Cairns
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Cairns Weather in October

Thinking of visiting Cairns in October? Expect high temperatures reaching 27°C (81°F) during the day, dropping to 22°C (72°F) at night, with some rainfall likely.

Rainfall in Cairns in October

You can typically expect 4 days of rain this month, averaging around 40 mm (1.6 in). Although rain is not especially frequent, individual showers can still be quite heavy.

Temperature in Cairns in October

The temperature in Cairns in October is excellent. Daytime highs reach 27°C (81°F), with nights dropping to 22°C (72°F). The days can feel warmer than the evenings, so packing for both parts of the day is a good idea. With overnight lows of 22°C (72°F), evenings stay pleasantly warm.

Sunshine in Cairns in October

There are approximately 272 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.

Average water temperature in October

The water temperature is 25°C (77°F), which most people find very comfortable. A good month for swimming and water sports.

If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, October is one of the best months to visit Cairns.

Cairns Temperature in October

Min Temperature
22°C (72°F)
Max Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Water Temperature
25°C (77°F)
Chance of Rain
13%
Precipitation
40 mm (1.6 in)
Rainy days
4 days
Humidity
57%
Sunshine
272 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Cairns Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cairns - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Cairns typically stay consistent throughout October, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (81°F). Nights are warm, with lows typically ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 22°C (72°F).

Average temperatures in October

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 October

Historical weather records for Cairns in October

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 October

Based on weather observations in Cairns between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during October.

  • On October 5, 1992, temperatures climbed to 37°C (99°F), marking the warmest October day on record.
  • The lowest daytime temperature in October was 23°C (73°F), recorded on October 19, 2011.
  • Nighttime temperatures dropped to 14°C (57°F) on October 6, 1993, marking the coldest October night on record.

Best Places in Australia in October

Find out more about the weather in Australia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Australia in October →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Cairns in October

Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in October. 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). Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Expect water temperatures of around 25°C (77°F), which is ideal for taking a refreshing dip. Bring swimwear and consider packing a towel for drying off. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Cairns in October

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    10/10
  • Cycling
    8/10
  • Walking
    8/10
  • Barbeque
    10/10
  • Camping
    10/10
  • Outdoor sports
    8/10

Cairns 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Cairns

Popular in October

Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.