Garie Beach

Is the Great Barrier Reef worth seeing in the Australian winter months?

I am traveling to Australia and want to see the Great Barrier Reef, but I am going at the start of June, which is the start of Winter in Australia. I am just curious if it is still as spectacular in the winter months as it is in the summer months. Any other thoughts or comments about traveling to and around Australia would be helpful! Thanks!!!! ;)

Public Comments

1. anytime is a good time to see the Great Barrier Reef or any part of Australia ,have good trip .
2. Our winter is actually the best time to see the Great Barrier Reef. It's the dry season and won't be too hot and humid though will still be plenty warm enough to swim. Also, the northern parts have a marine stinger problem during our summer and there are no stingers around in winter. If you're going to be in Australia for several months, start in the far north in June/July and then gradually head south. August/September are good in Brisbane and from October onwards, it will be reasonably warm everywhere.
3. Winter time is the peak tourist season for North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. The weather is not as hot and humid and it's the dry season (little or no rain). Also, in winter you will be safe in the water because there won't be any marine stingers (jellyfish). The Cairns region has a fabulous tropical climate ideal for outdoor enjoyment. Cairns has a winter period of balmy temperatures and low rainfall (the "dry" season) and a summer period of hot temperatures with increased rainfall (the "wet" season). Cairns June Temperatures. Average maximum 26°C or 82°F Average minimum 18°C or 64°F
4. Crikey mate...YOU betcha life it is ! North Queensland is at its' very best during the winter months ...there is no winter up there .. The must sees while you are here are The Great Barrier Reef , The Sunshine Coast & Gold Coast of South East Queensland & Sydney.....they are the MUST Sees....the rest is a bonus !
5. It's the best time of the year to go to the Great Barrier Reef. Summer is the cyclone and wet season in North Queensland.
6. I visited the Whitsundays in November and in July. I enjoyed the July visit best as it wasnt so hot and I didnt get so burnt. The water in July was still warm enough to be out snorkelling for over an hour before starting to feel cool. The mornings and evenings are cool enough to need a jumper, but the day is lovely and warm... T shirt and shorts weather. You could experience the tropics to the snow in Australia if you cared to travel that far in June. All of it is fantastic.