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South West Rocks – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at South West Rocks 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.

South West Rocks
South West Rocks © Thorno

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.0°C
Today
19.8°C
Yesterday
19.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in South West Rocks is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in South West Rocks: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.

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 July 23 to August 22

Water temperatures in South West Rocks 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 South West Rocks will be 20.1°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
Aug 1519.4°C20.5°C
Aug 1619.4°C20.8°C
Aug 1719.5°C20.8°C
Aug 1819.6°C21.0°C
Aug 1919.5°C20.5°C
Aug 2019.5°C20.5°C
Aug 2119.8°C20.0°C
Aug 2219.8°C20.0°C
Aug 2320.0°C20.0°C20.0°C
Aug 2420.7°C20.0°C
Aug 2521.0°C20.0°C
Aug 2620.7°C20.0°C
Aug 2720.3°C20.0°C
Aug 2820.3°C20.1°C
Aug 2920.0°C20.1°C
Aug 3020.7°C20.1°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 South West Rocks 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

South West Rocks sits on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, right on the Tasman Sea, and enjoys water temperatures that stay fairly inviting for most of the year. In summer, the ocean typically warms to around 22–26 °C, which is comfortable for long swims and plenty of time in the water. Autumn brings a gentle drop to roughly 20–23 °C, still pleasant for swimming without a wetsuit. Winter is cooler, with sea temperatures usually between 17–20 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up from about 18 °C into the low twenties as conditions settle and days get longer.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January23°C26°C27°C
February24°C26°C29°C
March22°C26°C28°C
April23°C25°C27°C
May20°C23°C25°C
June18°C22°C24°C
July19°C21°C23°C
August18°C21°C22°C
September18°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.

South West Rocks: Weather Forecast

August 23

13°C / 18°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 72% | wind: 7 kmh

August 24

13°C / 20°C
clear sky
humidity: 82% | wind: 11 kmh

August 25

16°C / 22°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 80% | wind: 18 kmh

August 26

14°C / 19°C
light rain
humidity: 87% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Trial Bay Front Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
20.5°C

Gap Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
19.2°C

North Smoky Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
20.5°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed and widely enjoyed in South West Rocks, thanks to a mix of sheltered bays and more exposed ocean beaches. Sheltered spots, such as those protected by headlands, often have calmer water and fewer rips, making them suitable for families and casual swimmers. Open beaches offer a more traditional ocean swim, with clean water and rolling surf, though conditions can change with swell and weather. Some areas are patrolled during peak periods, adding to safety. This variety means swimmers can usually find a suitable spot year-round by matching their choice of beach to the day’s conditions.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Hat Head

⭐ 3/5
19.4°C

Scotts Head

⭐ 3/5
19.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in South West Rocks today?
Sea water temperature in South West Rocks in the Tasman Sea today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in South West Rocks during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in South West Rocks typically ranges from 21°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in South West Rocks during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in South West Rocks typically ranges from 20°C to 28°C.
What is the water temperature in South West Rocks during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in South West Rocks typically ranges from 18°C to 25°C.
What is the water temperature in South West Rocks during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in South West Rocks typically ranges from 18°C to 24°C.
Which beaches are popular in the South West Rocks area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the South West Rocks area include: Trial Bay Front Beach, Gap Beach, North Smoky Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to South West Rocks?
Some of the closest surf spots near South West Rocks include Hat Head, Scotts Head.