Tamar River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current river water temperature at Tamar River in Tasmania. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.

Current Water Temperature

15.0°C

Today

15.0°C

Yesterday

15.4°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Tamar River today is 15°C.

Water Temperature in Tamar River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

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

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Tamar River will be 16.6°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Water Temperature Data

Date	Current	Average	Forecast
Mar 12	15.6°C	16.8°C
Mar 13	15.7°C	16.8°C
Mar 14	15.4°C	16.8°C
Mar 15	15.1°C	16.8°C
Mar 16	15.2°C	16.8°C
Mar 17	15.2°C	16.8°C
Mar 18	15.0°C	16.8°C
Mar 19	15.0°C	16.8°C
Mar 20	15.0°C	16.8°C	15.0°C
Mar 21		16.8°C	15.2°C
Mar 22		16.8°C	15.5°C
Mar 23		16.8°C	15.7°C
Mar 24		16.8°C	15.9°C
Mar 25		16.8°C	16.1°C
Mar 26		16.8°C	16.4°C
Mar 27		16.8°C	16.6°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Today	Yesterday	A Week Ago
January	17°C	20°C	22°C
February	17°C	19°C	21°C
March	14°C	17°C	19°C
April	10°C	12°C	15°C
May	6°C	8°C	11°C
June	5°C	6°C	8°C
July	5°C	6°C	8°C
August	6°C	8°C	10°C
September	8°C	10°C	12°C
October	10°C	13°C	17°C
November	14°C	16°C	19°C
December	16°C	18°C	21°C

Tamar River: Water Temperature by Location

🔗 Launceston

Tasmania

15.2°C

🔗 Beauty Point

Tasmania

14.9°C

Location & Local Information

Source confluence South and North Esk Rivers
• location Launceston
• coordinates 41°26′4″S 147°7′38″E
Mouth Port Dalrymple, Bass Strait
• location Low Head
• coordinates 41°3′19″S 146°46′28″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 70 km (43 mi)

The Tamar River, or kanamaluka, is a massive tidal estuary in Northern Tasmania that brings a slice of the ocean right up to the heart of Launceston. Being way down south in Tassie, the water temperature is definitely on the invigorating side. During the height of summer, you’re looking at temperatures peaking between 17°C and 19°C, though some of the shallower, sun-drenched bays might creep up a tad higher. In the winter, the mercury takes a proper dive, often sitting between 10°C and 13°C. It’s the kind of fresh that’ll give you a real wake-up call, so most folks tend to keep their toes dry or opt for a thick steamer if they’re heading out for a paddle.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is technically allowed and can be a ripper experience at spots like Gravelly Beach or the sandy reaches near Beauty Point and Greens Beach. However, you’ve got to use your noggin because the Tamar is a complex beast. The upper reaches near Launceston often struggle with water quality issues, especially after a heavy downpour when the old combined drainage system can overflow, so the local council generally reckons you should steer clear for at least three days after rain. Most of the locals prefer a dip in the First Basin at Cataract Gorge for a freshwater soak, but if you stick to the clearer, more marine-influenced waters closer to the river mouth at Low Head, it’s a legendary spot to cool off on a rare Tassie stinker.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Tamar River?

The water temperature in Tamar River today is 15°C.

What is the water temperature in Tamar River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Tamar River typically range from 16°C to 22°C.

Is it possible to swim in Tamar River (Tasmania)?

Yes — you can swim in parts of the Tamar River (it’s an estuary), but water is generally cool compared with mainland beaches, typically about 8–18°C depending on season and location. Always check local conditions, signage, tides and boat traffic, consider a wetsuit outside peak summer and stick to patrolled or well-known spots rather than open river channels.