January is one of the best times to explore Australia, with long daylight hours, reliable warm weather, and excellent conditions across much of the country. Whether you’re seeking coastal relaxation, unique wildlife encounters, or a cooler southern escape, there are plenty of destinations offering memorable summer experiences.
From tropical Queensland to the rugged coastlines of Western Australia and the cultural charm of Tasmania, here are five standout locations ideal for a January getaway.
1. Port Douglas, QLD
January is an excellent time to visit Port Douglas, particularly for travellers seeking a warm climate and access to the natural wonders of Far North Queensland. The town serves as a gateway to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest – two UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Visitors can join reef cruises, snorkel among vibrant coral ecosystems or take guided rainforest walks through Mossman Gorge. Despite the wet season, mornings are often clear, and the lush landscape is at its most vivid. Dining, boutique shopping and scenic coastal drives along the Captain Cook Highway also appeal to travellers looking for a relaxed coastal break.
2. Broome, WA
Broome in January offers dramatic Kimberley landscapes and a slower pace of tourism compared to peak season. While it falls within the wet season, this period brings striking sunsets, fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation. Cable Beach remains a major drawcard for swimming, long walks and camel tours at sunset.
Visitors can explore the rich pearling history of the region, the dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point (visible at low tide) and the red-cliff coastline characteristic of the Kimberley. For those comfortable with warm, humid conditions, January provides a unique opportunity to experience the region in a quieter, more atmospheric season.
3. Kangaroo Island, SA
Kangaroo Island is at its peak in summer, offering ideal wildlife-viewing conditions and calm coastal weather. Travellers can expect reliable sunshine and excellent visibility for exploring Flinders Chase National Park, Seal Bay and Remarkable Rocks.
Native wildlife – including kangaroos, sea lions, koalas and birdlife – is abundant and often easier to spot during dry, warm days. The island also provides access to farm-to-table produce, fresh seafood and high-quality wines.
With a mix of beaches, nature reserves and rugged coastal trails, January is one of the most comfortable times of year to explore the island extensively.
4. Gippsland, VIC
Gippsland offers some of Victoria’s most diverse landscapes, making it an appealing summer destination for travellers interested in nature, lakes and coastal drives. January brings ideal temperatures for exploring the Gippsland Lakes, Ninety Mile Beach and Wilsons Promontory National Park. Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, wildlife encounters and scenic lookouts across the region.
The cooler alpine sections – such as those around Mount Baw Baw – provide respite from heat and opportunities for outdoor activities including bushwalking and nature photography. Fresh local produce, farmers’ markets and coastal seafood also form part of the region’s summer appeal.
5. Hobart, TAS
Hobart in January combines mild weather with a full cultural calendar. The city hosts the Taste of Summer festival and welcomes the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, creating a lively waterfront atmosphere. Travellers can explore the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Salamanca Place, Battery Point and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.
Day trips to Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Bruny Island and the Tasman Peninsula offer diverse landscapes, from sea cliffs to cool-climate forests. With comfortable temperatures and long daylight hours, January is one of the most enjoyable times to explore Tasmania’s capital and its surrounding regions.
Images: Shutterstock
