October16°C19°C21°C
November18°C19°C22°C
December18°C21°C25°C

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

Shoalhaven Heads: Weather Forecast

March 21

19°C / 23°C
light rain
humidity: 84% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

18°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 80% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

20°C / 24°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 79% | wind: 7 kmh

March 24

18°C / 24°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 73% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Comerong Island

⭐ 3.5/5
22.2°C

Shoalhaven Heads

⭐ 4.5/5
22.6°C

Crookhaven Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
23.1°C

Orient Point

⭐ 4.5/5
21.5°C

Culburra

⭐ 5.0/5
21.7°C

Seven Mile Beach

⭐ 4.4/5
22.3°C

Wollumboola

⭐ 3.8/5
22.1°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Shoalhaven Heads is allowed and offers a mix of environments. Seven Mile Beach is fully exposed to Tasman Sea swells, so waves and currents are common, making conditions best suited to confident swimmers, particularly in summer. In contrast, the nearby Shoalhaven River provides calmer, more sheltered water that is popular with families and anyone looking for an easier swim. This combination allows swimmers to choose between ocean and river depending on conditions and comfort level. Overall, Shoalhaven Heads offers clean water, reliable seasonal temperatures, and flexible swimming options throughout much of the year.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Gerroa (7 Mile Beach)

⭐ 2/5
21.9°C

Black Point

⭐ 2/5
22.8°C

Seven Mile Beach

⭐ 2/5
21.6°C

Werri Point

⭐ 2/5
21.5°C

Werri Beach

⭐ 2/5
21.5°C
16 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Callala

⭐ 3/5
21.3°C

Kiama Wedge

⭐ 2/5
22.3°C

Bombo Beach

⭐ 2/5
20.9°C

Kiama Pool

⭐ 2/5
21.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads today?
Sea water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads in the Tasman Sea today is 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads typically ranges from 18°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads typically ranges from 16°C to 25°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Shoalhaven Heads typically ranges from 15°C to 23°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Shoalhaven Heads area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Shoalhaven Heads area include: Comerong Island, Shoalhaven Heads, Crookhaven Beach, Orient Point, Seven Mile Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Shoalhaven Heads?
Some of the closest surf spots near Shoalhaven Heads include Gerroa (7 Mile Beach), Black Point, Seven Mile Beach.