![Month by Month Travel Guide [2023]](https://k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Cancun-Forum-Beach-min.jpg "Month by Month Travel Guide [2023]")
Are you questioning when the very best time to go to Cancun is? Well, you’re not alone.
We spent a yr residing in Mexico (in Playa del Carmen which is correct subsequent to Cancun) which is why we have now all of the insider’s scoop on the very best occasions to go to.
Honestly talking, it may be arduous to find out the very best time to go to Cancun because it’s an space with a lot happening. From the vacation crowds to Spring Breakers and everybody in between, it’s no marvel so many individuals make a beeline for this beachy paradise at any time when they’ve free time.
That being mentioned, there are distinct occasions of yr that make for a extra nice trip in Cancun with thinner vacationer crowds, sunny days, and lots happening within the space.
In this text, I stroll you thru the very best occasions to go, and which months to keep away from. Keep on studying to be taught the very best time to go to Cancun, it doesn’t matter what type of trip you’re searching for.
Quick Answer: What’s the Best Time to Go to Cancun?
- The finest time to go to Cancun is the shoulder months of April, May, November, and the start of December.
- The finest climate in Cancun is between December and April.
- Rainy season in Cancun runs from May to October, which is the very best time to go to Cancun on a finances.
- The finest time to see wildlife in Cancun (like sea turtles and whale sharks) is May via October.
- Peak season in Cancun is late December and March when there are heavy vacationer crowds.
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Best Local Cancun Tours
- Chitchen Itza, Cenotes, and Tequila Tasting– This tour takes you throughout the very best of Valladolid to go to the world-famous Chitchen Itza in addition to another widespread sights alongside the best way.
- Authentic Downtown Food Tour– Eat your means round Cancun and uncover the very best road eats with this native tour.
- Learn to Cook a Mexican Meal– They say the easiest way to find a spot is thru the meals. Attend this native cooking class educating you tips on how to prepare dinner just a few staples in Mexican delicacies.
- Cancun Kayak Adventure– Kayak your means via mangroves within the beautiful Nichupte Lagoon the place you’ll be able to spot wildlife and be taught concerning the tropical biodiversity in Cancun.
What are Cancun’s Travel Seasons?
There are three distinct journey seasons for Cancun: excessive season, off-season, and shoulder season. All of them have their perks and downfalls, so it’s as much as you to resolve the very best time to go to Cancun based mostly on what sort of vacation you’re after.
Cancun High Season
Cancun excessive season sometimes stretches from mid-December till the tip of March. December brings the vacation crowds, searching for hotter climate for Christmas and New Years’. Come March, you could have the rowdy spring breaker tearing throughout the seashores and partying within the resorts.
Tourist crowds are massive, regardless of the place you go, so that you’ll must e book far upfront if you happen to plan on visiting throughout peak season.
Prices throughout these months are likely to skyrocket, particularly round Christmas and Spring Break. Airfare is thru the roof, as are the prices of inns.
To get the very best financial savings for flights and inns, we advocate checking WayAway+ which supplies you entry to lodge and exercise money backs, flight reductions and extra.
Cancun Low Season
Cancun’s off-season runs from June via October because it’s the principle wet season in Mexico. Days are tremendous sizzling, heavy and sticky, with frequent downpours and fairly unpredictable climate.
Despite the wet season, it’s not pouring on a regular basis. Rain sometimes is available in brief bursts throughout these months, adopted by sunny skies.
Most folks keep away from Cancun throughout this time, so if you happen to plan on visiting you’ll have crowd-free seashores and inns. Plus, there’ll be decrease costs than the remainder of the yr, making this the very best time to go to Cancun on a finances.
That being mentioned, be ready to get sweaty because it’s going to be sizzling, sizzling, sizzling (and don’t neglect your raincoat!).
Also be aware that in this time, the shoreline of Mexico will get a ton of seaweed (sargasso) which might typically make the ocean unswimmable. While this may’t be averted, most resorts do an ideal job of sweeping and cleansing their seashore entrance space.
Cancun Shoulder Season
If you’re searching for the very best time to go to Cancun, the most secure guess is throughout shoulder season! During the months of April, May, November, and the start of December, Cancun sees sparse crowds, nice climate, and affordable charges.
While it received’t be as cheap as off-season, shoulder season is the very best time to journey to Cancun if you happen to don’t wish to take a chance with the rain.
There can even be loads of locations to remain (although it’s nonetheless advisable to e book upfront) and also you’re more likely to discover a respectable deal on flights.
If you wish to benefit from the seashore in relative peace and exit to eat with out an hour’s wait, do your self a favor and e book your journey to Cancun throughout one in every of these months.
