Last updated: July 31, 2025
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands experience a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and substantial rainfall throughout the year. With a maximum temperature peaking at 29°C (85°F) in April and an average temperature of 26°C (80°F), the islands provide a consistently pleasant environment. September marks the lowest temperature, averaging 23°C (74°F). Annual precipitation totals 1678 mm (66.1 in), with the wettest months occurring from March to July, where rainfall ranges from 20 to 23 days. In contrast, September boasts only 7 rainy days, contributing to a noticeable seasonal drought. Humidity levels fluctuate, with May reaching an average maximum of 83%, while September sees a decline to 78%, providing a unique dynamic to the islands' climate.
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands, classified under the Köppen-Geiger climate class Af, experience a tropical rainforest climate characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures throughout the year. With average temperatures consistently ranging between 24°C and 30°C, the islands enjoy abundant rainfall, especially during the wet season from November to March. This lush, verdant environment nurtures diverse ecosystems teeming with unique flora and fauna, making the islands not only a paradise for visitors but also a vital habitat for wildlife. The consistent warmth and moisture create an idyllic backdrop for both relaxation and exploration, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the richness of this tropical haven.
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The Cocos (Keeling) Islands experience a delightfully consistent tropical climate throughout the year, with temperatures rarely straying from the comfortable range of 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F). January kicks off the year with slightly warmer max temperatures peaking at 28°C (83°F), while February and March follow closely, maintaining the warmth with averages of 27°C (81°F). As the months progress into April and May, temperatures remain stable, gently nudging the maximum up to 29°C (85°F), before settling into a somewhat cooler phase from June to August. During this period, you can expect average highs around 26°C (79°F), perfect for enjoying the serene beaches. The transition into September and October brings a slight dip, with temperatures stabilizing around 25°C (78°F). However, the warmth returns in November and December, wrapping up the year with minimums around 24°C (75°F), ensuring the islands remain an inviting escape all year long.
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands experience a dynamic range of precipitation patterns throughout the year, characterized by distinct seasonal variations. The wettest months are March and June, with significant rainfall amounts of 248 mm (9.8 in) and 256 mm (10.1 in), respectively. During these months, rainfall occurs on approximately 21 days, creating a lush, verdant landscape. In contrast, the dry season from August to September sees a sharp decline in precipitation, plummeting to just 24 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days, illustrating a stark seasonal shift. Overall, the annual precipitation totals around 1,355 mm (53.3 in), concentrated mainly in the first half of the year, marking the islands as a region of intense tropical weather followed by drier, more tranquil months.
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands experience consistently high humidity levels throughout the year, with figures hovering around the 80% mark. From January to March, the humidity remains at a stable 80%, dipping slightly to 79% in March before climbing to 81% in April. May sees a peak humidity of 83%, followed by a gentle decline through the mid-year months, where it averages around 81% in June and July. The latter half of the year brings a slight drop, as August and September record the lowest levels at 78%. Nevertheless, October and December see a return to the more typical 80%, while November settles at 79%. This gentle fluctuation underscores a humid tropical climate, perfect for appreciating the islands' lush landscapes.
The UV Index trends in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands reveal a striking pattern of extreme sun exposure throughout most of the year. From January to March, the Index peaks at 15-16, demanding a mere 10 minutes of exposure before burning occurs. As the months progress into April and May, the Index slightly decreases but remains at high levels of 14-11, still classified as extreme. The shift to June marks a transition to a very high exposure category with an Index of 10, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, the intensity returns with July through November, where the Index again hovers between 11-16, indicating relentless sun strength. December wraps up the year with a return to 15, cementing a clear trend of sustained extreme UV levels year-round. Travelers and residents alike should remain vigilant in sun protection, as the Islands showcase a formidable sun presence that is consistent and unforgiving.
UV Risk Categories
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands bask in generous sunlight throughout the year, with a noticeable peak in December, where sunshine totals soar to a radiant 346 hours. This month is part of an upward trend that begins in October at 336 hours, indicating the islands' reliance on abundant sunlight as the year draws to a close. Conversely, the early months of the year, particularly January with 283 hours, show less sunshine, but they still contribute to a strong overall annual average. Interestingly, the months of March and October are standout highlights, with March receiving 332 hours and October slightly exceeding that with 336 hours, showcasing a delightful balance of sun-drenched days as the seasons change. Overall, the islands enjoy a warm embrace of sunlight, making them a splendid destination for sun-seekers year-round.
The likelihood of sunny weather in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands reveals interesting seasonal trends. February and May stand out as the sunniest months, boasting a solid 46% and 49% chance of sunshine, respectively. As the islands transition from the wet season in early months, the likelihood of clear skies gradually peaks around April. The sun's presence, however, wanes in June, dropping to just 21%, before gradually climbing again through the winter months. August and September maintain moderate chances at 39% and 36%, while the latter part of the year sees a dip as November and December return to around 22% and 33%. Overall, the optimal balance of sun and clouds can be found in the middle months of the year, inviting visitors to soak up the warmth and beauty of these idyllic islands.
Throughout the year in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, daylight hours exhibit a consistent pattern, typically ranging from 11 to 12 hours. From January to March, the islands enjoy a generous 12 hours of sunlight each day, creating a perfect backdrop for beach adventures and outdoor exploration. As the days transition into April, daylight begins to taper slightly, settling at 11 hours and maintaining this duration through the lush winter months of June and August. By September, daylight makes a comeback, returning to 12 hours once again, and remains steady through the end of the year. This rhythmic cycle of light not only highlights the region’s tropical charm but also ensures ample time for visitors to soak up the sun and embrace the natural beauty of this paradise.
In conclusion, the climate of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands showcases a warm and inviting tropical environment throughout the year. With average temperatures consistently hovering around 27°C (81°F), the islands offer a pleasant escape from colder climates. Notably, the highest temperatures are recorded from February to April, peaking at 29°C (84°F), while cooler months like July and August dip to a comfortable 26°C (79°F). The islands experience significant rainfall primarily in the first half of the year, with March through May seeing the most precipitation, averaging around 21-22 rainy days. Interestingly, the humidity levels remain relatively high, ranging from 78% to 83%, contributing to a lush, vibrant ecosystem. As the year progresses into September, both precipitation and humidity reduce, creating a drier period ideal for outdoor activities. Overall, the climate is a harmonious blend of warmth, moisture, and seasonal variation, making Cocos (Keeling) a unique tropical paradise year-round.