Adelaide Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Adelaide.

Climate overview of Adelaide

With a Mediterranean climate Adelaide generally has mild and wet winters. Summers are warm and dry. It is the driest of all the Australian capital cities. In summer (December to February) the average maximum is around 29°C (84°F), but there is considerable variation. In winter (June to August) the average maximum is between 15°C (59°F) and 16°C (61°F) and the average minimum between 7°C (45°F) and 8°C (46°F). Spring (September to November) is full with colour. Flowers bloom and the wildlife flourishes.

Sea temperatures around Adelaide are lower than those around Perth, Sydney and Brisbane. Most people find summers in Adelaide more pleasant than those in Sydney, Brisbane or Perth. These cities have higher humidities; Adelaide enjoys the lowest humidities of any Australian city.

Adelaide Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Adelaide - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Adelaide

Visitors to Adelaide can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 27°C (81°F) in January, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 15°C (59°F) during cooler months like July.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) in January to around 8°C (46°F) during July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Adelaide

Generally, Adelaide experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 511 mm (20 in) yearly. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, July it receives moderate rainfall, averaging 66 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation, recorded across 9 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month March brings less rainfall, with 21 mm (0.8 in) over 6 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Adelaide Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Adelaide

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Adelaide. While January receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 10.9 hours, June marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.7 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Water Temperature in Adelaide

The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 19°C (66°F) in August to 24°C (75°F) in February.

Water temperature over the year

Humidity in Adelaide by Month

Wind Speed in Adelaide

Best Time to Visit Adelaide

The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Adelaide is usually found in January, February, March, April, October, November and December. Conditions are generally least comfortable in June, July and August.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: January, February, March, April, October, November and December
  • Warmest weather: January and February
  • Most sunshine: January
  • Best for swimming: Any time of year. The sea stays pleasantly warm year-round.
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and mild winters

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Adelaide

What is the best time to visit Adelaide?

January, February, March, April, October, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Adelaide. In contrast, June, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Adelaide has a distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and mild winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Adelaide?

Daytime highs range from 15°C (59°F) in July to 27°C (81°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 8°C (46°F) to 16°C (61°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Adelaide get?

Annual rainfall is around 511 mm (20 in). July is the wettest month with 66 mm (2.6 in), while March is the driest with 21 mm (0.8 in).

How sunny is Adelaide?

Adelaide receives around 2,768 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 326 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 140 hours. Overall, Adelaide enjoys abundant sunshine.

Adelaide 3-Day Forecast

Adelaide 3-Day Forecast

Adelaide on the map

Adelaide is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

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