when is good time to visit cairns

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When’s The Best Time To Visit Cairns, Australia

When you visit a particular destination, it’s always important to check beforehand what the best season to visit is. Frankly, locals will tell you that any time is the best time to visit Cairns – and they’d be right; however, there is a marked difference between the varying seasons in Tropical North Queensland. Depending on what you’d like to see and do on your holiday – the weather can have a dramatic effect on your enjoyment.

Tropical North Queensland experiences two distinct seasons – the wet season and the dry season. The summertime wet season in Cairns is generally hot and humid, with an average annual rainfall of around 1992 mm (average of about 396 mm in January). Whilst the wintertime dry season offers cooler temperatures and sunny days.

Regardless of what time of year you choose to visit Cairns and Tropical North Queensland there is still a fantastic variety of things to see and do, along with tours to join.

Explore the rainforests of Kuranda and Daintree, Cape Tribulation and Cooktown, on our comprehensive range of day tours including the region’s premier attractions, wildlife interactions and authentic Aboriginal experiences.

Summertime, Wet Season

This wet monsoonal season begins to develop in December, peaks in January and lasts through March. With daytime temperatures of 23 to 31 degrees Celsius, a scorching day is often followed by a cooling evening shower, which is welcomed by all.

During the summer season, the rainforests surrounding Cairns are at their finest. The Daintree and Cape Tribulation are bursting with life and the rivers and waterfalls are gushing! meaning that activities like rainforest tours, the Kuranda Skyrail and white water rafting are ideal. At this time of year, the Great Barrier Reef is also phenomenal! with perfect water temperatures and visibility up to 50 metres.

By the time April comes around, the weather has settled down a bit and the dry season begins. It’s still quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 29 degrees. The drier weather is perfect for those activities that are best done without the rain, like bungy jumping or hot air ballooning.

Wintertime, Dry Season During the winter months (June to August), Cairns is at its most pleasant, with temperatures ranging from about 17 to 26 degrees. The weather is usually dry with clear skies and calm winds, meaning almost any activity is perfect – particularly sailing and other activities that rely on calm weather. During the winter season, you’ll also get the chance to see migrating humpback whales!

From September to December, the weather begins warming up again . S pringtime is a delight, with blooming plant life and plenty of animal activity . It’s t he perfect time to visit parks, gardens and wildlife attractions. The Reef springs to life with the yearly coral spawning event and the birds go through their colourful mating rituals. T he daytime temperatures often reach 30 degrees Celsius , with an average low of around 21 degrees . Balmy days are often followed by a stormy evening that makes for a spectacular lightning-charged showcase.

So yes the locals are right when they sa y that any time is a great time to visit Cairns !

If you love hot summery weather, lounging on the sand and frolicking through the water, the summer months are definitely the best. However i f you are sensitive to the heat or want to ensure your activity isn’t spoiled by the chance of rain, wintertime is perfect. No matter when you choose to visit Cairns you will find an absolutely perfect tropical paradise !

Wander through the ancient rainforest of Mossman Gorge with an experienced local guide who will share insights into the unique wet tropics rainforest environment.

Cairns Weather in January

January is a wonderful time to explore Cairns . A lthough it’s in the monsoon or wet season, locals prefer to call it the ‘green season’ . This is when the creeks and rivers are flowing crystal clear and the rainforest is at its luscious best. Temperatures range from 23.6 – 31.4 degrees Celsius, making January the hottest month of the year . Expect cloud cover around for about half the month. R ain tend s to fall during the late afternoon and overnight . There is still plenty of sunshine hours to enjoy sightseeing.

Cairns Weather in February

February in Cairns sees temperatures range between 23.7 – 31.1 degrees Celsius, with monsoonal rains in the afternoons and at night. With slightly more cloud cover than in January, the days are hot and the evenings warm. Swimming is popular all year round in crystal clear waters that showcase the best of the local marine life. February is also a wonderful time to visit the rainforest areas, when it is at its verdant best.

Cairns Weather in March

Slightly cooler than the previous months, March in Cairns averages between 23 – 30.5 degrees Celsius. Still in the monsoon or wet season, this is the ideal time to visit Kuranda, the Great Barrier Reef, ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway or visit the Daintree River, Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest. With most rain falling late afternoon and overnight and light cloud cover for around two weeks of the month, March is the ideal time to fit in most sightseeing activities.

Cairns Weather in April

April is the beginning of the dry season in Cairns, with temperatures ranging between 21.6 – 29.2 degrees Celsius. Full days of sun with minimal cloud cover opens up opportunities to experience the full range of fun things to do on offer in Cairns. From bungy jumping to hot air ballooning, white water rafting to touring the Great Barrier Reef, the world is your oyster in Cairns in April. Full creeks, flowing rivers and the rainforest in its peak new growth period will have you savouring this beautiful area for months to come.

Cairns Weather in May

May sees Cairns cooling down a little. With winter just around the corner, the waters become cooler and the trade winds start moving up from the south. Snorkelers and divers may need to start using wetsuits. This transitional period in Cairns’ weather also triggers movement of the many migratory species that spend some time of the year in the area. Temperatures range between 19.8 – 27.6 degrees Celsius, with some cloud cover for about 10 days of the month.

• Cairns Weather in June

During the first month of winter, water temperatures on the Great Barrier Reef sit at around 23 degrees Celsius . W hile air temperatures range between 17.7 – 25.9 degrees Celsius, with minimal cloud cover. Dwarf Minke whales are prevalent in the area until the end of July . These migrating whales are often see from boats. Making this a popular time of year for diving and snorkelling. All dive tours provide wetsuits, so you’ll be comfortable no matter where you choose to explore.

• Cairns Weather in July

Cairns is beautiful in July with temperatures hovering in the mid-twenties and the water temperatures hovering between 22 and 25 degrees, Cairns should not be too hot or cold for anyone. Days in the Cairns mid-winter resemble a warm summer’s day in Sydney or Melbourne. July marks the commencement of the Humpback whale season and you will almost certainly see these creatures in their natural environment if you take any Cairns cruise at this time.

• Cairns Weather in August

A Cairns August will give you a winter month that is definitely different to the cold winter months of the Southern states. Plenty of sunshine and mild warm days will make your stay in Cairns pleasant and enjoyable. Barrier Reef cruises are in full swing at this time and visitors can experience the joys that this beautiful spot offers. August is also festival time in Cairns and there is plenty of free entertainment to be had, as well as many international performers and shows to see.

Cairns Weather in September

The Cairns weather is as near to perfect as you could wish in September. The days are pleasant without being too hot and the nights don’t get too cold. The average temperatures for September in Cairns is approximately 28 degrees and there is very little rainfall. This is the perfect time to visit the Great Barrier Reef, see humpback whales or indulge in some sailing across the pristine waters around Cairns.

Cairns Weather in October

October in Cairns is a great time to visit as the month offers a pleasant atmosphere. The weather is perfect beach weather – not being excessively hot – and the water is fee of stingers at this time. Rain tends to fall overnight, making the days pleasant and enjoyable. Popular pastimes during this period include a visit to the small rainforest town of Kuranda, via the Kuranda Skyrail. Cruises to Green Island in particular are still popular at this time of year.

Cairns Weather in November

The wet season may be approaching, but in most years, Cairns experiences what is known locally as the ‘build up’ – with an increase in humidity and temperatures, but little rain. November is a great time to try the Kuranda Skyrail and Scenic Railway, which will give you a spectacular view of the Barron Falls. Cruises to Green Island & the Reef are still a great option at this time of year too.

Cairns Weather in December

The true summer period arrives in Cairns in December. Hot humid days and nights are the norm at this time. Cairns is very popular with divers at this time of year, with the crystal clear blue waters giving divers great views of the reef. Summer is breeding season for many reef fish and there is much activity under water. Some fish can become aggressive at this time, but dive boats supply divers with plenty of information about this.

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• When's The Best Time To Visit Cairns, Australia
• Accessibility
• Experiencing Mossman Gorge
• World Tourism Day - Daintree Project
• Cape Tribulation
• Aboriginal Tours
• Wildlife Experiences

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Cairns Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Getting to Australia is on a lot of travel bucket lists. When you make it there, one of the must-do activities is seeing the Great Barrier Reef. The best place for having this incredible experience is Cairns in Tropical North Queensland.

Cairns is very different from Australia’s southern cities of Sydney and Melbourne. Check out this guide for everything you need to know before you plan your trip. We explain the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef,  day trips from Cairns , where to stay, and the best time to go.

Getting to Cairns

If you travel to Cairns from outside of Australia, there are limited options for flying straight to Cairns from overseas. Direct flights to Cairns are from Singapore, Japan, and Auckland in New Zealand.

Most travelers will get to Cairns from within Australia. There are frequent direct flights from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide. If you have a trip to Uluru on your itinerary when you visit Australia, there are also direct flights between there and Cairns.

Internal flights around Australia can be expensive. It is worth having flights to Cairns booked in advance to get the cheapest fares.

If you have the time, you could also drive to Cairns. It is a great way to see more of Australia but remember, Australia is big! The drive from Sydney to Cairns is over 1600 miles. Even if you go from Brisbane, which is in the same state as Cairns, you are still looking at a drive of 1100 miles.  

Weather in Cairns

Cairns has two distinct seasons. December to April is the wet or monsoon season. Expect high humidity, temperatures in the 90s, and periods of heavy rain. There is also no breeze. If you are not used to the conditions, they are uncomfortable.

May to September is a far more pleasant time of year. There is virtually no rain, and the humidity is lower thanks to seasonal trade winds. The average daytime temperature is a balmy 80 degrees.

Best Time to Visit Cairns

Given the contrast between the wet and dry seasons, you might think May to October is the best time to visit Cairns. As a rule, this is the case. Not only is the weather beautiful, but you also do not have to worry about marine stingers that are around in the wet season.

However, if your only option is to visit Cairns in the wet season, don’t worry. It is the best time to see the many waterfalls in the area. The lack of wind also makes going to the Great Barrier Reef a much calmer experience. The visibility on the outer reef is also excellent at this time of year.

Do You Need a Car in Cairns?

One of the great things about Cairns is that you can access many of the best attractions by day tours that pick you up from your accommodation.

Most of the Great Barrier Reef cruises leave from the Cairns Marina, close to the main accommodation precinct in Cairns.

However, hiring a car will let you see more of the region and do things in your own time. If you are staying in Cairns for a week or more, it is worth having a car for at least some of the time. There is a lot to do in nearby towns like  Port Douglas  and Mission Beach.

Many car rental agencies are based at Cairns Airport, making pick-up and drop-off very convenient.

How Long Do You Need in Cairns?

Cairns is best known as an access point to explore the incredible Great Barrier Reef and the ancient and beautiful Daintree Rainforest. If seeing these are your priority, allow 3 or 4 days to see them, maybe sneak in a trip to the rainforest village of Kuranda with its markets and wildlife and relax by the Lagoon Pool in the center of Cairns.

For a more complete experience, allow a week or more. You will have the time to try white water rafting in Tully, go crocodile spotting on the Daintree River, or spend a day at relaxed Mission Beach and spot a cassowary. You can also see less well-known spots like the swimming holes at Mossman Gorge and Behana Gorge.

Who Will Enjoy Cairns?

Cairns has something for everyone. The diversity of attractions will appeal to all sorts of travelers.

There is a big backpacker scene in Cairns. Solo travelers will have a fun and safe time too. Couples or honeymooners looking for an unforgettable romantic getaway can escape to tropical islands and rainforest hideaways. Traveling families have several child-friendly resorts to choose from. The rainforest cable cars, steam train rides, wildlife parks, and rock pools will keep kids entertained for days.

Is Cairns a Safe Place to Visit?

You should feel safe moving around attractions, restaurants, and cafes in Cairns. Greater risks to visitors come from the environment. From November to May, you should wear a stinger suit in the ocean for protection against jellyfish. These are provided by tour operators when you go to the Great Barrier Reef.

Visitors should also pay attention to crocodile warning signs. Crocodiles are present in rivers and parts of the coast in North Queensland, so check where you want to swim is safe. Also, take care at swimming holes. Water levels can change quickly after rain.

Best Things to Do in Cairns

Great barrier reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world and the biggest coral reef on Earth. Cairns is one of the best places in Australia to experience it.

No matter your swimming ability or confidence in the water, you can find a way to immerse yourself in this amazing underwater world from Cairns.

Island Tours

One of the most popular ways to see the Great Barrier Reef is from an Island. Cruises to  Fitzroy Island , Green Island or the Frankland Islands are popular day trips from Cairns. If you are worried about spending all day on a boat, these cruises only take 60 minutes to take you to the reef.

