Woody Head – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Woody Head 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

19.1°C

Today

18.5°C

Yesterday

21.0°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Woody Head is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Woody Head: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.

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 May 22 to June 21

Water temperatures in Woody Head 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 Woody Head will be 22.0°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
Jun 13	21.0°C	22.3°C
Jun 14	21.0°C	22.0°C
Jun 15	21.0°C	22.5°C
Jun 16	21.0°C	21.0°C
Jun 17	18.4°C	21.5°C
Jun 18	19.2°C	21.8°C
Jun 19	19.2°C	21.5°C
Jun 20	18.5°C	21.5°C
Jun 21	19.1°C	21.5°C	19.1°C
Jun 22		22.0°C	19.5°C
Jun 23		22.3°C	19.9°C
Jun 24		22.3°C	20.4°C
Jun 25		22.3°C	20.8°C
Jun 26		22.3°C	21.2°C
Jun 27		22.7°C	21.6°C
Jun 28		22.3°C	22.0°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 Woody Head 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

Woody Head is a cracking little spot tucked away in Bundjalung National Park where the rainforest literally meets the sea. If you’re keen on a dip, you’ll find the water here is some of the most inviting on the North Coast. During the height of summer, usually around February, the Coral Sea hits a balmy 25°C to 27°C, which is absolute gold for a long soak. Even when winter rolls around in August, the mercury rarely drops below 19°C or 21°C. It’s the kind of place where you can comfortably ditch the wetsuit for most of the year, though you might want a light spring suit if a southerly buster starts blowing through during the cooler months.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	24°C	26°C	28°C
February	25°C	27°C	29°C
March	24°C	27°C	29°C
April	23°C	25°C	28°C
May	22°C	24°C	26°C
June	20°C	23°C	25°C
July	19°C	22°C	23°C
August	19°C	22°C	23°C
September	19°C	22°C	23°C
October	20°C	22°C	26°C
November	21°C	23°C	26°C
December	22°C	25°C	27°C

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

Woody Head: Weather Forecast

June 22

11°C / 18°C

light rain

humidity: 82% | wind: 11 kmh

June 23

11°C / 18°C

clear sky

humidity: 72% | wind: 11 kmh

June 24

15°C / 18°C

light rain

humidity: 77% | wind: 18 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Bluff Beach

⭐ 4.9/5

18.6°C

Iluka Beach

⭐ 3.7/5

20.8°C

Andersons Beach

⭐ 3.5/5

19.7°C

Turners Beach

⭐ 3.9/5

20.9°C

Whiting Beach

⭐ 4.6/5

21.2°C

Convent Beach

⭐ 3.9/5

19.2°C

Yamba

⭐ 5.0/5

19.8°C

Mckittricks Beach

⭐ 4.6/5

20.7°C

Pippi Beach

⭐ 3.5/5

19.8°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is absolutely allowed and is one of the best things to do here, especially in the sheltered lagoon. Because Woody Head faces northeast and is protected by the headland, it stays much calmer than the open beaches nearby, making it a ripper spot for families and snorkelers. While there are no lifesavers on patrol, the protected horseshoe bay generally keeps the heavy swell at bay, offering a safer splash in the shallows. Just keep your wits about you near the rock platforms and be mindful of the tides, as the reef can get a bit gnarly if the swell picks up. It’s a top-tier location for a relaxed float surrounded by driftwood and nature, provided you respect the wild vibe of the park.