Kangaroo Island Weather in January

What Is the Weather Like on Kangaroo Island in January?

January is one of the best months to visit Kangaroo Island with its warm, inviting weather reaching a comfortable 25°C. You can expect plenty of sunshine and clear skies as you venture out to explore all the island has to offer. 

January is a fairly dry month and brings relatively low humidity, so you can take off on one of the many hiking trails and check out some incredible views without being left feeling hot and sticky at the end. It always pays to pack an umbrella on the off chance you’re met with one of the brief summer storms that will roll out as fast as it came. 

Whether you're relaxing back in the sun on one of the island’s beautiful beaches or exploring the beautiful views, January offers a perfect blend of comfortable and inviting weather.

Average Temperatures in Kangaroo Island in January

January on Kangaroo Island brings some of the warmest temperatures of the year so you can lace up those hiking boots and head outdoors to explore. Temperatures range between 25°C (77°F) during the day, before dropping to a cool 13°C (55.4°F) at night time which makes for a pleasant change. 

Don’t forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong UV rays. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must for exploring the island. Simply pop a jacket or light cardigan into your luggage that you can pull out in the evenings as you enjoy some al fresco dining (under the Enchanted Fig Tree) or a late-night stroll along the beach.

Average temperatures on Kangaroo Island in January

Sunshine Hours and Daylight in January

If you love long, sunny days that provide plenty of time for you to get outdoors and explore, then January is the perfect month to travel to Kangaroo Island. The average day during January has 14 hours of daylight. At the beginning of the month, the sun rises at about 6.07am and sets around 8.40pm. By the end of the month, the sun rises a little later at 6.36am and sets at 8.30pm. That's plenty of daylight hours to fill with activities, exploration, and of course, a bit of relaxation. 

UV levels on Kangaroo Island in January

In January, the average daily maximum UV index across Kangaroo Island is 7, which indicates a high health risk from unsafe exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Be sure to pack a wide-brimmed hat, use sunscreen, wear sunglasses and seek shade in the middle of the day. It also helps to cover up with lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to cover as much skin as possible. 

Average Rainfall on Kangaroo Island in January

January is one of the driest months on Kangaroo Island, which means you can expect minimal rainfall and plenty of sunny days. This dry weather is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island’s many attractions. On average, Kangaroo Island receives around 10 to 15 millimetres (0.4 to 0.6 inches). Occasional summer storms do occur, but they are typically brief and pass over quickly.

Best Things to Do on Kangaroo Island in January

Kangaroo Island in January offers up endless hours of sunshine to make the most of this outdoor haven. Whether you’re a hiker, a wildlife lover, a history buff, or a foodie, this island has it all. January’s warm and sunny weather provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the island’s stunning landscapes, pristine beaches and unique wildlife. From thrilling water sports and peaceful nature walks to indulgent wine tastings and fascinating historical tours, there’s no shortage of things to do on Kangaroo Island. Here are some of the top activities you shouldn’t miss during your visit in January.

Beach Hopping

Kangaroo Island is famous for its golden beaches and offers a variety of water sports to keep you busy throughout your stay. Here are some of the beaches and activities to pop on your list:

• Vivonne Bay: Frequently rated as one of Australia’s best beaches, Vivonne Bay is perfect for swimming, surfing and picnicking. You can wade in the clear, turquoise waters, tackle the waves, walk the 6km sandy shores, or settle back on the soft sand for a spot of sunbathing. 
• Emu Bay: With its long stretch of sandy beach and calm waters, Emu Bay is the spot to visit for a day on the water. It’s great for swimming, kayaking and stand-up
• paddleboarding. Plus, the beach is also accessible by car, making it easy to bring along your gear.
• Stokes Bay: This hidden paradise is just waiting to be explored as you make your way through a rock tunnel to this sheltered swimming area protected by a natural rock pool. It's a fantastic spot for families and those looking to explore the rock pools.
• Hanson Bay: This small, secluded bay is perfect for more experienced surfers thanks to its waves, or you can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, canoeing and fishing. You can also check out Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary to see koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, echidna and more while you’re there.

Seal Bay Conservation Park

If you’re looking for something a little different, then make sure you head to Seal Bay Conservation Park. Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors for a rare chance to spot a colony of Australian sea lions in their natural habitat. You can meander along the boardwalk (ideal for all abilities) and look out across the amazing creatures as they frolic along the beach directly below you. It’s an unforgettable experience!

Dudley Wines

No visit to Kangaroo Island is complete without a visit to one of the wineries dotted around. Dudley Wines is a family-owned vineyard and one of the pioneering vineyards now celebrating 30 years of winemaking. 

Open five days a week (closed Tuesday and Wednesday), you can find a spot on their spacious lawn or deck and take your time sampling one of their self-guided wine flights. Sip as you enjoy the incredible views across the Backstairs Passage. With 14 wines to their name, you can spend an entire afternoon with a gourmet pizza or platter to fill you up.

Remarkable Rocks

You could spend days exploring all there is on offer in Flinders Chase National Park. It has so many differing hiking trails to choose from, whether you’re just starting or an experienced hiker looking for a challenge. The one track every visitor needs to pop on their list is the Remarkable Rocks.

Remarkable Rocks is a series of naturally sculpted granite boulders perched on a granite dome. These striking formations have been shaped by the elements over millions of years. The site offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is an excellent spot for photography and exploring. If you’re looking for the best photos in summer, head there first thing in the morning before the light gets too harsh, or at the end of the day and capture a beautiful sunset behind you.

Historical Sites

This unique island is also steeped in plenty of history for you to uncover during your visit.

• Cape Willoughby Lighthouse: As South Australia’s first lighthouse, Cape Willoughby Lighthouse offers guided tours that dive into its history and the lives of the lighthouse keepers. The views from the top are spectacular and worth the climb.
• Hope Cottage Museum: Located in Kingscote, this museum provides a glimpse into the island’s pioneer history. The museum houses a collection of artefacts and displays that tell the story of early settlers and their way of life.
• Reeves Point: This historic site marks the location of the first official European settlement in South Australia. Explore the old mulberry tree planted by the first settlers and take in the serene surroundings that are rich in history.

Visiting Kangaroo Island in January

January is an ideal month to visit Kangaroo Island, thanks to its warm and sunny weather, making it perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities. With long daylight hours, you have plenty of time to explore the island's stunning beaches, take part in water sports, and take off on many hikes. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or looking to unwind and enjoy the island’s gourmet offerings, January provides the perfect weather to experience Kangaroo Island. Start planning your adventure now!

Whether you’ve started planning your Kangaroo Island holiday or not, check out First Light Travel’s Kangaroo Island blog for any further information you might need. Or, you can contact FLT’s Kangaroo Island travel team for advice and guidance on how to design your own trip. 

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our latest reviews - see what our guests loved about their dream trips to Australia.