Because island trips let you snorkel over coral from the beach, they are ideal for less confident swimmers. The islands also have other activities like glass bottom boat tours, kayak hire, and guided snorkeling tours. On Frankland Island, you can even see the marine life from a semi-submersible.

You will still have a great reef experience from the islands. You also have a better chance of spotting a sea turtle from one of the islands than on the outer reef. There is also no shortage of colorful reef fish like the adorable orange and white striped clown fish that live in the fingers of an anemone.

Outer Reef Day Trips

The ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience is to spend the day snorkeling or diving on the outer reef. The cruise to the reef can take a couple of hours, so take a seasick tablet to be safe. There are a lot of operators, and each has several patches of reef to choose from depending on the conditions.

On the outer reef, you can see the corals and diversity of marine life the Great Barrier Reef is known for. Even though you are further from shore, you are not necessarily snorkeling in deep water. Coral bommies rise within feet of the surface, so visibility is excellent. Further from the coast, visibility is also less affected by river runoff which can be an issue around the islands in the wet season.

Most boats also cater to scuba divers. If you have never dived before, you can try an introductory dive to see what it is like to breathe underwater. Experienced divers will usually get 2 or 3 dives per trip. It is a great way to come eye to eye with reef sharks, rays, turtles, nudibranchs, and schools of colorful reef fish.

Several operators have a pontoon on the outer reef. These floating resorts get you onto the outer reef but have many benefits of an island cruise. The pontoons will also have glass bottom boats, semi-submersibles, and even water parks for the children. Pontoons are a great family option for exploring the Great Barrier Reef.

Daintree – Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation

Not only can you see the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, but you can also immerse yourself in the beauty of an ancient rainforest. The world heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest starts just north of Cairns. There are a few ways you can experience it.

The easiest way to experience the Daintree is in Mossman Gorge, 75 minutes north of Cairns. Whether you drive yourself or go on a day tour from Cairns, Mossman Gorge gives you a great look at the forest on several short walks.

You can book a tour with an indigenous guide who reveals how the local Kuku Yalanji people have used the forest as a supermarket, pharmacy, and school for thousands of years. You can swim in the rock pools at Mossman Gorge. Another tour takes you snorkeling down the Mossman River through the rainforest, an incredible experience.

The heart of the Daintree Rainforest is at Cape Tribulation, 3 hours north of Cairns. From the rainforest discovery center, there are a dozen walks where you can see everything from the most delicate lichens to giant mahogany and conifers. You can walk along beaches where the rainforest meets the sand. You might even spot a cassowary, a black, red, and blue-colored relative of the emu.

There are tours to the Daintree from Cairns – it is a big day. Spending a night or two there is ideal. It is a remote location, so expect basic accommodation, you might also want to take some food. Having the extra time is the best way to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the rainforest.

Kuranda Rainforest Village

The rainforest Village of Kuranda is much closer to Cairns and easier to get to than Cape Tribulation. Getting to Kuranda is part of the fun. A cable car and a heritage steam train take you from Cairns into the rainforest to Kuranda.

A popular option is to take the cable car one way and train the other. The train leaves from the center of Cairns, and there are shuttle services between the train and cable car. Both give you great views of the forest and the impressive Baron Falls. The train stops at the falls so you can get a closer look.

You can also drive yourself to Kuranda. It is a 35-minute winding drive from Cairns. The cable car and train options are much more fun, and you can get to all the attractions in Kuranda on foot. So, what will you see there?

Kuranda is home to the Kuranda Koala Gardens, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, and Bird World. Wildlife lovers are in for a great time. You can also take a riverboat tour on the Baron River and maybe see a crocodile. Shoppers can look around two markets full of local art, craft and produce. There are also a dozen galleries that showcase indigenous and local artists. The Rainforestation Nature Park also has a range of wildlife and cultural tours.

Kuranda is a must-do activity in Cairns. Feeding the birds at Bird World, letting butterflies land on you at the Butterfly Sanctuary, and the views from the cable car are a highlight.

Atherton Tablelands

When you are in Cairns, it is hard to miss the mountainous rainforest that forms a backdrop to the city. Kuranda is just a teaser of the attractions hidden by the forest-covered hills. To discover more, go on a guided tour of the Atherton Tablelands or a self-guided drive around the Waterfall Circuit.

The Atherton Tablelands has over a dozen beautiful waterfalls – Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Malanda are amongst the best. You can also see the extraordinary 500-year-old Curtain Fig Tree nearby.

Swim in the crystal clear water of an extinct volcanic crater at Lake Eacham and go platypus spotting at the Yungaburra. You can explore the remarkable Paronella Park, a medieval-looking castle surrounded by lush gardens or get a bird’s eye view of the rainforest from the Mamu Tropical Skywalk.

Tours of the Atherton Tablelands will take you to most of these attractions. If you have a car, you can get to more waterfalls and stop at roadside stalls to try locally-grown peanuts and fruits.

If You Have Time

If you have transport or more than a few days to look around Cairns, here are a few more things worth checking out.

Relax at Cairns’ Northern Beaches

You will be disappointed if you want to relax on a beautiful beach in Cairns. The CBD looks out on an expansive tidal mud flat dotted with a few mangroves. But there are lovely beaches just north of Cairns.

Make your way to Trinity Beach or Palm Cove. Both are less than 30 minutes from the Cairns CBD and have white sand fringed with palm trees. They are stunning spots with plenty of cafes and eating options.

Unwind at Port Douglas

If you want that tropical North Australian vibe on a smaller scale than Cairns, try Port Douglas, 65 minutes north of Cairns. It has a super relaxed vibe, and the local beach, 4 Mile Beach, is stunning. You can get to the reef from Port Douglas, and you are also closer to the Daintree Rainforest. There are accommodation options, and the restaurants and cafes are fantastic. It is a great option if you want Cairns-Lite.

Mellow Out at Mission Beach

Just under 2 hours south of Cairns, Mission Beach is where you go if Port Douglas is still too busy for you. Even if you visit Mission Beach for the day, the drive down is spectacular, passing by the idyllic Babinda Boulders Falls and swimming hole and Queensland’s tallest peak Mount Bartle Frere. You can stop at Etty Bay and see if you spot a cassowary walking along the beach.

Mission Beach has palm-fringed beaches, rainforest walks where you could spot another cassowary, and beautiful views over tropical islands . But it is not all hammock time here. You can also go skydiving – see the reef from above before landing on the sand. Nearby, Tully offers some of the best white water rafting in Australia. 

Cairns Accommodation Options

Just as anyone will have a great time in Cairns, there is also a style of accommodation to suit all travelers. Options range from modern hotels to apartments, backpacker hostels, and caravan parks with cabins.

When you book, if you stay in Cairns, most tours will pick up from your accommodation. This is not the case if you stay in Northern Beaches just out of Cairns.

Here Are a Few Suggestions for Different Travelers:

For Backpackers – Travellers Oasis Backpackers or Mad Monkey Central

For Couples – any of the Crystalbrook Hotels but especially the Bailey for a bit of luxe, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, and the Reef House.

For Families – Cairns Coconut Resort – you will only see your kids when they want food or the Crystalbrook Riley for a hotel.

Natalie and Steve

Natalie and Steve manage Curious Campers, a popular Australian travel website featuring experiences, wildlife encounters and road trips for people wanting information and inspiration while travelling Australia. You can connect with Curious Campers on their Facebook group Experience Australia.

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Best Time to Visit Cairns: Everything You Need to Know 

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Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by Ariana Svenson

If you’re going on a trip to Cairns, check out the best time to visit Cairns so you can enjoy a fantastic trip.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More info in my disclaimer.

When is the BEST Time to Visit Cairns?

The best time to visit Cairns if you’re heading out to the reefs is between June and October.  The water is calm, clear, and free of marine stingers, making it perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or diving.  The temperature is pleasant, and rain is rare.

But if you want cheaper flights, lower hotel rates, fewer crowds, and more holiday deals, consider visiting Cairns in April/May or September/October.  During these shoulder months, you can dodge severe rainfall and sweltering heat. There may be stringers on the local beaches, but the risk is lower on the reefs, and you can wear a protective suit.

Remember that visiting Cairns in the shoulder season is a gamble, as you may experience overcast skies and heavy rains.  If you have activities that require good weather, think carefully before scheduling your trip during these months.  Still, the shoulder season is still an excellent time to visit Cairns.  Take it from our experience.  While we had a few days of rain, we saved at least $1000 by traveling in the last week of May instead of the first week of June.

The Worst Time to Visit Cairns

Perhaps the worst time to visit Cairns is from December to March, the wet season.  Temperatures and humidity levels are uncomfortably high, and frequent rains and possible tropical cyclones hamper most water activities.

Some resorts and hotels close in the wet season for a break, limiting your choices.

Seasons in Cairns

Located as it is in the tropical North, Cairns has a beautiful tropical climate.  As with other tropical places, the weather in Cairns, Australia, is variable.  Cairns have two distinct seasons: wet and dry, but the winter temperatures are mild enough to swim nearly all year round.

Dry Season in Cairns

The dry season begins in April and lasts until October.  There’s hardly any rainfall, but there may be light and brief showers.  The average temperature ranges from 17.5 °C to 26 °C.

The pleasant weather and clear skies make the dry season ideal for water sports and other outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Daintree Rainforest.  However, this season is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit Cairns.

The dry season is also the best time to visit places like Cape Tribulation.  You can read about our Cape Tribulation Road Trip here.

Wet Season in Cairns

The weather warms up as October ends, marking the start of the wet season, which lasts from November to March.  The air becomes more humid, and rains fall more frequently.  January is the hottest month, while February is the wettest.

You should be flexible with your plans if you visit Cairns this time of the year.  Prices are cheaper during the rainy months, and the vegetation is at its lushest, resulting in the locals calling it the green season.  The downside is the weather is unpredictable, and the temperatures are oppressively high.

Cairns summer is also wet season.  Remember – Cairns’ climate is considered “tropical monsoon”!  The wet season begins around December and lasts through March, with most of the region’s annual rainfall – over 2000mm (78.7 inches)! – occurring during these months.  This can cause flooding of the Mulgrave and Barron Rivers, which sometimes affects road and rail transportation.  That would be a problem for those planning Cairns holidays during this time.

Stinger Season in Cairns

Between November and May, deadly Irukandji and box jellyfish, also known as stringers, appear along the Far North Queensland coastline to breed.  Though harmless-looking, they can be fatal to humans due to their venom.  During the stringer season, local beaches set up enclosures bordered by swimming nets to protect bathers.  If you’re going for a swim, stay within the safe areas and wear a protective stringer suit.

Thankfully, those diving or snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef would probably not encounter these jellyfish as they are more common in shallow water.  However,  ask your tour operators and locals for their opinion, they would know better than us!

Cairns by Month: Discover the Best Time to Visit Cairns

The weather can dramatically affect your vacation in Cairns, so you must choose the right time to visit.  Here’s a breakdown of the climate each month and a list of family-friendly events to watch out for.

January in Cairns

January is in the wet season and is the hottest month of the year, with temperatures reaching 32°C .  Rain is 4.31 inches, but tends to fall in the late afternoon and overnight, so you usually still get about 13 hours of sunshine.

Bring a rain jacket, a dry bag, and insect repellent when you explore the outdoors.

Australia Day : Locals celebrate the founding of the first European settlement in Australia on January 26 with outdoor concerts, parades, community barbeques, and fireworks.  You’ll find live music and food stalls on the Esplanade in the city center.

February in Cairns

February is the wettest month in the Cairns region, with an average rainfall of 6.76 inches.  The daytime temperatures range between 23°C to 31 °C, while the nights are slightly cooler.  Tropical cyclones and flooding occasionally occur during this month.

Some businesses, hotels, and restaurants close for a break in February.  You can still go to the reefs, beaches, and rainforests surrounding Cairns, but be aware that trips may get canceled and the roads shut due to bad weather.

March in Cairns

March marks the start of autumn in Cairns, and the temperatures drop slightly but still range between 23°C to 31 °C .  This month isn’t as wet as February, though it gets about 4.5 inches of rain.  You can visit the Great Barrier Reef if the weather permits.

March is the best time to visit the Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway .

April in Cairns

The dry season begins in April, but you may still experience sporadic rain showers.  Temperatures hover between 22°C to 29 °C , and most days are sunny with bright, clear skies.  As April is part of the shoulder season, hotel rates remain low, domestic flights cheap, and tourist crowds few.

However, if Easter falls in April, crowd levels may spike up as families arrive to enjoy the long weekend and school break.  Easter is one of the most popular times for a holiday, all around Australia.  Still, the month is relatively quieter compared to the peak season.

