December · Australia
Best time to visit Great Barrier Reef in December Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Great Barrier Reef in December
Average temperature 27°C, 395 mm of rain, about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 79% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
December score
4.3/10
Ranked #9 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 27°C
- Rainfall
- 395 mm
- Humidity
- 79%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 26
- Crowd Density
- Quiet / Uncrowded
- Average Expenses
- $ · Budget Friendly ($)
December in Great Barrier Reef scores 4.3/10 for nature and wildlife travel - ranked #9 of 12. Expect around 27°C, 395 mm of rain, and roughly 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
From June to October, dry southeasterly winds clear the reef's water to 30m visibility—prime snorkeling season.
December in Great Barrier Reef — off-season conditions
December averages 27°C (81°F) and humidity near 79%, so the practical pattern is early mornings, a long midday break, and evenings back outside.
395 mm makes this the wettest stretch of the year, though about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine still appear — keep an indoor fallback ready.
It scores 4.3/10 here, 9th of 12 months, against 9/10 in the destination's best month.
Pack the lightest breathable clothing you own, a hat, and more water than feels necessary, a proper rain shell rather than an umbrella, footwear you can get muddy.
Figure on low-season pricing, with crowds are light for this destination.
Flexible dates? August scores 4.7 points higher here — enough to change the trip.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Great Barrier Reef in December?
- In December, Great Barrier Reef averages 27°C, 395 mm of rain, and about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 4.3/10.
- Is December a good time to visit Great Barrier Reef?
- December earns a 4.3/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Great Barrier Reef in December?
- Expect about 395 mm of rain in December. Average humidity is 79% and there are about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Great Barrier Reef
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.