Ocean Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Ocean Beach in Northland 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.

Current Sea Water Temperature

19.2°C

Today

19.2°C

Yesterday

19.4°C

A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Ocean Beach is about 19°C.

Water Temperature in Ocean Beach: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ Water in this range feels cool but still manageable for many swimmers. Short to moderate swims are comfortable, especially in warm weather. Some people may prefer a wetsuit for longer stays, particularly when swimming actively or outside peak summer conditions.

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 Ocean Beach 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 Ocean Beach will be 18.2°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 7	19.4°C	18.8°C
May 8	19.3°C	18.8°C
May 9	19.4°C	18.8°C
May 10	19.5°C	18.5°C
May 11	19.4°C	18.8°C
May 12	19.4°C	18.3°C
May 13	19.3°C	18.5°C
May 14	19.2°C	18.5°C
May 15	19.2°C	18.5°C	19.2°C
May 16		18.5°C	19.1°C
May 17		18.5°C	18.9°C
May 18		18.3°C	18.8°C
May 19		18.3°C	18.6°C
May 20		17.8°C	18.5°C
May 21		17.8°C	18.4°C
May 22		17.8°C	18.2°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 Ocean Beach 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

Ocean Beach, located at Whangārei Heads in the Northland Region, faces directly onto the Pacific Ocean and is known for its wide sandy shoreline and consistent surf. Owing to its position in the upper North Island, sea temperatures are relatively mild compared with much of New Zealand. During summer, from December through February, water temperatures typically range between 19°C and 22°C, offering comfortable conditions for swimming on warm, settled days. In autumn, the sea often remains around 18–20°C before gradually cooling. Winter temperatures generally sit between 14°C and 16°C, while spring sees a steady rise from roughly 15°C towards 18°C as air temperatures increase and calmer periods become more frequent.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	18°C	21°C	24°C
February	19°C	21°C	24°C
March	19°C	21°C	23°C
April	18°C	20°C	22°C
May	16°C	18°C	21°C
June	15°C	17°C	19°C
July	14°C	16°C	18°C
August	13°C	15°C	17°C
September	13°C	15°C	17°C
October	14°C	16°C	18°C
November	15°C	17°C	20°C
December	17°C	19°C	22°C

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

Ocean Beach: Weather Forecast

May 15

11°C / 16°C

scattered clouds: 25-50%

humidity: 81% | wind: 7 kmh

May 16

12°C / 16°C

light rain

humidity: 86% | wind: 7 kmh

May 17

10°C / 16°C

light rain

humidity: 83% | wind: 4 kmh

May 18

12°C / 14°C

light rain

humidity: 90% | wind: 7 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Ocean Beach

⭐ 5.0/5

18.2°C

Ocean Beach Whangarei

⭐ 4.8/5

18.1°C

Peach Cove Beach

⭐ 2.9/5

18.9°C

Smuggler's Bay

⭐ 3.4/5

20.3°C

Busby Head

⭐ 3.1/5

19.3°C

Kauri Mountain Beach

⭐ 3.3/5

20.3°C

Marsden Point

⭐ 3.9/5

18.4°C

Whangarei Heads

⭐ 3.2/5

20.3°C

One Tree Point Beach

⭐ 3.6/5

19.1°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Ocean Beach, and it is popular with both swimmers and surfers during the warmer months. However, the beach is fully exposed to Pacific swells and can experience strong waves and rip currents, particularly when easterly swells are running. Conditions may change quickly depending on wind and tide. Lifeguard patrols are sometimes present during peak holiday periods, but not year-round, so swimmers should assess the surf carefully before entering the water. On calm summer days with moderate swell, Ocean Beach offers a refreshing and scenic place to swim in Northland.