May in Cairns

By May, the temperatures have dropped to between 20°C and 28°C.  The end of the month is a great time to visit the reefs before the crowds arrive.  The average water temperature is around 26ºC, visibility is good, and the stringer season is over.

Cairns weather is a gamble during shoulder season, though, which in our case, didn’t pay off as we had cloudy weather and rain on a few days.  So think about how important good weather will be for the activities (like snorkeling) you plan to do when planning your Cairns family vacation.

May is the perfect time to visit nearby places such as Port Douglas .  We did a 7-day Cairns Itinerary followed by a 7 day Port Douglas Itinerary in May.  We did get some cooler and wet weather, but that was just our experience and we still had a great holiday.

The Great Barrier Reef Masters Games :  The four-day event gathers local and international athletes to compete in 20 team and individual sports, including judo, swimming, football, rugby, archery, beach volleyball, track and field, cycling, and golf.  This year’s games happen on May 25 to 28.

June in Cairns

Winter arrives in June, and temperatures range between 18°Cto 27°C .  You get about 11 hours of daylight with hardly any rain.

Nights can get cold, and you may need a sweater to keep warm.  The average water temperature in June is 24.5°C (76.1°F), making it ideal for water-sports, snorkeling, or diving on the reefs.

Cairns EcoFiesta : Held at the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest.  This environmental festival is full of live music, locally-sourced food, workshops, and green-tech expos.

July in Cairns

Nights are cold, even chilly, and require warm clothing.  July has the lowest daytime temperatures, ranging between 17°C to 26°C.  Water temperature is at 22°C , rainfall is at 0.57 inches, and daylight lasts 11 hours.

In July, crowds flock to Cairns to see the Great Barrier Reef and the other attractions.  It is also the start of the Humpback Whale season (July to September).  On a Coral Sea cruise, you will likely spot these gigantic creatures in their natural habitat.

The Cairns Show: This three-day festival celebrates the region’s agricultural, pastoral, mining, and cultural industries.  There’ll be arts and crafts competitions, pole climbing, entertainment, fireworks, food expos, and more.

August in Cairns

Winter is coming to an end, making August a tad warmer than July, with temperatures hovering between 17°C to 27°C .  Cruises, tours, and water-sports are in full swing as tourists enjoy the pleasantly balmy 24.44°C sea temperature.  If you plan to visit Fitzroy Island , August is the best time to visit.  However, we visited in May and still had a great time.  I highly recommend that you stay overnight.  You can read our Fitzroy Island Resort Review here .

Cairns Festival : Traditionally held at the end of August until the start of September, the 10-day festival celebrates art, culture, and the joys of living in tropical North Queensland.  Its highlights include the Grand Parade, fireworks, concerts, and family-friendly activities.

Great Pyramid Race : This annual sports event is a trail and mountain race to the summit of Walsh’s Pyramid in Gordonville, a town near Cairns.  Apart from the 12-km competition, it has a 1,800-meter junior race for participants 10 years and up and a Fun Run for all ages.

September in Cairns

The warm weather, long sunny days, and calm waters make September the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef.  Spring has begun, temperatures ranging from 19°C to 28°C, humidity is still 67%, and average rain is 0.31 inches.

September is also fantastic for exploring wildlife attractions such as whale watching and crocodile spotting.

October in Cairns

Like September, October is quiet and less crowded.  Still, it has some of the loveliest temperatures, 21°C to 30°C , for exploring Cairns, particularly the reefs.

The stinger season is still a month away, and sea waters are calm and delightfully warm.  Best of all, prices are low.

Babinda Harvest Festival : Founded in September 1962, the festival celebrates a bountiful harvest.  It features a pageant, a parade, market stalls, kids’ entertainment, live music, an expo of local arts, and more.

November in Cairns

November is the start of the wet season and the stinger season.  Temperatures start to climb up to 31°C (87°F), and though not much rain falls, you may experience sudden thunderstorms in the afternoon.  Reef tours continue to run except during terrible wind and weather conditions.

Understory Film Festival : The event is a short film competition for local students and independent filmmakers in North Queensland.  It culminates with an open-air screening and awarding ceremony.

December in Cairns

December brings heavy rains and hot, humid days.  Temperatures rise to 32°C , and rainfall becomes more frequent.  You can still enjoy the beach, though trips to the reefs may get canceled due to bad weather.

Carols in the Park:  Held every December, this festive event features a live production by the Cairns Performing Arts Center.  You can have a picnic on the show grounds while enjoying the performances.

The School Holidays in Cairns

School holidays are perfect for visiting Cairns with kids.  Here’s a list of Queensland schools and public holidays .

Best Time to Visit Cairns FAQs

What is the best month to visit Cairns?

The shoulder season, April and May or September and October, is the best time to visit Cairns.  The weather is comfortably warm, the sea is calm, the tourist crowd is low, and prices are usually affordable.

What is the water temperature in Cairns?

The water temperature in Cairns varies depending on the season: 23°C in winter, 26°C in spring, 29°C in summer, and 27°C in the autumn.  The average yearly sea temperature is 26°C.

When is the cyclone season in Cairns?

The cyclone season is from December to April, with February and March receiving the most cyclones, some bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and flash flooding.  Many storms will form in Far North Queensland, though few make landfall.

What is the humidity in Cairns?

Cairns’ average annual humidity percentage is 63%.  March is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 74% to 81%.  September is the least humid month, with 55.0%.

Is it OK to visit Cairns in December?

You can visit Cairns in December, but it’s one of the hottest months and is often rainy.  If you plan to go to the reefs, there are better times to have your vacation than in December.  Some tours may get canceled due to bad weather.  Just be flexible with your plans, and you’ll be fine.

What are the hottest months in Cairns?

The hottest months in Cairns are January, February, and December.  Temperatures peak in January at 27.5°C with very high humidity!

What is the rainy season in Cairns?

The rainy season in Cairns is from November to March.  February is the wettest month, with 6.76 inches of rain.  Cairns has an average annual rainfall of 78.4 inches on an average of 154 days.  Locals often refer to the rainy season as the green season because the region’s lush vegetation is at its most verdant.

What is the best time to go to the Great Barrier Reef?

The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is from May to October.  During these months, the water is comfortably warm for swimming, rainfall is minimal, and underwater visibility is high.

The Verdict – Best Time to Visit Cairns

Cairns teems with iconic natural wonders, but to fully enjoy your vacation, you should carefully consider when to visit.  The dry season has fantastic weather conditions for exploring the reefs and the rainforests, but it can get crowded and pricey.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly hotels, cheap flights, and great deals – and don’t mind some rain – the shoulder season is your best option.

Now you have decided when to visit Cairns, you can view all our tips and advice on visiting Cairns Below:

Things to do in Cairns

Where to Stay in Cairns

The Best Day Trips from Cairns

Mossman Gorge Walks

The Best Snorkeling Sets for Kids

15 Things to do at Fitzroy Island Australia with Kids + Essential Info

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Cairns, Queensland

Guide to Cairns

Aboriginal name:  Gimuy (pronounced Gee-moy)

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• Getting to Cairns
• When to visit
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The gateway to Queensland's tropical north, Cairns is a laid-back city best enjoyed outdoors.

The region of Cairns is home to the iconic Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest, but the city of Cairns itself is also a must-visit. You'll find brilliant cafés, bustling markets and plenty of beaches nearby. Relax by a resort pool or spend your days exploring this tropical oasis.

The Gimuy-walubarra yidi are the Traditional Owners of Cairns and the surrounding district.

Today, Dreamtime stories are still woven through both land and sea experiences throughout Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef . 

• Traditional name: Gimuy (pronounced Gee-moy)
• Indigenous Peoples: Gimuy-walubarra yidi 
• Traditional languages: Yidiny language 

Cairns Airport (CNS) is the main gateway to Tropical North Queensland making this the perfect starting point for your tropical holiday. 

• Cairns Airport (CNS) is 5.5km (3.5mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
• Car hire, taxis, rideshares and transfer services are available to book prior to your arrival, or on the day

The city centre is fairly flat, so getting around is easy, even on foot. However, Cairns offers a wide range of transport options, including a network of buses and taxi services. Unless you are joining an organised tour, car hire is recommended for reaching nearby attractions such as the Daintree Rainforest.

Cairns' weather  is one of the best things about this stunning tropical destination, and there are benefits to visiting any time of the year. Different to Australia’s southern regions, Queensland's north has only two seasons: a summer season and a dry season. While the dry season boasts great weather and even migrating whales, you should expect larger crowds. The summer season is characterised by tropical weather, including summer showers.

• High season: Dry season (May to October)
• Low season: Summer season (November to April)
• Don’t miss:  Taking a dip with dwarf minke whales  (June and July)

Cairns is the perfect hub for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, and you’ll find accessible options for accommodation  and attractions . 

• Arrival: Special assistance is offered at Cairns International Airport for those with visible or hidden disabilities . 
• Getting around: You can organise for a qualified carer to accompany you as a tour companion with Out There Travel Care , and wheelchair-accessible vehicle hire is available with Wheelies Van Rental .
• Accessible experience highlights: Sail atop the Great Barrier Reef on a Reef Magic catamaran and explore the Daintree Rainforest on wheelchair-friendly trails through Mossman Gorge .
• Helpful resources: Find itineraries and inspiration for your trip with this accessible travel guide .

Best restaurants in Cairns

Best restaurants

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Top coffee shops

Discover cairns.

Where to stay

Weather in Cairns

Places near Cairns

The Daintree Rainforest

The Great Barrier Reef

Trips and itineraries.

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The ultimate trip to Australia

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Best Time to Visit Cairns

When to Visit the Great Barrier Reef

Weather & Climate

Best Hotels in Cairns

Day Trips From Cairns

Great Barrier Reef Tours

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

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Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef: Planning Your T...

Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef: Planning Your Trip

The city of Cairns in Far North Queensland is one of the world's most incredible destinations for adventure travelers and nature lovers. With the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest on its doorstep, this tropical paradise is surrounded by gorgeous waterfalls, beaches, islands, and mountains.

On top of all these outdoorsy activities, Cairns is home to award-winning restaurants, quirky museums and oceanfront resorts. If the Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list, this guide will help you decide when to visit, what to see and do, what to eat and where to stay during your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit:  The  best time to visit Cairns  is between June and October. This is the period when the dry season overlaps with the absence of marine stingers, though prices and crowd levels are higher. However, if you take a chance on visiting during the wet season, you'll be able to see the Daintree Rainforest at its most beautiful.
• Language:  Australia has no official language, but English is spoken almost everywhere. Some Cairns residents also speak another language, like Korean, Mandarin, or Japanese. The traditional owners of the Cairns region speak Djabugay and Yidiny.
• Currency:  The Australian dollar is the national currency.
• Getting Around:  Cairns has a network of bus routes that cover the city and are especially useful for visiting the northern beaches. You can buy tickets onboard with cash.
• Travel Tip:  The climate in Cairns is very different from southern Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Make sure to research the weather before you go and pack comfortable clothes for the humid conditions.

Things to Do

Discovering the natural wonders of Far North Queensland is a priority for most visitors to Cairns, but there's plenty more to see and do. From soaking up the sun on the city's gorgeous beaches to checking out museums and eating incredible food, this little gem punches well above its weight.

• Snorkel or dive on the Great Barrier Reef . There are dozens of ways to experience the world's largest coral reef, depending on the time you have available, your interests and your budget. A day trip to Green Island is a great option for beginners, while honeymooners and luxury travelers may opt for a stay on one of the region's tropical islands .
• Explore the Daintree Rainforest. Cairns is world-famous as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, but did you know it boasts a second UNESCO World Heritage natural site  ? This ancient rainforest is divided into two sections, Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation . Start your adventure at the Daintree Discovery Centre .
• Get to know the Atherton Tablelands, the food bowl of Far North Queensland. The town of Kuranda is a great place to begin, thanks to the scenic railway and cablecar that connect it with Cairns. If you have your own transport, you can get off the beaten track at  Millstream Falls , the  Undara Lava Tubes , the  Chillagoe-Mungana Caves , or the  Misty Mountains wilderness trails .

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the top things to do in Cairns , best beaches , the best day trips and the best museums .

What to Eat and Drink

With its tropical weather and long agricultural history, Cairns is home to an impressive and often surprising dining scene. Global influences from Bali to France mix with a local coffee obsession to produce dozens of cafes and restaurants well worth a visit.

As a popular backpacker destination, Cairns has long been known for laid-back pubs and hostel bars, which are often crowded with young people partying into the early hours of the morning. In recent years, a crop of sophisticated cocktail bars and excellent gastropubs has also developed, meaning this city has something to offer every kind of traveler.

