Cairns is best enjoyed when blessed with the glorious Northern Queensland sun. But as all Far North Queenslanders know, the humidity can reach breaking point, and the clouds can release a downpour!
Just because it might rain in Cairns, that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy this tropical town! The rain only adds a more intense green hue to the tropics, and the humidity adds life and vitality to the surrounding rainforests.
1. Go to Kuranda on the Skyrail Cableway
Just because there’s a spot of rain, that doesn’t mean you can’t go outdoors! Embrace the rain in true Aussie spirit and make the most out of the weather! The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a fantastic way to see the tropical landscape of the Cairns region. Climb aboard the old-fashioned train that leaves Cairns Central and head up to the Skyrail station. From there, you’ll climb aboard a glass cable car that is fully suspended above the lush green scenery that becomes a vivid shade of green following a heavy rainfall.
The hanging mist only adds atmospheric jungly mist to the mountains of Cairns!
Don’t forget to pick up some fruit while you’re there! Tropical fruits are everywhere in Cairns. Check out the mangoes of Rusty’s Fruit Markets, and get your hands on some of the ripest berries and bananas in Queensland.
2. Visit the Daintree
Visiting the Daintree will be an absolute dream in the rain! The Daintree Rainforest truly comes alive during a downpour. Take a trip to the Daintree from Cairns (day trips to the Daintree Rainforest are common) or stay overnight.
The Rainforest gets its lifeforce from monsoon-like showers, so going in the rain is one of the best times to experience it! Listen to the dramatic sound of echoey rainfall, and feel the heavy humidity as it seeps between the trees and creates a magical ambiance.
3. Visit the Art Gallery
Experience the artwork in the Cairns art gallery, where you can soak up the art and culture of Far North Queensland’s Aboriginal artwork. You’ll see featured works from local indigenous artists, ranging from canvas work to photography that celebrates the spectrum of indigenous connection to the land.
4. Cairns Night Markets
The night market is home to an eclectic mix of different market stalls, and it’s on every night. Local sellers, food vendors and businesses from surrounding towns congregate nightly in this bustling indoor market space. Sample some global cuisine, pick up souvenirs, and explore the Cairns evening atmosphere as vendors come from all over to sell their specialities.
5. Explore the food scene
There are plenty of waterfront bars and restaurants to explore in Cairns! Take shelter from the rain and get yourself a bite to eat in one of the restaurants adjacent to the esplanade. There are plenty of restaurants that offer incredible global cuisines, all paired with pretty waterfront views.
