Nhulunbuy — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Nhulunbuy (Australia). It includes the current water temperature, daily data for the last month presented in a simple chart, and a 7-day forecast. The page also compares today’s value with typical averages for this period, shows usual monthly ranges during the year, and lists nearby beaches with short descriptions. Local weather for the next few days and general details about Nhulunbuy help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Nhulunbuy in the Arafura Sea today is 85°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature is above 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, which may feel almost hot to most people. Swimming in such conditions is perfect for those seeking relaxation and comfort in the water. These waters are often preferred for relaxation in hot weather, as the water temperature does not cool the body significantly. However, it is important to remember that in such warm waters, caution is necessary, as prolonged exposure without rest can lead to overheating.
It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Nhulunbuy will be 85°F 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN 10 | 84°F | 86°F | |
| JAN 11 | 84°F | 86°F | |
| JAN 12 | 84°F | 86°F | |
| JAN 13 | 84°F | 87°F | |
| JAN 14 | 84°F | 86°F | |
| JAN 15 | 82°F | 86°F | |
| JAN 16 | 84°F | 87°F | |
| JAN 17 | 84°F | 86°F | |
| JAN 18 | 85°F | 86°F | 85°F |
| JAN 19 | 86°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 20 | 86°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 21 | 87°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 22 | 87°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 23 | 87°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 24 | 87°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 25 | 86°F | 85°F |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for this location is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.
Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month
Average Monthly Water Temperature
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Nhulunbuy, on the Gove Peninsula in Australia’s Northern Territory, lies in a tropical monsoonal zone where sea temperatures remain relatively warm year‑round but vary with the seasons and local conditions. Coastal waters close to town and in shallow bays tend to warm more quickly, while exposed ocean swells are often a few degrees cooler. During the wet season, roughly November to April, surface temperatures commonly sit around 28°C to 31°C. In the dry season, from about May to October, water cools somewhat, typically ranging from 24°C to 28°C. Tides, local currents and depth can shift those numbers by a couple of degrees on any given day, and calm, sheltered coves will feel warmer than open reefs.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 81°F | 87°F | 90°F |
| February | 81°F | 86°F | 90°F |
| March | 82°F | 87°F | 90°F |
| April | 81°F | 85°F | 90°F |
| May | 75°F | 82°F | 88°F |
| June | 73°F | 80°F | 86°F |
| July | 73°F | 78°F | 82°F |
| August | 73°F | 78°F | 82°F |
| September | 75°F | 80°F | 84°F |
| October | 79°F | 83°F | 88°F |
| November | 81°F | 84°F | 90°F |
| December | 82°F | 86°F | 91°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Nhulunbuy: Weather Forecast
January 19
January 20
January 21
January 22
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Gove Beach
East Woody Beach
Wirrawuy Beach
Rainbow Cliffs
Wallaby Beach
Birritjimi Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach recreation around Nhulunbuy can be very rewarding, particularly in the dry months when seas are clearer and conditions calmer and the 24°C to 28°C water is comfortable for extended swims. There are sheltered bays and reef fringes suitable for snorkeling and informal beach holidays, with opportunities to see coral and marine life close to shore. However, this is a remote tropical coastline with limited patrolled beaches and important safety considerations: the wet season brings stinger (jellyfish) risk and reduced visibility, and saltwater crocodiles can be present in estuaries and some coastal waterways, so local advice should always be followed. Visitors seeking the most reliable swimming conditions usually plan trips in the dry season and prepare with reef‑safe sunscreen, suitable swimwear, and awareness of local warnings and tides.