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Arafura Sea
Larrakeyah, Australia © Alan Hook
Arafura Sea Water Temperature: Current & Historical Data for Coastal Resorts
We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year
Current water temperature
83°F
minimal
84°F
average
87°F
maximum
Graph of Water Temperature Changes in the Arafura Sea Over the Last 60 Days
Water temperature in the Arafura Sea by month
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 81°F | 91°F |
| February | 81°F | 90°F |
| March | 81°F | 90°F |
| April | 79°F | 90°F |
| May | 75°F | 90°F |
| June | 72°F | 86°F |
| July | 70°F | 82°F |
| August | 72°F | 84°F |
| September | 73°F | 88°F |
| October | 73°F | 91°F |
| November | 81°F | 91°F |
| December | 82°F | 91°F |
What is known about the Arafura Sea?
Nhulunbuy, Australia © Ashley HughesThe Arafura Sea, located between northern Australia and the southern coast of New Guinea, has warm tropical waters throughout the year. Sea temperatures generally range from 80–88°F (27–31°C), making it theoretically suitable for swimming. The warmest waters are typically found between November and March, while the cooler months from May to September still offer comfortable conditions for being in the water. However, swimming in the Arafura Sea comes with certain risks due to strong tides, unpredictable currents, and marine hazards.
One of the biggest concerns for swimmers is the presence of dangerous marine life, including box jellyfish and saltwater crocodiles, especially near the northern Australian coast. These threats make swimming in open waters risky, and most locals and visitors avoid it unless in designated safe areas. Additionally, the remote and less-developed nature of the coastline means there are few lifeguarded beaches. Despite these challenges, the Arafura Sea is rich in marine biodiversity and is more suited for fishing, boating, and diving rather than casual swimming.
List of Countries Bordering the Arafura Sea
Popular Resorts of the Arafura Sea with the Warmest Water Today
Popular Resorts on the Arafura Sea Coast
Nightcliff, Australia © Elisabetta Brescia
Nearest Seas and Oceans
Frequently Asked Questions About the Arafura Sea
What is the water temperature in the Arafura Sea right now?
The water temperature in the Arafura Sea today ranges from 82°F (28°C) in Fannie Bay (Australia) to 88°F (31°C) in Alyangula (Australia).
Is it possible to swim in the Arafura Sea?
Yes, it is possible to swim in the Arafura Sea, as its warm water temperatures, typically ranging from 80°F to 86°F (27°C to 30°C), make it ideal for swimming.
In which month does the Arafura Sea have the highest and lowest water temperatures?
The highest water temperature in the Arafura Sea occurs in January, reaching 91°F (33°C), while the lowest is in July, dropping to 70°F (21°C).
Is the Arafura Sea colder than the Seram Sea?
Yes, the Arafura Sea is slightly colder than the Seram Sea, as its average annual water temperature is 82°F (28°C), while the Seram Sea's is 84°F (29°C).
Which countries are washed by the Arafura Sea?
The Arafura Sea washes Australia.
What are the most popular resorts located on the Arafura Sea?
The most popular beach destinations on the Arafura Sea are Darwin (Australia), Alyangula (Australia), Larrakeyah (Australia), Parap (Australia), Nightcliff (Australia), Fannie Bay (Australia), Stuart Park (Australia), Nhulunbuy (Australia).
Do you have any extended or additional information about the Arafura Sea?
The considerable length of the Arafura Sea along the meridian (it extends from 3 ° 50 'to almost 18 ° S) and, accordingly, the position of its northern margins in the equatorial, and central and southern regions - in the subequatorial zones, limitation in the northeast and east about ... New Guinea, and in the south - Australia, openness from the west and north-west, the peculiarities of atmospheric circulation determine the climatic conditions of this sea. In the winter of the southern hemisphere, equatorial air is widespread over it, in summer - tropical air, which is associated with large-scale synoptic conditions and the prevailing monsoon winds corresponding to it.
Do you have a few more photos of the the Arafura Sea?
Stuart Park, Australia © martin bartley
Nhulunbuy, Australia © Warwick Sellens
Alyangula, Australia © Reuban Granzien