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Yorkeys Knob – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Yorkeys Knob 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.

Yorkeys Knob
Yorkeys Knob © By Riftreef, CC BY 2.5

Current Sea Water Temperature

28.3°C
Today
28.8°C
Yesterday
29.6°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Yorkeys Knob is about 28°C.

Water Temperature in Yorkeys Knob: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ Water at this temperature is very warm and feels almost tropical. Swimming is comfortable for most people, even for long periods, with no sensation of cold. These conditions are ideal for relaxed swimming, floating, and water play, especially for families and casual swimmers. However, during very hot weather, the water may feel less refreshing, and short breaks are often welcome.

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 Yorkeys Knob 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 Yorkeys Knob will be 28.0°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
Mar 1229.2°C29.3°C
Mar 1329.3°C29.8°C
Mar 1429.6°C29.5°C
Mar 1529.5°C29.5°C
Mar 1629.4°C29.5°C
Mar 1728.9°C29.3°C
Mar 1828.8°C29.3°C
Mar 1928.8°C29.3°C
Mar 2028.3°C29.3°C28.3°C
Mar 2128.5°C28.3°C
Mar 2228.3°C28.2°C
Mar 2328.3°C28.2°C
Mar 2429.0°C28.1°C
Mar 2528.5°C28.1°C
Mar 2628.3°C28.1°C
Mar 2728.5°C28.0°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 Yorkeys Knob 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

Yorkeys Knob is a relaxed seaside suburb just north of Cairns, set along the Coral Sea where water temperatures stay warm all year round. In the tropical wet season from about November to April, sea temperatures are typically in the range of 27–30 °C, often feeling very warm and comfortable for long swims. During the drier months from May to October, the water cools only slightly, usually sitting between 23–26 °C. Even in mid-winter, the sea remains mild by Australian standards, with no real cold-water period.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January27°C29°C31°C
February27°C29°C31°C
March27°C29°C31°C
April26°C28°C30°C
May23°C26°C28°C
June21°C25°C27°C
July22°C24°C26°C
August22°C24°C26°C
September23°C25°C28°C
October23°C26°C29°C
November25°C28°C30°C
December26°C29°C31°C

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

Yorkeys Knob: Weather Forecast

March 21

24°C / 25°C
light rain
humidity: 95% | wind: 7 kmh

March 22

24°C / 27°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 86% | wind: 11 kmh

March 23

22°C / 28°C
light rain
humidity: 87% | wind: 11 kmh

March 24

22°C / 29°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 78% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Yorkey's Knob

⭐ 4.8/5
28.4°C

Holloways Beach

⭐ 3.9/5
28.0°C

Machans Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
29.1°C

Machans Beach

⭐ 4.3/5
28.6°C

Trinity Beach

⭐ 5.0/5
27.4°C

Keith Edwick Park

⭐ 3.0/5
28.4°C

Kewarra Dog Beach

⭐ 3.7/5
27.4°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming at Yorkeys Knob is generally well supported, particularly in designated areas. The beach is often patrolled, and during the warmer months marine stinger nets are installed to allow safer swimming when jellyfish are more common. While saltwater crocodiles are known to inhabit waterways in Far North Queensland, they are uncommon along this open, sandy beachfront where swimming activity is concentrated. Thanks to patrols and seasonal safety measures, swimming is usually considered suitable within the marked areas when conditions are calm. Outside these zones, or during rough seas, extra caution is advised. Overall, Yorkeys Knob combines consistently warm Coral Sea water with managed swimming conditions, making it a comfortable and popular spot for ocean swimming along the Queensland North Coast.

Location, Type and Nearby Places

Address: Cairns Region

Place Tags:BeachCoastal Town

Water Temperature in Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Yorkeys Knob today?
Sea water temperature in Yorkeys Knob in the Coral Sea today is 28°C.
What is the water temperature in Yorkeys Knob during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Yorkeys Knob typically ranges from 26°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Yorkeys Knob during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Yorkeys Knob typically ranges from 23°C to 31°C.
What is the water temperature in Yorkeys Knob during spring?
During spring, the sea water temperature in Yorkeys Knob typically ranges from 23°C to 30°C.
What is the water temperature in Yorkeys Knob during winter?
During winter, the sea water temperature in Yorkeys Knob typically ranges from 21°C to 27°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Yorkeys Knob area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Yorkeys Knob area include: Yorkey's Knob, Holloways Beach, Holloways Beach Esplanade Reserve, Machans Beach, Machans Beach.