Cancun is one of my favorite places for a beach escape, and the weather hasn’t failed me there… yet! But that’s because I strategically plan my trips during the best time of year to visit Cancun.
Cancun is usually warm and sunny, but it’s not like that all year long. There are also other considerations to remember when you visit Cancun, like busy times and what activities you’ll be doing.
To help you choose the best time to visit Cancun, I’ve compiled this guide, which helps you understand the month-by-month weather in Cancun, the crowds, and the best time to visit. There are also some packing tips to help you prepare for your trip.
Keep reading to decide what the best time of year to visit Cancun is and the pros and cons of visiting at different times throughout the year.
Last updated: June 3, 2024
Published: April 29, 2024
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Cancun’s Climate Throughout the Year
Cancun’s climate changes throughout the year, giving travelers different experiences depending on when they visit. Here’s a rundown:
- Winter (December to February): During winter, Cancun enjoys mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from around 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). It’s a popular time for tourists seeking to escape colder climates. The water is still warm enough for swimming and water activities.
- Spring (March to May): Springtime sees temperatures rising gradually, with averages ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). It’s a great time to visit for those who prefer slightly warmer weather without the intense heat of summer. However, it’s essential to be aware of occasional rain showers, which can occur during this season.
- Summer (June to August): Summer in Cancun brings hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C) or higher. It’s the peak tourist season due to summer vacations, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. However, it’s also the perfect time for beach lovers, with warm waters ideal for swimming and water sports.
- Fall (September to November): Fall marks the transition from summer to winter, with temperatures gradually cooling down. However, it’s also the peak of hurricane season in Cancun, so travelers should keep an eye on weather forecasts and consider travel insurance. Despite the possibility of storms, fall can still offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it a good time for budget-conscious travelers.
The best time to visit Cancun depends on personal preferences, whether you prefer avoiding crowds, enjoying milder temperatures, or embracing the summer heat. Remember how the climate varies throughout the year when planning your trip to make the most of your Cancun experience.
Month-By-Month Guide to Cancun
Now that you have a general understanding of Cancun’s seasons let’s look at a month-by-month breakdown. You’ll find the monthly average temperatures in Cancun, the level of crowds, and any holidays and events that may affect how it is to visit during the month.
This month-by-month guide to Cancun will help you decide what the best month to visit is.
January: In January, Cancun is warm and nice. It’s around 83°F (28°C) during the day and cools down to about 69°F (21°C) at night. It’s a bit busy because of the holidays, and kids are still off school, so families are vacationing. People are celebrating the New Year, so there will be some parties and events going on.
February: February is very similar to January. It’s warm, with highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 69°F (21°C). The crowds start to go away after the holidays, so it’s an excellent time to visit. Few families are in Cancun because kids are back in school, so it’s generally quieter compared to January.
March: March starts to get warmer, with highs around 85°F (29°C) and lows around 72°F (22°C). More people come because it’s spring break time, so it’s busier, and hotels cost more. It’s a good time to enjoy the beach, but expect more crowds and a lively atmosphere. You should also book in advance before hotels and activities sell out.
April: April is warm and great for the beach. Highs are around 88°F (31°C) and lows around 75°F (24°C). Some spring breakers are still around, but it gets quieter as the month goes on. Easter sometimes falls in April, so there could be some holiday celebrations.
May: May is getting hotter, with highs of about 88°F (31°C) and lows of 75°F (24°C). It’s less crowded now that spring break is over, and school isn’t quite out for the summer yet, so it’s nice if you want a quieter vacation. It’s a good time to enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling and swimming without too many people around.
June: June is really hot, around 90°F (32°C). The crowds get bigger as the month goes on, school ends, and people start taking their summer vacations. It’s a good time to visit if you want to soak up the sun and enjoy water sports like jet skiing or parasailing.
July: July is the hottest month, with temperatures around 90°F (32°C) and higher. It’s busy because it’s summer vacation time, especially for families. Expect crowded beaches and popular tourist spots. Also, pack lots of sun protection, like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, to stay safe in the hot sun.
August: August is still hot, with temperatures similar to July. Many people are still on vacation, so it’s a busy time to visit. The end of the month is the best time to see if you want to go to Cancun in August, but avoid some of the crowds and heat.
September: September is hot, but it’s also when hurricanes can happen. The crowds start to go down as summer vacations end. It’s a good time to find deals on accommodations, but keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for possible rainstorms.