Check out our complete guides to which foods to try, the best restaurants and the best bars for all the details.

Where to Stay

Cairns is a sprawling city nestled in between a mountain range and the coast, with accommodation options ranging from five-star resorts to affordable Airbnbs. With a population of just over 160,000  , Cairns has just two main options for visitors to choose between when deciding where to stay.

If you're looking for a beach vacation, you'll likely end up in one of the upmarket enclaves north of Cairns, like Palm Cove or Port Douglas. As mentioned above, there are also some incredible accommodation options on the islands that are dotted throughout the Great Barrier Reef.

On the other hand, if you'd rather be close to all the action, the city center has restaurants, museums, the lagoon and a pretty esplanade all within walking distance. Almost all reef tours and cruises leave from the Cairns Marina in the heart of town. Here, you'll find cozy bed-and-breakfasts, international hotel chains, and backpacker hostels spread across a couple of blocks.

Check out our recommendations for the best hotels in Cairns in this full-length guide.

Getting There

Unless you're planning on driving the 1,400 miles up the coast from Sydney, you'll arrive to Cairns via Cairns Airport (CNS). The airport is a 10-minute drive north of the city and offers connections to all Australian capital cities (except Hobart), as well as Bali, Singapore, Shenzhen, Osaka, Tokyo, Port Moresby, and Auckland. There are also long-haul bus companies that connect Cairns with cities further south.

A one-way taxi or ride-share trip from the airport to the city center will cost between AU$25 to $30. Some shuttle services are also available to nearby hotels. Renting a car can be an affordable and easy way to travel further around Queensland.

Culture and Customs

Cairns is located on the traditional lands of the Bama Aboriginal rainforest people  . British colonization began around the 1860s, with Cairns developing rapidly as a tourist and agricultural hub from the mid-1900s. Today, the area is a safe and welcoming place to visit, with tourism making up just under 10 percent   of the regional Queensland economy.

Tipping in Australia  is completely voluntary. If you would like to tip for excellent service at a restaurant or hotel, feel free—about 10 percent is standard. Servers and other hospitality workers receive a relatively high minimum wage in Australia, so tipping is appreciated but not essential.

Money Saving Tips

Due to its geographic isolation, Cairns is one of the most expensive cities in Australia to visit. You will likely need to pay for at least one tour (to visit the Great Barrier Reef) , on top of already pricey food and accommodation. However, there are a couple of easy ways to manage your budget while visiting Far North Queensland.

• Eating out is a significant expense in Cairns. The Woolworths supermarket in the city center is conveniently located with snacks, sandwiches, drinks and even ready-to-eat meals for sale. There are also free BBQs and picnic areas along the Esplanade that anyone can use.
• As the final stop for many road-trippers, Cairns is a great place to pick up cars or camper vans that need to be relocated back south at a discount price. Contact local rental agencies directly for up-to-date information.
• Entry to both the  Cairns Art Gallery and the Cairns Botanic Gardens is free. There are also often free activities happening at the Esplanade.

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.  "Wet Tropics of Queensland."

Cairns Regional Council.  "Facts, Figures, & History."

Cairns Regional Council.  "First Peoples' Information."  

Tourism and Events Queensland.  "Regional Tourism Satellite Accounts 2017-18: Tropical North Queensland Key Facts."  

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When To Visit Cairns

When is the best time to visit Cairns?  Each season offers something different, so it depends on what you're looking for. That said, Cairns has a tropical climate and plenty of unique attractions that are amazing year-round, so you can visit this warm, inviting city any time!

Whether you're looking to go scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef , swim in waterfalls in the rainforest , or have immersive cultural experiences , Cairns has it all. You can enjoy all of the best activities in Cairns no matter what month you visit, but weather, crowds, prices, and wildlife do vary throughout the year. Our local travel experts are here to guide you through the different seasons so you know when to visit Cairns !

When To Visit Cairns: A Breakdown Of Each Season

There is truly no bad time to visit Cairns, but there are distinct seasons in Australia's Tropical North that may influence your time there.  We're going to break down the different seasons in Cairns so you can decide for yourself when to visit. Due to its tropical climate, the weather is pleasant and warm year-round and the wildlife is always thriving. So you can visit Cairns at any time of year, but it's still handy to know the differences between various seasons up in Cairns. 

• Months: November to March
• Wettest month: February

Being a tropical destination, Cairns has two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season runs from November to March, and during this time you'll see increased rainfall and humidity. The rainy season also coincides with summer in Australia, so you'll find hotter temperatures during this time as well. February tends to be the rainiest month. 

The wet season is a great time to visit the rainforest areas around Cairns, such as the Daintree Rainforest and the Atherton Tablelands . All the waterfalls will be extra powerful and the vegetation will be lush and green. Besides, wet season doesn't mean it will rain all day every day. You can still have some sunny days, and often it only rains in the afternoon so you can still enjoy clear mornings full of adventure. 

• Months:  April to October
• Driest month: August

The dry season in Cairns begins in April and continues until October. Temperatures will drop a little, but it will still be warm throughout winter in Cairns. You'll probably only need a light jumper! With the cooler temperatures comes decreased rainfall and humidity. Thanks to the warm, dry, sunny, and pleasant weather throughout winter, the dry season is the best time to visit Cairns for outdoor activities. 

Water activities such as sailing , scuba diving , and snorkelling are preferred during the dry season! You can do these things year-round in Cairns, but the drier weather means clearer water and increased visibility for diving and snorkelling. And the lack of rain means better sailing weather as well. For those that don't like the heat , the temperatures are more mild during the dry season as well. 

Check out our top Cairns day trips!

Stinger Season

• Months: November to May

Stinger season is an unfortunate and inescapable part of visiting Tropical North Queensland, but Australians have figured out how to live with it! From November to May every year, the ocean around Australia's tropics becomes populated with marine stingers, also known as jellyfish. Common species include Box Jellyfish and Irukandji, both of which have venom that can harm humans if stung. 

But never fear! You can still enjoy the ocean around Cairns during the Stinger Season, you just have to take extra precautions. These jellyfish species are tiny and you can protect your skin by wearing a full-body lycra stinger suit. All snorkelling and diving tours will provide these so you can explore the reef safely. Just be sure to avoid swimming in the ocean off the coast without a stinger suit. Some beaches in the area also set up stinger nets that will keep stingers out of a designated swimming area. Plus, Cairns has lots of freshwater swimming locations and the popular Esplanade Lagoon where you can escape the heat during Stinger Season. 

Whale Season

• Months: May to September

One of the best times to visit Cairns is whale season ! If you're a fan of whales, you can see these majestic giants frolicking around the Cairns oceans between May and September. Every year, thousands of whales leave the cold, nutrient-rich waters of Antarctica around May so they can migrate north. They all head for the warm, calm, tropical waters of Queensland so they can mate, give birth, and raise their young. 

June and July are the best months to spot Dwarf Minke whales around Cairns. You can even book a Great Barrier Reef liveaboard that specialises in spotting Minke whales! July and August are the best months to see Humpback whales near Cairns. Book any boat tour during these months and there is a chance you'll see these incredible creatures out at sea!

Peak Travel Season

• Months: April to October
• Busiest times: School holidays, public holidays

Peak travel season in Cairns tends to coincide with dry season when the weather is the most pleasant. So with better weather comes more crowds and often higher prices for flights , tours , and accommodations . If you plan to visit Cairns during peak travel season, make sure you book everything well in advance to ensure nothing sells out!

Within the busier months of April to October, certain periods are particularly busy in Cairns. These are school holidays and public holidays! Though Cairns is a bit busier and pricier during these times, it's still a wonderful and convenient time to holiday here if you have a family or you can't get time off otherwise. Here are some peak travel times to look out for when visiting Cairns:

• Cairns Festival:  End of August - early September
• School holidays: First two weeks of April, end of June/early July, last two weeks of September and all of December/early January
• Busiest public holidays in Cairns: Christmas, New Years, Easter

• Months:  November to March
• Quietest times:  January and February

Off season in Cairns coincides with the rainy season. Because the weather isn't as nice, tourism drops. But this is the perfect time to visit Cairns if you're looking to save money and escape the crowds ! You can score super cheap flights to Cairns during off season, particularly during January and February. Tours and accommodations are often cheaper at this time as well due to the lack of demand. 

So if you're looking to travel on a budget , off season is the best time to visit Cairns! Not only will your trip be more affordable, but you can enjoy a less crowded city with quieter attractions . Again, there can still be nice, sunny days during the wet season so you shouldn't have to sacrifice too much exploring time if you visit Cairns during off season. 

Shoulder Season

• Months:  April, May, September, October

Many would argue that the transition months between wet and dry season are the best months to visit Cairns (April/May or September/October).  Nestled right in the middle of the changing weather patterns, these months are considered shoulder season. During April and May, it's the autumn season so the weather is starting to get cooler and drier. But you don't have the rush of crowds that June and July bring!

The same goes for September and October. These months are spring in Cairns, so the weather is starting to get warmer but the heavy summer rains haven't started yet. Shoulder seasons allow you to get the best of the weather without any of the increased prices or crowds!

What Is The Best Month To Visit Cairns?

The best months to visit Cairns are April, May, September, or October during the shoulder season. But it really depends on what you're looking for in your holiday! If you want to travel Cairns on a budget , off season is the best time to visit. This is when prices for tours, accommodations, and flights are at their cheapest. But if your main priority is good weather, then visit during the dry season. 

If you want to visit Cairns on a family getaway , then school holidays might be your only free chance to go. Plus there is a lot of buzz in the city during holidays, so that can be an exciting time to explore Cairns . Or if you're interested in seeing whales, whale season is a magical time to visit. The main takeaway here is that there is no bad time to visit Cairns! Each season has its own specialties, and Cairns is honestly stunning year-round. 

If you still need more guidance about when to visit Cairns, live chat with our travel experts !

We are based in cairns and know the area inside and out. we can also recommend our favorite tours and activities for your visit, related articles....

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The Best Time to Visit Cairns in North Queensland

Located in North Tropical Queensland in Northern Australia, Cairns is considered the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and is close to the incredible Daintree National Park. Even though traveling to this area during any month is magical, the ultimate best time of year to visit Cairns is in the shoulder seasons like April, May, September and October.

I traveled to Cairns in early April 2023 to explore the Great Barrier Reef. At first, I didn’t realize how many fun things there are in Cairns, Australia, from snorkeling to hiking and dining to relaxation.

Overall, Cairns is a laidback city to which adventurers from all over Australia flock. In this article, learn more about why the shoulder months are the best time to visit Cairns in Australia’s Queensland state.

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like. While in Cairns,  Pullman Cairns International  hosted me for two nights. Tinggly also hosted me on a Great Barrier Reef excursion.

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Cairns Travel Tips:

Traveling to Cairns within Australia can easily be done by taking an affordable flight through Jetstar . Generally, domestic flights are much cheaper in Australia than in the United States.

If you travel to Cairns from an international destination, you’ll most likely have to fly into one of the big Australian cities first, like Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne. You can find great flight deals through Skyscanner .

I visited Cairns from Sydney, which is around a three-hour flight. I flew from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport to Cairns Airport and took Ubers from there. Renting a car is best if you plan to explore more off-the-grid locations from Cairns. (Please note that all Australian vehicles and road rules are opposite to the USA.)

Another popular way to visit Cairns, Australia is through the Greyhound bus. I took the bus from Cairns to Townsville and had an enjoyable experience. The seats are comfortable, there are USB charging ports, the drivers are friendly and there are also bathroom and snack stops along the way.

*Please note that you will need a visa to travel to Australia from the USA. I recommend doing this at least a month before your trip, just in case of mishaps. The tourist visa is valid for 90 days, which is around three months and can be used anytime for up to a year.

It’s easy to apply for an Australian Visa! You must download the Australian ETA app and fill out the application. Visa processing usually takes around 24 hours, but I got mine within 10 minutes.

You can apply for a working, study, family, etc. visa if you plan to stay in Australia longer. Learn more about the different Australian visa options .

Where to Stay in Cairns, Australia:

After a fun day of exploration and adventure, the best luxury hotel to relax at is Pullman Cairns International . It’s located a block from the wharf and near the cruise ship terminal, where you can easily take a boat tour to the Great Barrier Reef.

This five-star hotel is part of Accor . It is stunning and showcases the grandeur of the city’s history. There is a 24-hour reception, incredible dining, a beautiful pool area with hot tubs, a day spa, a fitness center and more.

Staying at Pullman Cairns International :

While at Pullman Cairns , I stayed in the Rejuvenated Superior Room City Mountain View . It was a beautiful and spacious room with much natural light, a comfortable bed, an ensuite bathroom, and a balcony overlooking the city, nearby mountains and the hotel’s pool.

