Stinger Season in Great Barrier Reef 2024-2025
Don't let jellyfish spoil your beach holidays and get a special stinger suit for them not to get you!
Best time: November–May
The Great Barrier Reef is a fascinating place to re-wild and get away from the daily routine. However, traveling in the period from November to May, you, probably, won't be able to escape from stingers that abound at that time in waters all along the Australian coast. If you still want to swim at that time, you'll have to wear stinger suit that will protect you from this deadly jellyfish. So, consider this time of the year not as a danger but rather as an occasion to get a new colourful outfit.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef?
The Australian summer, between November and May, is the recommended time to visit the Great Barrier Reef. However, this period coincides with the stinger season, where wearing stinger suits is vital for visitors to swim safely in the waters due to the abundance of jellyfish. Stinger suits can be bought or rented from physical stores or online platforms.
Where can I get a stinger suit for swimming in the Great Barrier Reef?
Stinger suits can be found in various Australian stores, including those located in Cairns, Brisbane, and Sydney. Additionally, online retailers, like Amazon, offer stinger suits for sale or rent. These suits are essential safety gear for swimming in the Great Barrier Reef during the stinger season.
What kind of jellyfish are found in the Great Barrier Reef during stinger season?
The stinger season in the Great Barrier Reef, between November and May, sees the presence of Irukandji and box jellyfish in its waters, both venomous species. These jellyfish can cause extreme pain, paralysis, or even death if not treated promptly. Wearing stinger suits is critical during this period as they protect swimmers from getting stung by jellyfish tentacles.
When do stinger nets get set up at the beaches in the Great Barrier Reef?
Stinger nets get installed only during the stinger season, between November and May, in beaches along the Queensland coast. These nets secure an enclosed area, safe for swimming, the only free space without jellyfish, despite the presence of venomous stingers in the waters outside the nets.
What should I do if I get stung by a jellyfish while swimming in the Great Barrier Reef?
In the event of a jellyfish sting while swimming in the Great Barrier Reef, it is crucial to exit the water immediately to remove any tentacles still clinging to the affected area. The sting should be rinsed with vinegar, never with seawater or fresh water. Emergency services should be called for medical assistance and transportation, including airlift to the hospital. Anti-venom treatment will be administered after examination by the medical team.
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