The Best Time to Go to Perth
Perth by seasons
Perth’s climate brings hot summers and mild winters, with a reasonable amount of rain, especially in winter. But the best news is: Perth receives around 3,200 hours of sunshine every year – that’s over eight hours a day – making it the sunniest of Australia’s capitals. With festivals and events held year round, it can be tricky to know when to go, so we’ve summarised the seasons below:
September to November
Perth’s spring is delightful, with warm, sunny days and very little rain. Temperatures range from around 12-23°C, making this the perfect time to get outdoors and explore the parks and coastline, and look out for the wonderful displays of wildflowers that bloom across the city’s national parks and reserves. Alternatively, follow the Swan Valley’s Food and Wine Trail to the best of the wineries.
Go for…
Kings Park Festival: Throughout September, the wildflowers are in bloom in Perth’s Kings Park. Celebrate the vibrant displays at this festival, which include walks, talks, exhibitions and music.
Whale Watching: Migrating humpback whales pass by the coast of Perth between September and December, heading south for the summer. Join a cruise or watch the action from Rottnest Island.
December to February
If you like your summers sizzling then Perth is the place for you. Here, the summer months are hot and dry, with very little rain. As temperatures surpass 30°C, the entire population seemingly heads for the beach, while the afternoon sea breezes, known as the ‘Fremantle Doctor’, offer some welcome relief from the heat.
Go for…
Christmas: Perth celebrates Christmas in style with Christmas lights, decorations, markets, pageants, singing and a Christmas-themed cruise. Join in the fun across the city.
Lighthouse to Leighton: Take the ferry to Rottnest Island in early December and watch the kite surfers as they race across the sea to Fremantle, with cash prizes for the winners.
March to May
The warm, sunny days of autumn are a lovely time to visit Perth, with temperatures ranging from the low teens to over 25°C. The chance of rain increases slightly after the dry summer, and there’s a little more humidity about. But overall, the beautiful autumn leaf colours on display in Perth’s parks and the mild weather make this the ideal time for outdoor walks and trips to Rottnest Island.
Go for…
Perth International Jazz Festival: In late May, Perth celebrates all things jazz with performances and concerts in many venues, featuring both local and international artists.
Perth Autumn Festival: Throughout March, April and May, Perth is in full-on autumn event mode, with arts, music, wine-making, classic cars and harvest festivals, in this celebration of community diversity.
June to August
As winter arrives, temperatures in Perth drop to around 10°C, although on some days they can still push 20°C. Thunderstorms become more common at this time, although downpours are usually brief, while the ocean swells around Rottnest and Fremantle make this the ideal time of year to try surfing. When you’re not warming up in a Swan Valley winery with a warming glass of red that is.
Go for…
City of Perth Winter Arts Festival: Held citywide throughout the winter months, this festival of the arts features music, dance, films, literature and comedy, with plenty of food and drink to match.
Swimming: As crazy as it sounds to be swimming in the sea in winter, Rottnest Island is blessed with the Leeuwin Current, which heats the sea to 19°C in winter, making it warmer than the outside air temperature.
