What to expect in the Wet Season Cairns

Cairns is beautiful year round, so don’t let a little rain scare you away from the Wet Season!

The sun drenched shores of Cairns can be a dream come true especially when you are dipping into the cool hues of the Southern Ocean, wandering under the shade of the ancient rainforest and sipping ice cold beers on the beach. Yet believe it or not this tropical paradise encounters a wet season during the months between November and May and knowing what to expect can ensure your visit isn’t a wash out.

Sultry Days and Stormy Nights

Cairns refuses to let the wet season ruin its carefree vibe. Temperatures are still quite high and you will still find sultry days and balmy nights on the cards. Though warm, days are littered with thunderous downpours and nights are interrupted by bellowing storms. The torrential rain seems to have a bark that’s worse than its bite. Typically a few hours later the water has drained away and the sun is glistening in the sky yet again.

Discover the Daintree

One of the best things about Cairns is its rugged and breath taking outdoor beauty. Trust us when we say the wet season won’t dampen your spirits when it comes to exploration. If you find yourself in the wet season you can still tour the Daintree Rainforest! Here, the wet weather adds a touch of magic as the canopies glisten and mist rises from the floor. Waterfalls and rivers are rushing during this time of year and flora and fauna bloom with the riches of the land. You can also head out for a white knuckle ride in the rain with a spot of white water rafting as you are sure to get wet anyway. Even the grace of the Great Barrier Reef can be explored in the rain as the waters remain warm and welcoming at a comfortable 22-29 degrees.

A Bountiful Paradise

Occasionally during the wet months, Cairns can experience cyclones with heavy winds blowing in and storms surging. Being aware of what to do in a cyclone can ensure that you stay safe whatever the weather. The wet season in Cairns is also known as the green season as during this time the world glows emerald. The rainforest and carved landscape becomes bountiful and blushes with all kinds of colours, accommodation drops in price and you can still get plenty of sunshine for relaxing on the beach.

Tips for visiting in the Wet Season

Our biggest tip for visiting Cairns in the wet season is to be positive and flexible. The wet season can be a little unpredictable so be flexible to changes in your plans. This is a great way to get the best out of your trip. Plus, this time of year is less busy as people prefer to flock to the tropics during the dry season. The wet season sees so much new life burst into Cairns that we think its the perfect time to visit, even if you do get a little wet!

Related article: Holidaying In Cairns

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.