Kangaroo Island Weather in December

Average Temperatures in Kangaroo Island in December

December marks the start of summer on Kangaroo Island, bringing warm and welcoming temperatures. Daytime highs typically range from 20°C to 25°C, providing the perfect balance of warmth for beach days, hiking and outdoor dining. 

The evenings remain mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 13°C, which is perfect for enjoying alfresco dinners or evening strolls along the coast.

December brings with it very low humidity as the rain takes a backseat to the ever-present sunshine. This frees you up to escape outdoors without the threat of showers to get in the way of your travels.

Average temperatures on Kangaroo Island in December

Sunshine Hours and Daylight in December

December is a month of long, sunlit days on Kangaroo Island, providing the perfect opportunity to explore every corner of this beautiful destination. With the summer solstice falling in late December, the island experiences some of its longest days of the year, offering around 14 to 15 hours of daylight daily.

The sun typically rises early, around 5:45am, and sets late, close to 8:30pm, giving you ample time to soak in the sights and make the most of your holiday. The extended daylight hours also mean you can pace your itinerary comfortably, allowing for leisurely mornings and unhurried evenings. Sunset experiences, such as visiting the Remarkable Rocks or enjoying a wine tasting at a local cellar door, are perfect during this time of year.

UV levels on Kangaroo Island in December

As you might expect, the UV levels are at an all-time high during the Summer months on Kangaroo Island. In December, the UV index can reach as high as 10, which is considered a very high risk of exposure to ultraviolet rays. The good news is that with the extended daylight hours, you can plan your adventures around the hottest hours of the day (generally from 10am to 3pm) and even escape into an art gallery to break it up. Simply be aware of this extra risk and be sure to cover up when you venture outdoors.

Average Rainfall on Kangaroo Island in December

December marks the beginning of the dry season on Kangaroo Island, with rainfall levels much lower than in the cooler months. The island typically receives an average of 20-30 mm of rainfall during December, spread across just a few days of light showers. 

The rain that does fall usually comes in short bursts, before clearing to sunny skies. It’s best to pack for warm, dry weather, including lightweight clothing, sunscreen and a hat. However, bringing along a light rain jacket or a compact umbrella is still a good idea, just in case.

Best Things to Do on Kangaroo Island in December

December is a perfect time to explore Kangaroo Island, with its warm weather, long daylight hours, and minimal rainfall creating ideal conditions for enjoying the island's natural beauty and attractions. 

Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or a wine connoisseur, Kangaroo Island offers lots of experiences to fill your itinerary. Here’s a look at the best things to do on Kangaroo Island in December.

Stokes Bay

Stokes Bay is a true hidden gem on Kangaroo Island, offering a unique beach experience. You have to make your way through a rocky shore and narrow paths to hit the crystal-clear waters.

The beach itself is perfect for families, with a natural rock pool providing a calm swimming area. Children can splash about in the shallow waters while adults relax on the soft sands or take a refreshing dip. The protected waters also make Stokes Bay an excellent spot for snorkelling, allowing you to explore the marine life just below the surface.

You can make the most of the long December days by setting up a picnic under the shade of an umbrella while soaking up your surroundings. The nearby Rockpool Café is a great spot to grab a bite to eat.

Art Galleries

If you want to escape the heat of the day, then the local art galleries provide the perfect respite for you to duck indoors and soak up some history and culture. 

The Kangaroo Island Gallery, located in Kingscote, features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery created by local artists. Many pieces draw inspiration from the island’s natural landscapes and wildlife, capturing the essence of Kangaroo Island’s beauty.

For a more immersive experience, consider taking part in an art workshop or studio tour. Many artists open their doors to visitors, offering insights into their creative processes and allowing you to purchase unique, handcrafted pieces directly from the source. 

George Castle Lights

During December, Kangaroo Island prepares for the Christmas season with the George Castle Lights display. This immersive light show is relatively new and takes place at George Turner’s Castle, transforming the historic site. 

The light show illuminates the castle and its surroundings, creating a magical atmosphere as the sun sets. The vibrant lights dance to music, offering a multisensory experience that is perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of festive sparkle to their trip.

The event often includes food stalls, live entertainment and opportunities to explore the castle grounds. Make sure you bring along a jacket for the cooler evening temperatures as you enjoy a night under the stars.

Remarkable Rocks

The Remarkable Rocks are one of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic natural attractions, and December’s warm weather makes it a great time to visit and watch the sunset. Located within Flinders Chase National Park, the Remarkable Rocks are an impressive cluster of granite boulders that have been shaped by wind and sea over millions of years.

The best time to visit the Remarkable Rocks is during the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts dramatic shadows and enhances the colours of the stones. Sunset, in particular, offers a breathtaking view, so bring that picnic blanket and bottle of wine and settle in for an evening outdoors.

Cellar Door Tours

Kangaroo Island is home to an incredible wine scene, and a cellar door tour is a must-do for wine lovers visiting in December. 

Many of the island’s wineries offer cellar door experiences, where visitors can sample a range of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and meet the passionate winemakers behind the labels. Bay of Shoals Wines, Dudley Wines and The Islander Estate Vineyards are just a few of the wineries to add to your itinerary.

December is a fantastic time to visit Kangaroo Island. The island’s many attractions, from art galleries and cellar door tours to stunning beaches, ensure your holiday can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you like. With long, sun-filled days, December is ideal for making the most of outdoor activities and enjoying all that Kangaroo Island has to offer. Start planning today and get ready to experience the summer magic of this spectacular South Australian destination!

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.