Australia in September: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

September is a good time to visit Australia as the Southern Hemisphere’s spring season starts. There is less chance of rainfall, meaning you can enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing more comfortably. If you are up north, you can explore national parks and beaches on dry, sunny days. September in Australia is considered the shoulder season, meaning popular destinations such as Sydney and Melbourne are less crowded. The arrival of spring also sees the start of wildflower season, which is visible across Australia and celebrated during various festivals, among them the Floriade in Canberra, which showcases over a million blooms.

The weather in Australia in September is mild, with temperatures that will make your outdoor exploration more pleasant. If you find yourself visiting major cities such as Sydney or Perth, you could experience temperatures averaging around 68F, while in areas like Cairns or Alice Springs, a high of around 81°F can be reached during the day, with cooler evenings around 50°F. The northern and southern regions of the country see warm and dry days that are great for beach activities and exploring.

Uluru • Best Place for Sightseeing

You can spend time visiting iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and take in wonderful views of this vast landscape under a clear spring sky. You will notice how the warm light bounces off the rusty red-colored stone at sunset. The surrounding Kata Tjuta National Park adds to the scenic beauty with its dramatic rock formations and blooming wildflowers, the desert landscape coming alive with color and vegetation. You will have the opportunity to enjoy various walks, such as the Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta, with viewing decks offering a chance to watch a brilliant sunrise as your September day of adventure gets under way.

Hunter Valley • Best Place for Great Weather

Discover Hunter Valley in New South Wales, the country’s oldest wine region that boasts over 150 wineries. The mild spring weather is ideal for vineyard tours and outdoor dining experiences amidst the beautiful landscapes. Temperatures hover around 70°F, allowing you to sit outdoors, sip, and savor local blends with views over budding vines and lush greenery. You can pair the scenic landscape with a Hunter Valley sémillon, known for its crisp acidity and vibrant citrus notes, or a rich shiraz, both at their best during September.

Cairns • Best Place for Families with Children

Take your family on a spring adventure to Cairns. With access to gems such as the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, you will find yourself among adventurous activities suitable for the entire family. In Daintree National Park, you can experience a zipline through the treetops or enjoy a guided tour focusing on Aboriginal culture and local wildlife. You and your family can take to the waters and explore the colorful Great Barrier Reef in warm air averaging 86°F and refreshingly tropical waters. With September falling outside the peak jellyfish seasons, there are reduced safety concerns, enhancing your overall experience.

Tasmania • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Visit Tasmania in September and uncover the beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife among fewer crowds. Explore parks such as Freycinet and Cradle Mountain or take part in the beginning of whale-watching season, when southern right and humpback whales migrate along the coast. Take time to enjoy some of the local events and festivals taking place in Tasmania during September for a chance to celebrate the destination’s rich culture and culinary delights, such as its famous scallop pie.

Port Douglas • Best Place for Couples and Honeymooners

You will be swept away from the moment you arrive in Port Douglas, a charming coastal town in Queensland. Beautiful beaches offer a romantic touch and you will have access to the reef and rainforest, idyllic for a romantic getaway. Take a sunset cruise on the Coral Sea, where you can watch the celebrated sunset with a glass of champagne in hand, or take your seat at a table set up on the beach for a candlelight dinner under the stars. Pack a picnic basket filled with local delicacies and head to Rex Smeal Park or Four Mile Beach for a relaxing day outdoors.

Celebrate the Arrival of Spring with Perth’s Kings Park Festival

The Kings Park Festival runs for the last two weeks of September and will offer you the chance to celebrate Western Australia’s wildflower season. Discover thousands of blooming flowers and over 3,000 native plant species in Kings Park and Bold Park. The festival features a variety of activities that suit all ages and include guided walks, family-friendly events, and workshops. Cultural displays highlight the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. With complimentary admission, the Kings Park Festival is one of Perth’s most accessible outings, thoroughly enjoyable in Australia’s springtime.

Sip and Savor Wine and So Much More Along Tasmania’s East Coast

Indulge in a 10-day festival that features wine, local produce, masterclasses, long lunches, and even yoga sessions. The Great Eastern Wine Week takes place in early September, stretching from St Helen’s in the north and Orford in the south. Over 30 events at various wineries and local businesses are featured, giving you a chance to enjoy wine tastings, fine-dining experiences, live music, and workshops. While wine is the main focus, the festival also showcases local beer, gin, and whisky. You may wish to combine wine events with activities like mountain biking, boat cruises, and exploring national parks.

Enjoy a Day at the Races in Birdsville, Queensland

Spend a day at the races at one of Queensland’s iconic racing events in Birdsville, Queensland, typically on the first weekend of September. The event is a lively display of horse racing, various entertainment options, food stalls, and activities that celebrate Outback culture. Thirteen races showcase not only the popularity of horse racing in this area, but also support local community initiatives and raise funds for essential services like the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Australia is one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most beautiful destinations. Discover a wide range of landscapes, incredible natural wonders, including the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, arid deserts, lush rainforests, kangaroos, and koalas. The mild spring weather in September makes it a wonderful time to explore it all.

For more ideas for your trip, find inspiration with our Australia tours or explore the possibilities of when to visit, where to go, and more with our Australia travel guide.