Best time to visit the Whitsundays

Winter up here looks a little different

The Whitsunday Islands are a tropical archipelago off Queensland with two main seasons: a hot, rainy summer and a warm, dry winter. Temperatures throughout the year are mostly consistent with high temperatures lingering between 23°C and 31°C, while lows average a mild 17°C to 25°C. The water temperature averages a pleasant 23°C to 28°C throughout the year.

Winter is generally the best time to experience all the Whitsundays has to offer as it doesn’t get cold like parts of southern Australia but instead has little rainfall, warm days and lots of sunshine.

The summer season, especially February, March and April have the highest temperatures and humidity levels. This rain is usually in the afternoon and doesn't last for too long. Boat tours usually run on schedule, (unless the weather is really bad) but the rains can affect water visibility so you may want to factor this in if you plan on diving or snorkelling.

Summer (wet season)	Winter (dry season)
December to April	May to November

When to visit

Drone view of whales migrating off the coast of Queensland, Australia

When to visit for snorkelling and whale watching

In winter, the water visibility is excellent for snorkelling and diving due to low rainfall. You may also get the chance to see humpback whales between July and September during their annual migration from Antarctica! Whales migrate to the warm waters along the East Coast to birth and nurse their calves.

A woman stands posing in stinger suit with snorkel and goggles on a boat off Port Douglas

When to visit to avoid jellyfish

Warmer water temperatures in the Whitsundays between October and May also attract large numbers of harmful jellyfish, including box and Irukandji.

While you can still swim during these times, it’s recommended you wear a stinger suit (a lightweight suit made from nylon or spandex) to protect your skin. Stinger suits also double up as sun protection.

A couple walks on a white sand beach in the Whitsundays

When to visit to avoid crowds

Excluding the Australian summer school holidays (December to February), which bring an influx of tourists to the Whitsundays, the summer is usually a quieter time, so you'll get to enjoy Whitehaven Beach and the archipelago's other attractions with smaller crowds.