What Are the Seasons in Esperance?

Exploring the region around Esperance

Esperance is a year-round destination, thanks to its moderate climate and a variety of outdoor and indoor activities available throughout the year. While the peak tourist season typically spans from December to March, there are many reasons to visit during other times of the year. Here’s what you need to know about the weather in Esperance to help you decide when to plan your trip

Thistle Cove, Esperance

Where Is Esperance?

Esperance is a small town located on the southern coastline of Western Australia, around 700 km (435 mi) east of the state capital, Perth. It is part of the Golden Outback region, known for its pristine beaches, spectacular scenery, and rich wildlife. 

What Is the Weather Like in Esperance? 

Due to its southern location, Esperance boasts a Mediterranean-type climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It is mostly sunny and windy throughout the year. 

Esperance has four distinct seasons: 

  • Spring: October to November
  • Summer: December to March
  • Autumn: April to May
  • Winter: June to September

What are the temperatures like in Esperance?

Temperatures in Esperance range between 10 °C (51°F) in winter and 25 °C (77 °F) during summer months. The mercury rarely falls below 9 °C (48 °F) or rises above 30 °C (87 °F), just another reason why Esperance makes an excellent escape all year long.

February is typically the hottest month of the year, when you can expect average high temperatures of 27 °C (80 °F), while the coldest month is July, with average highs of around 16 °C (61 °F).

How often does it rain in Esperance?

The amount of rainfall in Esperance fluctuates from one season to another. 

During the wet season that spans from May to September, there’s around a 20% chance of rain. July is the wettest month, with an average of 9 rainy days and 45.7 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation. 

Esperance’s dry season lasts from September to May. April is usually the driest month, with an average of only 2.3 rainy days and precipitation of 15.24 mm (0.6 in).

Lucky Bay Esperance

What are sea temperatures like in Esperance?

Esperance’s pristine white-sand beaches offer good conditions for swimming and enjoying water sports most of the year. The sea temperature peaks at 20.2 °C (68.4 °F) between September and April. In winter, the sea water is cooler, with an average temperature of 16 °C (60.8 °F). At this time of year, you may also experience rough waves from the winter cold front.

For detailed information about the weather in Western Australia and other regions, read our Guide to the Best Time to Visit Australia.

Spring in Esperance

When: October to November

Average daytime high temperature: 23 °C (73.4 °F)

Average low temperature: 13 °C (55.4 °F)

Average rainfall: 28 mm (1.1 in) over 11 days

Temperatures in Esperance start warming up in October, while there is still above-average rainfall that tapers off into the next month. By November, temperatures get closer to their summertime highs. Spring is one of the best seasons for experiencing the natural beauty of the region, just before the summer heat sets in. Don’t miss the Balmy Nights, a popular music and arts festival that celebrates the arrival of the summer. 

Summer in Esperance

When: December to March

Average daytime high temperature: 26 °C (78.8 °F)

Average low temperature: 15 °C (59 °F)

Average rainfall: 25 mm (1 in) over 8 days

Esperance summers are sunny and dry, with warm days and balmy evenings and nights. The rainfall is minimal during this time of year. Summer is the perfect time for exploring everything Esperance has to offer, from renowned beaches to majestic national parks. This is also the peak tourist season, when visitors flock from other parts of the country to enjoy pleasant weather, so make sure to book your accommodation and activities well in advance. 

4WD adventure at Cape Le Grand

Autumn in Esperance

When: April to May

Average daytime high temperature: 20.5 °C (68.9 °F)

Average low temperature: 14 °C (56 °F)

Average rainfall: 26.5 mm (1 in) over 12 days

Temperatures steadily drop throughout the autumn season. The cooler weather with sunny, mostly windless days and crisp, starlight nights makes this the ideal time to explore Esperance’s natural landscapes beyond the shoreline. The inland parts of the region offer breathtaking views of the changing foliage, infusing your trip with a touch of natural wonder.

Winter in Esperance

When: June to September

Average daytime high temperature: 17.2 °C (63 °F)

Average low temperature: 11.6 °C (53 °F)

Average rainfall: 43 mm (1.7 in) over 14 days

Winter in Esperance is marked by mild weather and plenty of sunny days. July is the coldest winter month, with an average minimum temperature of 8 °C (46.4 °F). Temperatures below 4 °C (39.2 °F) are extremely rare. This is the rainy season, although the weather is still relatively dry compared to other parts of Western Australia. 

The sea may be too cold for swimming, but winter is still a great time to explore Esperance without the crowds and the scorching heat. This is also the prime whale watching season—you can often spot the migrating humpback and southern right whales along the coast.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Esperance?

Each of Esperance’s seasons has its advantages, and you can expect mild weather, many sunny days, and relatively little rainfall throughout the year. While most tourists flock to Esperance over the summer months, holidaying in the picturesque coastal town is just as enjoyable in spring, winter, and autumn. Regardless of when you choose to travel, we guarantee you won’t regret visiting this unique destination. 

For more ideas on what to see and do in the Esperance region, check out our Perth to Esperance Self-Drive Tour. 

Ready to Start Booking Your Getaway? 

Get some inspiration from our Australia blog articles and our popular itineraries and packages, created by FLT’s travel specialists to help you make the most of Esperance. All our tours are fully customisable and can be tailored to your exact specifications. 

Irma Vuckovic
By
Irma Vuckovic
: 24 Oct 2023 (Last updated: 24 Oct 2023)

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