Water Temperature Comfort
| Water Temp | How It Feels | Swimwear |
|---|---|---|
| Below 15°C | Cold — wetsuit needed | 3-4mm wetsuit |
| 15-18°C | Bracing — manageable for strong swimmers | 2-3mm wetsuit or tough it out |
| 18-22°C | Cool — refreshing on hot days | Swimsuit for most; wetsuit optional |
| 22-26°C | Comfortable — ideal for long swims | Swimsuit |
| 26-30°C | Warm — tropical paradise | Swimsuit |
| Above 30°C | Bath-like — not refreshing | Swimsuit |
Best Swimming Weather
- Air temperature: 25-32°C is ideal — warm enough to dry comfortably after swimming
- Wind: Light breeze keeps you cool on the beach; strong wind creates chop and currents
- UV: Apply waterproof SPF 50+ sunscreen 20 minutes before entering water
- Waves: Under 1m for casual swimming; bodysurf in 1-2m waves
Open Water Safety
- Never swim alone in open water
- Check for currents, rip tides, and water quality advisories
- Swim parallel to shore if caught in a rip current
- Cold water shock is real below 15°C — enter gradually
- Wear a bright swim cap for visibility
Pool vs Open Water Temperature
Heated pools are typically 27-29°C year-round. Open water temperatures vary dramatically by season and location. Always check current water temps before planning an open-water swim.
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