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Weather & Climate

The Sunshine Coast enjoys a warm subtropical climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Here's exactly what to expect — month by month — so you can plan your trip around the weather that suits you.

☀️
Summer
Dec – Feb · 26–29°C

Warmest and wettest. Short afternoon thunderstorms, peak beach crowds, ocean at its best (~25–26°C). Get to the beach early before the heat and storms build.

🍂
Autumn
Mar – May · 23–27°C

The locals' favourite. Humidity eases, crowds thin, long runs of warm clear days. Ocean stays swimmable; autumn often brings the year's best surf.

🐋
Winter
Jun – Aug · 20–22°C

Mild, dry and reliably sunny. Daytime t-shirt weather, crisp nights. Humpback whale season begins in June — the main reason many visitors choose winter.

🌸
Spring
Sep – Nov · 23–26°C

The Coast warms back up with low rainfall and light winds. Peak whale sightings in September. Busy in school holiday weeks, quieter either side.

Monthly Climate Data

Based on historical averages for Maroochydore, central Sunshine Coast. Source: Bureau of Meteorology.

MonthTemperatureRainfallRain DaysOcean TempSun hrs/day
Jan
Summer
21°
29°
180 mm
13 days26°C7.5 hrs
Feb
Summer
21°
29°
170 mm
13 days26°C7 hrs
Mar
Summer
19°
28°
145 mm
11 days25°C7.5 hrs
Apr
Autumn
16°
26°
90 mm
9 days24°C8 hrs
May
Autumn
12°
23°
75 mm
7 days22°C7.5 hrs
Jun
Winter
9°
21°
55 mm
6 days21°C7.5 hrs
Jul
Winter
8°
21°
40 mm
5 days20°C8 hrs
Aug
Winter
9°
22°
45 mm
5 days20°C8 hrs
Sep
Spring
12°
24°
45 mm
5 days21°C8 hrs
Oct
Spring
15°
26°
75 mm
7 days22°C8 hrs
Nov
Spring
18°
27°
105 mm
9 days23°C8 hrs
Dec
Summer
20°
28°
155 mm
12 days25°C7.5 hrs
☀️
Sunshine days
300+ per year
🌡️
Warmest month
January — 29°C
❄️
Coolest month
July — 21°C avg
🌧️
Wettest month
January — 180mm
🏖️
Best ocean temp
Jan–Feb — 26°C
🐋
Whale season
June – November

What to Pack — By Season

☀️ Summer (Dec–Feb)
  • Swimwear & rash vest
  • SPF 50+ sunscreen
  • Wide-brim hat
  • Light linen or cotton
  • Rain jacket for storms
  • Insect repellent
🍂 Autumn (Mar–May)
  • Swimwear (water stays warm)
  • Light layer for evenings
  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light jacket for May
❄️ Winter (Jun–Aug)
  • T-shirts & shorts (days)
  • Fleece or light jacket
  • Long pants for evenings
  • Layers for hinterland
  • Wetsuit for surfing
🌸 Spring (Sep–Nov)
  • Mix of light & warm layers
  • Swimwear from October
  • Rain jacket (late Nov)
  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Comfortable shoes
Plan by season

For a deeper look at what to do in each season — events, activities and local tips — see our full seasons guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like on the Sunshine Coast in winter?

Sunshine Coast winters (June to August) are mild and sunny with daytime temperatures typically reaching 20–22°C. Humidity is low, rainfall is minimal, and days are predominantly clear. It is considered one of the most pleasant times to visit.

Does it rain a lot on the Sunshine Coast?

The Sunshine Coast receives most of its rainfall between November and April, with January and February being the wettest months. Even during summer, rain typically falls in short afternoon thunderstorms rather than prolonged downpours. The region enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year.

What is the ocean temperature like on the Sunshine Coast?

Ocean temperatures range from around 20°C in winter (July–August) to 27°C in summer (January–February). Swimming is pleasant year-round, with winter temperatures still comfortable for most visitors. Wetsuits are generally not required.

By sunshinecoast.travel team · Updated Jun 26

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