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Tunkalilla Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Tunkalilla Beach 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.

Tunkalilla Beach
Tunkalilla Beach © eciR ttocS

Current Sea Water Temperature

14.2°C
Today
14.1°C
Yesterday
14.1°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Tunkalilla Beach is about 14°C.

Water Temperature in Tunkalilla Beach: 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

From July 23 to August 22

While water temperatures in Tunkalilla Beach declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach will be 13.4°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 1514.1°C13.5°C
Aug 1614.1°C13.5°C
Aug 1714.1°C13.3°C
Aug 1814.1°C13.3°C
Aug 1914.1°C13.5°C
Aug 2014.2°C13.3°C
Aug 2114.0°C13.3°C
Aug 2214.1°C13.0°C
Aug 2314.2°C13.0°C14.2°C
Aug 2413.3°C14.1°C
Aug 2513.7°C14.0°C
Aug 2613.3°C13.8°C
Aug 2713.3°C13.7°C
Aug 2813.0°C13.6°C
Aug 2913.0°C13.5°C
Aug 3013.3°C13.4°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 Tunkalilla Beach 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

Tunkalilla Beach lies on the southern Fleurieu Peninsula, facing directly into the Great Australian Bight, and its water temperatures reflect this fully exposed ocean setting. In summer, the sea is at its warmest, typically sitting around 18–21°C, which feels refreshing but still cool even on hot days. Autumn brings a gradual drop to roughly 16–19°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often around 13–15°C. Spring is slow to warm, with water temperatures commonly in the 14–17°C range, and sudden cool changes can occur after strong southerly winds and swell.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January17°C20°C22°C
February18°C20°C22°C
March17°C20°C22°C
April16°C19°C21°C
May14°C17°C19°C
June13°C15°C17°C
July12°C14°C16°C
August11°C14°C15°C
September12°C14°C16°C
October13°C15°C17°C
November15°C17°C19°C
December16°C19°C21°C

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

Tunkalilla Beach: Weather Forecast

August 24

11°C / 14°C
light rain
humidity: 91% | wind: 7 kmh

August 25

11°C / 14°C
light rain
humidity: 90% | wind: 14 kmh

August 26

8°C / 14°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 79% | wind: 4 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Tunkalilla Beach

⭐ 2.5/5
15.4°C

Callawonga Beach

⭐ 3.7/5
14.2°C

Ballaparudda Beach

⭐ 3.7/5
13.7°C

Coolawang Beach

⭐ 2.5/5
15.2°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Tunkalilla Beach, but it is not considered an easy or family-friendly swimming location. The beach is known for powerful surf, strong rips and fast-changing conditions, which can make the water hazardous even when it looks calm. There are no regular patrols, so swimmers need to rely on experience and careful judgement before entering the water. On rare calm days in summer, short swims close to shore can be enjoyable, though many people wear wetsuits even then due to the cool water and wind exposure. Overall, Tunkalilla offers clean, wild ocean water in a dramatic natural setting, with swimming best suited to confident ocean users who respect the strength of the southern ocean.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Tunkalilla

⭐ 2/5
14.9°C

Parsons Beach

⭐ 2/5
13.7°C
13 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Waitpinga

⭐ 1/5
14.7°C
16 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Rapid Bay

⭐ 2/5
13.8°C

Petrel Cove

⭐ 2/5
13.7°C
26 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Victor Harbour (Shark Alley)

⭐ 3/5
14.0°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach in the Great Australian Bight today is 14°C.
What is the water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach typically ranges from 16°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach typically ranges from 14°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach typically ranges from 12°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Tunkalilla Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 17°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Tunkalilla Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Tunkalilla Beach area include: Tunkalilla Beach, Callawonga Beach, Ballaparudda Beach, Coolawang Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Tunkalilla Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Tunkalilla Beach include Tunkalilla, Parsons Beach, Waitpinga.