Sydney has a temperate climate that experiences that offers pleasant weather all year round. This sunny urban destination is best known for its mild winters and hot, humid summers. Those who love hiking, swimming, and outdoor activities in general will be pleased to know that they can enjoy Sydney’s exceptional weather and picturesque views for most of the year.
If you’re eager to learn more about the weather in Sydney—by season and month—then read on. We’ll explore the Sydney climate in-depth so you can plan for your next trip accordingly, whether you choose to visit during the cooler winter months or fly to Sydney for a beach holiday in the middle of the summer tourist season.
Sydney’s weather and climate
Sydney has a temperate climate, experiencing all four seasons throughout the year. Sydney typically enjoys warm summers and mild winters, with rainfall occurring mostly during the summer and autumn months, and the highest humidity occurring from December to March.
The weather in Sydney differs depending on the month and season you visit, but you can expect pleasant weather most days – except for a few hotter days during the summer and the chance of heavier rainfall between February and June.
For those looking for the best time to visit Sydney based on the weather, let’s take a look at Sydney’s weather by season and the average temperatures, rainfall, and humidity each month. Understanding the Sydney climate will help you plan out your Sydney itinerary and will be handy when it comes to packing.
Sydney weather by season
Summer in Sydney (December to February)
Summer weather in Sydney is hot, with average temperatures generally sitting between 18°C to 28°C, but it’s common for summer days to reach temperatures in the high 30s, or even 40°C! Sydney in summer is also typically quite humid, with humidity reaching 76% in February, the city’s most humid month.
For those concerned about a rainy day ruining their summer holiday, the average rainfall across the summer months is 296mm, with February having the most rainfall and chance of rainy days.
Summer is the best time to visit for the beaches, to celebrate an iconic Sydney New Year, and to take advantage of Sydney’s famous outdoor activities, including coastal walks, bush walks, and even wandering around the harbour. Though when the temperatures soar, it might be best to opt for an indoor activity to stay cool! Be warned – summer is the busy season, so whether you come for a cruise in the harbour or to spend the weekend at Bondi Beach with your family, book your hotels and flights in advance.
What to pack:
Lightweight clothing: With humid, warm days, pack your favourite tanks, dresses, and shorts in lightweight material like cotton or linen for days spent exploring the city. Don’t forget comfy shoes!
Swimwear: A trip to Sydney in the summer is not complete without at least one beach day! Bring your swimwear, snorkel, and surf gear, or plan to rent some.
Sun protection: Summer is known for its plentiful sunny days with extreme UV, so remember your sunscreen, sunglasses, and even a hat to cover up while you explore the city.
Autumn in Sydney (March to May)
As autumn arrives in Sydney, temperatures generally sit between 12°C to 26°C on average, and the humidity drops towards the end of March. The temperatures don’t begin to cool off until the end of March, when morning temperatures can feel quite cool and it’s still possible for hot days. The days can also still be quite humid and muggy, so a varied packing list with options to layer clothes is necessary!
Rainfall can vary depending on when you visit while in Sydney in autumn, with March averaging rainfall of 118mm and 10 days of rain in the month and April and May averaging 114mm and 101mm respectively, so don’t forget your rain gear as you pack your suitcase.
The weather during autumn makes it easy to plan for busy days that are best spent outdoors, like on one of the best walks in Sydney, such as the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk or the Barangaroo Foreshore Walk. Autumn is also a good time to plan tick off some of the more touristy things to do in Sydney given the busy season’s crowds have returned home.
What to pack:
Light rain gear: With autumn bringing a bit more rain than summer, it’s best to bring an umbrella or a light jacket in the event of an occasional shower.
Sun protection: Even though the temperatures have cooled down, the sun is still out and the UV insex is high, so bring hats, sunscreen, and other protective clothing for your trip.
Comfortable walking shoes: If you’re heading out for a Sydney coastal walk or simply spending your days exploring the city, you’ll want your best walking shoes.
