Omari Gates
Australia in December promises warm temperatures, long days, and a vibrant atmosphere as locals embrace the holiday season. The month is known for its diverse range of experiences, from Christmas markets in Sydney to snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef. December is the start of summer in Australia, so it's perfect for those chasing some winter sun. It's also a great time to visit if you're looking for a unique Christmas experience, with carols on the beach and picnics instead of snow and hot cocoa. The weather in December varies across the country, with temperatures ranging from highs of 12°C to as high as 40°C. Cities like Sydney and Brisbane on the east coast see average daytime highs of between 25°C and 31°C, while southern cities like Melbourne and Adelaide tend to have cooler temperatures. If you're looking to escape the heat, Tasmania is a great option, known for its stunning nature and wildlife. With its rich wildlife, vibrant cities, and diverse range of experiences, Australia in December has something for every kind of traveller.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | December is said to be the best month to visit Australia |
| Weather | Hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 40°C |
| Season | December is the start of summer in Australia |
| Tourists | December is a peak travel period in Australia, especially around Christmas and New Year's |
| Christmas | Christmas in Australia is unique, with BBQs, carols on the beach, and Christmas markets |
| New Year's Eve | Sydney is known for throwing one of the world's biggest New Year's Eve parties, with fireworks over the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge |
| Food | Taste of Tasmania, Australia's biggest food and wine festival, happens over New Year's |
| Outdoor activities | Hiking, snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, and visiting national parks |
| Cities | Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, and Hobart are recommended destinations |
| Families | Melbourne is a good choice for families, with the Melbourne Zoo, museums, and other educational experiences |
| Couples | The Whitsunday Islands offer an idyllic retreat for couples with white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters |
Explore related products
$9.99 $19.95
What You'll Learn
Sydney's Christmas markets and New Year's Eve fireworks
Sydney is a great place to visit in December, with its Christmas markets and New Year's Eve fireworks. The city sparkles during the summer holiday season, with everything from traditional Christmas lunches by the harbour to magical Christmas lights and plenty of carolling.
Sydney's Christmas markets are in full swing in December, with holiday decorations, festive treats, special crafts, customised gifts, and cosy vibes. The Rocks is a historic precinct that hosts a magical marketplace with fairy lights strung above cobbled streets and market stalls offering handmade Christmas decorations, artisan jewellery, and locally designed fashion, as well as delicious holiday-themed street food. Other notable Christmas markets include the French Christmas Market, the EQ Christmas Market, the Jolly Market, and the Kirribilli Market. These markets feature live music, food trucks, wine bars, artisanal products, and unique gifts.
Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks are a spectacular display that attracts people from all over the world. The event consists of two fireworks shows: the Calling Country Fireworks (formerly known as the Family Fireworks) at 9 pm, and the main Midnight Fireworks at 12 am. Fireworks are launched from barges in Port Jackson and nearby landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which serves as the focal point of the show with lighting and pyrotechnic effects. The event is organised by the City of Sydney and has an estimated attendance of around 1.5 to 1.6 million people, including many tourists.
Trump's Surprising Take: Australia's Healthcare Praised
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Tasmania's cool climate, nature, and wildlife
December is one of the hottest months in Australia, with the summer sun in full swing. The southern parts of Australia, however, are known to be pleasantly warm, and you can escape the intense heat and humidity of the north by heading to places like Tasmania, Melbourne, and Adelaide.
Tasmania, Australia's southernmost state, is known for its cool climate, stunning nature, and exotic wildlife. It is a great place to visit in December, with comfortable temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The island experiences long daylight hours, with approximately 15.3 daylight hours and 12.6 hours of sunshine per day. The sun rises at around 5:30 a.m. and sets between 8:30 p.m. and 8:50 p.m. The UV index in Tasmania in December is above 11, which is considered extreme, so be sure to take precautions when spending time outdoors.
Tasmania's cool climate is a welcome escape from the intense heat of mainland Australia. The average daytime temperatures in December range from 19°C to 23°C, with the warmest regions being the valleys west of Hobart, where temperatures can rise above 25°C. The coldest part of Tasmania in December is the Central Plateau, with temperatures starting at 3°C and rarely exceeding 17°C. The average water temperature around Tasmania is 15.9°C, making swimming possible only for short periods without a wetsuit.
Tasmania is known for its rugged beauty and diverse weather experiences. The island's regions offer a range of climates, from the milder, more predictable weather of Hobart and Launceston to the wilder, more dramatic conditions of Cradle Mountain and Strahan. Freycinet, on the East Coast, enjoys warmer and sunnier weather, making it a popular spot for beachgoers.
Tasmania is also renowned for its nature and wildlife. The island is home to 19 National Parks, including the famous Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, which offers breathtaking nature and tranquil wilderness. Tasmania's natural beauty includes pristine waterfalls, scenic flights and helicopters, and cruises and boat tours. The island is also a fantastic place to spot wildlife in their native habitat. Visitors can easily spot endemic species like wombats, pademelons, quolls, and the elusive Tasmanian devil.
In addition to its natural attractions, Tasmania offers a range of cultural experiences, including the Taste of Tasmania festival, which takes place during the last week of December. This culinary event showcases the best of Tasmanian food and beverages, along with live music and entertainment. Tasmania also hosts the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, considered one of the most difficult ocean races in the world. With its cool climate, stunning nature, and abundant wildlife, Tasmania is a must-visit destination when exploring Australia's diverse landscapes.