A Month-by-Month Guide to Visiting Cancun (2023)
If you’re excited about visiting Cancun throughout a selected month, take a look at this whole breakdown that covers the climate, festivals, and highlights for every.
Cancun in January
Weather in Cancun in January: 68° – 83° F
Highlights: Nice climate | Traditional holidays | El Dia de Los Reyes
Cancun in January is heat and sunny, with little to no rain. Days are usually a balmy 80°+, making it prime time to hit the seashore. The water is sweet and funky so at any time when it is advisable to refresh your self, simply take a fast dive into the ocean.
You’ll most likely be amongst the Christmas Break vacationers who’re absorbing the final little bit of sunshine earlier than returning again residence. You can nonetheless anticipate crowds because it’s excessive season, with steep costs and crowded points of interest.
If you favor to see what the climate in Mexico is like in January, take a look at our detailed information.
The largest competition in Cancun in January is El Dia de Los Reyes, or King’s Day, which is widely known on January sixth and marks the twelfth day of Christmas.
This is when Mexican households historically alternate presents and eat candy bread… the one who will get the slice with somewhat child Jesus baked into it is going to host the subsequent vacation!
Cancun in February
Weather in Cancun in February: 67° – 82° F
Highlights: Sunny days | Carnaval
Cancun in February is an excellent time to go to, in between the Christmas and Spring Break crowds. The climate is positively pretty, with vivid sunny days and cooler evenings.
It’s nonetheless fairly humid, however the water is sweet and refreshing throughout February so you’ll be able to hop in after a protracted day on the sand. The water can be fairly clear, with optimum circumstances for snorkeling and diving.
As this is without doubt one of the finest occasions to go to Cancun, there are nonetheless various vacationers. Make certain to e book actions forward of time and arrive on the seashore early for the very best spot!
February in Cancun additionally brings Carnaval, a week-long celebration main as much as Ash Wednesday. You’ll discover some Carnaval festivities in downtown Cancun with stay music, completely different kinds of tacos, parades, and naturally loads of tequila.
Cancun in March
Weather in Cancun in March: 69° – 83° F
Highlights: Spring Break | Tons of events | Inception Music Festival | Wine and Food Festival
March is the very best time to go to Cancun if you happen to’re a Spring Breaker. Not solely is it when Spring Break is often held, however Cancun is residence to a few of the largest events on the planet throughout this time.
Resorts are completely brimming with faculty children consuming their hearts out, and there are big events on the town and lining the seashore just about 24/7. Unless you wish to be 20 once more, I’d advocate avoiding Cancun throughout March.
However, if you happen to do end up within the space, take a look at the Inception Music Festival, the biggest Spring Break get together on the planet (it lasts a whole month!).
For a extra refined expertise, it’s possible you’ll favor the Wine and Food Festival, a five-day feast filled with world-class cooks, winemakers, celebrities, and seashore events.
Cancun in April
Weather in Cancun in April: 71° – 87° F
Highlights: Fewer crowds | Great climate | Cancun’s Anniversary
April marks the start of shoulder season and is when crowds begin to skinny out. The place received’t be fully empty, nevertheless it’s means much less packed than it was in March. This can be concerning the time costs begin taking place, so you’ll be able to safe an inexpensive price on lodging.
Cancun in April additionally brings a few of the finest climate, with sizzling days and uncommon showers. It’s the very best time of the yr in Cancun to hit the seashore, and the water is tremendous heat and nice. You’ll additionally discover that is the optimum time to go to points of interest as there received’t be lengthy waits and little or no danger of rain.
Cancun’s Anniversary falls in April and is widely known all through the complete month with parades, displays, music, and different festivities. There’s additionally El Dia del Nino, or Children’s Day, on April thirtieth when children are off college and there are particular reductions at many points of interest.
Cancun in May
Weather in Cancun in May: 71° – 86° F
Highlights: Nesting sea turtles | Whale shark migration | Cancun Jumpoff
May is a magical time in Cancun and the very best time to go to for a novel expertise. Not solely is the climate close to excellent, however that is the highest time to identify wildlife within the space.
At the tip of May, nesting sea turtles start to look on the seashore and whale sharks begin to migrate to this space as nicely. Set off on a snorkeling or diving tour to expertise these beautiful animals of their pure habitat… it’s a once-in-a-lifetime alternative finest skilled throughout this month!
While you may suppose Cinco de Mayo is the star of the present in May, celebrations in Cancun are null. You’ll discover the occasional bar deal or resort get together, nevertheless it’s not a lot to write down residence about.
Instead, take pleasure in Cancun Jumpoff, which is a fun-filled four-day competition with music, seashore events, and continuous partying.
