Sawtell — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Sawtell (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 Sawtell help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Sawtell in the Tasman Sea today is 20°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming.
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 Sawtell today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. 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 Sawtell will be 20.8°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 26 | 20.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 20.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| JUN 28 | 19.8°C | 22.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 19.9°C | 22.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 19.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUL 1 | 19.8°C | 20.8°C | |
| JUL 2 | 19.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUL 3 | 19.8°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 4 | 19.7°C | 21.3°C | 19.7°C |
| JUL 5 | 21.5°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUL 6 | 21.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 7 | 21.5°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 8 | 21.3°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 9 | 21.5°C | 20.5°C | |
| JUL 10 | 21.3°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUL 11 | 21.0°C | 20.8°C |
* 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
Monthly Water Temp Ranges
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Sawtell sits on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, just south of Coffs Harbour, and offers a generally mild coastal climate with sea temperatures that change predictably through the seasons. In a typical year the water warms to around 22–25°C in summer (December–February), cools to roughly 20–23°C in autumn, drops to about 17–19°C in winter (June–August) and then rises again to near 18–22°C in spring. Local conditions can vary with tides, swell and offshore currents, so short-term changes of a degree or two are common, and cooler patches may appear after strong southerly winds or upwelling events.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C | 26°C | 27°C |
| February | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| March | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| April | 23°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| May | 19°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| July | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| October | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| November | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| December | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Sawtell: Weather Forecast
July 5
July 6
July 7
July 8
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Sawtell Beach
Boambee Beach
Gallows Beach
Jetty Beach
Park Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Sawtell is popular for families and holidaymakers, with a long sandy beach that is usually patrolled during peak season and weekends, making flagged areas the recommended place to enter the water. The gently sloping beach suits relaxed swims and bodysurfing, while nearby headlands and reef shelves offer sheltered pockets for snorkeling on calm days and surf breaks for board riders when the swell builds. Facilities, a surf life saving club and a relaxed village atmosphere support beach holidays, although waters below about 20°C can feel brisk and many visitors prefer a light wetsuit in winter. As always, swimming between the flags and heeding local warnings provides the safest experience.