The best time to visit Brisbane, Australia is in the spring, from September to November, and the fall, from March to May. These are months of low humidity, little rainfall, and long, sunny days.
Brisbane lies on the east coast of Australia. It’s the capital of Queensland and enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate of mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers. As Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are reversed, so Brisbane’s summer is from December to February and winter is from June to August.
Immediately south of Brisbane is Australia’s Gold Coast, a playground of endless sandy beaches, inland waterways, theme parks, hills, valleys, and rainforest. Unsurprisingly, this is a popular vacation destination for Australians as well as overseas visitors.
Visiting Brisbane by Season
Summer
Brisbane City Hall
Summer in Brisbane runs from December to February. This is a time of sometimes intense humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Expect average daily highs of 84°F (29°C) and sometimes intense rainfall. February is the wettest month, receiving on average 5.9 inches (150 mm) of precipitation.
If the humidity becomes too much, you can cool off in the ocean or head for the air conditioned environments of the museums and galleries along the city’s famed Cultural Precinct. Summer is a time to bring both lightweight rain gear and suitable sun protection; the UV rays in Australia are intense.
Fall
March, April, and May is the fall in Brisbane, and an excellent time to visit. The humidity of summer has eased by now and rainfall is dropping; May, for example, receives just 2.3 inches (60mm). You can expect an average daily temperature of 70°F (21°C) in April, which is perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor living.
Winter
June, July, and August are the winter months in Brisbane. The weather is cool and dry, perfect for exploring the outdoors. July is the coolest month, with a daily average of 59°F (15°C) and average highs of 70°F (21°C). It’s also the driest month, with rainfall of just one inch (25mm). But even though this is winter, the climate is still, in reality, extremely pleasant. Just pack something warmer to wear at night.
Spring
Southbank
Brisbane’s spring is from September to November with delightfully warm temperatures; by November, you can expect a daily average of 75°F (24°C) and nine hours daily of sunshine.
Many would say that spring is the best time to go to Brisbane. The intense humidity of summer has yet to arrive—and ocean breezes temper any humidity. What’s more, the city is ablaze with purple, as the beautiful jacaranda trees are in full bloom.
When Is Rainy Season?
The rainiest months in Brisbane are in the summer, from December to February. Rain tends to fall as short, sharp showers as is typical of the tropics, providing respite from the humidity.
This is also peak surf season, so it’s the best time to catch some waves or simply watch the action. Summer is a great time for sea swimming, too, with average water temperatures a very balmy 80°F (27°C).
When Is High Season?
High season in Brisbane is the winter, from June to August, when the weather is dry, warm, and pleasant. This is when Australians from the southern states head north to escape their cooler winter weather. There’s a second peak in January, the middle of summer. Despite the humidity, this is school summer holidays and a popular time for Australians to take a summer beach vacation.
The humpback whale migration begins in June and lasts till October, so if you’re visiting during this time, be sure to join a whale-watching tour to spot these magnificent creatures.
When Is Shoulder Season?
Eagle Street Pier
Shoulder season in Brisbane is the spring and fall months. The humidity is low and the beaches in and around Brisbane are not crowded, aside from Easter break. The city is alive with festivals such as the Gin Festival in April and May’s Street Art Festival. In spring, much of September is taken up by the city-wide Brisbane Festival, with a program of cultural events and spectacular fireworks over the Brisbane River.
The weather is ideal for outdoor activities during spring and fall, like wandering through the lush Botanic Gardens, visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, or kayaking on the Brisbane River.
When Is Low Season?
Brisbane’s low season is late November and December, when the humidity is intense and tropical storms pass through. There’s a temporary high in January for school holidays, but February is another low season, receiving up to 5.9 inches (150mm) of rain.
Low season is still a great time to visit Brisbane, especially if you don’t mind the humidity; the sea is warm and you will enjoy long, sunny days when it’s not raining.
Mt. Coot-tha Lookout
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