What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To The Whitsundays?
Many would agree that the best time of year to go to the Whitsundays is September! However, the Whitsundays are renowned for their year-round incredible weather, so really, anytime is the best time to visit our slice of paradise.
But if you're looking for the best time to visit the Whitsundays, September takes the cake. It has the perfect sailing conditions, dreamy weather, and lots of active wildlife. The neighbouring months of August and October are also similar to September.
Let's briefly uncover the best reasons to visit the Whitsundays in September, or at any time of year!
Why visit the Whitsundays in September?
September in the Whitsundays is an absolute dream! With sunny days, low humidity and whale season taking the stage, eternal summer is here in the Whitsundays. Even in the cooler months of July and August, the weather is still sunny and warm for outdoor activities. But in September, the weather is slightly warmer as spring approaches and it's heaven.
Head on out to sea and soak up the beautiful, clear conditions in the Whitsundays in September. During this month, you can also avoid the main crowds of school holidays, rainfall periods and the worst of stinger season. The Whitsundays really is your oyster, no matter what time of year you visit, and particularly between July and October.
September & October School Holidays in Australia
Australian school holidays never fail to bring a spike in visitors to the Whitsundays. While school holidays in the Whitsundays are a fun, exciting and vibrant time to be in town, as Airlie Beach comes to life, it is busy. If you’re more of a crowd-escaper and tranquillity-appreciator, we recommend you avoid the school holidays. These are at the end of September and beginning of October, depending on the state.
So if you want a peaceful time in the Whitsundays, visit in the beginning or middle of September. Similarly, if you’re looking to visit the Whitsundays during school holidays, make sure you book tours and accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment!
Whale Season in the Whitsundays
If you want to spot a magnificent Humpback whale during your next trip to the big blue Whitsundays, make sure you visit between July and October! Spotting a whale sighting on their migration to Antarctica is an incredibly breathtaking experience.
You can often spot whales on any boat tour in the Whitsundays, from day trips to overnight sailing tours. Optimise your chances of seeing whales by booking a private charter so you can influence the itinerary. September is the end of whale season in the Whitsundays, so it's your last chance of the year to spot these majestic giants cruising through the waters.
Stinger Season
Stinger season is at its peak from October to May in the Whitsundays, when the jellyfish are at their most populous in the reef. Stinger suits are provided on all snorkelling or diving experiences during this time to keep your skin protected. So it is safe to swim in the Whitsundays year-round.
However, visiting outside of stinger season means you can swim without a stinger suit worry-free. September is outside of stinger season, so the water is perfectly safe and free from any jellyfish.
Whitsundays Weather Summary
Even if you can't visit the Whitsundays in September, it's still a gorgeous destination year-round. Weather in the Whitsundays is renowned for being temperate, comfortable and stunning at any time of year. Here is a quick round up of what to expect when you visit the Whitsundays.
Explore the Whitsundays with these tours and activities!
Summer
December, January and February boast dazzling, sunny days with occasional rainfall in the afternoons as you experience a true, tropical summer. The weather is at its hottest and most humid during these months, so pack lots of sun protection! It's also good to have flexible plans, particularly in February when it can rain semi-frequently.
Autumn
Autumn (March, April and May), is a little cooler and quieter as the summer holiday crowds depart and the humid days become less intense. There may still be some rainfall at the beginning of the season, but the weather starts to dry up and become more comfortable.
Winter
Winter (June, July and August) is an exceptional time to book your Whitsunday holiday. It's quiet and uncrowded in town, and the days are sunny and dry. There is little rainfall and the temperatures are mild. Plus, it's whale season so you can have the added thrill of seeing whales while you're out sailing through the islands!
Spring
Spring has the end of whale season and clear, sunny days as well, making it the perfect time to take a well-deserved break in September, October and November. The weather slowly starts to get more hot and humid, but the summer holiday crowds haven't hit yet. It's a fabulous time to visit the Whitsundays!
