When is the best time to go to the Whitsundays?
Unlike some parts of Australia, the Whitsundays boasts amazing sunny weather and warm temperatures all year round. You’ll see locals and tourists soaking up the sun and swimming in the sea even in the winter – to be expected really when 'cold' means average highs of 23°C. If you’re looking for a winter break to see some clear skies and boost your vitamin D intake, the Whitsunday Islands are a great shout.
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Average temperatures in the Whitsundays
|
MONTH |
AVERAGE HIGH (°C) |
AVERAGE LOW (°C) |
|
January |
25 |
31 |
|
February |
25 |
30 |
|
March |
24 |
29 |
|
April |
23 |
28 |
| May | 21 | 26 |
| June | 18 | 24 |
| July | 18 | 23 |
| August | 18 | 25 |
| September | 20 | 26 |
| October | 22 | 28 |
| November | 23 | 31 |
| December | 24 | 31 |
Great weather means you can enjoy the Whitsundays all year round. That being said, there are a few pros and cons to visiting at certain times of the year.
Spring
Spring is a very popular time to visit. October is the brightest month of the year with an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day (other months average seven to nine hours). Spring is also the windiest season which can be amazing if you’re into windsurfing or kite surfing. It rains occasionally, but the weather is generally quite reliable. November is a good time to visit if you want to avoid throngs of school holiday visitors.
Summer
While it might feel like summer all the time in the Whitsundays, the official summer season is from December to March with average daily highs of 30°C. It feels hot and humid, but the sea breeze and regular dunks in the sea will keep you cool. The rainy season is from December to February with tropical afternoon showers that usually only last a few minutes. Rain is often a welcome reprieve as temperatures cool down after a downpour.
Autumn
Autumn (as we typically know it) doesn't really exist in the Whitsundays, as in you won’t see any golden landscapes or leaves falling off trees. Autumn is more of an extended summer with slightly cooler temperatures, less rain and clearer skies. The humidity settles down so you can really enjoy the warm weather. Overall, April and May are glorious months to visit.
Winter
Winter is a popular season to visit, especially for people who want to escape the chilly winter weather in southern Australia. Winter days are warm and sunny but temperatures drop off when the sun goes down. It can feel quite chilly when you're out sailing on the water with the wind chill, so pack a sweater and some long layers to keep warm. July to September is the best time to see the incredible humpback whales who migrate to the warmer waters around the Whitsundays from Antarctica to give birth to their calves. June to August is also a popular time for sailing enthusiasts who come from other parts of Australia and beyond for the Hamilton Island Race and the Airlie Beach Race Weeks.
Read about whether it's safe to swim in the Whitsundays
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