Australia in Summer: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Summer is a superlative time to visit Australia, as the atmosphere is exhilarating and the experiences varied.

• Cultural Zenith: The season brings numerous festivals and events, from the Sydney Festival to the Adelaide Fringe, showcasing the country's rich cultural landscape.
• Outdoor Exploration: It's the best time for open-air adventures, with national parks highly accessible and marine life abundant for snorkeling and diving excursions.
• Gourmet Focus: Summer coincides with harvest seasons in many wine regions, providing superb opportunities for gourmet and viticultural experiences, often featuring seafood dining on the water.

During the summer months of December to February, Australia experiences a diverse range of climates and weather patterns across its various regions.

• Northern Tropical Region (Darwin, Cairns): Summer is characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall. Average daytime temperatures typically range from 86°F to 95°F. This region often experiences thunderstorms and tropical cyclones, making it a compelling yet challenging time to visit.
• Eastern and Southeastern Australia (Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne): Summer brings warm to hot conditions, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F. Coastal areas benefit from sea breezes. However, heatwaves can occur, particularly in January, raising temperatures above 104°F.
• Southern Australia and Tasmania: Regions like South Australia and Tasmania experience milder summer temperatures, averaging between 68°F and 86°F. Tasmania can be cooler and wetter, with average highs around 68°F. This is the peak time for luxury, cool-climate retreats in Tasmania.
• Western Australia: Summer temperatures can soar, particularly in the interior. Perth often sees average highs of 86°F to 95°F. The coastal areas offer warm, dry conditions, making it a splendid time for twilight golf experiences.

Sydney: Best Place for Sightseeing

Sydney is a sightseeing sanctuary in summer, its revered landmarks bathed in golden sunlight.

• Harbor Life: The city's harbor teems with activity. For a premier experience, we recommend Sydney New Year's Eve private views or a VIP viewing of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race as the fleet departs the harbor on Boxing Day.
• Cultural Scene: Summer brings the city to life with outdoor events like the Sydney Festival and Sculpture by the Sea, enhancing the viewing experience on our sample Essentials of Australia in 14 Days itinerary.
• Coastal Views: Enjoy coastal walks from Bondi to Coogee, or take a private vessel across to Manly to enjoy a seafood dinner on the water.

Tasmania: Best Place for Great Weather

Tasmania offers a refreshing retreat from the intense heat of the mainland, making it optimal if you are seeking comfortable conditions.

• Outdoor Comfort: The island state enjoys mild temperatures and long, sunny days. This is the ideal season for alpine summer hiking in Thredbo on the mainland or exploring the high country of Tasmania.
• Accessible Nature: Hike through ancient rainforests or explore immaculate beaches. Stay at luxury, cool-climate retreats in Tasmania to experience the wilderness in total comfort.
• Gourmet Conditions: Sample renowned cool-climate wines and fresh produce on our sample Two-Week Food and Wine Tour to Australia.

Gold Coast: Best Place for Families with Children

The Gold Coast is a sun-soaked sanctuary for families, offering a graceful fusion of natural beauty and exhilarating attractions.

• Beach Focus: Long stretches of golden beaches are perfect for swimming and surfing.
• Wildlife Access: Visit a wildlife sanctuary to get close to koalas and kangaroos on Zicasso’s sample Ultimate Australia Family Vacation Package.
• Nighttime Wonder: For a unique nighttime experience, head for the glowworm caves or participate in a private guided tour during turtle-hatching season.

Eyre Peninsula: Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

The Eyre Peninsula provides a serene escape, showcasing immaculate beaches and diverse landscapes. This region is among our Most Remote Towns in Australia to Avoid the Crowds.

• Secluded Shores: Enjoy private swimming spots like Memory Cove or Talia Caves, often with entire stretches of coastline to yourself.
• Wildlife Encounters: Swim with sea lions at Baird Bay or cage dive with great white sharks without the long queues found at more popular destinations.
• Inland Solitude: The magnificent Gawler Ranges National Park offers peaceful bushwalking and stargazing in near solitude.

Margaret River: Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Margaret River unveils an elegant fusion of romance and adventure for couples and honeymooners.

• Refined Indulgence: Enjoy intimate tastings and gourmet meals surrounded by refined vineyards in an area that is among Zicasso’s Best Wine Regions in Australia.
• Natural Walks: Summer brings superb weather for exploring secluded beaches like Hamelin Bay.
• Exclusive Moments: Indulge in luxurious spa treatments or explore ancient caves together.

