Best Time to Visit Brisbane

See Also

• Where to Remain in Brisbane

When is the best time to visit Brisbane and the Gold Coast?

The optimum time period to visit the city of Brisbane ranges from May until the end of October, perfectly suited for sightseeing locations within the urban area, enjoying the theme parks, and surfing the beaches. These months typically involve sunny and dry conditions, with slightly cooler weather occurring in the mid-year span. If feasible, try to avoid the Australian school holiday periods, which are staggered across the states for two weeks in late June/early July and mid/late September.

• Best Period for Favorable Weather: May through the end of October. During the remainder of the year, rain may be frequent, humidity can be uncomfortable, and storms and floods are not uncommon.
• Best Time for Honeymoons: May to end of October. Evidently, the best times are those months when it’s almost ensured to be dry, sunny, and warm every day – and with least humidity.
• Best Time for Nightlife: Mid-April through end of October. Outdoor festivals and cafés thrive due to comfortable weather during the dry season.
• Best Time for Saving Money: During Queensland’s dry season, the beach regions are popular with Australians temporarily relocating from the wintry south. Therefore, hotel rates and airfares are likely to be at their lowest during the wet season, specifically from early November to mid-December and February to April (but not during the peak vacation times around Easter).
• Best Time for Sightseeing: The weather is generally dry, warm, and free of humidity from the start of May to the end of October – and even a little chilly at times mid-year. Crowds, especially at the Gold Coast, will be more tolerable outside the Australian school holidays, which are mid-December to late January, and for 2 weeks around Easter, in late June/early July, and mid/late September.
• Best Time for Families: Ironically, avoiding the Australian school holidays (see above) is preferable, as airfares and accommodation rates rise substantially while crowds at attractions and beaches may be unpleasant. If possible, visit between May and late October when conditions are dry and mild yet school is in session, thousands of families vacation.
• Best Time for Outdoor Activities: It is recommended to steer clear of the wet season when the heat, humidity and frequent torrential rains can cause discomfort along with violent storms not being uncommon. Generally, any outdoor pursuit will be ideal between May and late October, although experienced surfers prefer the rough tidal waves brought forth by stormy weather from November to March.

Travel Seasons in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast

• Peak Season (May through early September and mid-December to late January): For many months from May, the climate is usually wonderful: sunny and dry days with low humidity. Despite the hot, moist, and humid conditions, and possible storms, the other peak time is the major Australian school vacations in December/January, particularly along the Gold Coast.
• Shoulder Season: (October, March, and April): Only a brief pause between the conclusion of the wettest and wildest weather (November to February) and just before the mild ‘winter’ (May to September). Changeable months when sunny/dry days may alternate with wet/stormy ones. However, during the school holiday periods around Easter spanning 2 weeks in March/April, hotel rates and airfares will temporarily spike.
• Low Season (November to early December and February): During these times, the climate will consistently be hot, humid, and often wet – with storms and floods not uncommon. The good news is that visitor numbers will be at their lowest at the beaches and theme parks, and room rates and airfares will be at their most affordable.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather by Month

