Many people dream of visiting the Great Barrier Reef, and for good reason. The Reef is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, and its colorful corals are a sight to behold.
However, the Great Barrier Reef is a fragile ecosystem, and human activity can easily damage it. For this reason, it’s important to be aware of the best times to visit the Reef.
The worst time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is during the summer months.
This is when the weather is at its hottest, and the water temperatures can rise to dangerous levels. The heat can cause corals to bleach, and the increased water temperature makes it difficult for fish and other marine creatures to thrive.
As a result, summer is considered to be the peak season for reef damage.
If you’re interested in visiting the Great Barrier Reef, consider doing so during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. The weather will be more moderate, and you’ll be able to enjoy the Reef in all its glory.
Why summer is the worst time to visit Great Barrier Reef?
Many people believe that summer is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef because the weather is warm and sunny.
However, there are a few reasons why summer is actually the worst time to visit this natural wonder.
Keep reading to find out why you should avoid visiting the Great Barrier Reef in the summer months.
1. The Weather is Too Hot
While the warm weather may seem like a perk, it can actually be quite dangerous. The average temperatures in the summer months hover around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine that with the humidity and you have a recipe for disaster. Not only is it uncomfortable to be in such hot and sticky weather, but it can also be dangerous. Heat stroke and dehydration are serious risks when spending extended periods of time in hot climates.
2. There are More Crowds
During the summer months, everyone wants to go on vacation. Families take their kids out of school and travelers from all over the world come to see the Great Barrier Reef. This means that there are significantly more people trying to enjoy this natural wonder at the same time. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation where you can get away from it all, summer is not the time for you to visit the Great Barrier Reef.
3. The Prices are Higher
Because of the increased demand, prices for accommodations and activities go up during the summer months. If you’re on a budget, you’ll likely want to avoid visiting during this time period.
4. There is an Increased Risk of Cyclones
Cyclone season typically runs from November to April, but there is still a risk of storms forming during the summer months. While cyclones aren’t common, they can cause major damage if they do hit. If you’re worried about bad weather ruining your trip, it’s best to avoid visiting during cyclone season.
5. The Water is Murkier
The water temperature rises in the summer months, which causes algae and other marine life to bloom. This can make the water appear murky and brown instead of clear and blue. Visibility can also be affected if there is a lot of sediment in the water. While this doesn’t impact everyone, it can be disappointing for those who were hoping to see some amazing marine life while snorkeling or diving.
Conclusion
The worst time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is during the summer months of December, January and February.
The weather is very hot and humid, and there is a greater risk of severe storms and cyclones. The water is also much warmer, which can cause extensive bleaching of the coral.
As a result, it is best to plan your trip for the spring or autumn months when the weather is cooler and the conditions are more favourable for snorkelling and diving.