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Whitehaven Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Whitehaven Beach in Queensland. 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.

Whitehaven Beach
Whitehaven Beach © ÁĐÏŤÝÁ ÁĐÏ

Current Sea Water Temperature

27.8°C
Today
28.0°C
Yesterday
28.5°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Whitehaven Beach is about 28°C.

Water Temperature in Whitehaven Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ This is warm water that suits almost everyone. Swimming feels easy and pleasant, even for extended stays, and there is little risk of discomfort from cooling. These temperatures are ideal for family swimming, snorkelling, and most water activities, offering a good balance between comfort and refreshment.

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 Whitehaven Beach 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 Whitehaven Beach will be 28.5°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 1228.3°C29.3°C
Mar 1328.4°C28.8°C
Mar 1428.5°C28.8°C
Mar 1528.5°C28.8°C
Mar 1628.2°C28.8°C
Mar 1728.1°C28.8°C
Mar 1827.9°C28.5°C
Mar 1928.0°C28.3°C
Mar 2027.8°C28.3°C27.8°C
Mar 2128.0°C27.9°C
Mar 2228.3°C28.0°C
Mar 2328.3°C28.1°C
Mar 2427.7°C28.2°C
Mar 2527.7°C28.3°C
Mar 2628.7°C28.4°C
Mar 2728.0°C28.5°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 Whitehaven 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

Whitehaven Beach lies in the heart of the Whitsundays on Queensland’s North Coast, fronting the Coral Sea, and is known for consistently warm, clear water. In summer, from around December to March, sea temperatures usually sit between 27 and 29 °C, giving the water a distinctly tropical feel that’s ideal for long, relaxed swims. During winter, typically June to August, temperatures ease back to about 22–24 °C, which is still very comfortable by Australian standards. Spring and autumn are often the sweet spot, with water temperatures commonly ranging from 24–26 °C and generally settled conditions across the bay.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January27°C29°C31°C
February27°C29°C31°C
March26°C29°C31°C
April25°C28°C30°C
May22°C26°C28°C
June20°C24°C26°C
July20°C23°C24°C
August20°C23°C24°C
September20°C24°C27°C
October22°C26°C29°C
November24°C27°C29°C
December26°C28°C30°C

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

Whitehaven Beach: Weather Forecast

March 21

26°C / 27°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 72% | wind: 32 kmh

March 22

26°C / 26°C
light rain
humidity: 74% | wind: 40 kmh

March 23

26°C / 27°C
clear sky
humidity: 71% | wind: 40 kmh

March 24

25°C / 26°C
clear sky
humidity: 71% | wind: 29 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Whitehaven Beach

⭐ 3.4/5
27.4°C

Crano Cove

⭐ 3.1/5
28.7°C

Chance Bay

⭐ 4.4/5
27.2°C

Hill Inlet

⭐ 3.2/5
28.5°C

Betty's Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
27.0°C

Chalkie's Beach

⭐ 3.1/5
28.0°C

Turtle Bay

⭐ 3.5/5
27.0°C

Dugong Beach

⭐ 3.4/5
27.3°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Whitehaven Beach is allowed and very popular, helped by the beach’s sheltered position and gentle slope into the sea. The surrounding islands protect the shoreline from strong swell, so the water is often calm and inviting when weather and tides are favourable. This makes swimming suitable for a wide range of abilities, from casual paddlers to confident swimmers. As with much of tropical Queensland, marine stingers can be present during the warmer months, usually from November to May, and many people choose to wear stinger suits at that time. Outside the stinger season, the combination of warm water, excellent visibility, and calm conditions makes Whitehaven Beach an outstanding place for swimming in a natural island setting.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Eimeo Point

⭐ 1/5
26.5°C

Dolphin Heads

⭐ 2/5
27.1°C

Lamberts Beach

⭐ 1/5
27.8°C

North Wall Mackay Harbour Beach

⭐ 3/5
28.3°C

South Wall Mackay Harbour

⭐ 1/5
26.3°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Whitehaven Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Whitehaven Beach in the Coral Sea today is 28°C.
What is the water temperature in Whitehaven Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Whitehaven Beach typically ranges from 26°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Whitehaven Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Whitehaven Beach typically ranges from 22°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Whitehaven Beach during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Whitehaven Beach typically ranges from 20°C to 29°C.
What is the water temperature in Whitehaven Beach during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Whitehaven Beach typically ranges from 20°C to 26°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Whitehaven Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Whitehaven Beach area include: Whitehaven Beach, Crano Cove, Chance Bay, Hill Inlet, Betty's Beach.
What are the nearest surf spots to Whitehaven Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Whitehaven Beach include Eimeo Point, Dolphin Heads, Lamberts Beach.