The core of Brisbane lies roughly 80 km from Surfers Paradise, the most popular section of the broader Gold Coast region. Therefore, the weather often shows little difference between Brisbane, Australia`s second warmest city, and the Gold Coast, even if the beaches benefit from consistent sea breezes and are more susceptible to storms.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in January: Middle of the wet season where excessively high temperatures, frequent rainfall, and muggy humidity can negatively impact locals. The average daily high/low temperatures of 29/20°C may not initially seem extremely hot, but many visitors will sweat significantly, and it`s the month with the most precipitation yearly by a small margin over February. The uncomfortable conditions are exacerbated by crowds visiting the beaches and theme parks during the major Australian school break (mid-December to end of January). Severe thunderstorms with large hailstones, forceful winds, and floods occasionally occur throughout the wet season, so always pay attention to warnings about severe weather. However, unlike tropical Far North Queensland, cyclones are very unusual.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in February: The hot and humid conditions continue during this period, but one benefit is the significant decrease in crowds as school recommences for children. February approaches the wettest month (after January) and has on average the lowest count of clear days without cloud cover (3-4) and also the year’s highest level of typical humidity.
• Weather in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast in March: Average daily high and low temperatures continue to dip 1 or 2°C from the start of the rainy season (in November). Still clinging humidity and often precipitation: the third-highest rainfall total and most number of rainy days for the year.
• Weather in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast in April: By now, even locals have grown weary of the hot, damp, and humid conditions. However, the end is almost here: average daytime temperatures drop to 26°C and substantially cooler at 17°C overnight, rainfall has decreased by one-third from the previous month, and more cloudless days than at any time for the year so far. Still lingering humidity, though.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in May: This is the best time to visit as the heat, humidity, and rainfall reduce noticeably. On average, daytime temperatures decrease significantly to 23°C while overnight readings drop markedly to 13°C, temperatures some locals (who were complaining about the warmth just 2 months earlier) find rather cool. Precipitation totals half that of March and clear days triple those in February.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in June: Start of the ‘winter’ period when older individuals retired from work (i.e. those no longer actively working) and families (mainly during the scheduled holidays from education) flock to the beaches to escape the colder southern regions. Nearly the coolest month on average at 21/11°C during daylight/night. Regular decline in rainfall since the beginning of the year and many clear, sunny days.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in July: Middle of what locals call the ‘winter’ as average daytime/overnight temperatures fall to their lowest for the year: 20/10°C. Bring a jacket/jumper because it will turn surprisingly chilly after dark. Half the rain of April and almost the year’s highest number of cloud-free days per month: 15.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in August: The delightfully moderate and dry ‘winter’ persists, although with a slight increase in typical temperatures. This month ties with September for the lowest average quantity of precipitation. Additionally, the fewest number of days (4) with any noticeable rain and most number of days per month without clouds. Perhaps most significantly, the lowest level of humidity for the year.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in September: This month between the mild and dry ‘winter’ and incoming wet season brings changeable conditions. Average daily highs and overnight lows rise by 2 degrees or more to 24/13°C, and it’s also officially the month with the least precipitation and second highest number of hours each day receiving sunshine.
• Brisbane and the Gold Coast Weather in October: At this point, the moderate ‘winter’ has been replaced by the start of several months that will bring uncomfortable heat, humidity, and rainfall, but weather patterns throughout October remain changeable. Average day and night temperatures continue rising to 26/16°C. Around 40% more rain than the prior month can also be expected (though less than from December to February) alongside a marked reduction from the previous month in cloudless days falling from 14 to 9.
• The start of the wet season in Brisbane and the Gold Coast in November brings the most rainfall on average since March. Daytime highs begin rising to around 28°C, made more unpleasant by greater humidity and cloudier skies, with overnight lows near 18°C.
• Weather in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast in December: Though popular, especially at the Gold Coast in the school breaks (mid-December to late January), this month will be hot and humid, and often wet. The second highest average daytime temperatures of about 29°C may not seem that warm, but inexperienced guests will notice the draining humidity. Also, violent thunderstorms with hailstones, destructive winds, and floods are not uncommon all through the wet season, so warnings about severe weather should always be heeded. However, unlike tropical Far North Queensland, cyclones are exceptionally rare.

Holidays, Events & Festivals in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in January

• School Holidays (mid-December to late January) – These vary somewhat between states, but hotel rates and occupancy levels will notably increase during this period, particularly on the Gold Coast. Additionally, local transportation may be busier with significantly higher airfares.
• Summer Festival (mid-December to late January) – Many activities for young people at the State Library of Queensland at South Bank (Brisbane). Hands-on, educational, and enjoyable for all ages.
• ‘Relaxed Period’ – Extends from around 20 December to the first week of January. Many enterprises (but not those for visitors) close and very little gets done anywhere, except after-Christmas shopping and cricket-watching.
• January 1st – Major public holiday when many stores, virtually all offices, and a few tourist attractions close. Locals like to unwind (and, perhaps, recover from hangovers) with visits to the beach and barbecues in the parks.
• Gold Coast Food & Wine Expo (variable, early January) – 3 days of renowned chefs, food stalls, and celebrations of gourmet food and fine wine. Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach.
• Australia Day (the 26th) is a public holiday often accompanied by ceremonies welcoming new citizens as well as occasions spent at beaches, shopping outlets, or watching cricket broadcasts for some yet most.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in February

