November In Cairns
November is a great time to visit Cairns if you want hot, sunny weather and cheaper prices compared to summer! November is the end of the spring "shoulder season" in Cairns. December sees an influx of travellers for the peak holiday season, so those hoping to score a summer trip to Cairns may prefer to beat the rush by visiting in November.
The heat of summer is also starting to pick up in November, though it hasn't yet hit full force. That means November has lovely hot weather for beach days, waterfalls swims, and Great Barrier Reef tours. But the intense heat and rains of mid-summer haven't arrived yet, so you should enjoy pleasant weather for most of the month.
Plan your trip to Cairns in November with our complete visitor's guide!
What is the weather like in Cairns in November?
The weather in Cairns in November is generally hot, sunny, and slightly humid. Temperatures and humidity levels are high compared to the winter, but they are more pleasant than summer. Though you will notice the tropical summer heat rolling in towards the end of the month.
The weather in Cairns in November is actually amazing for rainforest trips and Great Barrier Reef expeditions! You get the tropical warmth of summer but without the holiday crowds or the rainy season humidity. Those hoping to get a good dose of sunshine and heat in Cairns will have a fabulous time in November.
Overview of November in Cairns Temperatures
- Average daily temperature: 30 °C or 86 °F
- Average daily high: 28 °C or 82 °F
- Average daily low: 23 °C or 73 °F
Does it rain in Cairns in November?
November in Cairns is generally dry and sunny at the beginning of the month, though the end of November will see an increase in rainfall and humidity. Rainy season in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland coincides with the summer months of December, January, and February. So November is right on the cusp of rainy season, and those hoping to avoid showers may want to visit at the beginning of the month.
But November still has an average of 9 hours of sunshine each day and the majority of the month should be clear. If you're planning outdoor activities like scenic flights and island tours at the end of November, you may want to be flexible with your dates in case of rain!
Can you swim in Cairns in November?
You can swim in the ocean around Cairns in November if you are wearing a protective stinger suit! November is the start of stinger season in Tropical North Queensland, so jellyfish may inhabit the waters around the Great Barrier Reef and the Cairns coastline. It's not recommended to swim in the ocean unless you have a full-body stinger suit! Or you can stick to freshwater waterfalls, swimming holes, and local pools such as the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon.
Can you do the Great Barrier Reef in November?
Peak season for visiting the Great Barrier Reef is actually the dry season between May and October, meaning November will likely see fewer crowds! November on the Great Barrier Reef is hot and sunny, making a snorkel or dive in the Coral Sea feel like heaven. Towards the end of the month there may be more rain showers on the way, but early November will likely have clear, sunny days for your Great Barrier Reef liveaboards, dive courses and sailing tours!
Coral spawning on the Great Barrier Reef in November
November is also a common time of year to see coral spawning on the Great Barrier Reef. This monumental event represents the mass reproduction of coral, which is essential to the health and survival of the reef. No one knows exactly when coral spawning will occur, but it's usually at night within a week of the November full moon. Outer reefs might spawn even later, as not every coral reef spawns at the same time. But it is a fascinating phenomenon to witness, and an overnight liveaboard in November is a great way to try and see the famous coral spawning!
Explore the best of the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns!
What's On In Cairns In November
November is a quiet month for Cairns in terms of events and holidays, which is great for travellers who prefer to escape the crowds! There are no public holidays in Australia for November, nor are there any major events or celebrations this month. October is busy with school holidays and Halloween, and the upcoming December period is also big for holidays and families on school breaks. So if you want a little slice of quiet time as you explore Cairns without all the holiday hustle and bustle, November is the perfect time!
Top Tips For November in Cairns
Wear a stinger suit in the ocean
November is the start of stinger season in Cairns, so definitely wear a stinger suit on any Great Barrier Reef tours or beach days! You can also choose beaches that have a stinger net for extra protection. Guided tours on the reef will provide stinger suits as well to ensure everyone can safely snorkel and explore the marine life.
Enjoy the lack of events and holidays in the city
Though there aren't many events or holidays in Cairns in November, laid-back travellers can enjoy quieter city streets and a more mellow vibe. If there are popular tours, fancy hotels, or nice restaurants that are often booked out in peak season, you can likely score a spot in November! For those who prefer less chaos in a city while travelling, Cairns in November is perfect.
Expect a bit of rain at the end of November
As the end of November approaches, the rainy season and summer are starting to creep in. That means you should have some extra flexibility with your outdoor activities to account for any inclement weather. There are plenty of rainy day activities in Cairns to enjoy as well if you do see a few storms, and waterfalls are always fun in the rain!
Is November a good time to visit Cairns?
November is an amazing time to visit Cairns for hot weather and a lack of crowds! This month is like a sweet spot in between the cooler months and the hot, rainy summer months. You can enjoy fewer crowds and storms that summer, but you get warmer temperatures than winter. November also has great visibility on the Great Barrier Reef and perfect hot temperatures for swimming in rainforest waterfalls and exploring the lush flora and fauna!
