North Queensland is home to some of the best weather year round that Australia has to offer. Its sunny days, warm waters, cool ocean breezes and generally comfortable climate are part of what make it such a popular holiday destination.
The North Queensland climate is characterised by two distinct seasons, with warm temperatures and a low rainfall during the winter period while summer sees higher rainfall and warmer, balmy temperatures.
Due to the warmer weather, winter is more commonly known as the 'dry' season and runs from May to October enjoying low humidity, refreshing breezes and plenty of sunshine. Conversely, summer is therefore known as the 'wet' season and experiences tropical downpours later in the day with the occasional electric storm from November to April.
Swimming is pleasant all year round however swimming is at its best between April and October. Water temperatures range from 23 degrees Celsius to 29 degrees Celsius from July to February. During November to March, Tropical North Queensland becomes home to box jellyfish and swimming enclosures are in place to protect swimmers at popular beaches.
Remember: It is advised that holidaymakers only swim at patrolled beaches and swim between the flags. All popular beaches are safe for swimming and it is recommended that visitors apply a good quality sunscreen, wear a hat and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and sunburn.
The temperatures are recorded as average maximums of (Celsius) 30 degrees and average minimums of (Celsius) 21 degrees. The Tropical North has an average rainfall of 2010mm (an average of 168mm per month).
| Month | Max Temp in Celsius | Min Temp in Celsius | Humidity % | Av Rainfall mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31.5 | 23.6 | 75 | 405 |
| February | 31.1 | 23.7 | 78 | 434 |
| March | 30.5 | 23.0 | 78 | 424 |
| April | 29.2 | 21.5 | 75 | 197 |
| May | 27.5 | 19.5 | 77 | 99 |
| June | 27.8 | 17.6 | 74 | 49 |
| July | 25.6 | 17.0 | 74 | 30 |
| August | 26.5 | 17.5 | 71 | 27 |
| September | 27.8 | 18.6 | 67 | 35 |
| October | 29.4 | 20.5 | 66 | 38 |
| November | 30.6 | 22.2 | 67 | 89 |
| December | 31.4 | 23.3 | 70 | 175 |
For more information on weather around North Queensland visit the Bureau of Meteorology. The Bureau of Meteorology is responsible for the functions of the National Meteorological Service including provision of monitoring, research and services in the public interest.
