In short
- October–May is pleasant; winter is warm and sunny.
- June–September is very hot (often 38 °C+).
- Sea is warmest in August–September.
Month by month
| Month | Day max | Sea | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ≈ 21 °C | ≈ 22 °C | Winter sun |
| Feb | ≈ 23 °C | ≈ 21 °C | Coolest sea |
| Mar | ≈ 26 °C | ≈ 22 °C | Great |
| Apr | ≈ 31 °C | ≈ 23 °C | Great |
| May | ≈ 35 °C | ≈ 24 °C | Warm |
| Jun | ≈ 38 °C | ≈ 25 °C | Hot |
| Jul | ≈ 39 °C | ≈ 26 °C | Very hot |
| Aug | ≈ 39 °C | ≈ 27 °C | Very hot; warmest sea |
| Sep | ≈ 36 °C | ≈ 27 °C | Hot |
| Oct | ≈ 32 °C | ≈ 26 °C | Excellent |
| Nov | ≈ 27 °C | ≈ 24 °C | Excellent |
| Dec | ≈ 23 °C | ≈ 23 °C | Winter sun |
Book tours in AqabaLive times, prices and free cancellation terms on GetYourGuide.
Check availabilityHolidays and crowds
Aqaba fills with Jordanian families during Eid holidays and school breaks; book ahead then. See events and holidays.
Diving seasons
You can dive year-round. The sea is warmest (about 26–27 °C) in August and September and coolest (about 21 °C) in February and March, when a 5–7 mm wetsuit is comfortable. Visibility is generally excellent; plankton blooms in spring can reduce it for a few weeks.
Winter sun
From November to March, Aqaba on the Red Sea (Gulf of Aqaba) is the warmest place in Jordan, with mostly sunny days in the low to mid-20s °C — ideal for combining with Wadi Rum and Petra.
Wind and waves
A northerly breeze blows down the Gulf on many afternoons, making the sea choppier; mornings are usually calmest for snorkelling, diving and glass-bottom boats.
Best months by traveller
| Traveller | Best months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Snorkellers and families | April–June, September–November | Warm sea, comfortable air |
| Divers | All year; warmest water August–September | 5–7 mm wetsuit in late winter |
| Winter-sun seekers | November–March | Mild, mostly sunny days |
| Combining with Wadi Rum and Petra | March–May, October–November | Pleasant across the whole south |
| Avoiding crowds | Outside Eid and school holidays | Weekdays are quieter |
Ramadan and Eid in 2027
Ramadan 2027 is expected to start around 8 February and end with Eid al-Fitr around 9–10 March; Eid al-Adha is expected around 16–17 May 2027 (dates depend on the moon). During Ramadan, resorts keep serving guests, but cafés in town may open only after sunset and daytime life is quieter; evenings are lively. During both Eid holidays, Aqaba is one of the most popular destinations for Jordanian families, and hotel occupancy and prices rise — book early or avoid those dates.
Summer heat
From June to September daytime highs are typically in the high 30s °C and can exceed 40 °C. The water is warm and calm early in the day, so plan beach and reef time before about 11 AM and after 4 PM, rest in the shade at midday and drink far more than you think you need. Summer is still busy with domestic and Gulf families on school holidays.
Packing for Aqaba by season
- Winter: a light jacket for evenings and a thicker wetsuit for diving.
- Spring and autumn: swimwear, rash vest, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat.
- Summer: loose long-sleeved clothing, water shoes for hot sand, electrolytes.
- All year: modest clothes for the town and souk; a cover-up between beach and street.
Frequently asked questions
Is August too hot for Aqaba?
Daytime highs near 39 °C are very hot on land, but the sea is warm and diving is excellent; plan beach time for mornings and evenings.
What is the best month to visit Aqaba?
October, November, March and April combine warm sea, comfortable air and easy trips to Wadi Rum. December to February are mild and sunny but the water is cooler.
Can you swim in Aqaba in winter?
Yes — the sea stays around 21–23 °C even in late winter, warmer than the Mediterranean. Many visitors swim and snorkel all year; divers wear a thicker wetsuit.
Is Aqaba busy during Eid?
Very. Aqaba is a favourite holiday spot for Jordanian families during both Eids; hotels fill and prices rise. Book early or plan around the dates.
When is the sea calmest in Aqaba?
Usually in the morning; a northerly breeze often picks up in the afternoon. Book snorkelling, diving and glass-bottom boats before lunch.
Sources and official information
Facts were checked against these official sources in November 2026. Opening hours, prices and timetables change, so confirm before you go.
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