Australia in January & February

While the Northern Hemisphere is experiencing cooler temperatures in January and February, Australia is enjoying warmer, summer weather in the Southern Hemisphere. Summer in Australia brings a lot of rainfall. While the rain provides a cool relief from the humidity that is common this time of year, it may hinder your Great Barrier Reef experience as a mix of rain, wind, and currents make it difficult to spot the underwater wildlife from your boat. Summer also marks the start of vacation season for most Aussies, so expect crowded beaches and coastal towns.

January and February are ideal months to visit Tasmania. Located farther south away from the equator, Tasmania's weather remains cooler with temperatures averaging around 70 degrees. Tasmania is replete with wineries and this is the perfect time to explore the idyllic vineyards and sample local varieties.

Holidays & Events

• January 26: Australia Day is a national holiday that marks the anniversary of the arrival of the first British fleet in Australia in 1788
• The Australian Open Tennis Tournament, one of four major international tennis tournaments, is typically held in January

Must See

Australia Day celebrates the anniversary of the arrival of Captain Arthur Phillip and his British fleet in Australia. In 1788, Phillip was tasked with bringing convicts to this foreign land to build a work camp. The establishment of this settlement was difficult for Phillips, his men, and the convicts due to the climate and landscape of Australia, which the men had never experienced, but in the 19th century, an Australian settlement was finally completed.

Australia Day festivities are similar to how we celebrate fourth of July. Aussies enjoy barbecues, partake in beach-side activities, and by nightfall, fireworks illuminate the sky.

Australia in March & April

March and April welcome crisp, cool weather, which provides a nice relief from the hot summer heat and humidity. Take a pleasant stroll around one of Australia's major cities when the weather isn't too hot—from exploring Sydney's iconic cityscape to Adelaide's scenic coastal setting. Plus, as the rainy season winds down, Australia's flora flourishes. Maybe the best showcase of the lush landscape is during a visit to the Daintree Rainforest where more than 40 percent of Australia's plant species grow.

Holidays & Events

• Moomba Festival is an annual celebration that brings Melbourne's community together for local entertainment. This festival has held as a strong tradition in Melbourne for more than 60 years
• Canberra Day is celebrated annually on the second Monday in March. The day celebrates the founding of Canberra, the city's natural beauty, and its cultural history with sporting events, theater performances, and more

Must See

March is the beginning of Whale Shark season when these gentle giants flock to Ningaloo Marine Park—a reef that stretches more than 160 miles. You can witness the largest known fish and shark species in the world at Ningaloo as these creatures tend to swim closer to the water's surface. The end of March through June also provide the best wildlife viewing experiences at the Great Barrier Reef due to little to no rainfall.

Australia in May & June

A drastic cool down occurs as June 1 marks the first day of winter, which means the start of ski season in New South Wales and Victoria. Despite the cold weather, this is the best time of year to snorkel and dive over the Great Barrier Reef. Expect little to no rainfall and clear visibility, making it ideal for underwater wildlife viewing. Plus, June is the beginning of the migratory season for dwarf minke whales who travel in packs to the Great Barrier Reef in the winter.

Holidays & Events

• Labor Day is typically reserved for barbecues, sporting events, and marches. The holiday is known locally as "Eight Hours Day" in Tasmania and is celebrated on the second Monday in March

Must See

June is one of the best times of year to view the Great Barrier Reef's wildlife. Clear conditions and little to no rain make it easier to witness turtles gliding and fish speeding over a kaleidoscope of colorful coral dotted with constellations of starfish and groups of sea urchins.

Australia in July & August

Winter is in full swing in July and August, and while it's too cold to enjoy the beach this time of year, fewer crowds, little precipitation, and low humidity make this the perfect time to explore Australia's major cities. Stroll through Melbourne's broad boulevards to discover the city's Victorian architecture and hop on Adelaide's vintage tram to explore the city's cultural gems. Plus, if you can't enjoy the beach, take advantage of ski season, which is at its peak in July and August.

Must See

While the cool weather outside evokes a sense of holiday cheer in July and August, why not celebrate the holidays? Aussies enjoy Christmas festivities in July in addition to December. Celebrations include the Yulefest in the Blue Mountains where locals and visitors alike come together to share in the spirit of the holidays. Enjoy lively parades, peruse holiday markets, and feast on holiday favorites like turkey, ham, mince pies, and plum pudding at this beloved annual event.

If you're interested in something a little more unique, the city of Darwin holds the Beer Can Regatta. Witness working vessels made almost entirely of beer cans at this annual event that has been held since 1974.

Australia in September & October

September and October bloom with pleasant springtime temperatures. The balmy weather is celebrated with several flower festivals—from the Cherry Blossom Festival in Cowra to tulip festivals that take place throughout the Southern Highlands. But, with better weather and vibrant flora comes larger crowds.

Spring in Australia is an exciting season. Horse racing is a big August sport as preliminary races are taking place through the season in preparation for the Melbourne Cup in November. In addition to the many horse races that take place, the National Rugby League's final games are this season. Rugby has long been a popular pastime in Australia. In the 1890s, Rugby was more of a hobby for working men, but as the sport garnered increased public interest it finally became an official sport under the New South Wales Rugby Football League at the beginning of the 20th century.

Holidays & Events

• The Brisbane Festival is a three week celebration in September that showcases local art
• September 1: Wattle Day; wattles are bright yellow flowers that are the national symbol of Australian patriotism

Must See

The Australian Football League also has its final match. Australian football is a mix of American football and soccer where players use their hands to handle the ball and their feet to pass the ball.

Another springtime attraction is the Royal Botanic Gardens, Australia's oldest botanic garden, where vibrant wildflowers are on display this season. The 158-acre garden is home to 8900 plant species and 36 pieces of art.

Australia in November & December

November and December are the last couple of months to enjoy mild temperatures before the weather heats up in January and February. Summer in Australia is not only hot and humid, but also means the beginning of monsoon season. Prepare for an abundance of rainfall and thunderstorms, but when the weather is clear, it's ideal for hiking and exploring the country's national parks where myriad wildlife can be seen in their natural habitats.

Holidays & Events

• The Melbourne Cup horse race takes place annually on the first Tuesday in November
• November 11: An observance of the end of World War I
• December 25: Aussies tend to spend Christmas outdoors at the beach or hiking
• December 26: Boxing Day

Must See

Australia is home to some of the world's most wondrous creatures and natural splendors, including turtle nesting. In November through December, turtles hatch their eggs at local beaches. After the sun sets, you can catch a glimpse of this beautiful event. Plus, the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race takes place in December. The race is a tradition that began in 1945 when 9 boats raced from Sydney to Hobart.