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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Tathra is about 18°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
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Tathra have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Tathra will be 17.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 18.3°C | 16.3°C | |
| Oct 8 | 18.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 9 | 18.4°C | 16.3°C | |
| Oct 10 | 18.1°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 11 | 18.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| Oct 12 | 18.2°C | 16.8°C | |
| Oct 13 | 18.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| Oct 14 | 18.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| Oct 15 | 18.1°C | 17.0°C | 18.1°C |
| Oct 16 | 16.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| Oct 17 | 16.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Oct 18 | 17.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| Oct 19 | 17.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| Oct 20 | 17.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| Oct 21 | 16.8°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 22 | 17.0°C | 17.2°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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| February | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| March | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| April | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| May | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| June | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| July | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| August | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| September | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| October | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| December | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Tathra: Weather Forecast
October 16
October 17
October 18
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Mogareka Inlet Beach
Tathra Beach
Thatchers Flat
Moon Bay
Nelson Beach
Cowdroys Beach
Gillards Beach
Hobart Beach
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
Bunga Head
Short Point
Merimbula Bar
Pambula Rivermouth
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Bega Valley Shire
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
