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Skennars Head – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Skennars Head 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.

Skennars Head
Skennars Head © Michael Doyle

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.1°C
Today
19.8°C
Yesterday
21.9°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Skennars Head is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in Skennars Head: 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 May 22 to June 21

Water temperatures in Skennars Head have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Skennars Head will be 21.8°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
Jun 1321.9°C22.5°C
Jun 1421.9°C22.3°C
Jun 1521.9°C22.3°C
Jun 1619.7°C22.3°C
Jun 1719.8°C22.0°C
Jun 1820.2°C22.0°C
Jun 1920.1°C22.3°C
Jun 2019.8°C22.0°C
Jun 2120.1°C22.0°C20.1°C
Jun 2222.3°C20.3°C
Jun 2322.3°C20.6°C
Jun 2422.3°C20.8°C
Jun 2522.3°C21.1°C
Jun 2622.0°C21.3°C
Jun 2722.3°C21.5°C
Jun 2822.3°C21.8°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 Skennars Head 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

Skennars Head sits on the far north coast of New South Wales, just south of Ballina, facing the Coral Sea and influenced by a warm subtropical climate. Water temperatures here are suitable for swimming through much of the year. In summer, the ocean commonly reaches around 25–27 °C, creating comfortable conditions for longer swims and time in the water. Autumn often stays mild, with temperatures typically between 23–25 °C as weather patterns become more settled. Spring begins cooler at roughly 21–23 °C before warming steadily toward summer. Winter is the coolest season, but even then sea temperatures usually sit around 19–21 °C, which many locals still find swimmable on clear, sunny days.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January24°C27°C28°C
February25°C27°C29°C
March24°C27°C29°C
April23°C25°C27°C
May22°C24°C26°C
June20°C23°C25°C
July19°C22°C23°C
August18°C22°C23°C
September19°C22°C23°C
October20°C22°C26°C
November20°C23°C26°C
December22°C25°C27°C

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

Skennars Head: Weather Forecast

June 22

11°C / 18°C
light rain
humidity: 82% | wind: 11 kmh

June 23

11°C / 18°C
clear sky
humidity: 72% | wind: 11 kmh

June 24

15°C / 18°C
light rain
humidity: 77% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Sharpes Beach

⭐ 2.7/5
21.2°C

Angels Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
21.1°C

Skennars Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
18.9°C

Lennox Head Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
20.4°C

South Ballina Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
20.5°C

Seven Mile Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
19.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Skennars Head and is popular 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 be mindful of changing conditions. On settled days, the water is clear and inviting, with consistent temperatures typical of this stretch of the north coast. While parts of the area can be quieter than larger beaches nearby, choosing the right time and conditions is important. Overall, Skennars Head offers reliable water temperatures and enjoyable swimming opportunities for much of the year, provided the sea is respected and conditions are assessed before entering the water.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Backsides

⭐ 3/5
21.0°C

Flat Rock

⭐ 2/5
21.0°C

Lennox Head

⭐ 4/5
20.9°C

North wall

⭐ 3/5
21.4°C
5 km away 📍 Beach/groyne/river

Ballina North Wall

⭐ 3/5
21.1°C
5 km away 📍 Point/breakwater

Ballina South Wall

⭐ 2/5
20.6°C
6 km away 📍 Beach/breakwater

Broken Head

⭐ 4/5
20.7°C

Suffolk Park

⭐ 2/5
20.4°C

The Pass

⭐ 3/5
19.2°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Skennars Head today?
Sea water temperature in Skennars Head in the Coral Sea today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Skennars Head during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Skennars Head typically ranges from 22°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Skennars Head during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Skennars Head typically ranges from 22°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Skennars Head during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Skennars Head typically ranges from 19°C to 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Skennars Head during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Skennars Head typically ranges from 18°C to 25°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Skennars Head area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Skennars Head area include: Sharpes Beach, Angels Beach, Skennars Beach, Lennox Head Beach, Seven Mile Beach Dog Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Skennars Head?
Some of the closest surf spots near Skennars Head include Backsides, Flat Rock, Lennox Head.