Summer in the Whitsundays

Updated 14/01/22

Summer in Australia falls from December to February and is certainly the hottest time of the year in the Whitsundays. Temperatures reach daily maximum averages of 28°C to 32°C, with ocean temperatures hovering around a comfortable 28°C. 

Summer brings along the Queensland wet season, which creates high humidity and frequent rain showers throughout the season. Not to worry though, the sunny nature of the Whitsundays always shines through in no time after showers - making the Whitsundays a stunning tropical destination even in the wet season!

Evening temperatures always remain quite warm, so there is no need to pack a sweater during these hot summer months. Just don't forget your swimsuit! The heat of the day can easily be cooled with a quick refresh in the Airlie Beach Lagoon or with a snorkel around the Whitsunday Islands on an exciting day tour! 

Whitsundays Average Temperature and Rainfall during Summer

Looking for more information on the summer month's weather? Check out our local's weather guides for December, January, and February!

Things to do in the Whitsundays during Summer

Get ready for a Queensland summer under the sun, filled with plenty of snorkelling, diving, swimming, and sailing to cool down!

	Explore Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Get a taste of the Whitsundays magnificent natural beauty on a thrilling day tour! Spending the day sailing smoothly to the luminous silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, and panoramic views of azure and turquoise lagoons from Hill Inlet Lookout! Find the perfect day tour of the Whitsunday Islands here - from luxurious sailing, a jam-packed trip to the northern and southern ends of Whitehaven, an abundance of snorkelling, or fun-filled water sports - there truly is a day tour to fill everyone's tropical dreams!
	Snorkel the Outer Great Barrier Reef  Take an exclusive Outer Reef tour to experience the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in all its untouched glory! Get ready for a snorkelling and scuba diving experience unlike any other, as you explore some of the world’s best coral reefs! Fall asleep and wake blissfully to the serenity of the Outer Reef on Reefsleep, a luxurious outdoor sleeping experience. Or for those seeking an adventurous sailing adventure to the Outer Reef, look no further than Kiana’s sleek and comfortable decks!
	Enjoy a cocktail in Airlie Beach Time to turn off your alarms, put on a hat, and enjoy a Whitsundays summer like the locals in Airlie Beach’s laid-back, coastal hub! After a refreshing morning swim in the Airlie Beach Lagoon, it’s time for a late lunch and a cheeky cocktail! From picturesque views at the Coral Sea Marina Resort, beach-side bliss at Northerlies, and delicious locally sourced seafood at Fish Divine and Rum Bar - there is an abundance of places to dine in Airlie Beach!
	Sail around the Whitsunday Islands  Tick off all your tropical Whitsundays dreams on an overnight sailing tour! Spend your days exploring secluded sandy shorelines, snorkelling amongst exotic marine ecosystems, learning how to sail, and mooring for the night in tranquil coves! There is an overnight trip for every budget – from luxurious private catamarans, small group adventure sailing, and fun-filled backpackers tours!
	Take a walk or hike in the Whitsundays The wet season makes the natural beauty of the Whitsundays come to life, as the plants and wildlife enjoy a welcomed break from the drier winter months - think deep greens and lush vegetation! There is plenty to do during the wet season including an abundance of hikes and walks around the Whitsundays! Just make sure to plan your hikes for the early morning, before the summer heat sets in for the day!

Considering stinger season

The Whitsundays stinger season does fall during the warmer summer months (October to May), so it is highly recommended you wear a stinger suit when entering the ocean - however, this doesn't stop you from having fun in the Whitsunday Islands colourful inner fringing reefs! Jam-packed, adventurous tours run year-round, but keep in mind that summer months correlate with many school holidays in Australia, so make sure to book in advance!

The Whitsundays are breathtaking all year round, and are always worth a visit! No matter if you visit in summer, fall, winter, or spring, there is always an abundance of vibrant natural wonder and cocktails by the seaside to be had!

The Great Barrier Reef is teeming with reef fish, turtles, stingrays, and thousands of species of coral all year round, with the calm coves and inlets of the Whitsundays providing ideal locations to snorkel and play under the sun!

If you're after more information about the Weather in the Whitsundays, find out everything you need to know here.

Start planning your ultimate summer getaway in the Whitsundays! 

Call us on +61 7 4914 2425 or live chat with our team of local experts today!