Tumby Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Tumby Bay 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Tumby Bay is about 14°C.
Water Temperature in Tumby Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.
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 month, water temperatures in Tumby Bay have stayed mostly steady, but a warming trend has developed over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Tumby Bay will be 14.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 13.8°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 13.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 14.0°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 18 | 14.0°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 19 | 13.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 14.2°C | 13.3°C | |
| Aug 21 | 14.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 13.9°C | 13.8°C | |
| Aug 23 | 14.1°C | 13.8°C | 14.1°C |
| Aug 24 | 14.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Aug 25 | 14.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 15.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 27 | 14.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 28 | 14.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 29 | 14.3°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 30 | 14.5°C | 14.2°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 Tumby Bay 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
Tumby Bay sits on the eastern side of the Eyre Peninsula, overlooking the calm waters of Spencer Gulf, and this sheltered setting gives it relatively mild water temperatures through the year. In summer, the sea is at its warmest, usually around 20–24°C, which feels comfortable and inviting on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual cooling to roughly 18–21°C, while winter is cooler but still manageable, often sitting between 14–16°C. Spring sees a steady warm-up, with water temperatures commonly in the 17–20°C range, helped by sunshine and the gulf’s generally calm conditions.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| February | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| March | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| April | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| May | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| June | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| July | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| August | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| September | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 13°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| December | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Tumby Bay: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Tumby Island
Wisemans Beach
Lipson Cove
Mcleod Landing
Shell Beach
Barry Beach
Cowleys Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Tumby Bay and is popular, particularly during the warmer months. The gulf waters here are typically gentle, with little surf and a shallow, sandy shoreline that suits casual swimmers and families when conditions are settled. The jetty area also provides easy access to the water, and the calm conditions make it suitable for relaxed swimming rather than energetic surf activity. Outside peak summer, some swimmers choose wetsuits for longer sessions, especially on cooler days. Overall, Tumby Bay offers easy and enjoyable swimming, with relatively warm water by South Australian standards and a relaxed coastal environment well suited to everyday recreational use.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Sleaford Bay (Wreck Beach)
Thistle Island (False Creek)
Greenly Beach (Coles Point)
Red Banks Reefs
Flatrock
Drummond Point
Monument
Coffin Bay Peninsula
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: District Council of Tumby Bay
Place Tags:Coastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
