Smiths Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Smiths Beach in Victoria. 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Smiths Beach is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Smiths Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.
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
Water temperatures in Smiths Beachfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Smiths Beach will be 16.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 17.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| Apr 29 | 17.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 17.3°C | 16.5°C | |
| May 1 | 17.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 2 | 17.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 3 | 17.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| May 4 | 17.4°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 5 | 17.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| May 6 | 17.3°C | 16.5°C | 17.3°C |
| May 7 | 16.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| May 8 | 16.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| May 9 | 16.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| May 10 | 16.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 11 | 16.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| May 12 | 16.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| May 13 | 16.3°C | 16.4°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 Smiths Beach 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
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Smiths Beach sits on Phillip Island’s southern coastline, facing the Bass Strait, and its water temperatures reflect the cooler conditions of Victoria’s exposed coast. In summer, the ocean generally warms to around 18–22 °C, which feels refreshing but comfortable for swimming on clear, sunny days. Autumn often stays mild, with water temperatures commonly between 16–20 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 14–18 °C as the sea gradually warms after winter. During winter, temperatures typically fall to about 11–14 °C, which is quite cold and usually limits swimming to short dips or those wearing wetsuits.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| December | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Smiths Beach: Weather Forecast
May 7
May 8
May 9
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Ycw
Smith's Beach
The Gap
Jessie
Racetrack Beach
Surfies Point West
Sunderland Bay
Surfies Point East
Beach View
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Smiths Beach is allowed and popular, particularly in the warmer months. The beach is open to Bass Strait swells, so waves and rips are a regular feature, making conditions better suited to confident swimmers, especially when the surf is up. On calmer summer days, the water can be clean and inviting, with plenty of space along the wide shoreline to find a comfortable entry point. Less experienced swimmers often choose quieter conditions or stay close to shore. In cooler months, locals who enjoy ocean swimming tend to keep sessions brief or use wetsuits. Overall, Smiths Beach offers clear seasonal temperature changes and rewarding swimming opportunities when conditions are favourable and approached with good ocean awareness.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Smiths Beach
Express Point
Surfies Point
Sunderland Bay
Surf Beach
Pyramid Rock
Berrys Beach
Forrest Caves (Phillip Island)
Kitty Miller Bay
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Bass Coast Shire
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