Sail the Azure Whitsundays

• Tropical Serenity: Visiting the Whitsunday Islands during summer offers an idyllic retreat. We recommend a private superyacht charter in the Whitsundays to navigate the islands in total privacy.
• Sub-surface Explorations: Snorkeling and diving are optimal as warmer waters attract vibrant marine life. To ensure safety and comfort during the stinger season, we utilize elite vessels equipped with private guides and full-body stinger suits. For a more exclusive experience, consider visiting Lizard Island further north, where the reef is directly accessible and the environment is more secluded.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Forgotten Islands of Oceania itinerary.

See the Great Ocean Road

• Cliffs and Coastlines: The Great Ocean Road is a celebrated coastal journey. However, driving this road in summer can be stressful due to traffic.
• The Refined Perspective: To solve the crowd pain point, we recommend Great Ocean Road helicopter transfers, which provide a breathtaking aerial view of the Twelve Apostles. Alternatively, we can arrange a "reverse drive" starting at the western end of the route, allowing you to move against the flow of the main tourist traffic for a more tranquil experience.

Attend a Cricket Match

• A Cultural Institution: Cricket is a beloved Australian pastime. To elevate this experience, we provide access to corporate boxes or VIP lounges.
• Social Status: This allows you to witness the "stadium exhilaration" and the festive mood of a summer match from the comfort of a climate-controlled suite with premium catering, representing a significant social status opportunity.

Enjoy Tasmania’s Temperate Wilderness

• Cool-Climate Escape: Tasmania's summer is particularly splendid, with mild temperatures and clear skies.
• Gourmet and Guided Hikes: Explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair and Freycinet on our Stunning Beauty of Australia itinerary. Attend cultural events like the Mona Foma festival, which showcases a sophisticated blend of art and music.

How Do I Avoid Crowds in Australia in December?

December is peak travel season, but exclusivity can be maintained by opting for secluded coastal estates and private transportation. Instead of the high-traffic hubs, our specialists can direct you to the Eyre Peninsula or the quieter stretches of the Western Australian coastline where the "tourist throngs" are virtually non-existent.

By taking advantage of private superyacht charters in the Whitsundays or booking Great Ocean Road helicopter transfers, you bypass the logistical bottlenecks of the holiday season. We also recommend "reverse-itineraries" for popular routes, allowing you to enjoy the country’s beauty in a serene, private environment while others are caught in the midday rush.

Is It Safe to Swim Along the Gold Coast in Summer?

Provided you swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags, it is safe to swim along the Gold Coast in summer. The region offers world-class surf-lifesaving conditions, but summer can bring strong rips; staying within the monitored zones ensures a secure environment for families.

For those concerned about marine stingers, which are more common further north, the Gold Coast is generally considered safe. However, for total peace of mind, many of our clients prefer secluded coastal estates with private ocean-facing pools or luxury resorts that offer managed beach access and private guides.

Which is the Best Australian City for New Year's Eve Luxury?

Sydney is the undisputed champion for New Year's Eve. To avoid the millions of spectators, arrange Sydney New Year's Eve private views from exclusive harbor-side balconies or catered yacht decks for a front-row seat to the fireworks without the public congestion.

Alternatively, Melbourne offers a more relaxed yet equally sophisticated celebration. With seafood dining on the water and twilight golf experiences available at elite clubs, the city provides a polished start to the year for the discerning traveler.

Can You Visit Uluru in Summer?

Visiting Uluru in summer requires careful planning due to extreme heat that can exceed 104°F. We schedule private, air-conditioned transfers and sunrise tours to ensure you experience the monolith’s grandeur during the coolest parts of the day.

The summer light at Uluru is exceptionally crisp, offering photographers a unique clarity. After a morning exploration, you can retreat to a luxury lodge for a spa treatment, then emerge for a private "Sounds of Silence" dinner as the heat dissipates into a spectacular, star-filled desert night.

Is There Luxury Family Accommodation on Phillip Island?

Phillip Island offers several high-end villas and private estates that serve as a perfect base for witnessing the Penguin Parade. We recommend properties that provide a sense of seclusion, while remaining close to the island’s premium wildlife-viewing areas.

For a more comprehensive family retreat, consider a secluded coastal estate on the nearby Mornington Peninsula. These properties often feature private beach access, allowing your family to enjoy the Victorian coastline in total privacy before taking a short helicopter hop over to the island for evening wildlife encounters.

Summer in Australia offers an unparalleled travel experience, gracefully fusing natural wonders, exuberant city life, and unique cultural events. From the sun-drenched beaches to the lush rainforests, world-class festivals to intimate wildlife encounters, the Australian summer caters to every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural immersion, the diverse landscapes and warm hospitality of Australia in summer provide the perfect backdrop for lasting memories.

For more in-depth information and insider tips on planning your optimal Australian summer adventure, be sure to explore our comprehensive Australia travel guide or our Australia tours and trips.