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Tathra – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Tathra 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.

Tathra
Tathra © By Cimexus, CC BY 2.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.8°C
Today
20.6°C
Yesterday
20.8°C
A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Tathra: 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 April 6 to May 6

Water temperatures in Tathra 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 Tathra will be 18.3°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 2820.9°C20.8°C
Apr 2920.9°C21.5°C
Apr 3020.8°C20.3°C
May 120.8°C20.5°C
May 220.9°C20.5°C
May 320.7°C20.0°C
May 420.6°C20.5°C
May 520.6°C19.8°C
May 619.8°C19.8°C19.8°C
May 718.8°C19.6°C
May 819.5°C19.4°C
May 918.5°C19.2°C
May 1019.0°C19.0°C
May 1119.0°C18.8°C
May 1218.5°C18.5°C
May 1319.3°C18.3°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 Tathra 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

Tathra sits on the Far South Coast of New South Wales, facing the open Tasman Sea, and its water temperatures reflect the cooler end of the state’s coastline. In summer, the ocean usually warms to around 20–23 °C, which feels refreshing and comfortable for swimming on warm days. Autumn often stays mild, with temperatures commonly between 18–21 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 16–19 °C as the sea gradually warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures typically drop to about 14–16 °C, which can feel quite cold without a wetsuit and usually limits swimming to short, bracing dips.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January18°C22°C24°C
February20°C22°C24°C
March18°C21°C24°C
April19°C21°C23°C
May16°C19°C22°C
June14°C17°C21°C
July13°C16°C18°C
August14°C16°C19°C
September14°C16°C19°C
October14°C17°C20°C
November17°C19°C21°C
December17°C19°C22°C

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

Tathra: Weather Forecast

May 7

7°C / 15°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 69% | wind: 29 kmh

May 8

12°C / 16°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 67% | wind: 22 kmh

May 9

11°C / 19°C
clear sky
humidity: 71% | wind: 7 kmh

May 10

11°C / 19°C
clear sky
humidity: 72% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Mogareka Inlet Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
19.1°C

Tathra Beach

⭐ 3.2/5
19.0°C

Thatchers Flat

⭐ 5.0/5
19.0°C

Moon Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
20.5°C

Nelson Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
20.9°C

Cowdroys Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
21.0°C

Gillards Beach

⭐ 4.6/5
20.9°C

Hobart Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
20.9°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Tathra is allowed and offers a mix of conditions. Tathra Beach is exposed to Tasman Sea swells, so waves and currents are common and conditions are best suited to confident swimmers, particularly during summer when the water is at its warmest. On calmer days, swimming can be relaxed and enjoyable, especially close to shore. The local rock pool near the headland provides a more sheltered option, allowing safe access to seawater with less wave action. This variety means swimmers can usually find suitable conditions across the seasons. Overall, Tathra offers clean water, clear seasonal temperature changes, and rewarding swimming opportunities in a classic Far South Coast setting.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Tathra

⭐ 2/5
20.1°C

Bunga Head

⭐ 3/5
19.4°C

Short Point

⭐ 3/5
20.5°C

Merimbula Bar

⭐ 3/5
19.6°C

Pambula Rivermouth

⭐ 3/5
20.4°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Tathra today?
Sea water temperature in Tathra in the Tasman Sea today is 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Tathra during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Tathra typically ranges from 17°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Tathra during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Tathra typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in Tathra during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Tathra typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Tathra during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Tathra typically ranges from 13°C to 21°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Tathra area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Tathra area include: Tathra Beach, Thatchers Flat, Mogareka Inlet Beach, Moon Bay, Nelson Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Tathra?
Some of the closest surf spots near Tathra include Tathra, Bunga Head, Short Point.