What Is The Wet Season Like In Cairns?

Cairns is undoubtedly one of the most well-known cities in all of Australia. Situated in Far North Queensland, this beautiful and tropical city has skyrocketed in popularity, attracting thousands of tourists every year.

Considering that Cairns is a tropical city, it certainly experiences a large wet season. The wet season is known to often occur between the months of December to April. During the wet season, it is generally quite muggy and humid – with temperatures averaging 24-31 degrees.

This is largely due to the fact that the temperatures are still quite high and not every day consists of heavy rain or thunderstorms – despite it being the common trend during the wet season.

Occasionally during the wet monsoon season, Cairns can experience its fair share of heavy winds, cyclones, and surging storms. The storms and rain do bring on what is known as the “green season” – when the city landscape turns a glowing emerald.

It’s worth noting that during this season, many accommodations and excursions drop in price, giving way to yet another reason for tourists to flock to the area. With that being said, it is important for folks to realize that the wet season should bring a level of flexibility when travelling.

The weather can be slightly unpredictable, changing by the hour, and that can make some activities slightly more difficult. However, this time of year is less busy and the temperatures are more tolerable – especially for those Northern Hemisphere visitors.

However, the wet season does not put a damper on the lively spirit of the city. The surrounding rainforests become bountiful, with blooms appearing of all colours. The sheer beauty that is created from this wet season is enough to draw visitors in, regardless of the weather.

Much of the popularity is due to Cairns being considered the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef – where tourists from around the world flock to swim and snorkel with more than 1,500 marine species that call the stunning reef home.

However, aside from the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns plays host to ample opportunities for entertainment and excitement. Travellers can take a trip down to Cairns Harbor – an immaculately gorgeous location, filled with modern architectural flair.

This harbour is known by locals and tourists alike as housing some of the best restaurants and bars in Cairns, which also makes for a fantastic nightlife scene. Filled with energy, guests can take a walk on the esplanade and enjoy the scenic views of ships in the harbour.

Aside from attractions within the city itself, Cairns has many options for tours and transportation services to the breathtaking surrounding areas. You can choose to take a day excursion to the immaculate Daintree National Rainforest.

A boat trip out to Green Island to snorkel around with marine life or sprawl out on the beach, or visitors can choose to visit Lake Eacham – a volcanic crater that’s water levels rise and fall naturally by rain and evaporation.

What Are The Wettest Months In Cairns?

During the rainy or wet season, the months of December to April arguably see the most precipitation. However, on average, February is known as being the wettest month in Cairns. Generally speaking, the month of February sees approximately 19 inches or 482mm of rain.

Does Cairns Have A Wet And Dry Season?

As mentioned, Cairns will generally experience a wet season from November to May. The rest of the year is considered to be the dry or fall/winter season in Cairns. During this time, the weather settles down quite a bit, but it is still rather warm.

On average, temperatures range anywhere from 17-29 degrees – with the driest month being August, where only 22mm or 0.9in of precipitation is observed. With the dry season, it’s an excellent time for tourists to consider excursions and activities that are best enjoyed when there is an absence of rain.

Does Cairns Have High Humidity?

Since Cairns is quite a tropical climate, it experiences very hot and humid summers. During these months, the annual average temperatures reach nearly 30 degrees and approximately 62% humidity – making for sticky and steamy days. However, this also makes a marvellous time of year to visit one of the many beaches around the city and surrounding areas.

What Is The Best Month To Go To Cairns?

In terms of a trip based on weather conditions, the best time to visit Cairns is during the winter months – particularly from June to August. This is because the temperatures are mild, ranging from 17-26 degrees. The weather is generally dry, with clearer skies and calm winds, which makes for an excellent time of year for outdoor activities.

Many tourists and locals alike see this as the opportune time to head out on the water for sailing, parasailing, snorkelling, or diving. This is also the best time of year to attempt to experience the remarkable sight of migrating humpback whales.

However, many would also argue that the best time to visit Cairns is between the months of April to May or September to October. This is due to the fact that at this time of year, tourist crowds are at their lowest point.

This also means that flights, accommodations, and excursions are often much cheaper in price. Therefore, if warmer and wetter weather is not a bother, then this is also an exceptional time of year to consider visiting Cairns.

Does It Rain A Lot In Cairns?

As mentioned, during the wet season in tropical Cairns, the city can experience an abundance of rain. The average annual rainfall is documented as consisting of approximately 1992mm or 79in, over a period of around 154 days. The majority of this rainfall can be observed as occurring between the months of January to March, with February generally seeing the most rain.

However, the rain in Cairns is often broken up quickly by an abundance of sunshine. This makes this time of year the growing season, causing the natural beauty of the area to burst. In turn, this makes this time of year a superb time to visit the surrounding rainforest, like Daintree National Rainforest.