• Laneway Festival (timing varies, first Saturday in February) – This self-described ‘boutique festival’ highlights underground bands and quirky performers. It is held in most Australian cities including locally at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
• BrisAsia Festival (throughout the month) – Multiple types of performances like music, dancing, films, and markets displaying Brisbane’s plentiful cultures. Events held all through Brisbane.
• Beyond the Sand Arts Festival (changeable, February/March) – Witness sand sculptors at work and admire their incredible creations over 9 days. Free demonstrations, exhibitions, and live music take place. Surfers Paradise.
• The changeable MindBodySpirit Festival in late February and/or March involves 3 days of spirituality and wellbeing exhibits. Over 200 stalls at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Bank offer free admission.
• Brisbane Comedy Festival (one month from late February) – Some of the funniest acts and films from Australia and across the planet at various locations around the city and suburbs will be featured.
• Roots, Boots, & Blues Festival (date variable, late February) – Many international and Australian bands perform at this free and family-friendly event. Southport, northern Gold Coast.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in March

Hotel Details • View Pricing for Dera Mandawa Hotel
• Brewsvegas (changeable, mid/late March) – Similarly to Oktoberfest (see below), an 11-day festivity of ales, lagers, and pilseners. More so for connoisseurs than heavy drinkers, with focus on craft beers. Numerous sites across Brisbane.
• Gold Coast Superhero Weekend (changeable, mid-March) – three days of family fun at Broadbeach with films, stalls, parades, music, and, of course, people in funny costumes.
• World Science Festival Brisbane (dates may vary, usually mid/late March) – 5 days of workshops, presentations, and exhibitions focused on science, technology, and the environment. Often educational, but entertaining for all ages and families. Across multiple locations in Brisbane.
• Curiocity Brisbane (changeable, March/April) – Various engaging and interactive activities focused on arts, science, and technology are held. For about 3 weeks at South Bank and downtown Brisbane. Lots of fun for youngsters.
• Easter (changeable, March/April) – Australians take public holidays seriously and locals say this one is especially festive. Most shops, offices, tourist sites, and even bars close on Good Friday, while many places may shut down for four days. Basic tourism facilities will remain open over Easter, but public transport will have very limited service. Be prepared.
• Corona Open Gold Coast (variable, March/April) – An international surf competition for men and women held over 10 days in Coolangatta in the southern Gold Coast region.
• The Drop Festival (changeable, late March) – Huge indie music festival scheduled to coincide with major international surfing competitions like the Corona Open Gold Coast (see above).
• Football (March to September/October) – Most locals root for the Brisbane Broncos or Gold Coast Titans in the National Rugby League competition. The Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast Suns play a unique version of football as part of the Australian Football League.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in April

• Tour de Brisbane (first weekend of April) – Major cycling event around the hilly streets of Brisbane. Open to riders of all ages and experience levels.
• Moreton Bay Triathlon (changeable, mid-April) – Running, swimming, and cycling with grades suitable for all ages and skill levels. North Brisbane.
• This expo (changeable, mid-April) – 3 days of celebrity chefs, food stalls, and celebrations of gourmet food and fine wine. Brisbane Showgrounds.
• Gold Coast Film Festival (changeable, late April) – Zones in on new Australian motion pictures and documentaries. Also, screenings, conversations, and discussions for over 2 weeks at various venues along the shoreline.
• Anzac Day (25th) – The somber remembrance of Australian heritage is marked with dawn memorial services followed by a military parade through downtown Brisbane, which is also a public holiday.
• Surfers Paradise LIVE (date varies, late April/early May) – Major 4-day music festival held on the beach.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in May

• Annual Outdoor Art Festival in Brisbane (schedule varies yearly, early to late May) – Contemporary works – additional murals located outside versus confined within buildings. Occasional performances and workshops about street art for approximately a fortnight.
• Anywhere Festival (from early to late May) – Hundreds of performances and shows in the least likely places around the city and suburbs of Brisbane, e.g. car parks and reservoirs. For 2 weeks.
• An international surfing event taking place in early May is the Gold Coast Open at Burleigh Heads over four days.
• Ochre Restaurant – heavenly waterside setting 400m from the hotel. Award-winning Australian cuisine with an ever-modifying menu and focus on sustainability.
• Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival (subject to change, mid-May) – One of the country’s largest attract quality bands and singers. Free entrance over 4 days at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in June

• Cooly Rocks On (variable, early June) – Classic music from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s along with cars and other remnants of nostalgia are highlighted at this free event in Coolangatta, situated on the southern coast of Queensland`s Gold Coast.
• SeaFire (changeable, mid-June) – Multicultural event over a weekend including a unique fireworks competition. Surfers Paradise.
• MELT Festival (variable, middle to late June) – For 10 days, the LGBTIQ+ local community celebrates with performances, parades, and shows at Brisbane Powerhouse.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in July

