When is the best time to visit the Eyre Peninsula?
Welcome to the Eyre Peninsula, where the Outback meets the ocean. With diverse geography, the best time to visit the Eyre Peninsula ultimately depends on what you want to see and do.
Do you want to spot southern right whales? Or perhaps you’d like to go hiking in the Gawler Ranges? Here’s a guide to help you plan your Eyre Peninsula adventure.
Eyre Peninsula weather
Most of the Eyre Peninsula region has a Mediterranean climate with mild weather throughout the year. Along the coast, highs average 75°F to 88°F in summer and 54°F to 64°F in winter. That being said, moderate winds often make it feel colder. The temperatures are generally more extreme the further inland you go, particularly in the Outback.
Average temperatures in the Eyre Peninsula
Month | Average high | Average low |
|---|---|---|
January | 73°F | 64°F |
February | 72°F | 64°F |
March | 68°F | 61°F |
April | 64°F | 59°F |
May | 61°F | 56°F |
June | 59°F | 54°F |
July | 61°F | 54°F |
August | 61°F | 54°F |
September | 66°F | 56°F |
October | 68°F | 59°F |
November | 72°F | 59°F |
December | 73°F | 63°F |
Spring (September-November)
Warmer weather and longer days in spring bring new life to the landscapes. Native wildflowers dot the trails in Lincoln and Coffin Bay National Parks, migratory birds arrive to escape northern winters, and koala joeys and other baby marsupials start venturing out of their mother’s pouch. Whales can still be spotted at the Head of Bight into September.
Summer (December-February)
With clear skies and warm temperatures, summer is arguably when the Eyre Peninsula shines. It can be too hot for hiking (especially during the afternoon when the sun peaks), so swap the hiking boots for a snorkel set in Coffin Bay National Park. Balmy evenings are best spent feasting on the region’s abundant seafood.
Just note that summer is the busiest time of year, particularly in December/January when locals flock to the coast during the Aussie school summer holidays, so be sure to book flights and accommodation well in advance.
Fall (March-May)
Fall days are warm enough to enjoy the beaches — but without peak summer crowds. The milder temperatures are also ideal for hitting the trails in the Gawler Ranges or Coffin Bay National Park.
Winter (June-August)
Winter might be cooler and wetter, but you can still enjoy brisk walks along the coast or hikes in the Gawler Ranges. It’s also low season, so popular spots are much quieter.
Creeks and rivers are full thanks to the winter rains, and abundant vegetation attracts native wildlife including kangaroos and wallabies. It’s also a fantastic time to see southern right and humpback whales off the Head of Bight during their annual migration from Antarctica.