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Waratah Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Waratah Bay in Victoria. 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.

Waratah Bay
Waratah Bay © Jose Das Makson

Current Sea Water Temperature

18.0°C
Today
18.0°C
Yesterday
18.1°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Waratah Bay is about 18°C.

Water Temperature in Waratah Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.

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 February 18 to March 20

Water temperatures in Waratah Bay 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 Waratah Bay will be 18.7°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
Mar 1218.9°C19.5°C
Mar 1318.9°C18.8°C
Mar 1418.1°C18.8°C
Mar 1518.1°C19.0°C
Mar 1617.9°C19.0°C
Mar 1717.8°C19.0°C
Mar 1817.9°C18.5°C
Mar 1918.0°C18.8°C
Mar 2018.0°C18.8°C18.0°C
Mar 2119.0°C18.1°C
Mar 2218.7°C18.2°C
Mar 2319.0°C18.3°C
Mar 2419.0°C18.4°C
Mar 2518.7°C18.5°C
Mar 2619.0°C18.6°C
Mar 2718.7°C18.7°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 Waratah 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

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Waratah Bay sits on the East Coast of Victoria, opening onto the Bass Strait, and water temperatures here are shaped by the cool southern ocean. In summer, the sea typically warms to around 18–22 °C, which feels refreshing but comfortable enough for swimming on warm days. Autumn often remains mild, with temperatures commonly between 16–20 °C, while spring is cooler at roughly 14–18 °C as the water gradually warms after winter. During winter, water temperatures usually drop to about 11–14 °C, which is cold and generally limits swimming to short dips or those wearing wetsuits.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January15°C19°C22°C
February17°C19°C22°C
March17°C19°C21°C
April15°C18°C20°C
May14°C16°C18°C
June12°C14°C16°C
July10°C13°C15°C
August10°C12°C14°C
September11°C13°C15°C
October12°C14°C16°C
November14°C16°C18°C
December15°C18°C21°C

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

Waratah Bay: Weather Forecast

March 21

15°C / 18°C
clear sky
humidity: 77% | wind: 14 kmh

March 22

17°C / 19°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 71% | wind: 7 kmh

March 23

17°C / 19°C
clear sky
humidity: 69% | wind: 11 kmh

March 24

18°C / 19°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 79% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Waratah Bay

⭐ 3.6/5
17.9°C

Walkerville

⭐ 3.3/5
18.0°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Waratah Bay is allowed and can be enjoyable when conditions are right. The wide, sandy bay is exposed to Bass Strait swells, so waves and currents are common and can change quickly with wind and weather. This makes swimming best suited to confident swimmers, particularly during settled summer days when the water is at its warmest and the sea is calmer. On calm days, entry into the water is relatively straightforward, and the clear water makes for a refreshing swim. In cooler months, most people keep swims brief or avoid swimming altogether. Overall, Waratah Bay offers clean water, noticeable seasonal temperature changes, and rewarding swimming opportunities when conditions are favourable.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Walkerville

⭐ 2/5
19.1°C

Sandy Point

⭐ 2/5
17.5°C

Cape Liptrap

⭐ 2/5
18.5°C

Darbys (Wilsons Promontory)

⭐ 2/5
18.5°C

Buckleys Reef (Wilsons Promontory)

⭐ 2/5
18.5°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Waratah Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Waratah Bay in the Bass Strait today is 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Waratah Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Waratah Bay typically ranges from 15°C to 22°C.
What is the water temperature in Waratah Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Waratah Bay typically ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Waratah Bay during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Waratah Bay typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Waratah Bay during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Waratah Bay typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Waratah Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Waratah Bay area include: Waratah Bay, Waratah Bay Foreshore Reserve, Walkerville.
What are the nearest surf spots to Waratah Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Waratah Bay include Walkerville, Sandy Point, Cape Liptrap.