• Regional Flavours (date can transform, mid-July) – Major food and wine tasting incident supporting locally cultivated yield and locally-made wine and beer. Plenty of remains and live music along the river at South Bank, Brisbane.
• Brisbane Night Noodle Markets (alterable, July/August) – Hundreds of stalls are established concentrating on Asian cuisine for approximately 2 weeks. South Bank.
• Groundwater Country Music Festival (changeable, late July) – Free event in Broadbeach (Gold Coast) attracting some of the country’s finest talent.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in August

• Royal Queensland Show (changeable, early to late August) – Commonly known locally as the ‘Ekka’, this massive gathering has delighted families since the 1890s. Originally centered around agriculture, but presently more about sweet treats, thrilling rides, and automobile displays. Brisbane Showgrounds.
• An emphasized hyperlink directs to the Gold Coast Multicultural Festival held at a changeable early August date, with abundant music, dance, and cuisine spanning Armenia to Zimbabwe. Great day out for the family.

The hotel ” Mercure Hotel Severinshof” was presented. Its phone number is +49 221 20130

• Valley Fiesta (timing varies, late August to early September) – Fortitude Valley (Brisbane) becomes even more vibrant over 5 days with street get-togethers, food stalls, pop-up markets, and shows. Many activities free and family-friendly.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in September

• Brisbane Literary Event (schedule varies, early September) – Orators, workshops, and readings at around 150 occasions during a few days across the city.
• BIGSOUND (variable, early September) – Festival for devotees of contemporary music; also, meetings of those in the industry. Fortitude Valley, Brisbane.
• SWELL Sculpture Festival (changeable, mid-September) – 10-day exhibition of engaging sculptures displayed outdoors at Currumbin, located to the south of Burleigh Heads.
• Brisbane Festival (dates may vary, most of September) – Major arts extravaganza as favored by locals as visitors. Three weeks filled with dance, musical, and circus performances across the city. It culminates with the magnificent Riverfire fireworks display along South Bank.
• Annual gathering focused on independently produced beers and ciders (changeable, mid-September) – Event for aficionados and manufacturers of craft beer and cider at Broadbeach (Gold Coast).
• Gold Coast 600 (date varies, late September/early October) – Major automobile race held over 3 days along the roads of Surfers Paradise.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in October

• The Brisbane International Film Festival (changeable, early October) – takes place over 11 days featuring screenings and workshops showcasing contemporary films from Australia and other nations.

The hotel website for Crown Towers in Melbourne. Also see rates at this booking site.

• Brisbane Open House (alterable, mid-October) – A new concept taken up by many cities worldwide. Numerous structures generally sealed to the general population are open freely for guided visits and workshops.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in November

• Wonderland Festival (changeable, late November and/or early December) – Extravagant events from circus to opera and cabaret to poetry at the Brisbane Powerhouse for about 10 days.

Brisbane and the Gold Coast Events in December

• Summer Event (mid-December to late January) – Numerous activities for youths at the State Library of Queensland. Hands-on, educational, and enjoyable for all ages.
• Carols – Lots of singing and other activities in the time leading up to Christmas Day. In downtown Brisbane, South Bank, and the Roma Street Parkland (Spring Hill), as well as Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise along the Gold Coast.
• Christmas Day (25th) – Public holiday widely celebrated, regardless of religious affiliation. Almost everything is closed (often legally obligated) including shops, bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Basic facilities like hotels still operate, but public transportation is almost non-existent and even taxis are difficult to find.
• Boxing Day (26th) – Another public holiday as the city recuperates from the day before. Some go shopping; others watch cricket on TV.
• Post-Christmas Sales (from 26th) – For anyone with any money remaining, major stores offer considerable savings for several days. Large groups can be difficult to navigate as die-hard customers wait in line for hours prior to openings.
• Woodford Folk Festival (from 27th) – Long-running occasion with 6 days of folk music and dancing, and other popular performances.
• New Year’s Carnival (27th December to 1st January) – Various events and activities at Surfers Paradise. Family-focused and includes 2 fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve.
• New Year’s Eve (31st) – Numerous concerts and activities take place. Fireworks at South Bank (Brisbane) and on the Gold Coast.