Known for its gorgeous beaches and crystal waters, Cancun is a beloved travel destination in Mexico. The best months to travel to Cancun are December through April when many North Americans escape cold winter temperatures to enjoy Cancun’s sunny weather. Cancun attracts the most crowds during wintertime, and hotel prices tend to rise. The weather is ideal in these months, with the average day being warm and sunny but not too hot.
The best months to travel to Cancun are December through April when many North Americans escape cold winter temperatures to enjoy Cancun’s sunny weather.
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Average Temperature In Cancun
Cancun experiences hot and humid summers. Cancun’s hot season lasts 3.5 months, from June to September, with an average daily high temperature above 88° F. July is the hottest month, with an average high of 90° F and an average low of 77° F.
Winters in Cancun are very mild, and temperatures don’t often drop low. The colder season lasts three months, from December to March. Cancun has warm, pleasant winters, with an average daily high temperature below 83° F. January is the coldest month of the year, with an average low of 67°F and an average high of 81°F.
Daily Chance Of Precipitation In Cancun
Cancun gets the most rain in the summer and fall months. Cancun’s rainy season lasts 5.3 months, from May to November, with a 32% chance of a given day being a wet day. September has the most wet days of any month, with an average of 14.4 days with .04 inches of precipitation or more. Travelers who want to avoid the rain might want to skip traveling to Cancun during these months.
Between November and May, Cancun experiences a drier season. March has the fewest wet days of any month, with an average of 4.4 days with at least .04 inches of precipitation.
Humidity Comfort Levels In Cancun
Cancun has a humid climate for most of the year, and perceived humidity varies significantly depending on the season. The most humid part of the year lasts nine months, from March to December. August is the month with the most muggy days, with practically every day being somewhat humid.
Best Time Of Year To Visit Cancun For Great Weather
If you’re hoping to participate in outdoor tourist activities and avoid extreme heat, the ideal time to visit Cancun is between December and March. The end of January is an exceptionally favorable time for tourists who hope to enjoy pleasant weather during their visit.
If you prefer hot weather activities, such as swimming and going to the beach, late January to early May and late to mid-December are the best times to plan your trip. These periods contain more days with temperatures between 75° F and 90° F and fewer rainy days.
The ocean water temperature varies somewhat throughout the year, between 78°F and 84°F. Although the water is a bit cooler in January and February, it’s still possible to swim, and clear visibility makes it an excellent time for snorkeling and diving.
When Should You Go To Cancun?
Peak Travel Season In Cancun
The peak season in Cancun lasts from December to April, with the most crowds from around the world taking advantage of the gorgeous weather. It’s the perfect time of year for snorkeling and diving since the water visibility is at its best during these months, especially in January and December. There’s not much rain during this time of the year and the humidity is still bearable, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities.
The peak season months attract tons of tourists, so be aware that during this time of year Cancun will be crowded. Holiday weeks, including Christmas, New Year’s as well as spring break are especially popular times to travel. Flights can sell out and hotels can fill up around these times. So if you want to spend your holiday in Cancun, it’s best to book your stay ahead of time.
Cancun’s nightlife kicks up a notch during spring break, with lots of partying, drinking, and dancing. During the day, the parties continue on the beach or at the pool. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, it may be best to avoid Cancun during spring break, although it’s still possible to find some chill spots and avoid the crowds. For warm weather seekers, the winter months of December through March are a great time to escape the cold and visit Cancun. You’ll be sunbathing by the pool and sipping margaritas on a white sand beach instead of shoveling snow and cranking up the heater. Take advantage of Cancun’s divine peak season weather and take a trip in the winter months.
Shoulder Travel Season In Cancun
Cancun’s shoulder season lasts from April to May and October to November. Temperatures begin to rise from April to May, and the humidity starts to get more unbearable. October and November aren’t unbearably hot, but high humidity and frequent rain showers make the weather fall short of perfect during this period.
There are advantages to visiting Cancun during the shoulder season. There are fewer crowds, and it’s easier to find deals on flights and hotels. Although the weather might be hotter or rainier than peak season, it’s still pleasant enough for hiking and exploring the ruins, and water temperatures are excellent for swimming and snorkeling. If you prefer to avoid crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain and humidity, shoulder season in Cancun might be the perfect time to plan your trip.
Low Travel Season In Cancun
June through November are the low season in Cancun. The wettest months of the year, June and September, are during this time, and humidity is at its worst. Summer holidays still attract tourists, but from August to September there are far fewer crowds.
Even during the low season, Cancun has a lot to offer. From June to September, whale sharks visit the ocean waters of Cancun. Many companies offer tours and experiences to see and even swim with these magnificent creatures. It’s something you can only experience during Cancun’s low season.
From July to October, baby sea turtles are hatching on the beaches in Cancun and making the journey to the ocean. Some hotels even have turtle protection programs that work to keep the eggs safe and release the baby turtles once they hatch. They even have events to release the hatchlings that hotel guests can participate in. You can see many sea turtles during this time if you go snorkeling as well. It’s a wonderful way to get up close to these amazing animals, and something that families with kids can enjoy together.
Since there are far fewer tourists during the low season, you can enjoy a more authentic experience and get to know the Cancun locals. The city and nightlife are quieter, and some clubs and restaurants close during the slow season. Sightseeing tours may be less frequent during this period, so if there’s a tour you don’t want to miss, make sure you check the schedules ahead of time and plan accordingly.
While these tend to be the months with the least favorable weather for tourists, by November there’s less rain and milder temperatures. It’s one of the best months to visit Cancun, with few crowds, cheaper flights and accommodations, and generally pleasant weather. Although Thanksgiving can attract more crowds and higher prices, you should consider planning your trip during early to mid-November.
Best Months For Travel To Cancun
When you visit Cancun is ultimately up to you. Enjoy the best weather and fun nightlife during the peak season and trade cold winter weather for sunny days and warm turquoise ocean water. Spend the holidays with your family at an all-inclusive resort, or enjoy beach parties and clubs during spring break.
Shoulder season might be a better option if you want both nice weather and fewer crowds. You’ll be able to enjoy hiking and the beach without quite as many tourists blocking your view, and you’ll probably snag a deal on your flight or hotel.
Of course, if you really want a chill vacation and don’t want to see other tourists, the off-season is your best bet. You’ll experience more of the local culture and maybe have more of the beach to yourself. You might get caught in a couple of storms, but you’ll still be able to experience the best of Cancun. So don’t wait any longer to plan your trip to Cancun.
Whether you’re a young adult, married with kids, or retired, Cancun has something for you. With hiking adventures, amazing wildlife, and ancient ruins, Cancun has more to offer than just gorgeous beaches. It’s an incredible place with many activities you’re bound to enjoy.
