January is the height of the summer season and typically one of the hottest and wettest months of year in Broome. Despite high temperatures, plenty of rain, and high humidity levels, this is a good time to visit the stunning beaches and experience native wildlife. This comprehensive guide to Broome weather in January will help you make the most of your trip.
Broome is known for its unique weather patterns. There is no significant difference between dry and wet season temperatures—the average is around 30 °C (86 °F) throughout the year—but the humidity is much higher between November and April, making the weather feel a lot hotter. January is also the wettest month of year and the peak cyclone season.
Read more on the best times to visit Western Australia and other regions in our guide to Australian seasons.
If you're planning a trip to Broome in January, be sure to pack plenty of lightweight, breathable clothing, as temperatures can soar during the summer months. Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are essential to protect your skin from intense UV rays.
Maximum daytime temperatures in Broome in January are around 33 °C (92 °F), while nightly minimums are approximately 26 °C (79 °F). During heat waves, temperatures can reach 40 °C (104 °F) or more.
The Indian Ocean on the coast of Broome is at its warmest in January, with water temperatures ranging from 28.2 °C (83.7 °F) to 30.6 °C (86.1 °F).
Swimming in the ocean in Broome during January can be risky due to a combination of strong currents and the presence of Irukandji and Box jellyfish, known as the most dangerous stingers in the world. If you intend to enter the water, it is essential to wear a stinger suit and check with the local authorities and lifeguards about the current conditions.
Broome counts among the sunniest cities in the world, with an average of 8 hours of sunshine every day throughout the year. In January, you can expect 8.6 hours of sunshine and 13.1 daylight hours. The sun rises between 5:19 am and 5:38 am and sets between 6:30 and 6:32 pm.
In January, the UV index in Broome is extremely high due to the town’s location in the tropics. It can range from 11 to 13, posing a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. It is recommended to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen with a high SPF when spending time outdoors.
Broome receives most of its annual rainfall between January and March. There is approximately 183 mm (7 in) of precipitation and 15 rainy days during the first month of the year. The average relative humidity in January is 74%.
Cyclones are powerful storms with winds reaching up to 200 km/h (124 mph) or more. Broome and the rest of the Kimberley region may be affected by cyclones during the summer months and following official warnings and taking necessary safety precautions is crucial. Local TV and radio stations as well as the Broome cyclone dashboard provide advice in the case of an anticipated tropical cyclone.
Although January is the off-peak season in Broome, there are plenty of things to do, whether you’re here for a short getaway or just visiting as part of a longer trip through Western Australia. From exploring Broome’s cultural attractions to exploring native wildlife, here are our top picks.
The Blue Body Buddha Sanctuary, tucked away at the back of Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, features a 3-metre (9.8 ft) tall crystal Buddha statue. Join their daily yoga and meditation classes or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the sanctuary’s beautiful gardens.
Escape the heat for a couple of hours and learn about the town’s unique pearling history through the museum’s original artefacts and photographs. Don’t miss the McDaniel Shell Collection with a remarkable array of sea treasures, famously viewed by Queen Elizabeth on her royal visit to Broome in 1964.
Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park showcases some of the largest crocodiles that inhabit Australia. Other than crocodiles, the park also houses kangaroos, wallabies, snakes, and the native cassowary, known as the world’s most dangerous bird. The popular daily crocodile feeding tours offer a unique opportunity to observe these mighty creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Outback tours guarantee a unique experience during the wet season when the rivers and waterfalls are at their most impressive and the wildlife is more active. Although some roads may be washed out by the rain, others are permanently sealed and are accessible even in the rain. For more inspiration, check our Self Drive Itineraries and Western Australia Group Tours.
Enjoy a leisurely walk to the Cave Point lighthouse at Gantheaume Point and take in the stunning views as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. Don’t forget to check out the storyboards that contain information about the native flora and fauna, in addition to interesting facts about the Yawuru Aboriginal people, the traditional owners of the Kimberley coast around Broome.
Ready to start planning your trip to Broome in January? First Light Travel’s Blog articles offer useful tips and advice on travelling to Australia, while our Western Australia Itineraries, such as Perth to Broome “Coastal Bliss”, provide plenty of ideas on what to see and do in the region. If you prefer a customised experience, FLT’s Australia travel specialists will help you create an itinerary tailored to your preferences.
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