Cairns Weather in March
Cairns in March sees high daytime temperatures of 29°C (84°F) and nighttime lows of 24°C (75°F). As part of the rainy season, showers are frequent and often heavy. Budget around 226 mm (8.9 in) of rainfall for the month.
Rainfall in Cairns in March
Cairns is in the rainy season in March, with rain on around 13 days and an average of 226 mm (8.9 in). Rainy season showers here are typically intense, often clearing quickly but coming down hard while they last.
Temperature in Cairns in March
March in Cairns sees highs of 29°C (84°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F) overnight. This kind of day-to-night contrast is typical for this time of year. With lows around 24°C (75°F), the nights are warm enough that a sheet is usually all you need for bedding.
Sunshine in Cairns in March
Enjoy a sunny month with about 202 hours of sunshine, even though this month falls in the wet season. There is still enough sun to enjoy the outdoors.
Average water temperature in March
The water temperature is 27°C (81°F), which most people find very comfortable. A good month for swimming and water sports.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. May, June, July, August, September, October and November typically offer the best weather for Cairns.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Australia, check out our Cairns's climate page.
Cairns Temperature in March
Min Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Max Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Water Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Chance of Rain
44%
Precipitation
226 mm (8.9 in)
Rainy days
13 days
Humidity
74%
Sunshine
202 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Cairns typically stay consistent throughout March, with daily highs averaging around 29°C (84°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 24°C (75°F).
Average temperatures in March
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in March
Historical weather for Cairns in March
Browse day-by-day weather records for Cairns spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Cairns historical weather extremes in March
Based on 50 years of weather observations in Cairns between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.
- On March 7, 2022, temperatures climbed to 36°C (97°F), marking the warmest March day on record.
- On March 22, 1985, Cairns saw its coldest March day with temperatures maxing out at 23°C (73°F).
- The lowest overnight temperature recorded in March was 16°C (61°F) (March 26, 1977).
Best Places in Australia in March
Find out more about the weather in Australia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Australia in March →
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What to Wear in Cairns in March
Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in March. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can. The water temperature sits at about 27°C (81°F), making it perfect for swimming and water activities. Don't forget to pack your favorite swimwear and perhaps some snorkel gear. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.What To Do in Cairns in March
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Australia, check out our Cairns's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Water Temp
See the full Cairns climate overview or explore weather in Australia.
