As temperatures start to drop across the country, many Aussies are beginning to pull out their winter woollies and get the fire going. But things look a little different during ‘winter’ here in the Whitsundays...
Our beautiful backyard sparkles all year round, but there is something extra special about the island between June and August. Before you plan your next trip to the Whitsundays, we have put together our top reasons why you should consider visiting during winter. Spoiler alert: there’s more than just glorious sunshiney days on offer!
1. Soak Up Some Vitamin D
If we had to describe our winter weather forecast in one word, it would be: perfect. In fact, it probably doesn’t look anything like the winter you know. Our ‘winter’ temperatures hover around 24°C, with the water sitting at about 25°C year-round. While you might need a light jumper in the evenings, you can expect consistent sunshine and blue skies during the day. With beautiful, clear skies on the horizon, lower winds and super calm waters, it’s the perfect conditions to explore the reef or adventure around the island.
Image credit: @jamesunsworth93
2. Make the Most of Whale Season
From June through to September, the sheltered and warm waters of the Whitsundays offer safe refuge to thousands of migrating humpback whales and their offspring. The calm waters make for the perfect place for mother whales to teach their calves how to swim, slap their fins, use their blowhole and even breach. This also means that if you visit us during this period, you might be lucky enough to spot one of these ocean beauties for yourself. Trust us, it’s even more incredible than you could imagine!
Want to find out more about whale season here in the Whitsundays? Check out our recent blog post here.
Image credit: @manuelo.pro
3. Explore Your Own Backyard
There’s no need to look further than the Whitsundays for that tropical escape you’ve been daydreaming about. Not to mention, winter is the perfect time of the year to tick some world-class experiences off your Aussie travel bucket list. Spend a day out on the Great Barrier Reef or visit the iconic, sun-drenched and sandy Whitehaven Beach. As winter falls within the region’s dry season, less freshwater mixes with the ocean and water visibility is even more incredible than usual. Whether you choose to fly above the blue azure water or snorkel below it, you’ll be soaking up these iconic destinations in all their glory!
Image credit: @hamiltonislandraceweek
4. Join In on the Action
There is so much going on in the Whitsundays during winter, including both on and offshore events. Take your pick from the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach Race Week and Hamilton Island Race Week, which all run in July and August. These special events attract crowds and give the island an exciting ambience not to be missed!
Image credit: @nanja__
5. Get Snap Happy
With clear water, blue skies and gorgeous sunsets aplenty, winter in the Whitsundays is a photographer’s dream come true! Whether you’re taking snaps on a hike up to one of the many lookouts, grabbing a family shot on the beach or exploring the reef with your camera, you’re bound to come home with a lifetime’s supply of pictures to look back on.
If you’re thinking about a tropical escape, WAHI is the perfect opportunity to #HolidayHereThisYear. Take the time to see your own backyard and let the WAHI team give you all the tips and tricks to make the most of your time away. Book your winter escape directly with WAHI here.
