The Best Time of Year to Visit Australia

Many people have one question when they call us here at Cruisin’ – what is the best time of year to visit Australia? Our answer: It depends on what sort of experience you’re looking for and what part of the country you plan on visiting. Australia is the planet’s sixth largest country and covers an impressive distance of 7,692,024 kilometres squared. The climate varies dramatically between north and south with parts of the north experiencing a dry and wet season and the south enjoying four distinct seasons. So, when should you go? Australia is a great place to visit year-round as somewhere will always have a climate catering to your holiday needs. If you’re looking to experience an authentic Aussie summer but don’t want to drown in sweat, we recommend heading south. The southern states of Victoria and Tasmania are summer oases offering great weather conditions with average temperatures ranging between 20-28 degrees Celsius. During this time of year these states have a welcoming summer vibe with plenty of vibrant events including the Falls Festival (held in Lorne in Victoria and Marion Bay in Tasmania) and the popular Taste of Tasmania where you can sit by the waterfront sampling a variety of local delicacies while watching the yachts triumphantly cross the finish line of the famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. In Melbourne, the Australian Open attracts large crowds and is one of the country’s premium sporting events held beside the charming Yarra River. Australia’s summer months are from December to February and offer long daylight hours ideal for evening BBQs, swimming and a variety of other outdoor activities. If you are travelling in Australia during this peak time booking in advance is highly recommend to avoid missing out. Winter months are June to August and locals and tourists alike flock to the warmer states including Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland. For a more tropical climate Cairns and Darwin are great options offering exotic and dry weather conditions ideal for exploring with average temperatures between 20-29 degrees Celcius. Those looking to make the most of the country’s fantastic winter attractions will once again stay south and experience skiing opportunities in New South Wales and Victoria. Tasmania is also home to a host of fantastic winter attractions including the world-class Cradle Mountain; a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The best time to visit Australia’s most iconic destinations; If you’re looking to explore Australia’s iconic red heart and the world-famous Uluru/Ayers Rock the best time of year to visit is in the shoulder season bridging August/September where the average temperature is between 10 and 28 degrees with the lowest temperatures being at night. A visit during this time of year means you can avoid the incredibly hot and humid weather conditions that frequent the area at other times of the year. The Whitsundays, home to the Great Barrier Reef, are a must visit on your first trip to the Land Down Under. The best time to visit this fantastic natural attraction is the month of September offering consistently sunny weather and low humidity. In the month of September you will come across temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19 degrees to a maximum of 26. Keep in mind that the first half of the month is school holiday season and it is best to avoid these weeks if you do not want overcrowding or increased rates. Enjoy spectacular snorkelling and swimming and the once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the Great Barrier Reef. Sydney is a great destination to visit year round and is home to the renowned Sydney Harbour Bridge, Manly Beach, Bondi and a range of world-class festivals and events. Save money by travelling over winter when tourist rates are at their lowest. For real excitement in the big smoke, plan a visit in February and take part in the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras or the Chinese New Year celebrations. What to pack for your Australian adventure? It’s important to pack weather-appropriate gear on your trip to Australia. Anyone visiting in the summer months should stock up on sun protection gear including sun cream with an SPF of at least 30, sun hats, sunglasses and light long-sleeve clothing to protect your skin from the sun. The states of Tasmania and Victoria have a particularly high UV level and it is advised to take all the necessary precautions to avoid sun burn. For summer we recommend packing;

• T-Shirts
• Shorts
• Sandals/thongs
• Light pants
• Light jumpers

Winter on the other hand can become cold and anyone visiting the southern states should bring;

• Jumpers
• Pants
• warm jacket

*A rain-jacket is a good idea no matter what time of year you plan on visiting. Sometimes weather conditions can deteriorate quickly. If you want to monitor weather conditions while you’re in Australia, the Bureau of Meteorology website offers regular updates and is a great source of information. Their website can be found at www.bom.gov.au.