Does It Rain A Lot In Airlie Beach?
Does it rain in Airlie Beach?
Yes, it does rain in Airlie Beach. When booking your tropical holiday to the Whitsundays, you don’t want rain to interfere with your ‘lying on a beach, under a palm tree with a cocktail in hand’ plans, right? Well, we hate to break it to you but during the wet season (also known as summer), rain tends to make a regular appearance throughout the Whitsundays (rude). However, don’t let the rain crush your tropical holiday dreams because there are still plenty of activities you can do rain, hail or shine in Airlie Beach! The Great Barrier Reef and 74 Whitsunday Islands aren’t going anywhere and can still be enjoyed in wet weather.
How often does it rain in Airlie Beach?
In Airlie Beach, it mostly rains during the wet season which starts in January and runs through to March. The average rainfall during these months measures between 600 to 700 millimetres. Rain typically occurs overnight or during the morning and clears up by the afternoon, meaning you’ll likely have gaps of sunshine throughout the day, even if the forecast is telling you otherwise. Despite the rain being a damper on your tropical island vibes, it does help to cool the air down so it’s not so humid!
Does it get cold in Airlie Beach?
In Airlie Beach, it gets cooler during the winter, but when you compare the temperature to other parts of Australia, it’s still considered warm. This is why a lot of Australian travellers choose to travel north during winter, to escape the cold down south. Throughout winter (June to August), the temperature can drop as low as 16 degrees Celsuis but the daily average sits around 23 degrees. It is also less likely to rain during the cooler months too making it the perfect climate for your cold weather escape!
Best time to visit Airlie Beach?
We believe the best time to visit Airlie Beach is throughout spring (September to November). Spring brings clear skies, light ocean breezes and warm weather without that sticky humidity to the Whitsundays. Plenty of events are planned from September to November which is another reason we encourage you to visit during the spring months. The Whitsunday Arts Festival runs during September, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is on during November, and if you’re into fitness then Hamilton Island’s Endurance Series is on in November too! We still encourage you to book a trip during the other months too as Airlie Beach is a great place to visit year-round.
Enjoying Airlie Beach despite the rain
Airlie Beach is a Queensland hotspot so don’t let the rain keep you from enjoying it. There are the obvious things to do while it’s raining like going to the bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops in the town. However, we still want you to get out there and make the most of Airlie! From hiking up to incredible lookouts in waterproof gear (and shoes you’re happy to get muddy) to visiting flowing waterfalls in the rainforest, there are plenty of ways you can still get your adventure fix. Plus, the rain can make the rainforest look more vibrant and enchanted than usual.
Booking a tour during wet season
Thankfully, plenty of tours still run during the wet season. Unless there is a cyclone warning or severe winds, you’ll still be able to get out on the water and cruise through the islands. Plus, rain doesn't affect the marine life! Spend a day on the Great Barrier Reef and learn how to scuba dive, book a JetSki tour, head to Cedar Creek Falls, or get your adrenaline fix and go for a banana boat ride!
Always remember that Airlie Beach is full of life, no matter the season or weather!
For more information on what to do when it’s raining in Airlie Beach check out our article, 'Best Rainy Day Activities to do in Airlie Beach'.
