Warrnambool – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Warrnambool 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Warrnambool is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Warrnambool: 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
Water temperatures in Warrnambool 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 Warrnambool will be 18.6°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 12 | 17.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 17.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 17.6°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 17.4°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 17.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.3°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 17.2°C | 18.0°C | 17.2°C |
| Mar 21 | 19.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.7°C | 17.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| Mar 24 | 18.3°C | 18.0°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.3°C | 18.2°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.3°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.3°C | 18.6°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 Warrnambool 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
Warrnambool sits on Victoria’s far western coastline, facing the open waters of the Great Australian Bight, and this gives it cool, clean sea conditions throughout the year. In summer, water temperatures are usually at their highest, typically ranging from about 17–20°C, which feels refreshing rather than warm but suits swimming on hot days. Autumn sees a gradual drop to around 15–18°C, while winter is noticeably cold, often sitting between 12–14°C. Spring brings a slow warm-up, with water temperatures commonly hovering between 13–16°C, influenced by changing weather and swell.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| December | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Warrnambool: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is allowed at Warrnambool and is well supported by local beaches and facilities. Popular spots such as sheltered bays and town beaches often offer gentler conditions than fully exposed stretches of coast, making them suitable for general swimming when conditions are right. Patrolled areas operate during the warmer months, adding an important safety layer, as rips and currents can still form. Outside peak summer, many swimmers choose to wear wetsuits to stay comfortable in the cooler water. Overall, Warrnambool provides some of the more accessible swimming opportunities along this section of the coast, combining cool southern ocean water with beaches that are well suited to regular recreational swimming.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Grannys Grave Beach
Warnambool Surf Beach
The Cutting
Dredges
Japs
Childers Cove Mepunga
Port Fairy (East Beach)
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Warrnambool
Place Tags:City
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
