March in Cairns is a really great season due to being the sweet spot between summer's heat and the shoulder season (the months between peak seasons). With temperatures between 23°c and 31°c, the sunshine is still glorious, but the humidity starts to ease off a bit, so it’s a little more comfortable for exploring.
Tourist attractions are usually a little bit cheaper in off-peak months, so you can enjoy long, lazy days spent soaking up the tropics, while enjoying little bursts of adventure - all for a better price and with fewer crowds.
A Rainforest Paradise
March’s slightly cooler temps make it an ideal time for scenic drives through the region’s breathtaking landscapes. Why not start your journey with the Atherton Tablelands, where you can explore stunning waterfalls and lush rainforests – all from the air-conditioned comfort of your car?
The amazing Waterfall Circuit – including Millaa Millaa Falls, Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls – is a gorgeous route with plenty of spots to stop for a refreshing dip and a photo op. A relaxing drive through the ancient, World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest gives you winding roads with glimpses of dense greenery and diverse wildlife.
For more diversity in your scenery, a drive to Cape Tribulation is amazing, as it’s where the rainforest meets the reef. Another must-see scenic drive is the Captain Cook Highway, which provides awe-inspiring ocean views and access to beautiful beaches along the way as it hugs the coastline between Cairns and Port Douglas.
Local Flavour
There’s not a lot of annual events happening in Cairns during March, but there’s always so much going on in Cairns, you don’t need to rely on big celebrations – just make your own! Why not take a dip in the Cairns Esplanade lagoon, grab some fish and chips from a local shop and watch the pelicans and seagulls shine with sunset colours?
The Cairns Night Markets are always heaps of fun too, offering a treasure trove of local crafts, fresh produce and delicious street food. For more activities, head to our Things to do in Cairns page.
For the best time to visit Cairns, check out what you can expect in Cairns in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November December.
