Kangaroo Island Weather in August

Average Temperatures in Kangaroo Island in August

During the day, temperatures are typically mild, ranging from 12°C to 16°C (54°F to 61°F). These cool temperatures are ideal for getting outdoors, whether you’re hiking through national parks or strolling along the coast. The occasional sunny days bring a slight warmth, especially towards the end of the month as the island starts to feel like spring.

At night, temperatures drop, with the cool winter air making itself known. Nighttime temperatures range from 6°C to 9°C (43°F to 48°F). The cooler evenings provide the perfect excuse to head indoors, whether by a fire or wrapped in a warm blanket. Make sure you pack layers to keep yourself comfortable as the weather transitions from day to night. 

Average temperatures on Kangaroo Island in August

Sunshine Hours and Daylight in August

August on Kangaroo Island sees a slow increase in both sunshine and daylight hours as winter begins to fade and the island moves towards spring. On average, the island experiences around 9 to 10 hours of sunshine per day, with the sun rising around 7.30am and setting at 5.30pm. While the daylight hours are still shorter than the spring months, August offers enough sunshine for outdoor adventures without the heat of the later seasons.

UV levels on Kangaroo Island in August

The average daily maximum UV index across Kangaroo Island in August ranges between 2 and 4, which is considered a low to moderate risk of exposure to ultraviolet rays. Although the sun’s rays are less intense during this time, it’s still important to cover up and layer on the sunscreen, especially when heading outdoors to explore, as UV rays can still break through those clouds.

Average Rainfall on Kangaroo Island in August

August is still part of the wet season on Kangaroo Island. On average, the island experiences between 60 and 80 millimetres of rain throughout the month, spread across roughly 10 to 12 rainy days. 

August starts to have fewer rainy days, especially at the end of the month, compared to the peak winter months of June and July. The showers are often lighter, with longer breaks of clear skies in between. You can expect a mix of showers, overcast skies, and sunny spells to keep you on your toes throughout the month.

Best Things to Do on Kangaroo Island in August

Winter is a beautiful time of the year to visit Kangaroo Island with the drawcards of fewer tourists, milder weather and plenty of animal sightings as they become more active. The winter rains add a shine to the coastline, while keeping the forests nice and green and ready for exploring. As winter gives way to the first hints of spring, you’ll be able to spot the first wildflowers coming into bloom to take over the landscapes. From whale watching along the coast to peaceful kayaking, here are some of the best things to do on Kangaroo Island in August to make the most of your winter-spring transition getaway. 

Whale Watching

August is the last of the winter months to take advantage of whale watching season, as Southern Right and Humpback whales migrate along the island’s southern coastline. Both species feed in Antarctica in the summer and then migrate north to Australia to breed and give birth in the warmer waters. 

The coastal towns of Penneshaw and Hanson Bay are popular spots for whale watching in August. Penneshaw, on the island’s eastern side, provides excellent views of the whales as they pass by the calm waters of Backstairs Passage. Hanson Bay, on the island’s south coast, offers a backdrop of towering cliffs and waves. 

The cooler weather and fewer crowds make whale watching in August even easier as you watch these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Taking a Wildflower Walk

August marks the beginning of wildflower season on Kangaroo Island, and Flinders Chase National Park is one of the best places to see them as they start to bloom. As the island transitions from winter to spring, wildflowers pop up and add bursts of colour to the park.

You can enjoy many walks along the park’s trails, taking advantage of the milder daytime weather. You will find a variety of native wildflowers, including orchids, grevilleas, and the iconic Kangaroo Island featherflower. 

Flinders Chase National Park is also home to plenty of wildlife, including kangaroos, echidnas, and a wide variety of bird species, so you can really experience all this island has to offer.

Visit the Seal Bay Conservation Park

August is a great time to visit Seal Bay Conservation Park for the chance to see one of Australia’s largest colonies of Australian sea lions in their natural habitat. The cooler weather during this time of year makes the seals more active, so you can watch them play, rest, and waddle along the sandy shores of Seal Bay.

Take a guided tour for the chance to get up close with the sea lions, stepping out onto the boardwalk (suited to all ages and abilities) to watch these creatures. You will learn all about their behaviours and life cycle, while seeing them return from hunting trips and basking in the winter sun.

Kayaking the Harriet River

Winter is the perfect season for a little relaxation on Kangaroo Island and kayaking along the Harriet River is a great way to do this. As winter comes to an end, the river’s calm waters are ideal for paddling.

The Harriet River winds its way through bushland, where you can enjoy the slower pace of winter with fewer crowds. Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including waterbirds, kangaroos, and even the occasional koala resting in the trees along the riverbank. 

August on Kangaroo Island is a time of transition, where the cool winter air begins to show the early signs of spring. Whether you’re wanting to see the island’s active wildlife, stunning landscapes, or gorgeous wildflowers, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy during this low season. From whale watching along the coast to exploring blooming wildflowers in Flinders Chase National Park, it’s a great time of year to visit Kangaroo Island.

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.