The variability in salinity and temperature in the southwest lagoon of New Caledonia (2,100 km2) under non-storm conditions is analyzed using a 4-year data set (1997-2001). Seasonal and interannual variations in salinity are amplified near shore. Temperature is larger in bays than in the open lagoon during summer, the reverse is true in winter. El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) related nearshore temperature variations parallel those at regional scale, but with seasonal variations amplified. Haline stratification, if any, is enhanced in coastal areas.