Sydney Weather in January

Sydney's summer weather

January is warm, with an average high of 26°C and low of 21°C, but it is not reliably dry: rain falls on 13 days, and humidity is 76%. The 6.3 hours of sun a day and 14 hours of daylight leave plenty of time for sightseeing, though showers can interrupt plans. Spend the hotter part of the day in air-conditioned places such as the Art Gallery of New South Wales, or take a ferry across the harbour; save a walk around the Royal Botanic Garden for later in the day. Beach time at Bondi or Manly works well, but avoid committing a whole day to a long coastal walk if rain is forecast.

Events, crowds and practicalities

January brings the Sydney Festival, with performances around the city, and Australia Day on 26 January, when events draw crowds to the harbour and Circular Quay. Australian summer school holidays make this a high-season month: beaches, ferries and central sights are busier, and accommodation and flights generally cost more than in quieter months. December is slightly cooler and drier in the data; February is similarly warm but wetter. For a calmer harbour trip, take the ferry to Manly on a weekday and enjoy the views on the way, rather than joining the busiest Australia Day crowds around Circular Quay.