Can you swim at Back Beach in January? — 18.0°C water

Yes, but expect a fresh dip
Average sea · January
18.0°C
Live water now
Recommended wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
mild

It depends. Back Beach sits around 18.0°C in January; confident swimmers will be fine, casual bathers may prefer short sessions.

Monthly averages set expectations, but the specific beach today depends on wind, swell and recent weather. Check the live value at the top of this page or open the Back Beach live page for full conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the average sea temperature at Back Beach in January?

Back Beach averages 18.0°C in January, based on long-run climatology for the Tasman Sea.

Is the sea warm enough to swim at Back Beach in January?

It is swimmable but fresh; confident swimmers will be fine without a wetsuit.

Do I need a wetsuit at Back Beach in January?

A 2 mm shorty is comfortable for sessions over 30 minutes.