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Stokes Bay Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Stokes Bay Beach in South Australia. 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.

Stokes Bay Beach
Stokes Bay Beach © Brad Cummins

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.7°C
Today
19.8°C
Yesterday
20.3°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Stokes Bay Beach is about 20°C.

Water Temperature in Stokes Bay Beach: 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 February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Stokes Bay Beach 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 Stokes Bay Beach will be 19.9°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 1219.6°C20.0°C
Mar 1319.6°C20.3°C
Mar 1420.3°C20.3°C
Mar 1520.1°C20.0°C
Mar 1619.9°C20.3°C
Mar 1719.9°C20.0°C
Mar 1819.9°C20.0°C
Mar 1919.8°C19.5°C
Mar 2019.7°C19.5°C19.7°C
Mar 2119.5°C19.7°C
Mar 2219.5°C19.8°C
Mar 2319.3°C19.8°C
Mar 2420.0°C19.8°C
Mar 2519.8°C19.9°C
Mar 2620.0°C19.9°C
Mar 2719.5°C19.9°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 Stokes Bay 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Stokes Bay Beach sits on the north coast of Kangaroo Island, facing the cooler waters of the Great Australian Bight, and its water temperatures reflect that southern ocean influence. In summer, the sea is at its most comfortable, usually ranging from about 17–20°C, which feels cool but refreshing on warm island days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 15–18°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often around 12–14°C. Spring warms slowly, with water temperatures commonly sitting between 13–16°C, and short cold spells can follow changes in wind and weather.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January16°C20°C22°C
February18°C20°C22°C
March18°C20°C21°C
April17°C19°C21°C
May14°C17°C19°C
June13°C15°C18°C
July12°C15°C16°C
August11°C14°C16°C
September12°C14°C16°C
October12°C15°C17°C
November14°C16°C19°C
December16°C18°C21°C

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

Stokes Bay Beach: Weather Forecast

March 21

15°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 66% | wind: 11 kmh

March 22

16°C / 25°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 61% | wind: 11 kmh

March 23

16°C / 24°C
clear sky
humidity: 73% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Stokes Bay

⭐ 4.3/5
19.3°C

Snelling Beach

⭐ 3.6/5
20.5°C

Emu Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
19.4°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Stokes Bay and is one of the highlights of the area, thanks to the beach’s natural shelter. Access to the sand is through a narrow rock passage, which opens into a protected bay with calmer water than much of the surrounding coastline. This shelter reduces swell and strong currents, making swimming more approachable for a wide range of visitors when conditions are settled. Even so, the water remains cool, and many swimmers choose wetsuits outside peak summer. Overall, Stokes Bay offers some of the most inviting swimming conditions on Kangaroo Island, combining clean, clear water with a unique, sheltered setting that suits relaxed and enjoyable ocean swims.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Stokes Bay

⭐ 3/5
19.4°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach in the Great Australian Bight today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach typically ranges from 12°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Stokes Bay Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Stokes Bay Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Stokes Bay Beach area include: Stokes Bay, Snelling Beach, Emu Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Stokes Bay Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Stokes Bay Beach include Stokes Bay.