Nightcliff — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Nightcliff (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 Nightcliff help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Nightcliff in the Timor 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
Water temperature in Nightcliff rose over the last 30 days but fell over the last week. Currently, the sea water at this location is slightly cooler than average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Nightcliff will be 84°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 | 88°F | |
| JAN 11 | 84°F | 88°F | |
| JAN 12 | 85°F | 87°F | |
| JAN 13 | 85°F | 87°F | |
| JAN 14 | 83°F | 87°F | |
| JAN 15 | 84°F | 87°F | |
| JAN 16 | 85°F | 88°F | |
| JAN 17 | 86°F | 88°F | |
| JAN 18 | 85°F | 88°F | 85°F |
| JAN 19 | 89°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 20 | 89°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 21 | 88°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 22 | 87°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 23 | 88°F | 85°F | |
| JAN 24 | 87°F | 84°F | |
| JAN 25 | 88°F | 84°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
Nightcliff sits on the northern coastline of Darwin and is known for its rocky foreshore, jetty and popular sea-facing promenade rather than long expanses of sand. Sea temperatures here are typically warm year-round, with modest seasonal variation. During the southern dry season (roughly May to September) water temperatures commonly sit around 25–28 °C, while in the build-up and wet season (roughly October to April) they rise to about 28–32 °C. In other words, you can expect waters generally between about 25 °C at the coolest to around 32 °C at the warmest, so even the cooler months feel mild compared with temperate zones.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 82°F | 88°F | 91°F |
| February | 81°F | 86°F | 90°F |
| March | 81°F | 87°F | 90°F |
| April | 82°F | 87°F | 90°F |
| May | 77°F | 83°F | 90°F |
| June | 73°F | 80°F | 86°F |
| July | 72°F | 79°F | 82°F |
| August | 73°F | 80°F | 84°F |
| September | 77°F | 82°F | 88°F |
| October | 75°F | 86°F | 91°F |
| November | 84°F | 87°F | 91°F |
| December | 84°F | 87°F | 91°F |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Nightcliff: Weather Forecast
January 19
January 20
January 21
January 22
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Nightcliff Beach
Rapid Creek Beach
Nightcliff Beach
Sunset Beach
Vesteys Beach
Fannie Bay
Lee Point Beach
Mindil Beach
Kahlin Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Nightcliff is more about paddling, snorkeling and enjoying tidal pools and sheltered rock shelves than long sandy beach swims; the foreshore and nearby rock platforms provide spots for short swims and easy access to water when tides and conditions are calm. Facilities along the foreshore support a beach-style outing—picnics, sunsets and casual swimming—but there are limited lifeguard patrols and sandy bathing areas, so visitors often use supervised public pools or choose patrolled beaches elsewhere in the Darwin region for family swimming. Be aware of seasonal marine stingers (wet season) and the general crocodile presence in northern waterways; always heed local signage and advice before entering the water.