Wollongong — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Wollongong (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 Wollongong help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Wollongong in the Tasman Sea today is 18°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 Wollongong has risen over the last week and month. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Wollongong will be 18.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 20 | 18.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 21 | 18.4°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.4°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.4°C | 18.3°C | 18.4°C |
| SEP 29 | 18.5°C | 18.4°C | |
| SEP 30 | 18.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 1 | 18.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 2 | 18.3°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 3 | 18.3°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 4 | 18.8°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 5 | 18.8°C | 18.7°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
Wollongong, on the Illawarra coast of New South Wales, is a compact city framed by a long stretch of ocean frontage and headlands that influence local sea conditions. The water is temperate year-round, warming through summer and cooling in winter as southern currents and coastal upwelling affect the shoreline. Typical sea surface temperatures near Wollongong run about 20–24°C in summer (December–February), drop to around 18–22°C in autumn (March–May), fall further to roughly 14–18°C in winter (June–August), and recover to about 15–20°C in spring (September–November). These seasonal ranges mean conditions can feel quite different across the year, with spring and autumn often offering a pleasant compromise between warmth and clarity.
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.
Wollongong: Weather Forecast
September 30
October 1
October 2
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Cove Beach
Wollongong Beach
Wollongong North Beach
Brighton Beach
Wollongong City Beach
Fairy Meadow Beach
Vincent Schmidt
Towradgi Beach
Corrimal Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming and beach holidays in Wollongong cater to a wide range of preferences, from family-friendly patrolled beaches to more exposed surf breaks and sheltered rock pools. North Wollongong and City Beach are popular for easier swimming and have lifeguard patrols in the warmer months, while beaches like Austinmer and Thirroul attract surfers when swells pick up. There are also ocean baths and small coves for calmer water and snorkeling close to shore. Visitors should be mindful of variable currents and heed flagging and local advice; a wetsuit is commonly worn outside the warmest weeks, with many swimmers choosing one when temperatures fall below 20°C. Overall Wollongong offers reliable coastal access and a mix of surf, sheltered swims and coastal walks suited to short stays or longer beach-focused visits.