The other rooms and suites you can book at Pullman Cairns are the Rejuvenated Deluxe Room Harbour View , Rejuvenated Grand Superior City Mountain Twin , Classic City Mountain View Room , Classic Harbour View Room , Classic Executive Suite and Presidential Suite .

A stay at Pullman Cairns International would not be complete without relaxing poolside. The pool at this luxury hotel is beautiful and there are a few hot tubs to enjoy around it.

While relaxing outside, you must grab a refreshing cocktail at the hotel’s bar or enjoy the poolside service. On certain days, you can also jam out to live music.

Dining at Pullman Cairns :

What makes Pullman Cairns International the best hotel to stay at in this Northern Australian city is that it offers terrific dining options. Coco’s Kitchen & Bar is a continental restaurant presenting high-quality ingredients.

I enjoyed a lovely dinner here on my first night in Cairns and everything was delicious. I savored the scallop ceviche for an appetizer that came with ribbon cucumber, beetroot, lime, passion fruit get and coriander. For my main dish, I got the fish of the day, which was salmon with an Asian noodle salad and had the chocolate mousse for dessert. I enjoyed everything with a red wine.

During a stay at the Pullman , you must also enjoy an afternoon high-tea experience as well as an incredible buffet breakfast in the morning.

Best Time to Visit Cairns: Experience the Best of Cairns

Deciding the best month to visit Cairns depends on the season. Since Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are opposite those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Because the summer months are December through February in Australia, November through March is considered the wet season for Cairns. During this time, the area experiences many tropical storms, tropical monsoons and tropical cyclones. Cairns’ dry season runs from April to October.

Even though Australia’s summer is when the country experiences the most international tourism, the winter months are the peak tourist season for Aussies to flock to Cairns. That is because you can experience the best weather conditions, like warm temperatures and low humidity levels, compared to the rest of the country during winter.

Best Weather in Cairns:

The shoulder season is the best time to visit Cairns because you can enjoy the top outdoor activities in warm weather without encountering heavy crowds.

Based on my own experience, April is the best month to travel to Cairns, Australia. You can enjoy average temperatures from the mid 80s°F to lower 70s°F. Because Northern Queensland has a tropical climate year-round, this city has an estimated 13 days of precipitation.

As I mentioned earlier, Cairns’ weather is dry during the winter, so you’ll be able to enjoy an average of less than 10 rainy days during June, July, August, September and October.

The hottest months in far North Queensland are from November through March, with daytime temperatures in the upper 80s°F. The winter season boasts more comfortable weather, with average high temperatures in the upper 70s°F to lower 80s°F.

No matter what time of the year you choose to visit Cairns, it’s always best to pack for dry and wet conditions.

Best Things to Do in Cairns, Australia:

Explore the Great Barrier Reef:

You cannot visit Cairns and not tour the Great Barrier Reef! It’s recognized as one of the top natural landmarks of Australia. A fun fact is that you can see the Great Barrier Reef from outer space!

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, with over 2,900 individual reefs, 900 islands and 300 coral cays. It is over 133,000 square miles and stretches 1,429 miles from Cape York Peninsula in Northern Queensland to Bundaberg in the southern part of the state. The Great Barrier Reef is approximately the same size as the United Kingdom.

The depth of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia ranges from 22 miles to 1,243 miles. It’s also the planet’s largest natural structure made by living organisms.

During my experience at the Great Barrier Reef, I did a full-day tour with Tinggly . Overall, Tinggly is the perfect gift for yourself, a friend, a loved one, a family member, etc. There are over 1,000 different experiences for you to choose from!

It’s no secret that seeing the Great Barrier Reef during my Australia trip was a bucket list goal, so I was excited to see it from Cairns.

Overall, I had a blast experiencing the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns. I met many incredible people worldwide, saw epic sea life, enjoyed breathtaking views, savored fresh fish with local beer during an onboard BBQ and experienced good weather with clear blue skies. It was similar to my trip to Belize when I snorkeled the Belize Barrier Reef.

During my tour, I boarded a superyacht from the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns and visited two incredible Great Barrier Reef locations. During this excursion, I saw everything from parrotfish to butterfly fish and angelfish to giant grouper. Click here to learn more about the wildlife in the Great Barrier Reef.

Other ways to explore the Great Barrier are through sailing experiences , helicopter rides , skydiving and more.

The best time to visit Cairns for snorkeling and to see the Great Barrier Reef is anytime during the year. November through April is when the ocean clarity is the best for water activities and sea temperatures are warm.

However, this falls during stinger season, so your tour group will either take you to an enclosed area to snorkel or dive or you’ll have to wear a proper wet suit. As impressive as the Great Barrier Reef is, it’s also home to the deadly box jellyfish.

The clarity may not be the best from May through October, but you’re less likely to experience rainy days, water temperatures are still warm and you don’t have to worry about marine stingers.

Another reason the time of the year doesn’t matter too much for visiting Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef is that you will surely see amazing sea life! November and December are when turtle nesting is happening, January through March is turtle hatching season, June and July are when you’ll see dwarf minke whales, August through October is when you can spot humpback whales, October and November is coral spawning months and the wintertime is when you’ll come across manta rays.

Australia has managed tourism to the Great Barrier Reef well. Unfortunately, climate change has the most significant impact on this natural landmark! Warm ocean temperatures, pollution and tourism have caused coral bleaching in over 50% of the reefs.

When you visit the Great Barrier Reef, avoid touching the reef, coral and marine animals; wear reef-protecting sunscreen ; don’t pollute and book your tour through a sustainable company.

Adventure through the Daintree Rainforest:

Another reason why April is the best time to visit Cairns is because that’s when the wet season ends and you can easily visit the Daintree Rainforest .

This incredible rainforest is the oldest in the world, even over the Amazon! The Daintree Rainforest is 120,000 hectares and is home to over 30,000 species of plants and animals.

Visiting the Daintree Rainforest during Australia’s summer months isn’t an ideal time because the area is known to get heavy rains, flash floods and cyclones, making it difficult for hiking adventures and other outdoor activities. Starting in April through October, you’re less likely to experience stormy weather, making it the best time to visit this breathtaking National Park .

Overall, the Daintree Rainforest has the highest concentration of preserved plant life in the world, boasts over 900 tree species and has a rich Indigenous culture. The animals that you can find in the Daintree Rainforest are kangaroos, bats, platypuses, frogs, crocodiles, snakes, lizards, as well as various bird species and insects.

The best way to explore one of the world’s best tropical rainforests is to rent a car from Cairns for the day. You can also do an organized day trip through GetYourGuide !

A scenic drive that everyone can enjoy is the Great Barrier Reef Drive. It starts in Cairns and goes to Cape Tribulation. During this journey, stop at the Rex Lookout for incredible views!

From there, go to the Mossman Gorge Walk, which offers beautiful rainforest trails, stunning waterfalls, and wildlife all around. The suspension bridge is like what you’d see in Costa Rica !

Other beautiful trails to enjoy in the Daintree are the Kulki Boardwalk , which leads to one of the most breathtaking Cape Tribulation lookouts; Jindalba Boardwalk , which offers you an opportunity to see incredible plantlife; Madja Boardwalk , which is a stunning walkway that directs you to Oliver Creek where you can potentially see crocodiles; and the Dubuji Boardwalk , which guides you to the picturesque Myall Beach in Cape Tribulation.

You must also go on a crocodile tour , enjoy a refreshing swim in Mason’s Swimming Hole, conquer a hike like the Mt. Sorrow Ridge Walk , see incredible waterfalls like Cassowary Falls and Spring Creek Falls and treat yourself to delicious ice cream at The Daintree Ice Company .

Additionally, explore the coastal town of Port Douglas from the Daintree. While in Port Douglas, relax at the Four Mile Beach, see the postcard-worthy St. Mary’s by the Sea chapel, visit the Ngarru Gallery , enjoy a drink at Devils Thumb Distillery and make your way through the markets.

Visit Cairns Best Restaurants:

In addition to all the fun adventures, Cairns has a great dining scene. From incredible seafood restaurants to awesome breweries, below are the best places to eat and drink in Cairns, Queensland:

Bellocale : My favorite restaurant in Cairns is Bellocale , an Italian and seafood restaurant in the heart of the downtown area. Not only did this spot have cozy vibes, but the food was incredible. I got the seafood linguine with a pistachio crème brûlée for dessert.

Tamarind : Located in The Reef Hotel Casino is Tamarind , which is a fine-dining Asian fusion restaurant. You can savor fresh fish, steak, curry dishes, renowned wines and craft cocktails at this lovely spot.

Salt House : Since Cairns is a coastal city, it’s a must to savor a delicious seafood dinner on the waterfront. Featuring an Argentinian wood-fired grill, local seafood and a fun bar, you will not be disappointed if you eat here while visiting North Queensland.

C’est Bon Restaurant Francais : If you want to get a taste of France in Australia, look no further than C’est Bon Restaurant Francais in the heart of Cairns. At this elegant restaurant, you can enjoy soup du jour, fresh fish and beef, along with incredible desserts.

Hemingway’s Brewery : Cairns has an incredible beer scene, so visiting a brew pub or doing a brewery tour is necessary. If you only have time to visit one brewery, I suggest heading to Hemingway’s , located on the wharf. You can relish different Australian craft beers, pizza, tacos, burgers and salads at this spot.

Stroll through Cairns Botanic Gardens :

If you don’t have time to visit the Daintree Rainforest, check out the Cairns Botanic Gardens . Located in the northern part of the city, Cairns Botanic Gardens prides itself on being a tropical paradise and a peaceful place for those to learn about the plants of Northern Queensland.

During your time at Cairns Botanic Gardens , you can explore the Aboriginal Plant Use Garden, see the Bamboo Collection, enjoy a picnic at the Freshwater Lake, experience the Gondwanan Heritage Garden, take a stroll on the Rainforest Boardwalk, admire the beauty of the Zhanjiang Friendship Garden; do a bird watching walking tour and more.

Relax at One of Cairns Beaches:

Another reason why April is the best time to visit Cairns is because you can relax at one of the many beautiful beaches. Cairns’ beaches offer powdery white sand, bright blue waters and incredible nature.

Below is a list of the best places to visit in Cairns:

• Kewarra Beach
• Holloways Beach
• Clifton Beach
• Trinity Beach
• Ellis Beach

If you’re not a beach person, you must relax and go for a swim at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon in the CBD (Certified Business District). It’s a year-round public swimming area that is free for all and no one has to worry about stingers.

There are lifeguards on duty at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon , as well as BBQ and picnic facilities. The Cairns Esplanade Lagoon also has aqua fitness classes and yoga on certain days.

Check out these other awesome articles:

5-Day Sydney, Australia Itinerary: First-Time Guide

8 Top Things to Do in Bondi Beach: Fun Travel Guide

14 Best Countries to Visit in August in the World

I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best things to do in Cairns, Queensland, Australia. If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected].

Basic Facts of Australia:

Currency: Australian Dollar, Capital: Canberra, Time Zone: Australia has five time zones – Australian Eastern Standard Time (New South Wales, except Broken Hill and Lord Howe Island, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland); Australian Central Standard Time (Broken Hill, Southern Australia and the Northern Territory); Australian Western Standard Time (Western Australia); Lord Howe Standard Time (Lord Howe Island) and Australian Central Western Standard Time.

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click here  to get insured for your next trip.

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Cairns, Australia looks so breathtaking. The beaches and the beautiful aqua waters, look so welcoming. The scuba dining water life, looks amazing in the great Barrier Reef. The hotel you stayed at looked so luxurious ~ looked like a perfect tropical vacation. I am adding this lovely city to my bucket list. Great blog ~ love you, mom 👩🏻 xoxo 🥰

The Great Barrier Reef was definitely a highlight!

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The Best Time to Visit Cairns, QL, Australia for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Cairns for ideal weather are

May 14th to September 30th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Cairns Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Cairns Travel Info

Weather in cairns.

Average temperatures in Cairns vary little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 35th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Cairns, the hottest months are January, December, and then February. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early December where highs are regularly around 89.8°F (32.1°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 73.5°F (23.1°C) at night.

Cairns Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Cairns temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Cairns Perceived Temperature (F)

Cairns perceived temperature (c), average cairns temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Cairns are August, September, and then July. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early to mid August. For example, on the week of August 6th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late January with an average of 4 days of significant precipitation the week of January 22nd.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Cairns.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Cairns (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Cairns has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is August (60.7% relative humidity), and the most humid month is February (75.8%).

