Woonona – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current water temperature at Woonona 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 Woonona is about 17°C.
Water Temperature in Woonona: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ This is cool water that may feel brisk on entry. Swimming is usually limited to short sessions, and prolonged stays can become uncomfortable without thermal protection. Many swimmers choose a wetsuit, especially for surfing or open-water swimming.
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
While water temperatures in Woonona declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Woonona will be 18.0°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 17.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 16 | 17.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 17 | 16.9°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 18 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 17.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| Aug 20 | 17.1°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 21 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | 17.0°C |
| Aug 24 | 18.8°C | 17.1°C | |
| Aug 25 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Aug 26 | 18.3°C | 17.4°C | |
| Aug 27 | 18.3°C | 17.6°C | |
| Aug 28 | 18.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| Aug 29 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| Aug 30 | 18.3°C | 18.0°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 Woonona 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
Woonona sits along the Illawarra coastline, with a long, open beach facing directly into the Tasman Sea. Water temperatures here follow the familiar seasonal cycle of New South Wales’ open ocean. In summer, from December through March, the sea is usually at its warmest, sitting around 21–24 °C, which most swimmers find comfortable without a wetsuit. Autumn brings a gradual cool-down to roughly 19–21 °C. Winter is noticeably cooler, with water temperatures typically between 16–18 °C, while spring sees a steady warm-up back into the 18–20 °C range as ocean currents and air temperatures begin to lift.
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.
Woonona: Weather Forecast
August 23
August 24
August 25
August 26
Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots
Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures
Bulli Beach
Woonona Beach
Bellambi Beach
Sandon Point Beach
Mccauley’s Beach
Corrimal Beach
Thirroul
Austinmer Beach
Little Austinmer Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Woonona Beach is allowed and popular with locals, especially during the warmer months. The beach is fully exposed to swell, so conditions can range from gentle to quite powerful depending on weather and surf. Strong rip currents can form, particularly after rough seas. During patrolled periods, swimmers should stay between the red and yellow flags, where conditions are actively monitored and risks are reduced. On calm summer days, Woonona suits a wide range of swimmers, from casual dips to longer ocean swims. In cooler months, wetsuits are common for comfort. Overall, Woonona offers classic open-ocean swimming with good access and safety when conditions are respected.
🏄♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures
Bellambi Point
Sandon Point
Thirroul
The Bombie
Little Austi and Main Beach
Austinmer Beach
Austinmer Pools
Peggys
Acids
Location, Type and Nearby Places
Address: City of Wollongong
Place Tags:BeachSurf SpotCoastal Town
Water Temperature in Nearby Places