Winter in Sydney (June to August)
Winter in Sydney is when the weather will reach the coolest temperatures all year round and when you’ll find the fewest crowds at some of the Sydney’s top attractions. The city’s winter season averages between 9°C and 19°C, but there are some days it can feel as low as 5°C and or as warm as 25°C.
Rainfall in winter averages 297mm, June typically being Sydney’s rainiest month. For those visiting in June, it can be particularly chilly on a rainy and windy day, so don’t forget to pack sufficient layers, a scarf, and a beanie.
If you’re eager to enjoy some of the coldest weather in the city, July is the best month to visit. While you can still go swimming, surfing, and snorkelling along the coast, the water temperature drops to an icy 17 - 18°C, so be prepared to brave the chill, or organise a wet suit.
Winter in Sydney is best for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. You might even fancy a day trip to Hunter Valley to indulge in wine while enjoying the stunning countryside or hiking up to the Blue Mountains. Winter is also the best time for whale watching, so it’s a great opportunity to do a few coastal walks or book into a whale watching cruise.
What to pack:
Plenty of layers: Depending on your itinerary, be sure to pack layers, such as a warm coat or jacket, knits and jumpers, and long sleeve shirts, so you’re prepared for any activity or event.
Rain gear: June is the wettest month, so you’ll want to bring an umbrella or rain gear to stay dry while you explore Sydney.
Stylish winter essentials: For the coldest days of the year, you’ll need to have a pair of boots, a beanie, scarf, or even gloves—especially if you trek up to the Blue Mountains!
Spring in Sydney (September to November)
Spring in Sydney sees the return warmer temperatures but without the humidity of the summer. Most days, you’ll find the weather to be between 12°C and 24°C, and the rainfall is moderate to low compared to other months. However, you may find days as hot as 30°C or as low as 7°C, so be sure to check the forecast ahead of your visit pack accordingly!
Spring tends to be the driest time to visit Sydney, with September being the month with the least amount of rainfall and very few rainy days in the month, on average.
With the humidity not as high, clear days, and warmer temperatures you can take advantage of the beaches, hiking trails and national parks. As it’s a quiet time of year for visitors to Sydney, it’s also a great time to explore some of the free things to do in Sydney without the crowds.
What to pack:
Light layers: As the weather gets warmer, some days will still be chillier than others, so pack a light jacket and some layers.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: Even in the spring, the sun’s UV levels are high, so be sure to pack sun protection for your days spent outside.
Appropriate shoes: Whether you’re heading to the beach or exploring the great outdoors, a pair of shoes best for walking should be one of the first things to pack.
Sydney weather by month
Sydney in January
If you’re visiting Sydney in January, expect the weather to be hot, sunny and humid with temperatures average 20 – 27°C, While January tends to be the month with the most cloudy days, you should still expect hot and sunny days, with plenty of sunshine. It is ideal for days spent on the beach or for trekking through the city to see some of the most treasured Sydney attractions, particularly the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
January is also a busy time in Sydney – not only because it’s the perfect conditions for a beach holiday, but it’s also the summer school holiday period and peak tourist season.
Expect accommodation in Sydney's best areas will be pricier than during the off-season.
Average minimum temperature: 20°C
Average maximum temperature: 27°C
Average humidity: 60% to 71%
Average rainfall: 91.1mm
Average number of days with rain: 8.2
Sydney in February
Sydney is hot and humid in February, with average temperatures sitting between 19°C and 27°C so be sure to pack a lot of clothes that are lightweight and breathable. You might also encounter a bit of rain, so some light rain gear is never a bad thing to pack. Much like January, you’ll have some cloudy days, but Sydney still offers plenty of hot, humid days, and typical summer weather for you to enjoy while you’re exploring the city or parks, or lounging on the beach. The city will still be bustling with crowds, so plan ahead and book tickets in advance, and expect more expensive accommodation and flights.
