The climate of Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island, a paradise nestled within the Great Barrier Reef in
Australia, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, easily identifiable within the Aw classification under the Köppen climate system. A location like this shows significant seasonal variations in terms of rainfall and temperature, ultimately influencing the weather conditions throughout the year.
Over the course of twelve months, average high temperatures on Hamilton Island range from a comfortable 23°C (73.4°F) to a sizzling 31°C (87.8°F). The cooler end of this scale can generally be observed around
June and
July, while the peak temperature often graces the island during the months of
December and
January. On the flip side, the average low temperature lies between 13°C (55.4°F) and 23°C (73.4°F) within the same annual time frame, with the coldest nights typically occurring around July.
Rainfall, meanwhile, presents quite a different pattern. The island sees the highest amount of precipitation between
February and
April, with an immense amount of rainfall recorded - 295mm (11.61") in February, escalating to a maximum of 322mm (12.68") in
March. This period also corresponds with the highest frequency of rainy days per month. In contrast, this drops to a mere 18mm (0.71") during
September, marking it the driest month of the year.
Sea temperature is another considerable factor. It hovers between 22°C (71.6°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). Cooler sea temperatures are found from June to
August, while the warmest sea is experienced in the starting and concluding months of the year. This could be a significant consideration depending on whether you are planning to explore the magnificent coral reefs surrounding the island.
The best time to visit Hamilton Island
Taking into account all facets of climate, the ideal time to visit
Hamilton Island would be between
August and
November. Temperatures are moderate, rainfall is at its lowest with a mere 34mm (1.34") to 74mm (2.91") precipitation, and sea temperatures are warm enough for a comfortable swim. As an added bonus, islands are bathed in a generous amount of sunshine, with 9 to 10 hours daily.
The worst time to visit Hamilton Island
On the contrary, the least favourable time to visit would be the wet season running from
February to
April. The period witnesses the highest rainfall ranging from an impressive 280mm (11.02") to a record high of 322mm (12.68") coupled with an average of 12 to 13 rainy days. Furthermore, high temperatures of up to 31°C (87.8°F) can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
Spring weather in Hamilton Island
As
Hamilton Island welcomes spring from
September to
November, a visible transition in weather conditions is noticed. Rainfall descends into its yearly low of 18mm (0.71") during September, ascending to a moderate 47mm (1.85") by November. Temperatures gradually climb from a pleasant 24°C (75.2°F) to 30°C (86°F) while the average low goes from 15°C (59°F) to 22°C (71.6°F). With a UV index of 10 in September and spiking to 12 by November, sunscreen is an essential for all outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Hamilton Island
Summer, running from
December to
February presents the hottest months of the year with peak temperatures climbing to 31°C (87.8°F). Rainfall substantially rise, totaling at 280mm (11.02") in December and reaching up to 295mm (11.61") in February. The number of daylight hours is on the higher end during this period from 13.1hours in December to 12.8 hours in February. Given the temperatures and the high UV index of 12, it's imperative to stay protected from the sun, especially during midday.
Autumn weather in Hamilton Island
Experiencing a drop in temperature and a steady decrease in rainfall marks the advent of Autumn from
March to
May in
Hamilton Island. March continues to experience high rainfall with 322mm (12.68") precipitation. But by
April it drastically drops to 149mm (5.87") and then further to 113mm (4.45") in May. Temperatures range from a high of 28°C (82.4°F) to 25°C (77°F) and a low from 22°C (71.6°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). Sea temperatures also cool down from 27°C (80.6°F) to 25°C (77°F).
Winter weather in Hamilton Island
Winter unveils a different side of
Hamilton Island from
June to
August. The weather exhibits a dry phase with temperatures scaling down and the island receiving lower rainfall. Rainfall measures a mere 70mm (2.76") in June, decreasing to a minimal 54mm (2.13") in
July. Daytime temperatures hover between 25°C (77°F) and 23°C (73.4°F), while nights get cooler, dropping to a low of 13°C (55.4°F) in July. Despite the cooler climate, with the sea temperature being consistent at 22°C (71.6°F), water activities remain a mainstay of the Island’s allure.
Weather in January
Kicking off the year for
Hamilton Island is a
January filled with cheers and fresh breezes. This year's January temperatures ranged from 23°C (73.4°F) at the lowest to a high of 31°C (87.8°F). It's a time embraced by locals with festive outdoor activities.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The
February weather seamlessly follows
January with the mercury recording similar figures. The island is awarded 295mm (11.61") of rainfall this month, a slight increase from the preceding month. While there's an extra day added to the rain tally, it's hardly noticeable.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Weather-wise,
March in
Hamilton Island sees a slight change. The month stands distinguished as the rainiest, with a hefty 322mm (12.68"). Come this month-to-month switch, the island's day onlookers are gifted with more sunshine hours.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Carding from
March to
April, some changes in the weather landscape of
Hamilton Island become apparent. An appreciable drop in rainfall drastically reduces to 149mm (5.87"), relieving the island of the persistent showers of the last month.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May in
Hamilton Island ushers in a departure from the preceding months. The noticeable change in weather includes a seamless transition to fewer rainy days. Grand sunshine hours continue to provide the island with an inviting glow, despite less daylight.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June marks the arrival of winter on
Hamilton Island, though the weather remains relatively mild. The lowest temperatures recorded run between 14°C (57.2°F) up to 23°C (73.4°F). It's another month with decreased rainfall as the dry winter sets in.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July weather in
Hamilton Island is a replication of
June, with a constant temperature curve. This tranquil winter month sees the least rainfall, recording a sparse 54mm (2.13") for the whole month. While sunshine hours plateau, daylight extends by a tad, painting longer sunsets.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Hamilton Island presents a slight deviation from the preceding winter months. Even with the spike in sun hours, the noticeable extension of daylight hours only adds to the charm. The sea begins to warm up again, drawing water-sport enthusiasts.
Weather in August » Weather in September
The onset of spring in
September brings about a pleasant evolution in weather for
Hamilton Island. September stands out proudly boasting the least rainfall at 18mm (0.71"). The increased sunshine and daylight hours bring new life to the island’s green cover.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October treats Hamilton island with a graceful transition towards summer. However, a slight upturn in rainfall does nothing to mar the month's appeal. The extension of daylight hours augments the allure of long beach days. The rise in the sea and ambient temperature unfolds a suite of activities for both onlookers and adventurers.
Weather in October » Weather in November
In
November,
Hamilton Island sees a sudden spike in both temperatures and rainfall. The sea temperature gradually climbs to reconcile with the 26°C (78.8°F) mark. Despite the re-emergence of frequent showers, the allure of outdoor activities remains undiminished.
Weather in November »Weather in December
Closing the year for
Hamilton Island,
December brings weather largely resembling
November. Distinguished by a UV index of 12, the highest for any month, vigilance is advised for sun-seekers. The somewhat heavy rainfall does not impact the vibrant, sunny atmosphere of the island.
Weather in December » [Resources]