West Island – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at West Island in Cocos (Keeling) Islands. 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 West Island is about 29°C.
Water Temperature in West Island: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ Water at this temperature is very warm and feels almost tropical. Swimming is comfortable for most people, even for long periods, with no sensation of cold. These conditions are ideal for relaxed swimming, floating, and water play, especially for families and casual swimmers. However, during very hot weather, the water may feel less refreshing, and short breaks are often welcome.
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 West Island have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in West Island will be 29.6°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 | 28.7°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 28.6°C | 29.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 28.5°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 28.7°C | 29.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 28.8°C | 29.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 28.7°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 28.8°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 28.7°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 28.7°C | 29.3°C | 28.7°C |
| Mar 21 | 29.8°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 22 | 29.8°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 23 | 29.3°C | 29.1°C | |
| Mar 24 | 29.8°C | 29.2°C | |
| Mar 25 | 29.0°C | 29.4°C | |
| Mar 26 | 30.0°C | 29.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 29.5°C | 29.6°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 West Island 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
West Island is the main settlement on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, set within a tropical atoll in the eastern Indian Ocean where warm, clear water surrounds the coastline year-round. Sea temperatures here are very stable compared with mainland Australia. During the drier months, roughly from May to October, the water usually sits around 26–27 °C, which feels comfortably warm for swimming at any time of day. In the wetter season, from November to April, temperatures often rise slightly to about 27–29 °C. There is no cold season as such, and even in overcast or breezy weather the sea remains pleasantly warm.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27°C | 29°C | 30°C |
| February | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| May | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| June | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| July | 25°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| August | 25°C | 27°C | 28°C |
| September | 24°C | 27°C | 28°C |
| October | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| November | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| December | 24°C | 28°C | 30°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
West Island: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in West Island is allowed and is one of the area’s main attractions. Much of the island faces the lagoon, which provides calm, sheltered conditions with minimal waves and gentle currents, making it ideal for relaxed swims, floating, and snorkelling. The warm water means wetsuits are unnecessary, and longer swims are comfortable year-round. Areas facing the open ocean can experience stronger swell and currents, so swimming there is best reserved for calm days and confident swimmers. Overall, West Island offers excellent tropical swimming conditions, combining consistently warm water with sheltered lagoon environments that suit both casual dips and extended time in the sea.
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Shire of Cocos 6799
Place Tags:Beach
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