Transferring Money from Overseas to Australia: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Melbourne's museums, zoos, and moderately hot weather
Melbourne is a great choice for a trip to Australia in December if you want to enjoy the sunshine without experiencing the extreme heat of the northern parts of the country. The city does have a reputation for its unpredictable weather, but in December, you can expect warm and dry weather with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25.3°C. These temperatures are perfect for exploring Melbourne's museums and zoos without getting too hot.
Melbourne is home to some fantastic museums, including the Melbourne Museum, which currently features a LEGO® Star Wars exhibition. Museums Victoria also offers guided tours of its extensive collection of science, natural history, and social history artefacts. If you become a Museum Member, you'll enjoy free entry to Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks, and the Immigration Museum, as well as discounts on special exhibitions and other perks.
For animal lovers, Melbourne has several zoos and wildlife parks. Zoos Victoria, which includes Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Open Range Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary, and Kyabram Fauna Park, offers unlimited entry passes. Their Fighting Extinction Schools Program is also worth checking out if you're visiting with students.
Melbourne's weather in December is generally warm and dry, with the occasional hot spell. It's a good idea to be prepared for sudden temperature changes and bring layers, especially if you plan to be outdoors all day. With the city's longest daylight hours in December, you'll have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the sunshine.
Overall, Melbourne in December offers a balance of moderately hot weather, perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without the intense heat of other Australian regions. With its museums, zoos, and cultural attractions, Melbourne provides a diverse range of experiences to suit different interests and age groups.
Applying for Nursing Jobs in Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cairns' Great Barrier Reef, nature, and culture
December is a great time to visit Australia if you're chasing some winter sun. It's the start of summer in Australia, so you can expect hot, sunny days in most places. It's also a great time to experience the festive season Aussie-style, with Christmas on the beach and New Year's Eve fireworks.
If you're looking for nature and culture, Cairns in tropical North Queensland is an ideal destination. Cairns is known for its nature and is the most famous gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the great wonders of the world. It's a great time to enjoy the city's beaches and outdoor activities like hiking. However, do be aware that Cairns in December is exceptionally humid, with the occasional cyclone, and the monsoon season starts in mid-December. There's plenty of natural beauty to explore, with the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest offering over 894,420 hectares of tropical rainforest to discover.
The Great Barrier Reef itself offers a unique experience, with over 3,000 coral reefs, 600 continental islands, 300 coral cays, and 1,600 species of tropical fish to discover. You can snorkel and scuba dive to explore the underwater world, but be aware that this is stinger season, so you'll need to wear a stinger suit to protect against deadly jellyfish.
If you're looking for a more secluded experience, you can base yourself on one of the reef's many islands. Lizard Island, Green Island, Fitzroy Island, and Lady Elliot Island are all accessible from Cairns and offer a more intimate encounter with the reef.
Cairns also offers cultural experiences like the Kuranda Rail and cable car rides. You can also explore the city's vibrant markets and enjoy the region's diverse cuisine.
So, if you're seeking nature and culture in December, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef offer a wealth of experiences, despite the heat and humidity.
Investing $5000 in Australia: A Beginner's Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
December's diverse events, outdoor festivals, and holiday spirit
December is a great time to visit Australia, with its diverse events, outdoor festivals, and holiday spirit. The month marks the start of summer, so you can expect warm temperatures and long days, making it perfect for those seeking some winter sun. The continent buzzes with energy as locals embrace the festive season, and you can expect a unique set of customs and traditions.
The cities of Sydney and Melbourne are particularly vibrant during this time. Sydney is known for its Christmas markets and New Year's Eve celebrations, including a spectacular fireworks display over the iconic Harbour Bridge. Melbourne, on the other hand, offers a range of family-friendly attractions, such as the Melbourne Zoo, Scienceworks Museum, and the Melbourne Museum. It is also renowned for its outdoor events and street food, especially in the Arts Precinct and Federation Square.
For those seeking a more relaxed holiday, Tasmania is a great option. Known as Australia's hidden gem, Tasmania offers stunning nature and wildlife, with 19 National Parks to explore. It tends to have cooler temperatures than the mainland, making it a perfect escape from the heat. The island's charming small towns, such as Strahan and Bicheno, provide a laid-back atmosphere away from the crowds.
If you're an adventure seeker, head to Cairns in tropical North Queensland. With average highs of around 88°F, Cairns is the ideal place to explore the Great Barrier Reef and enjoy activities like the Kuranda Rail and cable car rides. However, be prepared for high humidity! Alternatively, the Whitsunday Islands offer pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters for a romantic getaway.
December also brings a range of cultural events and outdoor festivals. Foodies will love the Taste of Tasmania festival, showcasing the island state's gourmet delights. Boxing Day sees the annual Sydney Harbour Yacht Race, while nature lovers can witness the penguin march on Phillip Island, Melbourne. With so much on offer, it's no wonder that December is considered one of the best times to visit Australia!
Discovering Amethyst in Australia: A Gemstone Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, December is one of the best months to visit Australia. It is the start of summer in the country, so you can expect warm temperatures, long days, and a vibrant atmosphere as locals embrace the holiday season.
The weather in Australia in December varies depending on the region. In most cities, temperatures hover around 25°C, but some parts of the country can experience temperatures over 30°C. The southern parts of Australia, such as Melbourne and Adelaide, tend to have milder and drier weather, while the northern regions, such as Cairns, Port Douglas, and Darwin, can be quite humid with a higher chance of rainfall.
There are many great places to visit in Australia during December, offering a mix of summer excitement and holiday spirit. Sydney is a popular choice for sightseeing, with its famous landmarks and Christmas markets. Melbourne is also a must-visit, offering a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities. For a more peaceful summer getaway, consider Tasmania, which has cooler temperatures and stunning natural parks. Other recommended destinations include Bruny Island, Canberra, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Blue Mountains National Park.