Wind in Cairns is usually moderate . The windiest month is July, followed by May and April. July’s average wind speed of around 9.7 knots (11.1 MPH or 17.9 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid October where average top sustained speeds reach 17.9 knots, which is considered a fresh breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Cairns.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to cairns.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for Australia; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 30, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Cairns, QL, Australia is July, followed by September and May. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Cairns in December. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall cairns travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 87.9°F (31.1°C) and 81°F (27.2°C) with colder temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 7 to 14 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the least precipitation with 1 to 5 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Cairns, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 88.8°F (31.6°C) and 83.1°F (28.4°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 2 to 8 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Cairns to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 89.8°F (32.1°C) and 87.9°F (31.1°C). On average, it rains or snows a great amount: 8 to 14 times per month. These times of year are the slowest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Australia › Cairns, QL, Australia

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Best Time To Visit Cairns

This post may contain affiliate links.

The best time to visit Cairns is broadly considered to be Australia’s cooler months, thus avoiding the wet season, tropical cyclones, and stinger season. If you’d prefer to avoid these natural phenomena, you should visit between May and October, these are the months many people consider “ideal” for visiting Cairns. However, you can visit Cairns and have a good vacation or break at any time of year. Read our post to find out more on which months are best to visit Cairns Australia.

The best time to visit Cairns Australia is when you can visit. Never let the weather put you off too much, but should you choose summer or winter, wet season or dry and should you not visit in stinger season ? A lot depends on which of the things to do in Cairns and near Cairns interest you most.

Do you want to visit Cairns? Know the best time for visiting the Great Barrier Reef or to take a trip to the Daintree Rainforest? You can visit the Great Barrier Reef at any time of year with boats running daily, other than in very extreme weather events.

Would you like to see the humpback or minke whales or just enjoy the pool on the Esplanade or some of the tropical beaches near Cairns? We tell you what to expect in terms of weather, water conditions, and activities month by month in Cairns.

We’ll help you judge what the best time to visit Cairns is for you and the things you want to do

We have a tropical climate here in Cairns so temperatures don’t fluctuate greatly, but rainfall and humidity do.

The hottest, wettest time in Cairns is late spring and summer, November to April, after the monsoon. The wettest months are usually January to March and this is when Cairns is most likely to experience tropical storms or cyclones.

The cooler, dryer period in Cairns is Southern Hemisphere late autumn and winter, June to October. There are 2 main seasons, the dry and the wet, with ” the build-up” preceding the start of the wet.

There are many things to do in Cairns, some you can do in the rain, most run year-round, but some businesses and activities close for a while in the wet season. Really extreme weather will prevent most boats from running, but it’s not that common.

If you check out the things to do in Cairns , some of those will be best appreciated at certain times of the year. For instance Barron River Falls are spectacular after heavy rain and conditions on the reef can be great in September.

So figure out what you’d like to do in Far North Queensland and then see when the weather will allow it.

It is our opinion, as locals, that the ideal time is the shoulder seasons either side of stinger season and the wet season.

If you’re booking a budget trip[, visit Cairns in the wet season, prices can be lower, with special offers on hotels and tours. If you’re in luck, conditions on the reef could still be great.

Without doubt, visiting outside of the main tourist season can make your Queensland holiday cheaper .

There is also the risk of very bad days out there, so if you only have a day or two and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef is your goal, you could risk disappointment.

Best Time To Visit Cairns – Guide

Water temperature off cairns.

The best time for swimming in the Cairns region (including the Northern Beaches, Palm Cove and Port Douglas, we think, would probably be May or April to October or November and early December.

Be aware that in the winter months in Far North Queensland (northern hemisphere’s summer) it may be cooler, but you’re avoiding the marine stingers and downpours of a typical tropical summer.

Water temperatures are at their lowest, at around 23º C in July and generally highest in February at 29º C. A good storm can, and hopefully does, cool the sea temperature at that time of year. 30º C is enough to cause coral bleaching.

We give typical temperatures, rainfall and humidity levels in Cairns in this post, but these figures are a guideline only and you can never rule out an extreme weather event.

Cairns is not usually affected by major bush fires or flooding, thankfully, but Cairns can see tropical cyclones, but mayor storms are rare. You’re more likely to feel the effects of a major storm nearby, in heavy tropical downpours and spectacular clouds.

Humidity in Cairns

August is usually the driest month in Cairns and February the wettest. Humidity can be in the 80s in February, getting down to around 69% in September. If you’re not used to it, Cairns can feel pretty sticky, but this wet heat means the mercury doesn’t rise as high as in drier parts of Australia.

Cairns Weather Month by Month

January in cairns.

January in Cairns is hot, humid and we,t but you can still get some good days.

Expect temperatures between 32 and 26C in Cairns in Jan . It’s the middle of Sothern Hemisphere summer and The Wet Season is still doing its worst in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland.

In January February and March we will likely experience maximum rainfall at over 350 mm in an average month. This means the trip to Kuranda on the Skyrail, stopping at Barron River Falls, and returning by scenic train, will be spectacular, the river should be in full flood. Book this trip here, it’s one of the top tours in the whole of Australia. You can see a clip of the falls in flood in the video on this page.

Early January will still be quite busy in Cairns as the Australian Christmas (summer) school holidays are long. After Australia Day (26th January) things quieten down and some businesses will close for a wet-season break.

January 2024 in Cairns: The weather is beautiful in Cairns today, early January, and the flooding has receded. But this January things are a little different after the flooding and landslides caused by Cyclone Jasper at the end of December 2023.

I’m sitting in Cairns airport right now, so I can tell you Cairns Airport is open. The Smithfield Range Rd to Kuranda is also open and we had no delays on that route this morning around 8-9 am.

The coastal road from Cairns to Port Douglas is closed, as is the Daintree Rainforest north of the Daintree River. To get to Port Douglas you can either pick up a shuttle at the arrivals hall, which will take you to Port Douglas via Mareeba. It’s a bit more expensive than usual, $75 vs $50 usually.

Alternatively, a ferry service is running between Cairns and Port Douglas.

Your best option is probably to pick up a rental car and self-drive, do that here using this comparison tool. You need to take the Kuranda Range Rd to Mareeba and head north to Mt Molloy and Julatten, before dropping down the Rex Range just north of Port Douglas.

The Outer Reef is looking good and most boats out of Port Douglas are running, I can’t comment on the Cairns reefs and islands as I haven’t been out yet. But we’ll do our best to keep you updated.

You can most certainly visit Cairns and Port Douglas in January 2024, but tours and sightseeing are reduced somewhat.

You’ll see a date updated on the top of this post, as I find out more I’ll update again. We have dozens of posts on our site about Far North Queensland, we’re working our way through adding current information.

Is it worth visiting Cairns in January?

Many people visit Cairns in January because it is the school holidays, Christmas to Australia Day are a fairly busy period for family tourists in Port Douglas.

This year, January 2024, looks a bit different, please read our current updates above.

It doesn’t rain all day, every day, we still have good weather in January, some days, and the reef boats will run unless the weather is particularly bad. If you have bad luck and your visit coincides with a tropical storm or cyclone being nearby, then yes, you may see days of never-ending rain. But if you’re lucky, January can be a great time to visit Cairns and snorkel on The Great Barrier Reef.

If it’s not raining it’s likely to be very hot and humid, the sea should be like a warm bath. Yes, it will be stinger season and there may be more debris on local beaches because of storms. There are several beaches with stinger nets or swimming enclosures near Cairns. There’s no swimming beach near the centre of Cairns itself.

There can be flooding nearby, this can prevent access to the Daintree Rainforest and interrupt supply chains from the south. Cairns itself rarely floods to any extent. This is a great time of year to see Barron River Falls, on this superb day-trip from Cairns, the Northern Beaches or Palm Cove. Check it out here!

February in Cairns

Nothing much changes temperature-wise in February, maximum and minimum temperatures are still 32ºC and 26ºC approximately.

Rain continues, it may be even wetter than January. Humidity is at its highest in February, about 83%.

When we experience severe heavy rain in Cairns it’s quite likely that there will be flooding in Daintree or as far south as Townsville. This southern flooding can close roads and restrict access to far north Queensland so if you’re heading to the Cairns region by car, be aware of that. It’s very unusual to see much flooding actually in Cairns itself.

Be aware that in February some local businesses and restaurants may be shut for a seasonal break. This is the lowest of the low season and tourist numbers drop once the kids go back to school.

February is likely the quietest time in Cairns, you can still swim at the lagoon pool in Cairns or at nearby beaches with swimming enclosures (stinger nets) in February. Trips to the Great Barrier Reef do still run from Cairns on good weather days in February.

March in Cairns

Autumn officially arrives in Cairns in March. Temperatures just may drop a little in March and by the end of March, things should be getting more comfortable.

Expect temperatures roughly between 31 and 25 C. Again, it’s wet, but not as wet as February, usually.

As for February, you can swim at netted beaches near Cairns and reef trips and snorkelling still happen if the weather isn’t too bad.

April in Cairns

April is a good time to visit Cairns, but possibly not the very best time. Temperatures are dropping, at between 29ºC and 24º C by day.

Easter is often in April and around Easter school holidays tourist numbers increase dramatically in Cairns and FNQ, book in advance, and expect higher hotel prices during school holidays.

It can still be pretty wet in Cairns in April with an average of 200 mm of rain this month. In between the far less frequent rain storms, you could experience clear sunny days, or overcast days. The Trade Winds tend to pick up in April and strong winds may make conditions rough or choppy out on the Great Barrier Reef.

You can also experience glassed out seas and perfet conditions, April is quite a variable month in Cairns. If you can stay 2 weeks, you should have some days of perfect weather in Cairns, but if you only have a few days and arrive in the midst of a late storm, you may have a bad experience.

If you do visit during rain, Barron River Falls is spectacular in flood.

Humidity seems to tail off around March / April /May in Cairns and our hair gets less curly.

It will likely still be stinger season in Cairns in April, so you can swim at beaches with nets or snorkel on the reef with stinger suits.

Anzac Day is a national holiday and falls on 25th April every year. If you are visiting Cairns in April, be aware that many shops and food outlets may be closed on this day

May in Cairns

There should be a good temperature drop from April in Cairns in May. In May daytime temperatures can be down to 28 – 23 C now and days of rain are starting to decrease to very few.

The weather is pretty good in May in Cairns, but it’s not yet peak season. The tourist crowds are expected to arrive from next month.

We recently went out to the reef at the very end of May. Visibility was good, water temperature was a cool (for Far North Queensland) – comfortable 26ºC. It was a great time to go out, but towards the end of a 40 minute scuba dive in a light shortie wetsuit (provided by the boat) I started to feel cool rather than perfectly comfortable.

Snorkelling for 30 mins in the same wetsuit we felt no cold at all. People were snorkelling without wetsuits and, as stinger season was over for us, no stinger suits.

June in Cairns

In June in Cairns the dry season will be starting to be noticable. June 1st is the first day of winter officially in Cairns and Australia. 

Expect June temperatures between 26 and 21 C and markedly less rain, this is the official dry season’s beginning.

June is the start of high season for tourism in Cairns and possibly my favourite month to live in FNQ. Nighttime temperatures could warrant a cardigan or fleece.

During the day it can be comfortable to wear long sleeves or even light jumpers, depending on cloud cover.

Yes you can still swim at the beaches near Cairns and snorkel on the reef in June, but it will be getting cooler. Boats should provide wetsuits for snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef in June.

June is when Cairns Ironman is held, this annual event draws huge crowds to Cairns, so if you plan to visit Cairns in June, book well in advance, hotels will be full and prices will be higher.

Cairns International Ironman is on 18th June in 2023. The road between Cairns and Port Douglas will be closed. So if you’re arriving at Cairns international airport on that day, look into your transport options carefully.

July in Cairns

July is mid-winter in Cairns and should be the coolest month . Expect around 25-21 C with low rainfall, just 6 days of rain. Nights are cool, you could call them cold even, and if you’re out before dawn to run or walk, you’ll feel a nip in the air.

The humpback whales should be arriving in the Coral Sea, off Cairns now, they will stay to September.

August in Cairns

August will be a touch warmer than July as winter comes to an end. 27ºC – 21ºC and average just 6 days of rain bringing on average under 70 mm in the whole month. Nights can be comfortably cool, you may even feel a little chilly if you’re out running before dawn as we are.

People still use the beach in the depths of winter, Cairns is busy, and yes, people swim in the sea, but some swimming pools get pretty chilly at the coldest times of year if they’re not heated.

