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Le Bons Bay – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Le Bons Bay in Canterbury Region. You can view recent sea temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, nearby beaches with similar conditions, local weather information, and a summary of swimming conditions to help you assess how suitable the water is for swimming.

Le Bons Bay
Le Bons Bay © Linda Stearnes

Current Sea Water Temperature

13.6°C
Today
13.8°C
Yesterday
14.0°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Le Bons Bay is about 14°C.

Water Temperature in Le Bons Bay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

❌ Water at this temperature feels cold and is generally suitable only for brief immersion. Swimming without a wetsuit can quickly become uncomfortable, and exposure time is usually short. These conditions are mainly suitable for experienced swimmers or those using proper thermal gear.

It’s important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in settled weather. When air temperatures drop below 20°C — and sometimes even below 25°C — swimming can feel uncomfortable, even when water temperatures are relatively high.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

From April 14 to May 14

Water temperatures in Le Bons Bay have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Le Bons Bay will be 12.5°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
May 613.9°C13.3°C
May 713.9°C13.3°C
May 814.0°C13.8°C
May 914.1°C13.3°C
May 1014.0°C13.8°C
May 1114.0°C13.5°C
May 1213.9°C13.5°C
May 1313.8°C13.3°C
May 1413.6°C13.3°C13.6°C
May 1513.0°C13.4°C
May 1612.0°C13.3°C
May 1712.3°C13.1°C
May 1812.3°C13.0°C
May 1912.5°C12.8°C
May 2012.0°C12.6°C
May 2112.8°C12.5°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual near-shore water temperatures in Le Bons Bay can vary by several degrees from the values shown, particularly after heavy rain, strong southerlies, or prolonged windy conditions. Certain wind patterns can trigger upwelling, where cooler, deeper water is pushed to the surface and replaces the warmer top layer, leading to noticeable short-term changes in water temperature.

Our water temperature forecast is produced using a proprietary mathematical model that combines real-time measurements with long-term historical patterns, local weather conditions, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each coastal region. To improve accuracy, we cross-check data from nearby locations and use multiple sources, including offshore buoys, satellite-based sea surface maps, and observations provided by local authorities.

Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month

Monthly Water Temp Ranges

30°C
25°C
20°C
15°C
10°c
5°C
0°C

Annual Water Temperature Trend

Le Bons Bay is a sheltered inlet on Banks Peninsula in the Canterbury Region, opening to the Pacific Ocean but partly protected by surrounding headlands. Sea temperatures here reflect the cool eastern waters typical of Canterbury, though the bay can feel slightly milder than fully exposed stretches of coast. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 9–12°C, which feels properly cold and is usually only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those wearing full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually rise to around 11–14°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the mildest conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 14–18°C during settled spells. Early autumn can still see 13–16°C before cooling again as winter approaches.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January13°C16°C19°C
February13°C16°C20°C
March13°C16°C19°C
April12°C14°C17°C
May10°C13°C16°C
June8°C11°C14°C
July7°C10°C12°C
August8°C10°C11°C
September8°C10°C12°C
October9°C12°C15°C
November10°C14°C16°C
December12°C15°C18°C

* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.

Le Bons Bay: Weather Forecast

May 15

10°C / 12°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%
humidity: 67% | wind: 4 kmh

May 16

6°C / 12°C
clear sky
humidity: 74% | wind: 7 kmh

May 17

7°C / 12°C
clear sky
humidity: 77% | wind: 11 kmh

May 18

7°C / 12°C
clear sky
humidity: 81% | wind: 11 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Le Bons Bay and it’s a popular local holiday spot during the warmer months. The sandy beach and curved shape of the bay can offer calmer conditions compared to more exposed Pacific beaches, particularly on light wind days. However, waves and occasional currents can still develop depending on swell direction and tide. There are generally no regular lifeguard patrols, so swimmers should assess conditions carefully before entering. On fine summer days the water can be refreshing and suitable for families and confident swimmers. Outside the warmer season, thermal gear is recommended, as the sea remains cool year-round.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Le Bons Bay

⭐ 3/5
13.7°C

Banks Peninsula - Hickory Bay

⭐ 3/5
13.0°C

Banks Peninsula - Stony Bay

⭐ 3/5
13.4°C

Banks Peninsula - Gough Bay

⭐ 3/5
14.7°C

Banks Peninsula - Raupo Bay

⭐ 3/5
14.6°C

Banks Peninsula - Magnet Bay

⭐ 3/5
14.6°C
28 km away 📍 Reef and point

Banks Peninsula - Te Oka Bay

⭐ 3/5
14.7°C

Scarborough

⭐ 2/5
13.7°C

Taylors Mistake

⭐ 2/5
14.0°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Le Bons Bay today?
Sea water temperature in Le Bons Bay in the Pacific Ocean today is 14°C.
What is the water temperature in Le Bons Bay during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Le Bons Bay typically ranges from 12°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Le Bons Bay during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Le Bons Bay typically ranges from 10°C to 19°C.
What is the water temperature in Le Bons Bay during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Le Bons Bay typically ranges from 8°C to 16°C.
What is the water temperature in Le Bons Bay during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Le Bons Bay typically ranges from 7°C to 14°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Le Bons Bay area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Le Bons Bay area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Le Bons Bay?
Some of the closest surf spots near Le Bons Bay include: Le Bons Bay, Banks Peninsula - Hickory Bay, Banks Peninsula - Stony Bay, Banks Peninsula - Gough Bay, Banks Peninsula - Raupo Bay.