Check out this guide for everything you need to know before you plan your trip. We explain the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef, day trips from Cairns, where to stay, and the best time to go.
If you travel to Cairns from outside of Australia, there are limited options for flying straight to Cairns from overseas. Direct flights to Cairns are from Singapore, Japan, and Auckland in New Zealand.
Cairns has two distinct seasons. December to April is the wet or monsoon season. Expect high humidity, temperatures in the 90s, and periods of heavy rain. There is also no breeze.
Given the contrast between the wet and dry seasons, you might think May to October is the best time to visit Cairns. As a rule, this is the case. Not only is the weather beautiful, but you also do not have to worry about marine stingers that are around in the wet season.