September in Cairns

September is possibly the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, the whales should still be around, the Trade Winds should be calming down and the water is starting to warm up. Temperatures are rising, 28ºC -22º C with little rain. Humidity is lowest in Cairns in September at around 67% This is the start of Australian spring, and many trees start to flower.Nights can still be comfortably cool. If the rain has quit for the dry season, expect brown, dead grass. This is a great time to spot crocodiles sunning themselves on river banks at low tide, or to take a crocodile spotting tour from Cairns.

October in Cairns

Things are building up with maximum temperatures getting up to 30C and minimums of 23 C Not much, if any, rain happening yet. This is possibly my favourite time of year for the beach or reef, just before Stinger Season.

November in Cairns

It’s pretty warm in Cairns in November! 32-25 C and we look forward to maybe some electric or thunder storms in the afternoon.

Not much rain usually falls though, we need December to arrive for the rains to really start. 

November is the official start of the wet season. November is a great time to visit Cairns, but it will be hot, and you will likely be visiting in early stinger season.

The stinger nets should be in the water on the beaches in the Cairns region from the start of November. Reef trips do continue to operate through stinger season, only stopping in very bad wind and weather conditions. So yes, you can still snorkel or swim from Cairns in November.

December in Cairns

In December everyone is waiting for the wet to arrive and bring heavy rains as relief from the heat and water for our gardens. We’re all waiting for Christmas too of course, and then New Year celebrations.

Temps are getting up around 32 to 25 C and the rains will hopefully be providing afternoon relief as the month wears on. Summer has arrived and the mango season with it.

In December 2018 we had an early cyclone, a small but damaging Category 1 in early December.

We had infrequent light rain at night through December and the beach has been perfection. Of course, Stinger Season is here by December and the stinger nets are in place on the beaches.

In December we can have some great beach days plus enough rain to keep everything green. We enjoyed a sunset sail with perfect calm conditions in early December.

Very little happens for Christmas in Cairns, compared to Europe or The US, but most hotels and restaurants are very busy over the Christmas period itself. Things quieten down either side of the big school holidays.

Expect prices for car hire and hotels to start increasing around the 15th to 20th of December.

Don’t expect much by way of public Christmas decorations and lights, but some of the locals really go to town. You’ll find some houses decked out spectacularly in residential areas.

There is usually a big fireworks show and celebration with rides and food stalls in Cairns for New Year.

Special Holidays, Festivals and Events in Cairns

Port douglas carnivale.

Carnival is generally towards the end of May with a street parade, food events and the Spiegeltent. Port Douglas is a nice day out from Cairns and a good place to visit for the weekly Sunday Markets, these take place year-round.

Christmas in Cairns

It’s quite usual around here to stay in a hotel over Christmas with many big hotels offering seasonal feasts on December 25th.

Look for special dining events on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day in the best hotels in Cairns.

New Year in Cairns

There is normally a New Year’s Eve fireworks display in Cairns. January 1st is New Year’s Day.

School Holidays in Cairns

In Australia the long school holidays are in Australian summer, which is Christmas. Dates are (approximately) 22nd December to 3rd February. Local kids will also be on holiday over Easter and have a day off for Anzac Day (25th April) and Australia Day (26th – 27th January). Half-term holidays are around 7th to 22nd July and around the 29th September to 14th October. These dates are meant as a guide only please double-check them yourself as they change each year. Cairns will be very busy in most school holidays and prices may be higher.

Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter in Cairns Australia

The seasons are strictly regulated in Australia with each season beginning on the first of the month and each season lasting exactly 3 months.

Spring starts in September, summer starts in December, autumn starts in March and winter starts in June. I know it can be confusing, I’m from the Northern Hemisphere!

When is Cyclone Season in Cairns?

Cyclone season isn’t the best time to visit Cairns. Cyclone season in tropical north Queensland and Cairns is approximately November to May.  

A tropical low, tropical storm or cyclone in the region can bring a lot of rain over several days.

Chances of getting a cyclone in November or April – May seem pretty slim to me, having lived in FNQ for over a decade, but it can happen.

As far as I know, there hasn’t been a major direct cyclone hit in Cairns in many years.

I’ve never experienced one. For information on current tropical cyclones, check the BOM

Driving Further North from Cairns, Flooding and Road Closures on Roads to The Cape

Obviously, road conditions are unpredictable and vary but in general, there is only a short window of opportunity to drive on up to Cooktown, Cape York and The Tip. 

If you want to do this you’ll join the 4 wheel drive convoys in June to October for the best chance of ideal conditions. You can check the Creb Track opening and conditions here.

We hope that was helpful! So now you know your best time to visit Port Douglas, go ahead and book your Cairns accommodation and organise your trip of a lifetime to the Great Barrier Reef. We’re working on even more guides to our corner of Queensland Australia every day. For ideas on other destinations to visit in Queensland, see our post on places to visit in Queensland . For more Cairns travel information on our site, go here. For fresh water swimming spots around Cairns look here.

If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

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Weather & Seasons

When to plan an adventure to Tropical North Queensland

The climate is one of the best things about Tropical North Queensland – you can have a great holiday at any time of year. But the weather can be very different from what you’ll find in other parts of the country, so you’ll need to know what to expect.

In the tropics, you’ll enjoy warm days all year. Regular rainfall over summer and autumn keeps the days pleasant (with the mercury only just tipping 30ºC on average) and decorates the landscape a rich green. The rainforest is at its most lush and waterfalls are full and spectacular. Although rain and storms are more common throughout this period, it very rarely rains all day and you’ll usually enjoy sunny days with a storm in the afternoon or evening.

In winter and spring, experience the further reaches of Tropical North Queensland like Cape York and The Savannah Way, or ‘lax by the beach with typically drier days, while temperatures hover around the mid-twenties and rarely dip below 17ºC along the coast.

Find out what makes each season so special below.

Summer (Dec-Feb)

Average Cairns temperatures: 23.6ºC / 31.4ºC

Summer in the tropics is when nature comes alive. Like a time-lapse before your eyes, the landscape can quickly transform from the warm tones of spring to fresh green tones of summer with warm, therapeutic rain.

Local tropical produce including sweet mangoes and tangy lychees fill markets; and with native fruit in abundance, so is the incredible and unique wildlife.

Due to lower winds and calmer seas, water clarity on the Great Barrier Reef is amazing through summer.

Autumn (Mar-May)

Average Cairns temperatures: 21.6ºC / 29.2ºC

Let summer live on in Autumn in Tropical North Queensland. The landscape is lush, the creeks and rivers are full and waterfall chasing is spectacular. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see Barron Falls at its most iconic.

Get the adrenaline pumping rafting down rivers surrounded by ancient rainforests, or visit an outback painted green by the regenerative rain, giving you a new perspective on this Aussie icon.

Winter (Jun-Aug)

Average Cairns temperatures: 17.5ºC / 26.2ºC

Welcome to the place where your typical idea of winter doesn’t really exist. Daytime temperatures hover in the mid-twenties, the beach is the place to be and camping is a favourite winter pastime. 

Make the pilgrimage to “The Tip”, Australia’s most northerly mainland point, or head west along the Savannah Way to discover ancient geological wonders and the tropical outback.

Spring (Sep-Nov)

Average Cairns temperatures: 20.5ºC / 29.5ºC

Kickstart your summer early with a tropical spring. Sunny days call for relaxing in cool waters; bright flowers bloom and with them, flocks of colourful birds feeding on their nectar arrive; and the reef comes alive at the annual coral spawning.

Tropical North Queensland gives you that traditional summer feeling, just that little bit early.

Whaley cool experiences

During June and July, you’ll find the only known aggregation of Dwarf Minke Whales in the world on the Ribbon Reefs north of Port Douglas.

Freshwater swimming holes and waterfalls vary in levels across the year. For the most spectacular waterfall chasing, visit during summer and autumn.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef

Often when it’s raining on the coast, it’s sunny and clear on the Great Barrier Reef as the mountain ranges surrounding Tropical North Queensland draw the rain.

What’s on

There are many fantastic events throughout the year, from spring racing carnivals to sporting events, concerts or markets. Check out our calendar for all the info.

Discover more

Things to do through the seasons.

Why you should visit the tropics in summer

From cosy rainforest retreats to once-in-a-lifetime Great Barrier Reef reef events, epic waterfalls to spectacular outback scenery, this is why you should put the green light on your summer holiday.

The Ultimate ‘Only in Tropical North Queensland’ guide

It might be a well-known fact that Tropical North Queensland is the only place in the world where two natural World Heritage sites collide, but there’s more first and only’s to this destination than its reef and rainforest.

Luxury places to rest your head

Escape to luxe island hideaways, indulgent outback retreats or tranquil ancient rainforests. Kick off your shoes, take some much needed R&R and discover the unique landscape of Tropical North Queensland.

10 waterfalls to chase on the Atherton Tablelands

Hit the famous waterfall circuit, uncover those lesser known or stretch a little further and take a dip in Australia’s widest, single-drop waterfall on the Atherton Tablelands.

Mudcrab to mangoes: your guide to eating local in Cairns

From earthy bush tucker and exotic fruits to ocean-caught seafood and a biodynamic dairy farm, Tropical North Queensland offers up a menu with a unique ingredients list.

Great places to go camping near Cairns

Are your campsites better described as camp palaces, or do you just roll with the bare essentials? Whether you’re at one end of the spectrum or the other, lace up your hiking shoes, load up your 4WD (or hatchback) and string your fairy lights around these camping sites near Cairns.

Things to do in Port Douglas

Don’t let its flop and drop reputation fool you, there are many things to do in Port Douglas. From hunting with Traditional Owners & exploring the Great Barrier Reef, to river floats & wildlife parks. Here’s how to spend your time in Port Douglas.

Cape York is calling: Planning a trip to The Tip

Ready to tackle one of Australia’s most remote landscapes, Cape York? Just you, a car and 1,200km of untamed, World Heritage-listed, 180 million year-old rugged rainforest beauty – aka The Tip.

Swim with dwarf minke whales on the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the only place in the world that you can swim with dwarf minke whales: an experience so exclusive it only happens for two months of the year and only in Tropical North Queensland.

Savannah Way – An Outback Adventure through Gulf Country

From sculptural gorges, to bird-filled wetlands, experience 1,099kms of pure outback adventure as you drive Queensland’s Savannah Way.

7 great reasons to head to the Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands are the kind of place you want to take at your own pace. Jump in a car and head inland to tick off these must-do experiences.

Food trail highlights on the Atherton Tablelands

Foodies take a deep breath and prepare your tastebuds for tantalisation. Here’s how to get your foodie fix on the Atherton Tablelands.

Guide to Cairns Beaches

A chain of relaxed seaside villages lay just north of Cairns, each boasting their own unique features. Find out more about each of Cairns’ beaches and which tickle your fancy.

Not to miss

Everything changes from season to season, find out more about these highlights.

Chase waterfalls

Great barrier reef, drive cape york, eat & drink seasonal produce.

See the seasons change

The Wet Tropics Rainforest the perfect place to witness the seasons change.

Privacy Overview

Accessibility, accessibility modes, online dictionary, readable experience, visually pleasing experience, easy orientation.

Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

• tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
• May 23, 2024

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If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email

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Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

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• Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
• Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

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We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).

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Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to

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Climate - Cairns (Australia)

Cairns - Climate data

Cairns - weather by month.

Cairns Weather And Best Time To Visit Cairns

Cairns, a small city in northern Queensland is fast becoming a major tourist destination in Australia . With its myriad offerings, and a pleasant climate all year round, Cairns is a must visit place during your trip to Australia. The weather in Cairns is mostly tropical and is characterised by warm days. It has two distinct types of climate, the said types being wet and dry. The best time though to visit Cairns can be decided only once you choose the activities you would like to indulge in. You should, however, be careful of the tropical cyclones the city experiences in the wet season, lasting from December through March. 

Wet Season (November to April)

The weather during the wet season tends to get warm and the natural beauty, with blooms all over the city, make it a scene to remember. Summers are the hottest months of the year with a hot and humid climate all throughout. The rainforests surrounding Cairns are at their best during this time. With waterfalls gushing, and rivers bursting with life, this is the ideal time to indulge in a tour of the lush green rainforests. The Great Barrier Reef will also be a phenomenal experience during this time as there is excellent visibility up to 50 metres and the waters are the perfect temperature. While the days can be warm with temperatures reaching the 30°C mark, the evenings are cool with stormy thundershowers. This is also the season for Coral spawning and the mating season for some species of birds in the region. As April approaches, the weather becomes drier and the temperatures also come down slightly.

A journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway will be rewarding during this time. 

Dry Season (May to September)

The dry season is characterised by pleasant weather and temperatures ranging between 17°C to 26°C. The skies are clear and the air is dry, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Sailing, water sports, and just about any other activity will be the most enjoyable during this time. If you’re lucky, you might also spot a humpback whale or two as they migrate.

