Christmas in Cairns feels warm and tropical, a total contrast to the chilly holiday vibe elsewhere. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 30–31°C (86–88°F), and nights stay mild at 23–24°C (73–75°F). The air’s humid, and rain showers pop up often, but honestly, the wet weather keeps everything lush and green.
You’ll get long daylight hours, breezy afternoons, and warm coastal waters—perfect for outdoor fun. Showers and storms can roll in, but they tend to move on quickly, leaving time for the beach, reef trips, or a rainforest wander.
If you’re planning a trip to Cairns for Christmas, you’ll want to pack for both sun and rain. The mix of hot days, high humidity, and frequent tropical downpours really sets the mood, so it’s good to know what’s coming before you start stuffing your suitcase.
Overview of Cairns December Climate
December in Cairns means hot temps, high humidity, and plenty of rain. The city’s tropical setting and coastal spot create a combo of heat, clouds, and wet weather that’s pretty different from much of Australia.
Tropical Climate Characteristics
Cairns has a tropical monsoon climate, so December falls right in the wet season. Average highs hit about 30–31°C (86–88°F) and lows stick near 23–24°C (73–75°F). The heat doesn’t really let up, and nights stay warm.
Rainfall jumps up in December. Over 150 mm of rain can fall through the month, mostly in short, heavy bursts. Showers usually hit in the afternoon or evening, sometimes with a bit of thunder.
Humidity stays high—often above 70–80%—which makes it feel hotter than the numbers suggest. You’ll see plenty of clouds, with a lot of days partly or mostly overcast. Still, daylight stretches beyond 13 hours, so you’ve got long days for getting outside when the weather’s decent.
Far North Queensland Location
Cairns sits in Far North Queensland, right on Australia’s northeast coast. The Coral Sea and the Great Barrier Reef really shape the weather here. Warm sea surfaces keep temps steady and boost humidity.
Mountains around Cairns play a part, too. Moist ocean air rises over the hills, which means frequent rain in the area. That’s why you get those lush rainforests so close to the city, but also why you should expect wet weather in December.
Since Cairns is close to the equator, it doesn’t get the big seasonal swings you’d see down south. Instead, rainfall is what really changes month to month. December kicks off the wettest stretch of the year.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
December marks the start of summer in Cairns and lines up with the wet season. You’ll notice a pattern: warm mornings, humid afternoons, and a good chance of heavy showers in the evening. That’s just how daily life and travel work here.
There’s still a decent shot at sunshine between showers. You might get a few hours of bright light each day, but honestly, the weather can flip fast. If you’re heading outside, tossing a light rain jacket in your bag isn’t a bad idea.
Cyclones can show up in Far North Queensland this time of year, but they’re not a sure thing. Most visitors just deal with heavy rain and humidity, but it’s smart to keep an eye on forecasts if you’re traveling in December.
Typical Temperatures in December
December in Cairns brings hot, humid air, with daytime warmth that barely cools off at night. You’ll feel steady heat all month, but humidity and clouds can really change how it feels on your skin.
Average Daily Highs and Lows
Daytime highs in December usually land at 29–31°C (84–88°F). Nights cool off just a bit, averaging 23–24°C (73–75°F). So, the heat sticks around even after sunset.
The average for the month sits close to 27°C (81°F), making December one of the hottest months in Cairns. Unlike inland spots, coastal Cairns rarely drops below the mid-20s°C at night, thanks to humidity and its tropical location.
Even early in the morning, the air feels warm. You’ll want to pack light clothes, since cool evenings just don’t happen here.
Temperature Variability
December temperatures in Cairns don’t jump around much. You won’t get big swings from day to day. The main changes come from clouds and rain.
Heavy showers might drop the temperature a bit, but it bounces back fast once the rain stops. Sunshine can really boost the “feels-like” temp, especially if the air’s still.
Cairns doesn’t get cold fronts in December like cities down south do. The tropical climate keeps things steady, but heat and humidity can make it feel more intense than the numbers say.
Heat Index and Real Feel
The heat index in Cairns during December often feels higher than what the thermometer shows. With average humidity around 60–70%, a 30°C day can feel more like 34–36°C (93–97°F).
This “real feel” matters if you’re planning to be outside. Even moderate activity can feel exhausting in the middle of the day. Shade, water, and light clothes definitely help.
At night, the humidity can make it feel sticky, even if the air’s technically cooler. Most places have air conditioning or at least a strong fan, and you’ll probably be glad for it when you’re trying to sleep.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
December kicks off the wet season in Cairns. You’ll see more rain, frequent showers, and the occasional storm, especially around Christmas.
Average Monthly Precipitation
December usually brings a big jump in rain compared to the drier months. You’re looking at about 180–200 mm (7–8 inches) of rain for the month.