Average minimum temperature: 19.9°C
Average maximum temperature: 26.8°C
Average humidity: 62% to 76%
Average rainfall: 131.5mm
Average number of days with rain: 9
Sydney in March
Sydney’s climate in March begins to cool down towards the end of the month, but with average temperatures between 18°C and 26°C , it’s still hot and a great season for hitting the beach or exploring the city on foot. By March, you’ll begin to see less hours of sunshine throughout the day as autumn truly sets in, but the climate is similar to what you’d experience in February. It’s also good to expect an increased chance of rain and cloudy days. The humidity will decrease by the end of the month, so try to plan for late March if you’re eager for less muggy conditions.
Average minimum temperature: 18.4°C
Average maximum temperature: 25.7°C
Average humidity: 59% to 74%
Average rainfall: 117.5mm
Average number of days with rain: 10.1
Sydney in April
April in Sydney is when the temperatures begin to drop, and there is a great deal less humidity. With average temperatures sitting between 15°C and 24°C, you’ll still encounter sunny days, but days won’t be as hot or muggy as it is during the summer season. There is still some rain to worry about, but as long as you bring an umbrella, you can mitigate the rain showers, and we recommend planning a few indoor activities, such as museums, to make the most of your trip.
Average minimum temperature: 15.3°C
Average maximum temperature: 23.6°C
Average humidity: 58% to 74%
Average rainfall: 114.1mm
Average number of days with rain: 7.9
Sydney in May
With mild to cool temperatures, May in Sydney brings plenty of great weather with less humidity and lots of clear, sunny days. Average temperatures sit between 12°C and 21°C, and there’s always the occasional day of rain, but the gorgeous Sydney climate is perfect for a variety of Sydney day trips. The Sydney Writers Festival is one of the many events happenings during May and Vivid Sydney, the annual festival of light, music and ideas, typically starts at the end of the month, so there’s plenty to do beyond Sydney’s top attractions. As long as you bring some light rain gear, and pack some warm layers to prepare for a few colder days, you’ll enjoy a great holiday!
Average minimum temperature: 12.3°C
Average maximum temperature: 20.9°C
Average humidity: 58% to 75%
Average rainfall: 100.8mm
Average number of days with rain: 7.9
June is the beginning of winter in Sydney and one of the colder months of the year, with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C - 18°C . June also typically has the most rainfall, , so you won’t want to forget your umbrella and raincoat! The humidity still remains low in the city, so you’ll have no trouble enjoying days out in the winter sunshine. Best of all, it’s Sydney’s off-season, which means fewer crowds and the chance to experience some of the ultimate things to do in Sydney, including Vivid Sydney.
Average minimum temperature: 10°C
Average maximum temperature: 18.3°C
Average humidity: 56% to 74%
Average rainfall: 142mm
Average number of days with rain: 9.3
Sydney in July
July is the middle of winter and is Sydney’s coldest month, with average temperatures between 8°C and 18°C. Despite clear days and sunshine, Sydney’s winter can get quite chilly some days, so pack some layers and make sure to bring a coat and scarf. With fewer crowds, plenty of sunny days, and less rain, you can enjoy a mix of day trip excursions, like hiking and whale watching, and city adventures at some of Sydney’s most iconic sites, including Royal Botanic Garden and The Rocks. Overall, the Sydney climate in July is the coldest but still comfortable for those looking to indulge in several activities and attractions.
Average minimum temperature: 8.9°C
Average maximum temperature: 17.9°C
Average humidity: 47% to 64%
Average rainfall: 80.3mm
Average number of days with rain: 7.2
Sydney in August
Towards the end of winter, August in Sydney begins to warm up, with average temperatures typically sitting between 9°C and 20°C. The days are warm, and humidity is still relatively low, and if you’re up for it, you can head to the beach to swim, surf, and snorkel. It’s the best month for clear, sunny days and offers the lowest average number of days of rain. Those wanting to experience one of Sydney’s best events in August should sign up to City2Surf, a popular Sydney running event that takes place every year in August and is suitable for all fitness levels, even those looking to walk the 14km from Sydney city to Bondi Beach.
