Planning a trip Down Under? Get ready for the adventure of your life. You’ve got the sun, beaches, and loads going on. And if you want to know the best time to travel to Australia, we’re here to make the case for January. It's the middle of summer here, so expect long, sunny days, tons of events and plenty of chances to get outdoors.
And where should you go? We love Perth and its stunning beaches but are also partial to some time in Melbourne and Sydney for some city living. Australia is huge so you won’t be short of places to go. We've put together a guide to help you choose your destination and make the most of an Aussie summer.
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Australia's Seasons
First things first. Australia’s seasons are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer runs from December to February, autumn from March to May, winter from June to August and spring from September to November. That puts January right in the middle of summer, making it a popular time for beach breaks and some outdoor fun. A month-by-month guide to Australia is great for helping you make sense of the seasons.
Just a little word of warning though, don't expect the same weather everywhere! Cities like Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, are generally warm to hot in the summer, but further north in places like Cairns and Darwin, you'll find tropical weather, with high humidity and heavy rainfall in the wet season.
Temperatures can also vary a lot. Melbourne in January averages highs of around 26°C, while Sydney typically reaches around 26°C and Perth can climb above 30°C. Heatwaves can push temperatures much higher, so make sure you check the weather every day to see if it fits your plans.
Reasons why Australia in January is the best month to visit
There are loads of reasons to visit Australia in January, especially if you're keen to swap cold winter weather for some proper sunshine.
The Aussie coast is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, making January a great time to enjoy swimming, surfing and coastal walks. There’s so much choice, but Sydney's Bondi Beach and Perth's Cottesloe Beach are two of our faves.
There's also plenty going on at this time. January is packed with events, including the Australian Open in Melbourne, Sydney Festival and Australia Day on 26 January. The summer school holidays mean there's a lively atmosphere in a lot of destinations, with loads of outdoor activities and some family-friendly entertainment.
It’s also a great time to enjoy Australia’s national parks, coastal drives and wildlife experiences. If you’re a big foodie, you’ll want to make the most of outdoor dining, summer markets and waterfront restaurants.
Just remember that January is the peak holiday season, so popular attractions and accommodation can book up really quickly. We reckon planning ahead is a good idea, especially if you're travelling during the school holidays.
Perth in January
If it’s sunshine you’re looking for, Perth is a brilliant choice. The Perth summer months are known for their hot and dry weather plus clear blue skies, making January one of the most popular times to explore the capital of Western Australia.
With average daytime highs of around 31°C, you can really make the most of Perth's outdoor lifestyle. Start with a visit to Kings Park and Botanic Garden for beautiful views over the city and Swan River. It's a lovely spot for a picnic, especially when the weather’s good.
It would be criminal to visit Perth without heading to the beach. Cottesloe Beach is a local fave, known for its golden sand and amazing sunsets. Scarborough Beach is another great option, especially if you like surfing or want somewhere with plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby.
For something a little different, take a ferry to Rottnest Island. It's famous for its gorgeous beaches, turquoise water and the famous quokkas. You can hire a bike to explore the island, go snorkelling or just find a quiet spot to relax for the day.
Back in the city, Elizabeth Quay is worth a visit for its waterfront restaurants and lively vibes. You can also explore Fremantle, which is known for its historic buildings, markets and fantastic food scene.
Where to stay in Perth
Stay at Oaks Perth Hotel so you can be right in the heart of the city. The hotel comes with comfy apartment-style accommodation with kitchen facilities, making it a convenient choice for couples, families and longer stays.
You'll be close to Perth's shopping, restaurants and entertainment, with public transport nearby to help you explore further afield. After a day in the sun, you'll probably appreciate having somewhere comfortable to put your feet up!
Melbourne in January
Melbourne in January is buzzing. The city's summer calendar is packed with major sporting events, festivals and outdoor entertainment, so it's a fantastic time to visit if you love having stuff to do.
