Tasmania in summer

Planning a trip to Tasmania in summer? Discover what to expect from the weather in Tasmania in December, January and February, plus the top things to see and do.

Is summer the best time to visit Tasmania?

Summer is when Tasmania truly comes alive, from its colourful cities to its sun-drenched landscapes. Think long sunlit days, vibrant festivals and endless outdoor activities. Warm, dry weather and extended daylight hours set the scene for adventure – from bushwalks and biking to camping and surfing. Tasmania in summer might be the busiest season but the island is large enough for everyone to find their slice of paradise. Enjoy sun-ripened seasonal produce and vegetables and soak up the easy-going pace of island life.

Summer weather in Tasmania – What to expect in December, January and February

December

Visit Tasmania in December to catch the start of summer, bringing mild and pleasant temperatures with some changeability and showers. Festivities peak in the lead up to Christmas and New Year, particularly in the island’s cities. Looking for things to do in Tasmania in December? The month heats up with the gripping Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and worldclass foodie festival Tasmania’s Taste of Summer, both filling Hobart’s waterfront with flavour and finish-line antics.

• Tasmania December weather: Average maximum temperatures range from 20–23°C.
  
  

January

One for the sun lovers – January is typically Tasmania’s warmest month, bringing steady, pleasant temperatures ideal for swimming, hiking and basking in the wide-open wilderness. Visit Tasmania in January to explore dozens of crisp-white beaches and charming coastal towns.

• Tasmania January weather: Average maximum temperatures range from 22–25°C.
  
  

February

Tasmania in February is known for settled weather and balmy days. Fewer crowds means an even quieter ambience awaits. There’s still plenty to enjoy – up north, Launceston hosts its flagship summer festival, Festivale, while Party in the Paddock brings music and arts to an audience of all ages.

• Tasmania February weather: Average maximum temperatures range from 22–26°C.

What to pack for a Tasmanian summer 

As always, travellers should come prepared for all conditions. Even in summer, weather in Tasmania can flip quickly, so it’s best to pack layers and waterproofs. Packing with safety in mind goes a long way – remember to plan for bushfires and check the conditions before hiking and camping.

Don’t forget to bring:

• Layers (T-shirts, long-sleeve tops, a light jumper)
• A light waterproof jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Swimmers and a towel
• Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses

Best things to do in Tasmania in summer

Discover Tasmania’s beaches and waterways

Circled by dramatic coastlines and marbled with rivers, Tasmania is a paradise for water lovers. Summer is the best season to try invigorating water activities – from sailing to surfing and kayaking.

Things to do in Tasmania in summer:

• Stroll across the ivory sands and orange-lichen rocks of the famous Larapuna / Bay of Fires area coastline and neighbouring Mount William National Park.
• Limber up for a steep hike to Wineglass Bay Lookout (2.6km, 1.5hrs return) – the panoramic views and bracing dip at the end are well worth the climb.
• Take a wilderness eco cruise around Bruny Island. The custom-built yellow boat is the best seat in the house for spying towering cliffs, seals, dolphins and sea birds.
• Get your heart pounding on a half-day kayak adventure on Hobart’s River Derwent, passing soaring mountain ranges, historic railway bridges and the occasional platypus.

Famous hikes and outdoor adventures

Not to brag, but…Tasmania enjoys Australia’s longest daylight hours, making the island’s many national parks a summer essential. The worldclass walking trails – from Cradle Mountain to Freycinet Peninsula – are some of Tasmania's best attractions in summer. Tasmania has more than 400 mountains to choose from, leaving hikers, bikers and climbers spoilt for choice.

• A hiking trip to Tasmania isn’t complete without scaling Cradle Mountain’s summit (12.8km, 8hrs return). For a scenic but shorter track, tackle the 6km Dove Lake Circuit in 2–3 hrs.
• Serious walkers can embark on an epic multiday hike on the Three Capes Track, home to the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Framing Hobart, Kunanyi / Mount Wellington offers a labyrinth of trails and seemingly endless summit views over the city and surrounding landscape on a clear day.
• Cool-temperate rainforests and tiered waterfalls await walkers at Mount Field National Park.

Discover more of Tasmania’s best short walks and multiday walks.

Festivals and events

Tasmania in summer brims with top-notch arts, culture and food, thanks to a calendar of festivals running from December to February. Find your groove, from the big names like Festivale and Party in the Paddock, to the more intimate Cygnet Folk Festival or Clarence Jazz Festival.

• Cheer on the Sydney Hobart fleet in December, as competitors sail across the finish line in Hobart.
• Foodies should flock to Tasmania’s Taste of Summer – a showcase of local produce and beverages along Hobart’s scenic waterfront.
• Test your tastebuds at Launceston’s Festivale – wash down Tasmanian seafood in the sun with luscious paired Tamar Valley wines.
• The climax of the summer arts calendar is Party in the Paddock, a festival blending big names and local artists in the Carrick countryside.