Cairns Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Cairns.
Climate overview of Cairns
Cairns Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cairns - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Cairns
In Cairns temperatures are generally consistent throughout the year. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in February to a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in July.
Nighttime temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in February to 18°C (64°F) in July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Cairns
Cairns experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1334 mm (53 in) of precipitation annually. The seasons in Cairns bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, February, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 292 mm (11 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, September, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 23 mm (0.9 in) over 4 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Cairns Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Cairns
Cairns enjoys sunny spells year-round. October sees up to 9.1 hours of daily sunshine, perfect for a sunny trip. February, the least sunny month, still offers a generous 5.7 hours of sun despite this cloudier time of the year.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Cairns
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 22°C (72°F) in June to 28°C (82°F) in January.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Cairns by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Cairns.
The city experiences its highest humidity in March, reaching 74%. In September, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 55%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Cairns
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May, June, July, August, September, October and November
- Warmest weather: January, February, March, November and December
- Most sunshine: October
- Fewest rainy days: August, September, October and November
- Best for swimming: Any time of year. The sea stays pleasantly warm year-round.
- Wettest months: January, February, March and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (July to September) and wet (January to March) seasons
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Cairns
What is the best time to visit Cairns?
May, June, July, August, September, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Cairns. In contrast, February tends to have less optimal conditions. Cairns has distinct dry (July to September) and wet (January to March) seasons.
What temperatures can I expect in Cairns?
Daytime highs range from 23°C (73°F) in July to 29°C (84°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Cairns get?
Annual rainfall is around 1334 mm (53 in). February is the wettest month with 292 mm (11 in), while September is the driest with 23 mm (0.9 in).
How sunny is Cairns?
Cairns receives around 2,692 hours of sunshine per year. October is the sunniest month with 272 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 171 hours. Overall, Cairns enjoys abundant sunshine.
Cairns 3-Day Forecast
Cairns on the map
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