Weather: Cairns — May
The weather is near-perfect with ideal temperatures and minimal rain. Recommended month to visit.
🌟 Climate Overview
May is an excellent time to visit Cairns. Warm weather with highs of 26°C—great for outdoor activities. Rain is common, so pack an umbrella. As peak season, expect higher prices and more tourists. Sea temperature of 26°C is perfect for swimming.
Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options
26°C
22°C
12days
11.3h
Feels like 29°C / 24°C — humidity makes it feel warmer
65mm
9.7h/day
83%
Very Humid6
High18 km/h (gusts 43)
26°C 🏊 Comfortable
Is May a good time to visit Cairns?
The weather is near-perfect with ideal temperatures and minimal rain.
Now
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Air Quality
Travel Context
- CrowdsVery Busy
- Travel Costs Shoulder Rates
Daylight
06:34
17:54
Visiting Cairns in May: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comfortable temperatures for sightseeing
- Abundant sunshine for beach and outdoor fun
- Warm sea perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- One of the best months to visit
Cons
- Peak season — expect crowds and higher prices
Things to Do in May
Recommended for This Weather
Cairns Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rain | Sunshine | Humidity | UV Index | Crowds | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31°C | 26°C | 24d (449mm) | 9h | 85% Very Muggy | 7.6 Very High | | Wet |
| Feb | 31°C | 26°C | 22d (400mm) | 8.7h | 86% Very Muggy | 7.2 Very High | | Wet |
| Mar | 30°C | 25°C | 20d (242mm) | 9.3h | 85% Very Muggy | 7.4 Very High | | Wet |
| Apr | 29°C | 24°C | 16d (190mm) | 9.6h | 84% Very Muggy | 6.7 High | | Excellent |
| May Current | 26°C | 22°C | 12d (65mm) | 9.7h | 83% Very Humid | 6 High | | Excellent |
| Jun | 25°C | 21°C | 8d (31mm) | 9.4h | 82% Very Humid | 5.4 High | | Excellent |
| Jul | 25°C | 20°C | 7d (41mm) | 9.6h | 81% Very Humid | 5.7 High | | Excellent |
| Aug | 25°C | 20°C | 8d (38mm) | 9.9h | 79% Humid | 6.8 High | | Excellent |
| Sep | 26°C | 21°C | 9d (32mm) | 10.6h | 80% Very Humid | 7.9 Very High | | Excellent |
| Oct | 29°C | 23°C | 6d (20mm) | 11.6h | 79% Muggy | 9.6 Very High | | Excellent |
| Nov | 30°C | 24°C | 9d (56mm) | 11.7h | 79% Muggy | 9.7 Very High | | Good |
| Dec | 30°C | 25°C | 17d (360mm) | 10.2h | 83% Very Muggy | 8.5 Very High | | Wet |
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef gateway, including rainforest, Great Barrier Reef diving and Daintree Rainforest, diving, and tropical islands.
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What to Pack for May
Summer clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses will be comfortable. Bring a light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces. A waterproof jacket and shoes are non-negotiable — showers are frequent. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen — the sun is strong.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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More Cairns Guides
Best Time to Visit
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Things to Do
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Where to Stay
Best neighborhoods and hotel recommendations
Cost & Budget
Daily costs, money-saving tips, and budget breakdown
Itineraries
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Overview
Complete travel guide for Cairns: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.