Wollongong – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Wollongong in New South Wales. 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 Wollongong is about 21°C.
Water Temperature in Wollongong: 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
Water temperatures in Wollongong 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 Wollongong will be 22.4°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 | 22.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 22.7°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 22.5°C | 23.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 22.3°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 20.9°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 20.9°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 20.8°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 20.9°C | 22.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 21.0°C | 22.8°C | 21.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.0°C | 21.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 23.0°C | 21.4°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.0°C | 21.6°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.0°C | 21.8°C | |
| Mar 25 | 22.0°C | 22.0°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.0°C | 22.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 22.5°C | 22.4°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 Wollongong 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
Wollongong sits on the Illawarra coast with a string of beaches opening straight onto the Tasman Sea, so water temperatures reflect full ocean conditions. The seasonal pattern is consistent across the area. In summer, from December through March, sea temperatures usually range between 21–24 °C, making swimming comfortable for most people without extra insulation. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to around 19–21 °C. Winter is the coldest period, with water temperatures typically sitting between 16–18 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up back into the 18–20 °C range as currents and air temperatures begin to rise.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| February | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| April | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| December | 19°C | 21°C | 25°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Wollongong: Weather Forecast
March 21
March 22
March 23
March 24
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Brighton Beach
Wollongong Beach
Wollongong City Beach
Wollongong North Beach
Cove Beach
Fairy Meadow Beach
Vincent Schmidt
Towradgi Beach
Corrimal Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in and around Wollongong is allowed and very popular, thanks to the variety of beaches and well-managed swimming areas. Many of the main beaches are regularly patrolled, and swimmers are advised to stay between the red and yellow flags, where conditions are monitored and risks from rip currents are reduced. While the coastline is exposed and can experience strong waves, especially after large swells, calmer days are common in summer and suit a wide range of swimmers. Ocean pools and harbour-adjacent spots also provide more sheltered options. In cooler months, wetsuits are commonly used. Overall, Wollongong offers reliable, year-round ocean swimming with good safety infrastructure when conditions are respected.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Wollongong South Beach
Woonona
Bulli Beach
Wollongong North Beach
Acids
Peggys
Oilies
Towradgi
Fairy Meadow
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: Municipality of Kiama
Place Tags:CityBeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