Rain doesn’t fall evenly—heavy downpours hit in short bursts, then the sun comes out. Compared to September, which gets less than 10 mm, December’s totals show how quickly the wet season ramps up.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Month | Avg. Rainfall (mm) | Avg. Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| September | ~9 mm | 0.35 in |
| December | ~190 mm | 7.5 in |
| January | ~325 mm | 12.8 in |
Rainfall Frequency and Intensity
You won’t get rain every day in December, but 12–15 rainy days is pretty normal. These aren’t light drizzles—think brief, heavy showers.
Rain in December can be intense. One storm might dump a lot of the month’s rain in just a few hours. Sometimes, this causes localized flooding in low areas.
Even with all that rain, you’ll still get plenty of daylight. Showers clear out quickly, so you can get back outside once the sun’s back.
Thunderstorms and Wet Season Effects
Thunderstorms pick up in December as the wet season gets going. Warm air, high humidity, and sea breezes often spark afternoon and evening storms.
You’ll probably hear thunder, see lightning, and get hit with short, heavy rain during these storms. They don’t usually last long, but they can be intense and might mess with your plans.
The wet season pushes humidity even higher, making it feel hotter. This keeps up into January and February, when rain and storms really peak.
By Christmas, you’re right at the start of this cycle, so expect wetter and more unsettled weather than earlier in the year.
Humidity and Wind Conditions
December in Cairns means warm, tropical air with lots of humidity and light to moderate breezes. The air feels moist, especially in the afternoons, but the wind helps a bit with the heat. These conditions really affect how comfortable you’ll feel outside and how you plan activities during the holidays.
Average Humidity Levels
Humidity in December stays high, averaging 70–75%. That’s just how the wet season goes, especially in summer. Mornings feel a little less sticky, but by midday, the air gets heavy.
Nights stay humid too, so sleeping without air conditioning can be tough. In drier months like September, humidity drops to 55%, but December just stays muggy.
All this humidity keeps the landscape green and brings those quick rain showers. You’ll want breathable clothes and to be ready for muggy days, especially if you’re inland or away from the sea breeze.
Wind Speed Trends
December winds in Cairns are usually gentle or moderate. You’ll get average speeds of 10–15 km/h, sometimes stronger during storms. Breezes mostly come from the east or southeast, bringing in moist air from the Coral Sea.
These winds won’t mess up most outdoor plans. They actually help cool things off a bit. On stormy days, though, expect sudden gusts tied to afternoon thunderstorms.
If you’re near the coast, the sea breeze can pick up in the afternoon. That makes beaches and waterfronts feel more comfortable than spots further inland, where the air can get pretty still.
Impact on Comfort and Outdoor Activities
High humidity and warm temps can make physical activity feel tougher. If you’re hiking or exploring the rainforest, take it easy and bring plenty of water. Lightweight clothes and shady breaks really help.
The wind’s usually good for water activities. Sailing, reef trips, and beach days benefit from the breeze, which keeps things pleasant but doesn’t make the sea rough.
Evenings outside can feel sticky, but the breeze often gets a little stronger after sunset. That makes eating along the Esplanade or checking out the night markets more comfortable than braving the midday heat.
Sea Temperature and Coastal Weather
The coastal waters around Cairns stay warm all December, so swimming and water activities are always on the table. Breezes from the Coral Sea also shape how it feels along the shore, especially at spots like Palm Cove.
Average Sea Temperatures
In December, sea temps near Cairns usually sit between 28°C and 29°C (82°F to 84°F). That’s pretty much the same all along the northern Queensland coast, including Palm Cove.
The water feels a lot like the air—there’s barely any difference when you step in. People often call it “bath-like,” and honestly, you can stay in for ages without getting chilly.
Compared to November, the sea’s a bit warmer, and it keeps heating up into January. This fits the wet season pattern, when both humidity and rainfall climb.
If you love warm water, December’s ideal. But don’t forget, it’s also the start of stinger season. Beaches like Palm Cove put up swim nets to help keep jellyfish out.
Swimming and Water Activities
Warm seas in December make swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding super inviting. The water stays comfortable all day, even in the morning or after dark.
At Palm Cove and other beaches, lifeguards keep an eye on swimming enclosures during the season. These areas are safer, especially when stingers are around. If you’re spending a lot of time in the water, stinger suits are a smart choice.
For reef trips, the sea’s warmth means you can snorkel or dive for hours. Tour operators often run full-day outings in December, since the conditions are great for exploring.
Mornings usually give you the best water visibility. Afternoon showers or storms, which are common now, can stir things up, so getting out earlier in the day is a good move.
Effects of Coastal Breezes
Coastal breezes really shape how the weather feels along the Cairns shoreline. In December, winds from the Coral Sea usually blow at 10 to 20 km/h, giving you some much-needed relief from the tropical humidity.
You’ll notice these breezes make the beach feel cooler, even when the air hits the high 20s Celsius. They also stop heat from building up on the sand and footpaths, so beach walks don’t feel like you’re walking on hot coals.
At Palm Cove, the way the coast faces means you often get steady onshore winds in the afternoon. Small waves show up, which swimmers can handle easily, but if you’re out kayaking or paddleboarding, you’ll definitely feel them.
