What To Do In Cairns When It Rains

Tropical North Queensland lives up to its name in the summer months, when the rainy season arrives. Between December and March, Cairns experiences warm, humid weather with tropical showers and afternoon storms, but that doesn’t mean your plans need to be put on hold. 

Whether chasing waterfalls, wandering around the Aquarium, indulging in a little retail therapy or eating your way through the city, there is no shortage of things to do in Cairns when it’s raining. 

Things to Do in Cairns When It's Raining

Visit Cairns Aquarium

Spend a few hours at Cairns Aquarium discovering the animals and habitats of Tropical North Queensland. Follow the journey from rainforest and mangroves to the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea, and catch one of the daily presentations. You can also book a guided visit to the onsite Turtle Rehabilitation Centre to learn how rescued sea turtles are cared for.

Dine in Style in Cairns

Rainy days call for long, lazy lunches and indulgent dinners, and Cairns has an abundance of dining options to satisfy any cravings. Enjoy live music, drinks and gourmet market-style bites at Boardwalk Social, treat yourself to the finest steak in town at CC’s Bar and Grill, or watch the rain roll in as you kick back with a cocktail at Calypso Club. For a taste of Italy, head to Flynn’s Italian for classic dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Or settle in at Whiskey & Wine overlooking the Cairns Esplanade. Thai, Japanese, Indian, Greek? Take a wander down Cairns Esplanade and you will find a range of international flavours to tempt your taste buds. 

Wander Rusty’s Market

If you are wondering what to do in Cairns when it's raining, Rusty’s Market is a must. Open Friday to Sunday, this vibrant undercover market is home to 180 stalls packed with tropical produce, fresh flowers, gourmet treats, delicious street eats and cosy coffee spots. If you are hunting for a gift or a little keepsake, Rusty’s also features stalls selling locally-designed clothing, jewellery, and bric-a-brac. Stroll through the aisles, sample some exotic fruits, and soak up the lively local vibe while staying sheltered from the rain. 

Treat Yourself To A Spa Day 

When a storm is brewing in Cairns there is no better time to indulge in a little self-care. Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Flynn and Crystalbrook Riley offer the perfect rainy day retreat with a range of luxurious treatments, from muscle-melting massages to organic facials and foot soaks and scrubs. With a team of top beauty therapists, each treatment is personalised to suit your needs, helping to relieve tension, boost circulation, smooth fine lines and restore your natural glow.   

Chase Waterfalls Near Cairns

Tropical downpours in Cairns’ rainy season transform the area’s waterfalls into breathtaking spectacles. Take a scenic drive to Barron Falls, 40-minute north west of Cairns, or venture south to Tully Falls which only flows during the wet season, creating an awe-inspiring cascade. For waterfall chasers, picturesque Millaa Millaa Falls—one of the most photographed falls in Australia—is a must. Just be sure to check conditions before swimming or visiting nearby waterfalls, as water levels can rise rapidly. 

Enjoy a Shopping Spree in Cairns 

Rainy days are the perfect excuse for a little retail therapy and Cairns Central Shopping Centre is the ultimate indoor escape. With over 170 shops, you’ll find everything you need all under one roof. Browse the latest styles at Cotton On, Country Road, Ghanda and Peter Alexander, stock up on self-care essentials at The Body Shop or L’Occitane and when hunger strikes, grab a bite at Sushi Hub, Zambero, Ramen Street, Cinnabon or Donut King.  

Take a Dip in the Rain

If you can’t beat the rain, you might as well enjoy it. Summer showers are part of the tropical Cairns experience, but the warm temperatures mean you can still enjoy a refreshing dip. Jump in the hotel swimming pool at Crystalbrook or head to the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a large saltwater swimming pool overlooking the ocean. Open all year round, the lagoon offers a safe and scenic spot for a swim.  

Visit Cairns Art Gallery

Head to Cairns Art Gallery for exhibitions by regional, national and international artists. The gallery's program brings together historical and contemporary work, with a particular connection to North Queensland and the wider tropics. Entry is free, and you can check the gallery's website for current exhibitions, talks and classes before you visit.

Find a book at Cairns Libraries

For a quieter afternoon, visit one of the Cairns Libraries. City Library on Abbott Street is a handy choice if you are staying in the CBD. Browse the shelves, take a break from the rain or see what events are on during your stay. 

Spend the evening at Cairns Night Markets

When the showers continue after dark, browse the stalls at Cairns Night Markets. The indoor market is open every evening and has souvenirs, gifts and a food court, so you can make a night of it without planning around the weather.

Don’t Let the Rain Stop You

From indoor and outdoor attractions, to shopping and dining experiences, there are plenty of things to do in Cairns when it's raining. So grab your umbrella, embrace the tropical vibes and make the most of every moment in Cairns—rain or shine.