Great Barrier Reef Weather & Ocean Temperatures

Located in tropical North Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef enjoys mild sunny weather year round. Part of the reason visitors flock to the region each year is for the sunshine, sea breezes, fine days and warm seas.

Unlike the typical four seasons experienced by most of the country, the Great Barrier Reef is divided by only two seasons however the two are quite distinct. Winter is known as the dry season and is characterised by warm temperatures and little rainfall while the summer season features higher temperatures and rainfall resulting in more humidity.

Winter occurs from May to October and enjoys plenty of sunshine, low humidity and cooling breezes while the summer wet season runs from November to April and features afternoon tropical showers and occasionally, electrical storms. During this time, the region experiences an average rainfall of approximately 168mm per month.

Swimming in tropical North Queensland is ideal throughout the year however the most popular swimming 'season' falls between April to October. The water is always pleasant with ocean temperatures ranging from 23 degrees Celsius in Winter and 29 degrees Celsius in summer.

From November to March, the waters in this region are inhabited by box jellyfish which can pose a threat to visitors. Special swimming enclosures are provided at popular beaches to protect swimmers.

The Bureau of Meteorology can provide up to the minute information on the weather on and around the Great Barrier Reef thanks to its National Meteorological Service.

Remember: Visitors wishing to swim at any of the beaches located on the Great Barrier Reef are advised to swim only at beaches patrolled by surf life savers and remain between the red and yellow flags at all times for their own safety. When out in the sun, it is also important to apply quality sunscreen regularly, wear a hat and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. This is particularly important for overseas visitors who aren't used to a warm or particularly sunny climate.

Current Great Barrier Reef Weather

Clear
19°
clear sky

Great Barrier Reef Weather Forecast

Wednesday

1am
Rain
20°
4am
Rain
19°
7am
Rain
19°
10am
Rain
20°
1pm
Rain
21°
4pm
Rain
21°
7pm
Rain
19°
10pm
Clouds
18°

Thursday

1am
Clear
18°
4am
Rain
17°
7am
Clear
16°
10am
Clear
19°
1pm
Clear
20°
4pm
Clouds
19°
7pm
Clear
17°
10pm
Clear
18°

Friday

1am
Clear
17°
4am
Clear
15°
7am
Clear
15°
10am
Clear
18°
1pm
Clear
19°
4pm
Clouds
20°
7pm
Rain
19°
10pm
Clouds
19°

Saturday

1am
Clouds
19°
4am
Clouds
19°
7am
Clouds
20°
10am
Clouds
21°
1pm
Clouds
22°
4pm
Clouds
23°
7pm
Clouds
20°
10pm
Rain
19°
Data from OpenWeatherMap

Reef Packages