Average minimum temperature: 9.7°C
Average maximum temperature: 19.3°C
Average humidity: 47% to 64%
Average rainfall: 75.1mm
Average number of days with rain: 5.6
Sydney in September
The arrival of spring in Sydney by September brings warmer temperatures, less rain, and clear, sunny days. Sydney’s climate in September is marked by warming temperatures averaging between 12°C and 22°C, and the least amount of rain that you’ll see all year. In fact, if you want the best chance of avoiding rain in Sydney, September is the best month to visit to experience the famous Sydney coast, go for that beach walk, or even take a trip to a nearby hiking spot like the Blue Mountains.
Average minimum temperature: 12.3°C
Average maximum temperature: 21.6°C
Average humidity: 49% to 60%
Average rainfall: 63.4mm
Average number of days with rain: 5.8
Sydney in October
October brings warmer temperatures, and more sunshine compared to September, so you’ll enjoy plenty of beautiful days in the city. Average temperatures sit between 14°C and 24°C, and as one of the least humid months, the weather feels comfortable and pleasant. Whether you’re visiting to see the annual Sculpture by the Sea installations at Bondi Beach, or have your own itinerary to explore the coast and outdoors, Sydney’s weather is generally lovely, but you might experience a surprise day of temperatures as high as 35°C, so be sure to pack layers!
Average minimum temperature: 14.6°C
Average maximum temperature: 23.2°C
Average humidity: 57% to 67%
Average rainfall: 67.7mm
Average number of days with rain: 7.6
Sydney in November
Towards the end of spring, November begins to reach those hotter temperatures that Sydney’s summer is known for. Average temperatures sit between 16°C and 25°C, so the combination of warm days, increased sunshine hours and lower humidity, means you can still hit the beach – though be warned that the water temperatures may be colder than desired, sitting around 19°C. The beginning of November is also a great time to see the Jacaranda trees in full bloom, but even if you miss them, November is one of the best times to soak up Sydney’s climate and plan some outdoor activities. It’s also a relatively quiet time to vist before the peak tourist season begins.
Average minimum temperature: 16.6°C
Average maximum temperature: 24.2°C
Average humidity: 57% to 67%
Average rainfall: 90.6mm
Average number of days with rain: 8.7
Sydney in December
The start of summer in Sydney brings plenty of hot, humid weather and frequent days of sunshine, with average temperatures sitting between 18°C and 26°C. It’s a great time to be in the city, but it can also get plenty busy! If you can, take advantage of the sunny weather and book a reservation at a rooftop restaurant in Sydney. There’s still the chance of rain in December, so be prepared for a hot summer shower! For those eager to avoid crowds, it’s best to avoid coming during December.
Average minimum temperature: 18.4°C
Average maximum temperature: 25.7°C
Average humidity: 58% to 69%
Average rainfall: 73mm
Average number of days with rain: 7.9
Best time to visit Sydney for weather
The best time to visit Sydney for the weather is between March and May and between September and November. Not only are these the shoulder tourist seasons, but they bring plenty of mild days filled with sunshine. September to November is typically the best time to visit Sydney if you want to experience the warmth of summer without high humidity and less chance of rainfall. Still, March to May can offer fewer tourists and plenty of opportunities to soak up all that Sydney has to offer, from local festivals to attractions.
For the best month to visit and the most pleasant Sydney weather, plan your trip for September. You’ll enjoy less rainy days and warmer temperatures without the mugginess and hot temperatures, and there aren’t the crowded days you’d experience during the summer holidays. November is the next best best month to visit Sydney not only because average temperatures near the usual summer averages, but because you’ll get to explore the city without the crowds that come only a month later.
Flights to Sydney
Now that you’ve got Sydney’s weather down, it's time to book that ticket. Virgin Australia offers direct flights to Sydney from major Australian cities, including:
- Melbourne to Sydney
- Brisbane to Sydney
- Adelaide to Sydney
- Perth to Sydney
- Sunshine Coast to Sydney
- Canberra to Sydney
- Gold Coast to Melbourne
- Hobart to Sydney
*Average weather figures from bom.gov.au for the period 1991-2020