As we approach the end of the dry season, the weather begins to get warmer, the reef and the surrounding rainforests begin teeming with life. We suggest you be prepared for the occasional shower in the evenings due to the tropical type of climate of the region. 

The August Paradise

Arguably, August is the best month to plan a trip to Cairns. The most obvious reason for the same is the excellent weather. Keeping in line with the pattern of opposite seasons in Australia , August happens to be the peak winter season. The temperatures are comfortable, with cool nights. The humidity level is low and rainfall is almost nil during this time. All this makes it the perfect time to indulge in the various activities Cairns has to offer. August also happens to fall out of the holiday season of Australia, ensuring you can get accommodation at relatively better rates. 

Stinger Alert

Do keep in mind the Stinger Season when you plan your trip to Cairns. November to May is the Jellyfish breeding period and poses a threat for dangerous stings from the seemingly harmless looking creature. If you’re here during this period, you will have to wear a protective stinger suit and swim in one of the many stinger enclosures, swimming holes and creeks spread all across. 

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Best Time To Visit Cairns

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What is the best time to visit Cairns?

The best time to visit Cairns is between June and August, which is the winter season . Due to the extreme heat and humidity faced by tropical Queensland outside these months, the winter period is when Cairns has the most pleasant climate for tourism. The temperatures generally vary from 16°C to 26°C and it mostly remains dry with clear skies throughout the day. Another reason to visit Cairns during the winter season is that during this time tourists can spot the migrating humpback whales.

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What is the best month to visit Cairns?

Written by Cameron Ward

Published: 11/07/2021

Reading time: 4 mins

• Cairns is a tropical city that serves as the jumping point to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and Atherton Tablelands.

Explore the Cairns Tours

Whether you’re enjoying the city’s vibrant splendour or heading out to one (or all!) of these natural wonderlands, Cairns has plenty to offer in and around town!

There really is no “best month” to visit Cairns: it’s an amazing place to visit year-round. If you want the very best of the tropical weather visit during the dry months. This is also the best time to avoid the influx of jellyfish in the Great Barrier Reef. The dry months occur during Australia’s winter, which is between June and October.

If you’re looking to head to Cairns on a budget and with fewer crowds, the best time to visit is in the shoulder months. The shoulder months are between the wet and dry seasons – April/May or September/October.

The wet season happens during Australia’s summer. It takes place from November to March, which is another time of year with smaller crowds. However, the wet season is exactly that: wet, really wet. The region is known to throw up some pretty wild tropical storms. If you are happy to brave the often-gnarly storms and aren’t afraid of the odd downpour, the rain can be very refreshing. There is a chance you will have some of far North Queensland ’s most vibrant natural spots all to yourself!

So, it all comes down to a little travel dilemma. Are you keen on gorgeous weather with higher prices and bigger crowds? Or, are you one who is not afraid of a little extra heat, tropical extremes, smaller crowds and cheaper prices?

The choice is yours. Either way, you will have a great time exploring the wonders of Cairns and its surroundings!

• The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is Australia’s tourism gem. The natural wonder is a giant 2,300 km coral reef system that can actually be seen from outer space! It’s safe to say the reef makes Cairns such an incredible place.

There are a few popular destinations for visiting the Great Barrier Reef. Cairns is a famous destination because of its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. You can choose to explore the reef on a boat from Cairns, or you can visit one of the many nearby islands.

There are countless tours that leave for the reef every day of the year. Explore this incredible, surreal ecosystem on one of our incredible tours. You will have the chance to discover the underwater world via snorkelling, diving, a glass bottom boat, and even a helicopter ride! Whatever mode of transport you take, you will not be disappointed.

• The Daintree Rainforest

Such a majestic oceanic reef has to be matched by something on land! That is why the Daintree Rainforest is another magical destination. The rainforest is located a short drive from Cairns and offers a tranquil tropical escape. This sprawling ecosystem is older than the Amazon itself. It is also home to thousands of unique species, many ubiquitous to the forest itself.

You can join a tour of the Daintree Rainforest anytime throughout the year! Highlights when visiting the rainforest include pristine beaches and swimming holes. There are also heaps of scenic hiking trails weaving amongst the trees. If you head towards the ocean, you will find Cape Tribulation. This gorgeous location is impossible to describe. You have to see it with your own eyes!

• The Atherton Tablelands

The Atherton Tablelands is another incredible experience just outside of Cairns. It is not as instantly recognisable as its reef and rainforest counterparts, but it is just as worthwhile. See lush wetlands, giant savannahs and beautiful gardens dotting the landscape. You can also find Paronella Park. This is the decaying ruins of a mansion that never quite came to fruition. Paying a visit to Paronella Park is a beautiful, almost eerie experience!

You can still find lots of swimming spots in the Atherton Tablelands. One of the most popular activities here is to enjoy the natural rock slides. As the name suggests, they are “slides” formed form rock, that you can glide down and splash into the pristine waters below.

Regardless of the month in which you decide to visit Cairns, you’re bound to have an amazing, unforgettable time. Don’t forget your camera!

Related article: Cairns is open and waiting for you !

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Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

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6 of the best Australian cities to visit and when to go

T he great, southern land of Australia has long seduced tourists from all over the world, conjuring dreams of sun-drenched cities and long golden coastlines. The mere mention of Oz can spark envy for many, especially those living in places with less-than-pleasant weather.

This vast country has a wealth of fantastic places to visit, with a geographical, cultural and historical variety befitting its enormous size. Sydney and its world-famous landmarks remain the postcard image of the country, but cities like Melbourne are gaining ground with a slew of cultural offerings, picture-perfect beaches and characterful neighbourhoods.

Slightly less common with visitors looking for a city break are Cairns, Adelaide and Perth, though they continue to welcome more and more tourists, who come to experience verdant wine country, sporting events and cultural festivals, along with the wonders of Australia’s nature, from the enormous Outback to the striking Great Barrier Reef.

If you’re planning a trip to this part of the Southern Hemisphere, we’ve got you covered. Here is a list of the best cities to visit Down Under, and the best time of year to travel to them.

Sydney typifies the laid-back nature of Australia, from the busy sands of Bondi Beach to the serene waters of the harbour. These locations, together with the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, are what many outside of Australia will picture when they think of the country, and a ferry tour around the area is a great way to see as much as possible (one of the more popular routes is from Circular Quay to Manly).

The city’s main neighbourhoods, including popular spots like Surrey Hills, the Rocks, Woolloomooloo and Newtown, also carry that easy-going, friendly Aussie energy as well as various attractions worth a visit, such as the Art Gallery of NSW, the Royal Botanic Garden and the Australian Museum. For a spot of quieter relaxation, leave Bondi behind and check out the beaches of Manly, Bronte or Balmoral.

When to visit

Sydney’s high season falls between December and February, combining warm beach days with sporting events and plenty of celebrations (including Christmas and New Year’s Eve). March to May is the city’s autumn period, where temperatures remain high but manageable enough to explore in comfort – think average highs between 23C and 26C. There are plenty of important occasions that would may want to coincide your visit with, such as Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Read more on Australia travel :

• The best Australia holidays to do in your lifetime
• Why you should book a holiday to Ningaloo, Australia’s ‘other reef’
• The best deals for a luxury Australia holiday in 2024

Often referred to as the country’s capital of culture, Melbourne is a place where you can find highlights around every corner, from street art to hipster restaurants worth queuing for. There’s an abundance ways to fill your time during a city break, from wandering the magnificent National Gallery to catching some tennis at the Australian Open.

Heavily influenced by Europe, today Melbourne is a city whose multicultural nature is visibly reflected in its architecture, from the skyscrapers of the Central Business District to historic structures like Flinders Street Station and a slew of Victorian buildings. Its streets hide a plethora of nightlife spots, and it has a beachside hang-out in the shape of St Kilda.

Summer in Melbourne begins around the same time as in Sydney, making January and February the warmest months – temperatures can easily exceed 30C, though average highs are around 27C. For something more manageable, visit in the summer shoulder season, in March or April, to experience balmy temperatures and less crowds (as well as a slew of events, like the Melbourne Grand Prix and the International Comedy Festival).

The main gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the beaches of Far North Queensland, Cairns is a city that continues to grow in popularity as tourists seek out its tropical weather and unforgettable natural sites.

Top attractions include the Botanic Gardens, Esplanade and Boardwalk, with lovely suburban areas including Port Douglas, Palm Cove and Atherton Tablelands. Nevertheless, the Barrier Reef is the undeniable star of the area, with dozens of tours available for snorkelling and scuba diving across coral gardens with turtles and a host of tropical fish.

While the reef steals the headlines, Cairns and the surrounding area are home to other natural landmarks such as the Wet Tropics rainforest or Cape Tribulation, where trees give way meets coral reefs. There are plenty of great beaches, too, including Trinity, Ellis, Clifton and the Thala Beach Nature Reserve – there’s a reason why the city has labelled itself the “Jewel of the North”.

For those wanting to explore the Great Barrier Reef, avoid visiting between October and May if you want to stay out of stinger season (though companies provide you with necessary equipment if you do want to dive during these months). Winter is the best time to come; June to August is in the middle of dry season and still offers highs around 26C. Peak season runs from around May until late September.

Originally occupied by the Kaurna people, Adelaide has a colourful history that remains little-known by visitors who choose Sydney or Melbourne. Spread out along the banks of the Torrens River, this picturesque, easy-going hub is smaller but still contains a wealth of things to do, as well as acting as the gateway to the wine regions of Barrossa Valley and, further north, Uluru (Ayers Rock).

The city streets are characterised by their Victorian architecture and stone buildings, with heritage buildings and botanic gardens around North Terrace that are particularly charming. Cafe culture and al fresco dining is best sampled in Gouger Street, Moonta Street or Rundle Street, and cultural highlights include the South Australian Museum and the Adelaide Fringe Festival, the second largest in the world after Edinburgh’s. For a foray into nature, visit the Morialta Conservation Park, or swim with dolphins in the suburb of Glenelg.

Like much of the rest of the country, Adelaide welcomes its warmest weather in January and February, with average temperatures sitting at a pleasant 24C. Unlike some other cities, summer highs aren’t sweltering, and a range of events – from the Adelaide Fringe to international cricket – can be enjoyed alongside days on the beach.

Brisbane is a popular destination year-round, with perhaps the best weather at all times in the country, and a place where the golden sand of the inner-city beaches sit in front of towering skyscrapers. The Brisbane River snakes across the city on its way to the coast, its banks home to the surprisingly large central business district, the buildings of which have come to define the city skyline.

The river separates the city into a series of neighbourhoods, such as the family-friendly South Bank, the trendy New Farm or Fortitude Valley, home to the best nightlife. Brisbane is home to the Queensland Cultural Centre and the Queensland Art Gallery, and will presumably receive plenty of attention as it gears up to host the Olympics in 2032.

For some nature lovers, kayaking along the river or relaxing on Streets Beach may suffice, though for those who want to venture out of the city there are options to explore Mooreton Bay, Mount Coot-Tha or the Glasshouse Mountains.

Sub-tropical Brisbane rarely enters single-digit temperatures even in its winter. This does mean that temperatures in summer can be sweltering – sometimes rising into the 40s – so high season here is actually in the autumn and winter, between May and September. Daytime temperatures will peak around 26C, but evenings are cooler at around 12C. This period is also when the majority of the city’s main festivals and events are held.

Perth is one of the most isolated cities on Earth, and it doesn’t attract the same number of visitors as Sydney or Melbourne. This, combined with a smaller population, means a city far less crowded than others in Australia, giving it a pleasant air of calm.

The city’s location on the edge of the Indian Ocean blesses it with a host of beautiful beaches, with sweeping stretches of untouched gold sands at Cottesloe, Swanbourne and Mettams Pool. For nature in the city, the Blackwall Reach Reserve, on the Swan River, is home to wild dolphins, and the 1,000-acre Kings Park is the best place to walk, picnic or enjoy sunset views over the city.

Popular areas for exploring, dining and discovering the arts include the recently renovated Cathedral Square, Elizabeth Quay and the cross-river port city of Fremantle. Cultural and historical highlights include the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and Fremantle Prison, while wine tourism is also popular due to the city’s location between the Swan Valley and Margaret River vineyards.

Summer in Perth is very warm, with average highs around 30C, and plenty of people – Aussies and international visitors alike – head west in January and February. This is the best time for going to the beach, whether surfing, snorkelling or lounging, and for attending cultural events, but with the small possibility of days in the 40s, some may prefer to visit in the spring shoulder season of September to November.

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