September In Cairns
Many would consider September to be one of the best months for a trip to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. It's the beginning of Spring, so the tropical weather is warm, sunny, dry, and not too hot or humid. Conditions are perfect for outdoor adventures like reef trips and exploring the rainforests, and there are some fun local events but it's not too crowded in the city. September is also outside stinger season and within the end of whale season, so the Great Barrier Reef is free from stingers but home to whales which is amazing.
Our travel experts have made this guide for visiting Cairns in September to help you plan your trip!
What is the weather like in Cairns in September?
The most perfect weather in Cairns is arguably in September, when the days are warm, breezy and dry and the nights are comfortably mild. It's the end of winter in Cairns and the beginning of spring, so temperatures are warming up! But the heat hasn't yet risen to the intensity of summer, so you'll find the days to be pleasant and usually sunny. The nights and mornings may have slight chill, but you'll never need more than a light jacket. Cairns has a tropical climate, so even in winter the temperatures don't drop very low.
Overview of September in Cairns Temperatures
- Average daily temperature: 23 °C or 73 °F
- Average daily high: 27 °C or 81 °F
- Average daily low: 16 °C or 66 °F
Is Cairns windy in September?
It can be windy in Cairns in September, but it's not necessarily the windiest time of year. May through August are generally the windiest months, with wind speeds starting to slow in September. There may be the occasional strong gust, but the conditions on the Coral Sea in September are actually amazing for sailing! The dry, warm weather combined with a gentle breeze makes for beautiful sailing on the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns.
Is it warm enough to swim in Cairns in September?
It is definitely warm enough to swim in Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef in September! Ocean temperatures hover around 24.9 °C (or 76.8 °F) in September. The end of winter means the sea can still be chilly, but it is already starting to warm up as spring approaches. If you are feeling cold on your Great Barrier Reef snorkel or swim, most guided tours provide wetsuits for you to wear.
But if you're leaving a cooler climate behind for your trip to Cairns, you may find the water pleasantly warm enough to swim without a wetsuit.
Make the most of the amazing weather with some Great Barrier Reef tours!
Are there stingers in Cairns in September?
There are no marine stingers in Cairns during September! Stinger season in Tropical North Queensland runs from November to May, so the ocean around Cairns is safe for swimming outside of this time. If you are visiting the Great Barrier Reef during stinger season, you should never swim without a lycra bodysuit to protect against the jellyfish that inhabit the waters. But September is clear, so you are free to frolic in the tropical ocean safely!
What's On In Cairns In September
September in Cairns is a lively month that has a few holidays and events for locals and visitors. The first bit of excitement in September is the Cairns Festival, which runs for roughly 10 days starting at the end of August. For 2025, the Cairns Festival goes from the 29th of August to the 7th of September. This event for all ages brings parades, performances, music, art, and culture to the city streets.
On the first sunday of September, you also have Father's Day in Australia. This is a popular time to explore Cairns as a family if you want to treat your dad to a tropical holiday! Most states around Australia have school holidays starting in September as well. Dates vary from state to state, but most holidays start between the 22nd and 29th of September. This usually brings an influx of domestic visitors to Cairns, particularly families.
Top Tips For September in Cairns
It's the end of whale season on the Great Barrier Reef
September marks the end of whale season in Cairns, so you can catch the year's final glimpses of humpback whales on the reef! Whale season runs from late May until September, at which point the whales will be heading back down the coast of Australia towards Antarctica where they can feed during the summer. If you join a multiday liveaboard or private charter on the Great Barrier Reef, you have the best chance of spotting some humpback whales!
It's perfect conditions for the Great Barrier Reef
With the ideal weather conditions, September is possibly the best time of year to explore the Great Barrier Reef! Though this is a huge attraction for visitors in Cairns year-round, September is absolutely dreamy on the Coral Sea. Extend your reef adventures beyond a day trip with some island tours, scenic flights, or even a multiday reef tour to make the most of the amazing weather.
Book in advance during school holidays
It's a good idea to be mindful of school holidays if you're visiting Cairns towards the end of September. The city may get more crowded as Australian families enjoy their school breaks, so it's wise to book tours, restaurants, rental cars, and accommodations in advance. Cairns usually isn't as touristy as big cities like Sydney or Brisbane, but it does still get busy so plan your trip in advance to avoid disappointment!
Is September a good month to visit Cairns?
Thanks to the idyllic weather and fun local events, September is an amazing month to visit Cairns! The Coral Sea sparkles with clear sapphire water, the rainforests thrive with wildlife and waterfalls, and the Great Barrier Reef mesmerised with its Heritage-listed marine life. Warm, dry weather makes outdoor adventures extra enjoyable in Cairns, whether you want to hike, visit Kuranda, try adventure sports, or explore tropical islands. Don't miss your chance to visit the stunning landscapes of Cairns this September!