The biggest attraction is undoubtedly the Australian Open, which takes place at Melbourne Park each January. Tennis fans travel from around the world to watch some of the sport's biggest names compete, and the atmosphere around the city is brilliant.
But we all know there's much more to Melbourne than tennis. The city is famous for its food and coffee culture, so spend some time exploring its laneways, checking out independent cafés and enjoying a bite to eat at one of its many restaurants.
Federation Square is always worth a visit, and the National Gallery of Victoria is a good option if you fancy escaping the heat for a few hours. You can also browse Queen Victoria Market, explore the Royal Botanic Gardens or take a stroll along the Yarra River if you want to spend some time outdoors.
Fancy some beach time? St Kilda is just a short journey from the city centre, with a lively beachfront, cafés and the famous Luna Park. If you're here a little longer, driving along the Great Ocean Road is an amazing day trip or overnight adventure. The views are EPIC.
One thing to remember is that Melbourne's weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. You could have glorious sunshine one day and cooler, breezy conditions the next, so make sure you pack a few layers.
Where to stay in Melbourne
Oaks is ideal if you’re staying in Melbourne in January, with some great options depending on where you want to be based.
Oaks Melbourne Flemington Suites is ideal if you want easy access to the city without staying right in the middle of things. It’s in Travancore, and has some self-contained apartments with kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi and on-site parking. Melbourne Zoo is nearby, and convenient tram connections make it easy to get into the CBD.
Another option is Oaks Melbourne St Kilda Road Hotel, which puts you close to Albert Park and within easy reach of the city centre. The hotel has modern rooms with private balconies and kitchenettes, plus there’s an on-site restaurant, bar and gym. With trams nearby, you'll be in the perfect spot for exploring Melbourne and travelling to the Australian Open.
Sydney in January
January in Sydney, Australia, is all about enjoying that lush outdoor life. With the famous harbour, incredible beaches and lively summer atmosphere, it's easy to see why Sydney is so popular with visitors.
Let’s start with the city's iconic attractions. The Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are must-sees, and a ferry ride across the harbour is a fantastic way to get the views in. Head to Circular Quay to make the most of the waterfront.
Sydney's beaches are another huge draw. We reckon Bondi Beach is probably the most famous, and its golden sand and surf culture make it a great place to spend a summer afternoon. You can also tackle the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, stopping along the way for a swim or a coffee in the sun.
For a (slightly!) more relaxed beach day, take the ferry to Manly. The journey itself offers brilliant harbour views, and once you arrive, you'll find a beautiful beach, shops and plenty of places to eat.
January is also a great time to experience Sydney's cultural scene. Sydney Festival has performances, art and entertainment in venues across the city, while outdoor cinemas and summer events give you even more reasons to stay out after sunset.
Temperatures usually sit in the mid-20s, although humid days and occasional thunderstorms are common. Pack sunscreen, drink plenty of water and make the most of those lovely summer evenings.
Where to stay in Sydney
If you want to be central, Oaks Sydney Hyde Park Suites is a great option. You'll be right opposite Hyde Park and within easy reach of the CBD, shopping and major attractions. The hotel has spacious suites, a heated rooftop swimming pool and a spa, so there's somewhere to cool off after a busy day exploring.
If you'd prefer somewhere a little quieter, we reckon Oaks Sydney North Ryde Suites is worth considering. It’s about 15 km from the CBD, with self-contained accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, gym and BBQ facilities. You'll also be close to Lane Cove National Park, which is ideal if you fancy exploring some greenery during your stay.
To wrap it up!
So, is January the best time to travel to Australia? If you're a fan of warm weather, beach days and lively cities, it's right up there!
Perth is fantastic for sunshine and beautiful beaches, Melbourne has an incredible summer events calendar, and Sydney has that classic Aussie coastal lifestyle. Each place has its own appeal, and we reckon January is a brilliant time to experience them all.
Just remember to book your accommodation early, pack for the heat and leave plenty of time to explore. And with Oaks Hotels offering comfortable places to stay across Australia, you can enjoy everything an Aussie summer has to offer.
