Hot sunny days and wet and warm nights mark the arrival of the wet season. Still, there’s plenty of reasons to visit Palm Cove, from the low season hotel rates to the region’s waterfalls and rainforests, which come alive thanks to overnight thunderstorms this time of year.

As the dreaded stinger season makes its return, it’s best to stick to beaches with special swimming enclosures. Clifton Beach is an excellent choice, featuring netted swimming areas year-round, allowing visitors to dip in the waters anytime in the year.

Get acquainted with the local wildlife at Hartley's Crocodile Farm, located just 15 minutes north of Palm Cove. Catch crocodiles at feeding time on a boat cruise through the wetlands of Hartley’s lagoon, or spot tropical birds and other native fauna in a journey through the woodlands and rainforest.

On rainy days, visit the Palm Cove shopping village to indulge in a bit of retail therapy or go for a coffee and culture break at the cafes and art galleries along the Williams Esplanade.

The weather in fall doesn’t vary much from the summer months, although temperatures dip ever so slightly, with frequent stormy nights. Fall is the season when most farms harvest their crops, making it an exciting time to hit the local farmers’ markets.

Mingle with the locals that give Palm Cove its character and browse handmade wares at the Palm Cove Markets, held on the first Sunday of every month between April and December.

In the mood for a bit of waterfall chasing? Head out to the Barron Falls Lookout in the heart of Barron Gorge National Park, where you’ll catch massive waterfalls roaring with life, boosted by the monsoon rains.

Make the rainforest your personal playground with a visit to the Daintree Discovery Centre. This 180-million-year-old rainforest comprises boardwalks, aerial walkways and canopy towers, providing a bird’s-eye view of one of the most fascinating and diverse ecosystems in the world.

While Palm Cove sees plenty of sunshine and refreshing sea breezes all year round, the region is known for its wet (November to April) and dry (May to October) seasons. Winter in Palm Cove is warm, dry and pleasant, making it comfortable enough for rainforest treks or teeing off on the green.

Experience one of the most unique rail journeys on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which departs from the nearby city of Cairns through spectacular waterfalls and the stunning Barron Gorge to the village of Kuranda.

While you’re in Kuranda, be sure to check out the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, the largest butterfly aviary in the southern hemisphere, where you can take your time snapping photos of the tropical butterflies.

Lace up your trekking boots and take a quick 30-minute drive south to find the lovely Crystal Cascades. Go for an easy hike along the mile-long trail, where you’ll pass glistening granite boulders, flowing creeks and tumbling waterfalls.