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Princess Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Princess Beach in Wellington 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.

Princess Beach
Princess Beach © Tim Noble

Current Sea Water Temperature

14.8°C
Today
14.8°C
Yesterday
14.7°C
A Week Ago

The average sea water temperature today in Princess Beach is about 15°C.

Water Temperature in Princess Beach: 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

While water temperatures in Princess Beach declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Princess Beach will be 14.6°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 614.2°C14.5°C
May 714.6°C14.3°C
May 814.7°C14.5°C
May 914.6°C15.0°C
May 1014.8°C14.8°C
May 1114.9°C15.0°C
May 1214.7°C14.5°C
May 1314.8°C14.8°C
May 1414.8°C14.8°C14.8°C
May 1515.3°C14.8°C
May 1615.0°C14.7°C
May 1715.0°C14.7°C
May 1815.3°C14.7°C
May 1914.8°C14.7°C
May 2014.5°C14.6°C
May 2115.3°C14.6°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 Princess 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

Princess Beach lies on Wellington’s exposed south coast, facing directly into Cook Strait. Sea temperatures here reflect the strong tidal movement and frequent winds that characterise this stretch of coastline. In winter, from June to August, the water generally ranges between 10–13°C, which feels very cold and is typically only comfortable for hardy swimmers or those in full wetsuits. Through spring, temperatures gradually rise to around 13–15°C. Summer, from December to March, brings the most settled and mild conditions, with sea temperatures commonly sitting between 16–19°C during calm spells. Early autumn can still see around 15–17°C before the water cools again.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January14°C17°C20°C
February15°C18°C21°C
March14°C17°C20°C
April14°C16°C19°C
May13°C15°C18°C
June11°C14°C16°C
July11°C13°C16°C
August10°C13°C16°C
September11°C13°C16°C
October11°C14°C16°C
November12°C14°C18°C
December13°C15°C20°C

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

Princess Beach: Weather Forecast

May 15

10°C / 13°C
scattered clouds: 25-50%
humidity: 76% | wind: 18 kmh

May 16

10°C / 11°C
broken clouds: 51-84%
humidity: 72% | wind: 14 kmh

May 17

8°C / 13°C
clear sky
humidity: 78% | wind: 7 kmh

May 18

10°C / 14°C
clear sky
humidity: 76% | wind: 4 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Princess Beach, and it’s a well-known spot for locals during the warmer months. The beach is sandy and relatively compact, and on calm summer days it can offer clear and refreshing water. However, Cook Strait conditions can change quickly, and strong currents and swells are possible, especially after southerly winds. There are no permanent patrols, so swimmers need to assess the sea carefully before entering. During summer, short swims are comfortable for many people, particularly when the wind is light. Outside the main season, cooler temperatures and more energetic conditions make a wetsuit advisable. On a settled day, Princess Beach provides a classic Wellington south coast ocean swim.

🏄‍♀️ Nearby Surf Spots and Water Temperatures

Houghton Bay

⭐ 2/5
14.1°C
1 km away 📍 Beach and reef

Lyall Bay-Bombora

⭐ 2/5
14.7°C

The Island (Island Bay)

⭐ 3/5
14.9°C

Airport Rights

⭐ 4/5
15.9°C

Lyall Bay

⭐ 2/5
15.8°C

Breaker Bay

⭐ 3/5
14.3°C

Propellers

⭐ 4/5
14.4°C

Eastbourne

⭐ 2/5
14.3°C
7 km away 📍 Reef and point

Wainuiomata Reefs

⭐ 3/5
15.8°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sea water temperature in Princess Beach today?
Sea water temperature in Princess Beach in the Cook Strait today is 15°C.
What is the water temperature in Princess Beach during summer?
During summer, the water temperature in Princess Beach typically ranges from 13°C to 21°C.
What is the water temperature in Princess Beach during autumn?
During autumn, the water temperature in Princess Beach typically ranges from 13°C to 20°C.
What is the water temperature in Princess Beach during spring?
During spring, the water temperature in Princess Beach typically ranges from 11°C to 18°C.
What is the water temperature in Princess Beach during winter?
During winter, the water temperature in Princess Beach typically ranges from 10°C to 16°C.
Which beaches are popular in the Princess Beach area?
Some of the most popular beaches in the Princess Beach area include: .
What are the nearest surf spots to Princess Beach?
Some of the closest surf spots near Princess Beach include: Houghton Bay, The Island (Island Bay), Lyall Bay-Bombora, Airport Rights, Lyall Bay.