Evenings usually calm down, with lighter winds that make outdoor dining or a stroll along the esplanade pretty relaxing. Warm sea air mixing with gentle breezes really sets the mood along the coast in December.
Regional Variations and Surrounding Areas
Once you leave central Cairns, the weather changes fast. Inland towns get cooler nights, but the coast stays warm and sticky.
Nearby forests and mountain ranges create their own little microclimates, which affect how much rain falls, how cloudy it gets, and what the temperature feels like.
Weather in Kuranda
Kuranda sits in the rainforest, about 25 kilometers inland and higher up than Cairns. Nights here cool down more, often a few degrees lower than the coast.
Daytime highs still reach the upper 20s °C, but the humidity feels heavier because of all the thick vegetation.
Rain falls more often here, especially in December. Afternoon showers happen a lot, and storms can pop up out of nowhere.
The rainforest canopy traps moisture, so the air stays damp, even when it’s not raining.
If you’re planning a visit, pack light clothes for daytime but bring a light jacket for evenings. The cooler nights and extra rain make Kuranda’s weather less predictable than the coastal plain. Many travelers actually find this change refreshing compared to Cairns’ warmer nights.
Palm Cove Climate
Palm Cove sits north of Cairns, right on the coast. Temperatures here almost match Cairns—daytime highs around 30–31°C and warm nights close to 24°C.
The sea temperature hovers near 28°C, so swimming and water activities feel great.
Rain picks up in December, but most showers move through quickly. Coastal breezes cut down the heavy, sticky feeling, especially compared to inland spots.
You might notice a bit more sunshine here than in the rainforest, though clouds start building as the wet season gets closer.
Palm Cove is famous for its calm beachfront lined with palm trees. The place feels tropical, but the weather in December usually stays steady enough for beach time and dining outdoors.
Just be ready for sudden rain showers and high humidity, especially in the afternoons.
Influence of Forests and Mountains
The mountain ranges west of Cairns and the forests around them really shape the local weather. Moist air from the Coral Sea rises over the ranges, cools off, and drops heavy rainfall.
That’s why rainforest spots like Kuranda get more frequent storms than the coast.
The coastal strip, including Palm Cove, benefits from sea breezes that keep things cooler. These breezes also help break up clouds faster than what you see in inland valleys.
You’ll get more cloud cover and higher humidity in the forests, while open coastal areas generally feel warmer and sunnier. The difference isn’t huge, but it’s enough to change how comfortable the weather feels, depending on where you’re staying.
Weather Considerations for Christmas Travel
December in Cairns brings hot, humid weather, with frequent rain showers and a real chance of tropical storms. If you want to enjoy outdoor holiday activities, you’ll need to plan around the heat, high humidity, and the wet season.
Packing Tips for December
Pack for both heat and rain. Lightweight, breathable clothes—think cotton or linen—will help you stay comfortable in the sticky weather.
Nights stay warm, so you can skip jackets or sweaters.
Don’t forget sun protection: a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. The UV index is high, and sunburn sneaks up fast.
Since December is part of the rainy season, toss in a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket. Waterproof sandals or quick-dry shoes are handy for sudden downpours.
If you’re planning to swim, keep in mind stinger season runs from November to May. You’ll need a stinger suit for ocean swimming, and most reef tours provide them. For freshwater swimming holes, regular swimwear does the job.
A small daypack with a dry bag or plastic liner keeps your electronics and valuables safe during heavy showers.
Holiday Activities and Weather Impact
The weather really decides how you’ll spend Christmas in Cairns. Daytime highs sit around 30–31°C, and humidity makes it feel even hotter.
Rain usually comes in short bursts, so you still get plenty of sunshine.
Outdoor activities like visiting the Great Barrier Reef or checking out waterfalls stay popular. It’s smart to keep your plans flexible, since tours sometimes shift schedules if storms roll in.
Local holiday events, from Christmas markets to New Year’s celebrations, go ahead even during the wet season. Many of them happen outdoors, so bring rain protection if you want to join in.
Swimming at mainland beaches needs extra caution because of marine stingers. Safer bets include the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon or freshwater creeks, where you can cool off without worrying about the ocean.
Safety During Extreme Weather Events
December sits right in the cyclone season up in northern Queensland. Severe storms might not happen every year, but you’ll want to keep an eye on weather forecasts and check local updates whenever you can.
If heavy rain leads to flooding, don’t drive on roads that are underwater. Even water that looks shallow can cause real trouble.
Tropical heat brings its own set of challenges. Make sure you drink plenty of water, rest in the shade, and skip any tough activities during the hottest hours.
Tour operators in Cairns know how to handle weather disruptions. They might delay or cancel reef trips, rainforest tours, or island ferries if things get risky.
If you book with a reputable provider, you’ll get updates and clear safety advice. Stay prepared for heat, humidity, and storms, and you’ll have a safer Christmas holiday.