Arafura Sea Water Temperature Today & Regional Overview
We find every place where you can swim and show you the water temperature there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in the Arafura Sea today ranges from 25.5°C (Alyangula, Australia) to 26.7°C (Bremer Island, Australia).
As of today, the minimum water temperature in the Arafura Sea ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health.
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.
Sea Temperature Trends
Over the past month, the water temperature in the Arafura Sea has remained almost unchanged. In general, the sea water temperature remains within the statistical range for this time of year.
Water Temperature and Swimming Conditions Throughout the Year
| Month | Min | Max |
|---|---|---|
| January | 27°C | 33°C |
| February | 27°C | 32°C |
| March | 27°C | 32°C |
| April | 26°C | 32°C |
| May | 24°C | 32°C |
| June | 22°C | 30°C |
| July | 21°C | 28°C |
| August | 22°C | 29°C |
| September | 23°C | 31°C |
| October | 23°C | 33°C |
| November | 27°C | 33°C |
| December | 28°C | 33°C |
The Arafura Sea, lying between northern Australia and New Guinea over a broad, shallow continental shelf, features warm tropical waters throughout the year. Sea surface temperatures typically range from about 25°C to 31°C depending on season and location. During the austral winter months (roughly June to August) surface temperatures commonly fall toward the lower end of that band, around 25°C–28°C, while in the austral summer (December to February) waters warm to roughly 28°C–31°C. Local factors such as coastal upwelling, river outflow and monsoonal winds can produce small-scale variations, with shallower bays and estuaries often registering the warmest readings in the peak of the hot season.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is permitted in many populated coastal spots along the Arafura Sea because the water temperatures are comfortably warm for bathing, but access and safety depend heavily on place and season. Large tidal ranges and strong currents can create hazardous conditions for swimmers, and in parts of northern Australia there is genuine risk from estuarine crocodiles and from marine stingers such as box jellyfish during the warmer, wet-season months, which may lead authorities to close or restrict swimming. Many beaches are remote and lack lifeguards, and boating or fishing activity can also pose dangers. For these reasons swimming is best undertaken where local management or signage indicates it is safe, and visitors should heed seasonal advisories and warnings issued by local authorities.