Cairns in March

March is a fascinating time to visit Cairns. Summer is beginning to wind down, but the tropical north is still warm, green and unmistakably tropical.

The wet or “green” season is continuing, so rainfall and humidity can remain part of the Cairns experience. At the same time, temperatures gradually become a little more comfortable as autumn approaches.

The surrounding rainforest is lush, creeks and waterfalls can still be flowing strongly and the Great Barrier Reef remains warm and inviting. March can also be a quieter time to explore Cairns than the busy winter months, making it an attractive option for visitors who prefer fewer crowds.

While the weather can be unpredictable, March offers a good balance between tropical summer conditions and the more settled weather that arrives later in autumn.

For travellers who don’t mind the possibility of rain and want to experience Cairns when the landscape is at its greenest, March can be an excellent month to visit.

What is Cairns Like in March?

March is warm, humid and tropical, although conditions generally begin to ease as the month progresses.

Long-term Bureau of Meteorology climate statistics for Cairns show a March mean maximum temperature of approximately 30.6°C, with warm nights and significant rainfall still possible. 

March remains part of Cairns’ wet or green season, so tropical showers and thunderstorms are possible.

However, rainfall is highly variable. A rainy forecast doesn’t necessarily mean that an entire day will be wet. Tropical showers can pass through quickly, leaving periods of sunshine before or afterwards.

You can generally expect:

• Warm to hot daytime temperatures
• Warm nights
• High humidity
• Tropical showers and thunderstorms
• Lush green rainforest
• Strong creek and waterfall flows
• Warm ocean temperatures
• Plenty of sunshine between showers
• Generally fewer visitors than during the peak dry season

The further March progresses, the more the climate begins to transition towards the drier and cooler conditions of autumn.

Cairns Weather in March

March is still one of Cairns’ wetter months, but it represents the beginning of the gradual transition away from the height of summer.

The current Visit Cairns climate information lists March’s average maximum temperature at approximately 30°C, a minimum around 23°C, and average rainfall of approximately 330mm. Average humidity remains high, while ocean temperatures remain around 29°C. 

These figures should be viewed as long-term averages rather than a prediction for an individual holiday.

Tropical rainfall can be very localised. You may encounter a heavy shower in Cairns while conditions are considerably drier elsewhere in the region.

This is one reason it is useful to keep some flexibility in your itinerary.

If the weather is poor on a particular day, you can swap an outdoor activity for an aquarium visit, wildlife attraction, shopping, dining or another indoor experience and move your outdoor plans to a better weather window.

Is March a Good Time to Visit Cairns?

Yes. March can be an excellent month for a Cairns holiday.

It offers many of the advantages of the tropical green season while moving gradually towards the more comfortable conditions of autumn.

The rainforest is still exceptionally lush, waterfalls can have strong flows and the ocean remains warm.

March can also be less busy than the peak dry-season months, particularly outside school holiday periods.

The main disadvantage is the weather. Rainfall and humidity can still be significant, and tropical weather systems can occasionally affect travel plans.

If you are happy to accept some unpredictable weather in exchange for lush landscapes, warm water and potentially fewer crowds, March is well worth considering.

March Tour Highlights

While the wet season is drawing to a close the rainforest will still be at it’s greenest and the region’s waterfalls will still be pumping tours such as a visit to Kuranda or the Atherton Tablelands will show these area’s at their finest. 

What Should You Pack for Cairns in March?

March still calls for lightweight tropical clothing and good preparation for rain.

We recommend bringing:

• Lightweight breathable clothing
• Shorts and T-shirts
• Swimwear
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water-friendly footwear
• Lightweight waterproof jacket or umbrella
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Small waterproof bag
• Quick-drying clothing

If you are planning rainforest walks or waterfall visits, footwear with good grip is important.

Is Cairns Busy in March?

March is generally quieter than the peak dry-season months.

The major Australian summer holiday period has finished, and the wet-season climate means visitor numbers are often lower than during June, July and August.

This can make March attractive for travellers who prefer a more relaxed holiday.

However, popular reef cruises, accommodation and major attractions can still become busy, particularly around school holidays and long weekends.

The reduced crowds can be one of March’s advantages.

Events and What’s On in March

Cairns continues to have a wide range of events, markets, cultural activities, sporting events, exhibitions and live entertainment throughout March.

Event dates and programs change from year to year, so it is better to check the current Cairns events calendar before travelling.

March can also be a good month to explore Cairns’ restaurants, cafés, galleries, markets and indoor attractions between outdoor activities.

Why Visit Cairns in March?

March provides a useful middle ground between the height of the tropical summer and the beginning of the dry season.

The temperatures remain warm, the ocean is at its most comfortable and the rainforest is still beautifully green.

Rainfall can still be significant, but the weather is beginning its gradual transition towards the drier months.

The region’s waterfalls, rainforest and waterways can remain spectacular, while lower visitor numbers can make some attractions feel more relaxed.

For visitors who don’t require guaranteed sunshine, March can offer an excellent combination of tropical scenery, warm water, outdoor adventure and fewer crowds.