Cairns in March
In March, Cairns averages 29°C (85°F) during the day and 24°C (75°F) at night, with frequent rain — about 25 days of the month see precipitation (293 mm total).
Off-peakConditions are warm and beach-friendly. Expect daily rain or showers, often in heavy bursts.
It's peak cyclone season in Cairns during March. Travel is possible but expect storm risk, possible flight disruption, and generally lower travel insurance coverage.
How March compares to the rest of the year in Cairns
March is in the middle of the year for warmth in Cairns (5th of 12) and one of the wettest months (2nd of 12). Daytime temperature runs 2°C above the annual average (28°C). March runs 1°C cooler than February (30°C) and cools 1°C in April (28°C).
March sunrise & sunset in Cairns
Times shown for Cairns local time (Australia/Brisbane), calculated for the 15th of March. They shift by a few minutes day to day across the month.
Photography light in Cairns — March
Golden-hour and blue-hour windows for the 15th of March, in Cairns's local time. Use these for soft warm light (golden) or cool architectural twilight (blue).
📅 When to book — Cairns in March
Travel writers usually only tell you when to go. Here's when to book flights and lodging for the best mix of price and availability, based on March's tier (Off-peak) and Cairns's popularity.
Crowds & pricing — March in Cairns
This is off-peak for Cairns — the lowest prices of the year and the fewest crowds, but with real trade-offs: some restaurants, hotels, and beach businesses may close for the season; weather conditions can make outdoor activities unpredictable; and a handful of seasonal sights run reduced hours or close entirely. Great if you prefer a quiet local rhythm and don't mind the climate giving you reasons to choose indoor activities.
Why this tier: peak hazard season (1 active)
Sun & mosquito risk — March in Cairns
UV is a clear-sky sea-level estimate — clouds, altitude, and reflective surfaces (snow, water) shift it ±30%. Mosquito risk is climate-derived only; for current disease advisories (dengue, malaria, zika) check the CDC or WHO travel pages before your trip.
Sea temperature in Cairns — March
Across the year Cairns's sea swings from 23.3°C (August) to 30.1°C (January) — March sits at 29.2°C.
Cairns in other months
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Rainfall | Rain days | Snow days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 76°F | 375 mm | 28 | — |
| February | 30°C / 87°F | 25°C / 76°F | 293 mm | 24 | — |
| March | 29°C / 85°F | 24°C / 75°F | 293 mm | 25 | — |
| April | 28°C / 82°F | 23°C / 73°F | 199 mm | 25 | — |
| May | 26°C / 79°F | 21°C / 70°F | 81 mm | 19 | — |
| June | 25°C / 76°F | 19°C / 67°F | 63 mm | 19 | — |
| July | 24°C / 75°F | 18°C / 65°F | 42 mm | 15 | — |
| August | 25°C / 77°F | 18°C / 65°F | 32 mm | 13 | — |
| September | 26°C / 80°F | 20°C / 67°F | 33 mm | 16 | — |
| October | 28°C / 83°F | 21°C / 70°F | 47 mm | 16 | — |
| November | 30°C / 85°F | 23°C / 73°F | 55 mm | 21 | — |
| December | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 75°F | 259 mm | 22 | — |
Other cities with similar March weather
🌍 See the full ranked list of climate twins for Cairns in March →
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Cairns in March?
In March, Cairns averages a high of 29°C (85°F) and a low of 24°C (75°F) — generally warm.
Does it rain a lot in Cairns in March?
March is quite rainy in Cairns, with about 25 rainy days on average.
Is March a good time to visit Cairns?
March is warm but on the rainy side. It suits travelers who are comfortable with warm weather; check the month-by-month ranking to compare it against the rest of the year.
What should I pack for Cairns in March?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen, plus a compact umbrella or rain jacket. See the full March packing list for Cairns for a complete, climate-based checklist.
Check the live 10-day forecast and sunrise/sunset.