October: October starts to cool down a bit, with highs around 86°F (30°C) and lows around 73°F (23°C). It’s not as crowded as the summer months, so it’s a good time to visit if you want a quieter trip, but hurricane season continues into October. Dia de los Muertos celebrations begin at the end of the month, offering a unique cultural experience.
November: November is nice and warm, with highs of about 84°F (29°C) and lows of 73°F (23°C). It’s not too busy before the holiday season, so it’s a good time to enjoy Cancun without too many crowds. Some resorts might offer Thanksgiving events or specials for guests if you want to travel for a holiday.
December: December is warm and festive, with highs around 83°F (28°C) and lows around 69°F (21°C). The holidays are busy, so expect many people and higher prices. Christmas and New Year’s Eve are major events, with hotels and resorts hosting special dinners, parties, and fireworks shows.
Best Time to Visit Cancun
Finding the perfect time to visit Cancun for your vacation is a big part of enjoying this part of Mexico.
The ideal time to visit weather-wise is from December to April. During the peak season, you can enjoy warm, sunny days and minimal rainfall. It’s the perfect climate for indulging in beach activities, water sports, and exploring the Mayan ruins under clear skies. Remember that this is when there are the biggest crowds because of the holidays, spring break, and good weather, so book far in advance.
If you want to avoid the crowds while enjoying favorable weather, consider booking your trip in late April or May. You might face higher humidity and the occasional shower. However, these months often have fewer tourists and still offer warm temperatures suitable for outdoor adventures.
If you want to avoid the worst of the heat or the possibility of hurricanes, don’t visit between June and November. While direct hits are rare, tropical storms can bring heavy rains and winds. If you opt for a visit during this period, September and October typically see the most rainfall. However, these months will also have the smallest crowds and the cheapest prices.
No matter when you visit, you will have a great time in Cancun. Just choose the month with the best weather, prices, and crowds for you. Personally, I like to visit in October for the lower prices or in May for good weather and smaller crowds.
Packing Tips for Cancun by Season
Here are some packing tips to follow depending on when you are visiting Cancun.
Spring (March to May):
Pack lightweight and breathable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses, along with a swimsuit and cover-up for beach days. Don’t forget accessories like sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun. A light jacket or sweater might come in handy for cooler evenings.
Summer (June to August):
Stick to light, airy clothing like cotton shirts and shorts to stay cool in the hot and humid weather. Remember to bring your swimsuit, beachwear, and accessories such as high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Consider getting a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Fall (September to November):
Bring a mix of lightweight clothing for warm days and layers for cooler evenings, including long pants and light sweaters or jackets. Don’t forget your swimsuit and beachwear, and pack accessories like sunscreen and a compact umbrella or rain jacket for the start of the rainy season.
Winter (December to February):
While Cancun enjoys mild winters, pack some warmer clothing like long-sleeve shirts and pants and a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. Bring your swimsuit and beachwear, and remember accessories like sunscreen because the weather is still warm.
Here are some general packing tips to keep in mind no matter when you decide to visit Cancun:
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential for exploring Cancun’s beaches, streets, and attractions. Water shoes or reef-safe sandals can be useful for water activities like snorkeling.
- Electronics: Remember to pack your camera or phone to capture memories. A waterproof case or waterproof bag can protect your devices during water activities.
- Medical Supplies: It’s a good idea to pack basic medical supplies like pain relievers, motion sickness medication (if needed), anti-diarrhea medicine, and any prescription medications you require.
- Travel Documents: Ensure you have a valid passport (if coming from outside of Mexico), travel insurance, and any necessary visas or travel permits. It’s also a good idea to carry photocopies of important documents in case of loss or theft.
- Reusable Items: Consider bringing reusable items such as water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils to reduce waste and minimize your environmental impact while traveling.
Ready to Visit Cancun?
Explore Cancun’s charm throughout the year, from sunny summers to mild winters and cheaper rates during hurricane season. Whether you want the best weather, the smallest crowds, or the lowest prices, the best time of year to visit Cancun is up to you. This popular gem in the Yucatan is worth a visit!
Here are some travel resources I love and use for planning all my trips:
- Top travel credit cards
- SafetyWing for travel insurance
- Flytographer for professional photoshoots all over the world
- Daily Drop for daily travel tips and tricks in one fun, short newsletter
- Daily Drop Pro for miles and points bookings (learn more in my guide)
- Booking.com for a huge variety of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more
- HostelWorld for the best hostels around the world
- Vrbo for vacation homes and rentals
- Going for cheap flight alerts
- Skyscanner for the cheapest flights
- Amazon for travel and packing must-haves
- Priority Pass for airport lounge access
- TripAdvisor for the top hotels around the world
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