What To Do When It Rains In Cairns?
Don’t let the rain get you down; despite the weather, there is still so much to see, do and enjoy in and around Cairns! Keep in mind that Cairns has a tropical climate, so even if it does rain, it usually remains warm. Cairns a vast and sprawling region, and although it might be raining in the city, it may not be raining at the reef or rainforest. So, we recommend checking the forecast specific to the location you are looking to visit. If you are looking for rainy-day ideas, look no further - we have listed the best things to do on a rainy day in and around Cairns!
Top activities to do on a rainy day in Cairns
Head to the Great Barrier Reef anyway!
Rain or shine, the Great Barrier Reef is an amazing day trip most days of the year! While this may seem unusual, but you’ll be under the water anyway, so pop your togs on, pack a raincoat and discover the reef in the rain! Indeed, hearing the pitter-patter of rain on the water's surface is a pretty relaxing experience, and the reef is usually a little bit quieter for a more personalised day out. Whether you choose to snorkel or dive, you around guaranteed to swim along the coral cays and see tropical fishes in their natural habitat. Rainy days on the reef also attract other species that you may not often see, like a manta ray or barracuda. Best of all, you don’t need to stress about the constant application of sticky sunblock!
Catch sight of the most deadly local reptile: the crocodile!
These reptiles are a must-see when in Tropical North Queensland, the best place to view them is in the oldest running tourist attraction in Cairns is the Hartleys Wildlife Park. If you didn’t come prepared for a rainy day, waterproof ponchos are available at the gift shop. The crocodile boat tours are covered overheard, and this cruise will shelter you from the rain and bring you up close to these enormous creatures!
You shouldn’t let the rain stop you from visiting Paronella Park!
Located south of Cairns is a park nestled in a tropical location, filled with natural beauty, rich history and wonderful scenery to fill up your camera roll. Umbrellas are conveniently placed around the park to shield you from the wet weather. Your park ticket includes a guided tour journeying through the park with stories of Jose Paronella and his dreams for the park. Paronella Park is on the Cassowary Coast, a place filled with vibrant nature and extraordinary wildlife. During your guided walk, look to the skies to see the Ulysees butterflies and flying foxes around the park. You can visit Paronella Park, rain or shine.
Looking to chase a thrill? Get your adrenaline pumping with Tully River rafting!
You’ll barely notice the rain as you navigate the rapids down the Tully River. Enjoy an exciting day taking in magnificent landscapes as your highly trained river guide navigates your raft through the flowing river. This day trip also includes a delicious BBQ burger lunch, to fill your energy back up. This activity will get you drenched and makes for the most fun wet weather activity in Cairns!
Cairns indoor activities in the City
If you’re staying in the city on a rainy day, there are a few places you can go to stay out of the rain. Cairns City is a very walkable city and you can access the following activities by foot… Just be sure to take a raincoat or umbrella if it is pouring down.
See the sharks at the Cairns Aquarium
Visit Cairns aquarium and take a closer look at the marine life and its 16,000 aquatic marine life. See all the amazing underwater creatures whilst keeping dry. Cairns aquarium can also be experienced by night to see the Coral Sea’s nighttime predators.
Zipline over a crocodile!
Another indoor activity is the Zoom and wildlife dome, located in the Cairns Casino. Swing from ropes and zip line your way around a wildlife park! If you’re looking for a fun experience in the city whilst remaining indoors, Cairns zoom and wildlife dome is for you and is the ideal day out for the family!
Visit a local market
Take cover from the rain and browse Rusty's market during the day. Or, for those that like a later start to the day, you can check out the night markets at night. Both of these markets display a range of quirky stalls with local produce and goods that should keep you entertained as the rain passes. You can find some great places to eat in the Cairns markets, so check them out!
