Whitsunday Islands – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Whitsunday Islands 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.
Current Sea Water Temperature
The average sea water temperature today in Whitsunday Islands is about 28°C.
Water Temperature in Whitsunday Islands: 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
Water temperatures in Whitsunday Islands 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 Whitsunday Islands will be 28.4°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 | 28.3°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 28.4°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 28.4°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 28.5°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 28.3°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 28.0°C | 28.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 27.8°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 28.0°C | 28.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 27.7°C | 28.3°C | 27.7°C |
| Mar 21 | 28.0°C | 27.8°C | |
| Mar 22 | 28.3°C | 27.9°C | |
| Mar 23 | 28.3°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 24 | 27.7°C | 28.1°C | |
| Mar 25 | 27.7°C | 28.2°C | |
| Mar 26 | 28.7°C | 28.3°C | |
| Mar 27 | 28.0°C | 28.4°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 Whitsunday Islands 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
The Whitsunday Islands sit off Queensland’s North Coast in the warm waters of the Coral Sea, and sea temperatures here stay inviting across the year. In summer, from roughly December to March, the water is typically around 27–29 °C, giving it a distinctly tropical feel that suits long swims and snorkelling sessions. During winter, usually June to August, temperatures ease back to about 22–24 °C, which is still mild and comfortable by Australian standards. Spring and autumn often provide the best balance, with water temperatures commonly ranging from 24–26 °C and generally calmer weather across the island group.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| May | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| June | 20°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| July | 20°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| November | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| December | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Whitsunday Islands: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Betty's Beach
Hill Inlet
Dugong Beach
Turtle Bay
Crano Cove
Whitehaven Beach
Chalkie's Beach
Chance Bay
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Whitsunday Islands is allowed and widely enjoyed, thanks to the many sheltered bays and beaches protected from strong ocean swell. These calmer waters make swimming suitable for a wide range of abilities when conditions are settled. As with much of tropical Queensland, marine stingers can be present during the warmer months, typically from November to May, so swimmers often wear stinger suits or follow local advice on safer areas. Outside the stinger season, the clear, warm water and sheltered shorelines offer excellent swimming conditions. With consistently mild sea temperatures and plenty of protected spots, the Whitsunday Islands are well suited to swimming for most of the year when local conditions are taken into account.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Eimeo Point
Dolphin Heads
Lamberts Beach
North Wall Mackay Harbour Beach
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Place Tags:
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
