Things to Do in Albany in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Albany
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Classic Albany winter weather means comfortable daytime temperatures around 26°C (79°F) - warm enough for outdoor activities without the scorching heat of summer. You can actually walk around midday without melting, which locals appreciate after the brutal December-February stretch.
- Lower tourist numbers compared to peak summer season translate to shorter queues at major attractions and better restaurant availability. Accommodation prices typically drop 15-20% from January highs, and you can book quality places just 2-3 weeks out instead of the usual 6-8 weeks.
- The minimal rainfall (just 2.5 mm or 0.1 inches across the month) means you'll likely experience mostly clear days. Those 10 rainy days tend to be light drizzle rather than downpours, and they actually break up the humidity nicely without disrupting plans.
- June marks the start of truffle season in the region, and local restaurants showcase Western Australian winter produce at its peak. The timing also coincides with several cultural events as Albany gears up for the quieter winter months with indoor programming.
Considerations
- Evening temperatures drop to 15°C (59°F), which feels genuinely cold when combined with coastal winds off the Southern Ocean. If you're expecting tropical warmth, you'll be disappointed - this is proper jacket weather after sunset, and many visitors underestimate how chilly Albany winters actually get.
- Daylight hours are noticeably shorter in June (roughly 9.5 hours), with sunset around 5:15pm. This compresses your sightseeing window and means coastal walks need earlier starts. The early darkness can feel limiting if you're used to long summer evenings.
- Ocean water temperatures sit around 17-18°C (63-64°F), which is too cold for casual swimming without a wetsuit. Beach activities are more about walking and photography than water sports, which might disappoint visitors expecting typical Australian beach experiences.
Best Activities in June
Torndirrup National Park Coastal Walks
June's cooler temperatures make this the ideal time for the dramatic coastal walks around The Gap, Natural Bridge, and Blowholes. The 26°C (79°F) daytime highs mean you can tackle the longer trails without overheating, and the winter light creates spectacular photography conditions with lower sun angles. The Southern Ocean swells are bigger in winter, making the blowholes particularly impressive - you'll see spray reaching 20-30 m (65-100 ft) on windy days. Start by 10am to maximize daylight and avoid the coldest winds that pick up late afternoon.
Historic Whaling Station and Maritime Museum Tours
June's variable weather makes indoor-outdoor hybrid attractions perfect, and the whaling station offers both. The indoor exhibits provide shelter during those occasional drizzly periods, while the outdoor areas are comfortable in mild winter temperatures. Interestingly, June historically marked the tail end of whaling season, so there's thematic relevance. Budget 2-3 hours here. The maritime history connects directly to Albany's role as the last Australian port for ANZAC troops, which resonates year-round but feels particularly poignant in the quieter winter months.
Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk
While this requires a 90-minute drive (120 km or 75 miles) east toward Denmark and Walpole, June offers the best conditions you'll find. The tingle forest floor is lush from autumn rains, humidity sits at comfortable levels, and the 40 m (130 ft) high walkway provides stunning canopy views without summer's harsh light. The ancient tingle trees - some over 400 years old - look particularly atmospheric in winter's softer conditions. Worth the full-day commitment if you have 6-7 hours including drive time.
Local Winery and Distillery Tastings
The Great Southern wine region surrounding Albany produces some of Western Australia's best cool-climate wines, and June is prime tasting season. Cellar doors are quieter than summer, staff have more time for conversation, and the cooler weather pairs perfectly with the region's signature Rieslings and Pinot Noirs. Several distilleries have also opened in the past 3-4 years, offering gin and whisky tastings. Most venues are 15-30 km (9-19 miles) from Albany's center, making this an easy half-day activity.
Middleton Beach and Emu Point Waterfront Walks
While swimming is off the table at 17°C (63°F) water temperature, these protected beaches offer excellent winter walking when the weather cooperates. The 3 km (1.9 mile) path between Middleton Beach and Emu Point provides flat, accessible terrain with cafe stops at both ends. June's lower UV index (though still 8, so sunscreen remains essential) makes midday walks more comfortable than summer. King George Sound's sheltered waters mean calmer conditions than the exposed southern coast. Time this for 11am-2pm when temperatures peak.
Princess Royal Fortress and Mt. Adelaide Lookout
The elevated position (180 m or 590 ft above sea level) provides panoramic views across King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour. June's clearer winter air often delivers better visibility than summer haze, extending views 20-30 km (12-19 miles) on good days. The historic fortress adds context to Albany's strategic military importance. The exposed hilltop means you'll feel that wind, so dress accordingly. Budget 90 minutes including the short uphill walk from the parking area.
June Events & Festivals
Albany Winter Festival
This relatively new event (established 2023) runs through early-to-mid June with indoor and outdoor winter-themed activities. Expect food markets showcasing regional winter produce, live music at local venues, and family-friendly activities designed for cooler weather. The festival capitalizes on truffle season with special dining events at participating restaurants. It's still finding its footing, so programming varies year to year, but it provides a nice cultural anchor for June visitors.