UV Index in Cairns Today — Check Current UV Levels in Cairns, Australia

Check the real-time UV index in Cairns right now. Get the current UV level, hourly UV forecast for today, and a 7-day UV outlook for Cairns, Australia.

Current UV Index in Cairns

The UV index in Cairns changes throughout the day, typically peaking between 10am and 2pm local time. Great Barrier Reef gateway with extreme tropical UV

Hourly UV Forecast for Cairns Today

Planning outdoor activities in Cairns, Australia? Check our hourly UV breakdown to find the safest windows. Our forecast updates every 15 minutes with data from Open-Meteo weather services.

7-Day UV Forecast for Cairns

Plan your week in Cairns with our 7-day UV index forecast. See which days will have the highest UV so you can prepare with the right level of sun protection.

Sun Protection Guide for Cairns

UV Index	Level	What to Do in Cairns
0–2	Low	Enjoy outdoor activities freely. Sunscreen optional for most skin types.
3–5	Moderate	Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen. Seek shade during midday hours.
6–7	High	Limit midday sun. Use SPF 50+, wear a hat and sunglasses.
8–10	Very High	Minimize outdoor time 10am–4pm. Full sun protection essential.
11+	Extreme	Avoid direct sun. Stay indoors or in full shade during peak hours.

Typical UV Levels in Cairns

Cairns typically experiences UV index values of 13-15 during peak season (Year-round) and 7-9 during the off-season. UV remains high year-round with minimal seasonal variation

Best Time for Outdoor Activities in Cairns

The safest time for outdoor activities in Cairns is before 10am and after 4pm when UV levels drop significantly. Always check the current UV index before extended outdoor plans.

Recommended SPF for Cairns

During peak UV season in Cairns (Year-round), dermatologists recommend SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen. Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours.

Cairns UV Index by Season

High UV Season in Cairns

UV levels in Cairns are highest throughout the year, with the UV index regularly reaching 13-15. Protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses are recommended alongside sunscreen.

Low UV Season in Cairns

UV levels drop during monsoon or rainy periods, typically measuring 7-9. SPF 30 is still recommended for extended outdoor time even during cooler months.

Recommended Sun Protection

• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 — Face sunscreen. $37
• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 70 — Body sunscreen. $10
• Banana Boat Light As Air SPF 50 — Twin pack. $15
• Roadbox UPF 50+ Sun Shirt — UV clothing. $19
• Outdoor Research Sombriolet Hat — UPF 50+ hat. $45

We may earn a commission from purchases through these links.

Sun Safety FAQ for Cairns

What is the average UV index in Cairns?

The average UV index in Cairns ranges from 7-9 during the low season to 13-15 during peak months (Year-round).

When is UV highest in Cairns?

UV is highest in Cairns throughout the year, peaking between 10am and 2pm local time.

Do I need sunscreen in Cairns?

Yes — whenever the UV index reaches 3 or higher. During peak season (Year-round), daily sunscreen use is strongly advised.

UV Index Near Cairns

About UV Index in Cairns

UV data for Cairns, Australia is updated every 15 minutes via Open-Meteo weather services. Always check the current UV index before spending extended time outdoors.