Is Cairns too hot in January?
Robert Clark
Published Jan 17, 2026
Cairns Weather in January
Temperatures range from 23.6 – 31.4 degrees Celsius, making January the hottest month of the year, with some cloud cover around for about half the month. With rain tending to fall during the late afternoon and overnight and plenty of sunshine hours, most activities can be fully enjoyed.Is Cairns humid in January?
The average relative humidity in January in Cairns, Australia, is 80%.What is the coolest month for Cairns?
The cool season lasts for 2.7 months, from June 1 to August 24, with an average daily high temperature below 79°F. The coldest month of the year in Cairns is July, with an average low of 64°F and high of 77°F.Can you visit the Great Barrier Reef in January?
The majority of the rain tends to fall late afternoon or overnight, meaning your days shouldn't be affected. This means you can still visit the Great Barrier Reef. An option that is very popular all year, but expecially suited to January is a cruise to "Green Island & The Reef".How often does it rain in Cairns in January?
31-day January average rainfall patterns show an increase in rainfall intensity as the month progresses. Rainfall amounts approximately range between a minimum of 10.4 inches (264.16mm) and a maximum of 15.7 inches (398.78). Average rainfall in January is 320mm for 19 days.Two seasons in one month - January in Cairns
What is Cairns like in January?
January Weather in Cairns Australia. Daily high temperatures are around 88°F, rarely falling below 83°F or exceeding 91°F. The highest daily average high temperature is 88°F on January 19. Daily low temperatures are around 76°F, rarely falling below 72°F or exceeding 79°F.Can you snorkel in Cairns in January?
January Diving Conditions in CairnsJanuary is a great month to go diving off Cairns. This is a summer month and the water temperature can be expected to be a balmy 29 degrees Celsius (84 Degrees Fahrenheit). There is no need for wet suits.
Can you snorkel on Barrier Reef in January?
January brings warm 29 degrees Celsius water and hot, rainy weather. You can see jellyfish, siphonophores, and salps, in abundance, and because the water is so warm, you can dive in Lycra suits and remain comfortable.Do I need a stinger suit in Cairns?
We highly recommend wearing the stinger suits – regardless of the time of year – as it will not only protect you from cairns jellyfish stings, but also provide sun protection in the tropical climate. Snorkellers do not need to fear cairns jellyfish on the Great Barrier Reef. Jellyfish are found around the world.What is the best time of year to visit Cairns?
The best time to visit Cairns is during the months of April and May or September and October. At this time, tourist crowds are low and flights and lodging rates are less expensive, but you may encounter some wet weather.Why is it so hot in Cairns?
Temperatures and RainfallCairns is a typical hot, wet city in the tropics with prodigious amounts of rainfall coupled with days of amazing sunshine and an island atmosphere while still being located on the mainland.