Snells Beach – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current water temperature at Snells Beach in Auckland 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

18.6°C

Today

18.5°C

Yesterday

18.6°C

A Week Ago

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

Water Temperature in Snells 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 Snells Beachfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.

According to our forecast, Sea water temperature in Snells Beach will be 18.3°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	18.8°C	18.5°C
May 8	18.6°C	18.0°C
May 9	18.6°C	18.5°C
May 10	18.7°C	18.3°C
May 11	18.6°C	18.3°C
May 12	18.7°C	18.0°C
May 13	18.7°C	18.0°C
May 14	18.5°C	18.0°C
May 15	18.6°C	18.0°C	18.6°C
May 16		18.0°C	18.6°C
May 17		17.5°C	18.5°C
May 18		17.8°C	18.5°C
May 19		18.0°C	18.4°C
May 20		17.8°C	18.4°C
May 21		18.0°C	18.3°C
May 22		17.5°C	18.3°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 Snells 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

Snells Beach is a coastal settlement north of central Auckland, set along the sheltered waters of Mahurangi Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf in the Pacific Ocean. Its position within the gulf helps keep sea conditions relatively calm for much of the year. In summer, particularly from January through March, water temperatures generally range between 19 and 22°C. Most locals find this comfortable for swimming, especially on warm, settled days when the shallow shoreline can warm up a little more. During autumn, temperatures ease back to around 17 to 20°C. Winter brings cooler conditions, typically between 14 and 16°C, while spring sees a gradual rise from roughly 15 up to 18°C as the weather improves.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Min	Avg	Max
January	18°C	21°C	24°C
February	19°C	22°C	24°C
March	18°C	21°C	24°C
April	17°C	20°C	22°C
May	15°C	18°C	20°C
June	14°C	16°C	18°C
July	13°C	15°C	17°C
August	12°C	14°C	17°C
September	12°C	14°C	17°C
October	13°C	15°C	18°C
November	15°C	17°C	19°C
December	17°C	19°C	23°C

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

Snells Beach: Weather Forecast

May 15

8°C / 17°C

clear sky

humidity: 77% | wind: 4 kmh

May 16

7°C / 17°C

clear sky

humidity: 79% | wind: 4 kmh

May 17

8°C / 16°C

scattered clouds: 25-50%

humidity: 77% | wind: 4 kmh

May 18

9°C / 17°C

clear sky

humidity: 78% | wind: 4 kmh

Local Water Conditions and Nearby Spots

Nearby Beaches and Water Temperatures

Snells Beach

⭐ 3.2/5

18.1°C

Brick Bay

⭐ 3.5/5

19.4°C

Algies Bay

⭐ 4.6/5

18.6°C

Buckleton Beach

⭐ 3.5/5

18.2°C

Baddeleys Beach

⭐ 2.9/5

18.5°C

Campbells Beach

⭐ 2.9/5

19.6°C

Omaha Beach

⭐ 5.0/5

19.0°C

Mita Bay Campground

⭐ 3.5/5

18.1°C

Dairy Bay Secret Beach

⭐ 3.5/5

18.4°C

Swimming Conditions

Swimming is allowed at Snells Beach, and the gently sloping sandy shore makes it suitable for families and casual swimmers. Surf is minimal due to the sheltered harbour setting, although wind-driven chop can develop in breezy conditions. Tidal movement is noticeable, particularly at low tide when more of the sandy seabed is exposed. Strong rip currents are uncommon in normal conditions. In settled summer weather and at mid to high tide, Snells Beach offers safe and pleasant swimming opportunities, provided swimmers remain aware of local conditions.