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West Cape Howe – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at West Cape Howe in Western 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.

West Cape Howe
West Cape Howe © By aussiejeff, CC BY 3.0

Current Sea Water Temperature

20.5°C
Today
20.3°C
Yesterday
20.6°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in West Cape Howe is about 21°C.

Water Temperature in West Cape Howe: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This water feels mild to warm and is comfortable for the majority of swimmers. Swimming is enjoyable, though longer stays may feel cooler for some people, especially in windy conditions. These temperatures are well suited to family outings and active swimming, particularly on warm days.

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

Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in West Cape Howe have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in West Cape Howe will be 21.1°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
Mar 1221.0°C21.5°C
Mar 1320.9°C21.5°C
Mar 1420.6°C21.5°C
Mar 1520.5°C21.3°C
Mar 1620.3°C21.8°C
Mar 1720.3°C21.5°C
Mar 1820.4°C21.5°C
Mar 1920.3°C21.8°C
Mar 2020.5°C21.8°C20.5°C
Mar 2122.3°C20.6°C
Mar 2222.0°C20.7°C
Mar 2322.3°C20.7°C
Mar 2422.3°C20.8°C
Mar 2522.0°C20.9°C
Mar 2621.3°C21.0°C
Mar 2722.0°C21.1°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 West Cape Howe 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

West Cape Howe marks the southernmost point of Western Australia and sits right on the edge of the Great Australian Bight, where conditions are shaped by the full force of the Southern Ocean. Water temperatures here are cool throughout the year. In summer, from December to February, the sea typically ranges between 17–20°C, occasionally feeling milder during calm, sunny spells. Autumn sees a gradual cooling to around 15–18°C. Winter is cold and bracing, usually about 12–14°C, while spring brings a slow rise again to roughly 14–16°C, though persistent winds can make the water feel sharper than the figures suggest.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January18°C21°C23°C
February18°C21°C24°C
March19°C22°C24°C
April18°C22°C24°C
May19°C21°C24°C
June17°C21°C23°C
July17°C20°C21°C
August17°C19°C20°C
September16°C18°C20°C
October16°C18°C20°C
November17°C19°C21°C
December16°C20°C22°C

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

West Cape Howe: Weather Forecast

March 21

18°C / 23°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 77% | wind: 14 kmh

March 22

17°C / 19°C
light rain
humidity: 74% | wind: 25 kmh

March 23

17°C / 17°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 78% | wind: 22 kmh

March 24

17°C / 19°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 72% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Dunsky Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
21.2°C

Golden Gate Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
19.7°C

Shelly Beach

⭐ 3.8/5
21.0°C

Dingo Beach

⭐ 2.9/5
21.0°C

Bornholm Beach

⭐ 2.5/5
20.9°C

Cosy Corner Beach

⭐ 3.5/5
20.9°C

Hartman's Beach

⭐ 4.2/5
20.7°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at West Cape Howe is allowed, but it’s very much for experienced and cautious swimmers only. The coastline is remote and exposed, with powerful swells, strong currents, and rapidly changing conditions. There are no patrols or facilities, and access often involves steep tracks or long walks. On rare calm summer days, a quick swim in a sheltered corner can be refreshing, but many people prefer wearing a wetsuit even then. Outside summer, swimming is generally short and invigorating rather than leisurely. Overall, West Cape Howe offers a rugged, high-energy swimming environment, best suited to those who understand open-ocean conditions and respect the strength of the southern coast.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Mutton Bird Beach

⭐ 2/5
20.4°C

Sand Patch Beach

⭐ 3/5
21.5°C
21 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Salmon Holes Reef

⭐ 2/5
20.2°C

Middleton Beach

⭐ 1/5
19.7°C

Wilsons Inlet

⭐ 2/5
20.7°C

Ocean Beach

⭐ 3/5
19.9°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in West Cape Howe today?
Sea water temperature in West Cape Howe in the Great Australian Bight today is 21°C.
What is the water temperature in West Cape Howe during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in West Cape Howe typically ranges from 16°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in West Cape Howe during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in West Cape Howe typically ranges from 18°C to 24°C.
What is the water temperature in West Cape Howe during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in West Cape Howe typically ranges from 16°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in West Cape Howe during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in West Cape Howe typically ranges from 17°C to 23°C.
Which beaches are popular in the West Cape Howe area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the West Cape Howe area include: Dunsky Beach, Shelly Beach, Golden Gate Beach, Dingo Beach, Bornholm Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to West Cape Howe?
Some of the closest surf spots near West Cape Howe include Mutton Bird Beach, Sand Patch Beach, Salmon Holes Reef.