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Tully Heads – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Tully Heads in Queensland. 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.

Tully Heads
Tully Heads © James Gibson

Current Sea Water Temperature

26.3°C
Today
26.3°C
Yesterday
26.4°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Tully Heads is about 26°C.

Water Temperature in Tully Heads: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This is warm water that suits almost everyone. Swimming feels easy and pleasant, even for extended stays, and there is little risk of discomfort from cooling. These temperatures are ideal for family swimming, snorkelling, and most water activities, offering a good balance between comfort and refreshment.

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 Tully Heads 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 Tully Heads will be 26.1°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
Apr 2826.4°C27.8°C
Apr 2926.3°C28.5°C
Apr 3026.4°C27.3°C
May 126.4°C27.0°C
May 226.2°C27.0°C
May 326.4°C26.8°C
May 426.4°C26.5°C
May 526.3°C26.8°C
May 626.3°C26.8°C26.3°C
May 726.7°C26.3°C
May 826.0°C26.2°C
May 926.3°C26.2°C
May 1026.0°C26.2°C
May 1126.7°C26.2°C
May 1226.0°C26.1°C
May 1326.0°C26.1°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 Tully Heads 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

Tully Heads sits on Queensland’s tropical North Coast, right where the Tully River meets the Coral Sea, and water temperatures stay warm for most of the year. In summer, from December through to March, sea temperatures are typically around 27–29 °C, feeling very warm and inviting, especially during hot, humid days. Over winter, usually June to August, the water cools slightly to about 22–24 °C, which is still comfortable for swimming by local standards. Spring and autumn often bring the best balance, with temperatures commonly in the 24–26 °C range and more settled weather.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January27°C30°C31°C
February27°C29°C31°C
March27°C29°C31°C
April26°C28°C30°C
May23°C26°C28°C
June21°C25°C27°C
July21°C24°C26°C
August22°C24°C26°C
September22°C25°C28°C
October23°C26°C29°C
November24°C27°C30°C
December26°C29°C31°C

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

Tully Heads: Weather Forecast

May 7

22°C / 25°C
clear sky
humidity: 81% | wind: 11 kmh

May 8

22°C / 24°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 82% | wind: 22 kmh

May 9

21°C / 23°C
light rain
humidity: 85% | wind: 18 kmh

May 10

23°C / 24°C
light rain
humidity: 87% | wind: 25 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Kennedy Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
26.4°C

Lugger Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
26.4°C

South Mission Beach

⭐ 2.8/5
25.5°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Tully Heads is allowed, but conditions mean a bit of extra care is needed. The beach is exposed to the open Coral Sea and influenced by the nearby river mouth, so currents, waves, and water clarity can change quickly. In the warmer months, generally from November to May, marine stingers may be present, which is why many swimmers use stinger suits or choose to limit time in the water. Outside the stinger season, the warm sea and quiet coastal setting make swimming possible on calmer days, particularly for experienced swimmers who check conditions and avoid rough weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Tully Heads today?
Sea water temperature in Tully Heads in the Coral Sea today is 26°C.
What is the water temperature in Tully Heads during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Tully Heads typically ranges from 26°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Tully Heads during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Tully Heads typically ranges from 23°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Tully Heads during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Tully Heads typically ranges from 22°C to 30°C.
What is the water temperature in Tully Heads during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Tully Heads typically ranges from 21°C to 27°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Tully Heads area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Tully Heads area include: Kennedy Bay, Lugger Bay, South Mission Beach.