Margaret River Weather in January

Average Temperatures in Margaret River in January

When it comes to temperatures in January, Margaret River really comes alive and is a great place to spend plenty of time exploring the outdoors.  Temperatures range between 26°C (78.8°F) during the day, before dropping to a cool 14°C (57.2°F) at night time that makes for a pleasant change. It's the kind of warmth that invites you to pop on your favourite pair of shorts and a light t-shirt for a day of wine-tasting or beach hopping. 

The nights are equally inviting, with temperatures rarely dipping below 14°C (57.2°F). 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 or a late-night stroll along the beach.

While heat waves are rare, they can happen and catch you by surprise. Temperatures can soar up to 35°C (95°F) or more. 

Average temperatures in Margaret River in January

Sunshine Hours and Daylight in January

If you love long days of endless sunshine where you can meander down the beaches and vineyards at all hours of the day, then January is for you. The average day in Alice Springs during January has 14.2 hours of daylight.  The sun rises at about 5:20am and sets around 7:30pm. That's plenty of daylight hours to fill with activities, exploration, and of course, a bit of relaxation. 

UV levels in Margaret River in January

In January, the average daily maximum UV index across Margaret River is 6, which indicates a high health risk from unsafe exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Be sure to pack a hat and slip, slop, slap during the day to stay safe. 

Average Rainfall in Margaret River in January

On average, January is one of the driest months of the year, with rainfall typically ranging from 7 to 15 millimetres. That's hardly enough to worry about packing a raincoat. While unexpected showers can occur, they're usually brief and often arrive in the late afternoon or early evening.

Best Things to Do in Margaret River in January

January in Margaret River offers up endless hours of sunshine for you to get out and explore the region.  But with so much on offer, where should you begin?  Whether you prefer long days soaking up the sun on their famous beaches, are ready to put your surfing skills to the test, or would rather venture around the local wineries and restaurants to indulge in good food and wine, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Read on for our pick of the best things to see and do in Margaret River in January.

Prevelly Beach

Prevelly Beach is a great spot for both surfers and those who prefer to relax back on the sand and simply people-watch. January's warm temperatures and consistent swells make it an ideal time for everyone to test out the surfing waters, whether you're a novice or a seasoned surfer you’ll be catching waves in no time. And if surfing isn't for you, the beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply taking in the breathtaking ocean views as you watch the surfers from a distance.

If you feel like a break from the sun, check out the shaded picnic areas where you can enjoy a refreshing bite to eat. You can visit one of the nearby cafés to recharge before heading back to the beach for more fun.

Prevelly Beach also offers a stunning sunset. The sky transforms into some mesmerising colours as your day of adventure comes to an end. 

Leeuwin Estate

Picture this: sipping on world-class Chardonnay while soaking up the warm January sun. Leeuwin Estate is the perfect stop to break up your adventures and sample some delicious wines. Stroll through the sun-drenched vineyards and see the grapevines in full bloom, with grapes ripening. Guides will walk you through the estate, sharing insights into the grape varieties and the winemaking process.

From their award-winning Art Series Chardonnay to the refreshing Siblings Sauvignon Blanc, stop off for a leisurely wine tasting. You can also enjoy a bite to eat while you’re there sampling their seasonal menu on the outdoor terrace overlooking the vineyards.

Leeuwin Estate also has an on-site art gallery that showcases the original artworks featured on the labels of their Art Series wines. Plus, be on the lookout for their annual summer concert series, where international artists hit the stage set against the backdrop of the vineyards.

Boranup Forest

If you're looking to escape the heat for a bit, Boranup Forest provides a cool and shaded walking trail thanks to the towering karri trees. The trails are well-marked and less crowded in January as you meander through and spend your time checking out nature and spotting some local wildlife, including colourful parrots and kangaroos.

Whether you're an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, Boranup Forest has a range of walking trails to suit all levels of fitness. Pack a picnic so you can stop off mid-trail at one of the designated picnic areas and make the most of your day in nature.

Margaret River Farmers' Market

There's no better time than January to visit the Margaret River Farmers' Market. The stalls are overflowing with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies. Awarded the 2018 Delicious Awards Most Outstanding Farmers’ Market in Australia, you can visit every Saturday. It connects hard-working farmers to consumers, while connecting shoppers to their food source and seasons. You can see exactly what’s growing in January!

The Margaret River Farmers' Market often features live music, street performers, and even cooking demonstrations. The sunny weather and holiday season in January brings out a cheerful crowd, eager to enjoy the festivities.

Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse

For those interested in a bit of history coupled with incredible views, Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a must-visit. Once you reach the top, you're greeted by a 360-degree panorama where you can see the Indian Ocean stretching towards the horizon, the green forests of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and the tiny coastal towns that dot the landscape. 

January summer weather offers up clear visibility so you can enjoy unobstructed views that are perfect for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty. This same clear weather and calm seas often provide excellent whale-watching opportunities. Humpback and southern right whales are known to frequent the waters around Cape Naturaliste, and the lighthouse offers a great vantage point to spot these creatures.

Visiting Margaret River in January

Margaret River in January is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, a foodie, or someone simply looking to unwind, you'll find that this region caters to everyone. If you're contemplating a trip to Margaret River, then January is a great month to plan your travels. The sunny weather and long daylight hours let you get the most out of each and every day, exploring everything this region has to offer.

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