Cancun in June
Weather in Cancun in June: 72° – 87° F
Highlights: Fewer vacationers | Tons of whale sharks | Dia de la Marina
With the arrival of June comes the beginning of hurricane season in Cancun, marking a low interval for tourism. While the climate remains to be respectable, there are elevated possibilities of showers (particularly within the second half of the month) and climbing temperatures as summer time approaches.
June can be when whale shark numbers are at their highest, so test the water visibility and take a dive to see these majestic creatures in full pressure.
Since it’s the tip of the varsity yr, you’ll discover a good variety of partying youngsters celebrating the completion of lecturers. June can be Dia de la Marina, Mexico’s Navy Day, which is widely known with fireworks and parades on June 1st.
Cancun in July
Weather in Cancun in July: 72° – 88° F
Highlights: Baby sea turtles return to ocean | Reasonable costs | Destination X The Urban Summer Oasis
July is a particular time to go to Cancun if you happen to’re a wildlife lover, as that is the month when child sea turtles set off for the ocean. It’s an unimaginable sight to see the little creatures wandering in the direction of the water for the primary time. There are a handful of volunteer alternatives if you wish to stand up shut and private however in any other case, you’ll have the ability to watch from a distance on the seashore.
There can be nonetheless an abundance of whale sharks within the space throughout July, so make sure to catch sight of them, too!
In July, you’ll most likely have the ability to rating a reasonably whole lot on flights and lodging because it’s the off-season however be ready for sporadic rain and scorchingly humid days. The water is at its warmest throughout this month, superb for splashing round within the ocean.
Cancun in July is nice enjoyable with Destination X The Urban Summer Oasis, a five-day competition with DJs, bikini contests, seashore events, and plenty of wild occasions.
Cancun in August
Weather in Cancun in August: 72° – 89° F
Highlights: Whale shark pods | Sea turtles | Fewer crowds
Cancun in August continues to be enchanting in relation to wildlife. The heat water brings whale sharks in pods, sea turtles nesting, and turtle infants persevering with to make their option to the ocean.
It tends to be fairly stormy and unbelievably humid in Cancun throughout this month which is why crowds are sparse and there’s loads of room at resorts, eating places, and points of interest. Since it’s off-season, costs will likely be affordable nevertheless it’s a good suggestion to substantiate that any excursions you’re fascinated with are nonetheless operating.
If you end up in Cancun in August, it’s value a wander over to Playa del Carmen for ZoukMX, a 10-day dance competition cut up between the seashore and the jungle.
Cancun in September
Weather in Cancun in September: 72° – 87° F
Highlights: Cooler climate | Good costs | Mexico’s Independence Day
After a protracted and sizzling summer time, Cancun in September is when issues start to chill off. This is the final likelihood to catch whale sharks as they’ll be fully passed by the tip of the month, however you’re nonetheless more likely to see some sea turtles wandering round.
The finest offers on inns and excursions begin popping up throughout September because it’s the rainiest month of the yr, however if you happen to’d like to go to Cancun with out the crowds, that is the prime time to benefit from good offers.
September brings round Mexican Independence Day, with festivities starting on September fifteenth downtown. Expect mariachi bands, unimaginable meals, and tequila in full pressure whereas locals rejoice till 11.00pm. At this time, you’ll expertise El Grito, or the decision for independence, adopted by fireworks and intense partying.
Independence Day is definitely on the sixteenth and is commemorated with an enormous parade downtown.
Cancun in October
Weather in Cancun in October: 71° – 85° F
Highlights: Budget costs | Halloween | Cancun Jazz Festival
A continuation of the wet season with nice offers, Cancun in October is a finances traveler’s dream with few vacationers, cheap lodging, and cooler climate.
While it’s nonetheless heat sufficient to hit the seashore, October has loads of intermittent showers that skinny out in the direction of the tip of the month. However, since there are so few vacationers, you’ll have the ability to benefit from the ruins, sandy stretches, and excursions in a principally non-public setting.
Want some tips about the finest Mayan Ruins to go to? Check out our full information!
If you do plan on visiting Cancun in October, make sure to pack a Halloween costume (cat ears will do) as there are many festivities to rejoice the vacation however few locations to truly buy one thing to put on.
October can be residence to the Cancun Jazz Festival which runs for 4 days on the Hard Rock Hotel and has loads of stay live shows which you can attend.
Cancun in November
Weather in Cancun in November: 70° – 81° F
Highlights: Great climate for the seashore, trekking | Dia de Los Muertos
November picks again up with shoulder season because it’s means much less wet and sees extra vacationers than the previous couple of months. Sunny days return however crowds are nonetheless quite skinny earlier than the vacations decide up.
Late November is good seashore time, and likewise makes for an superior alternative to go to the ruins and different Cancun points of interest because it’s not suffocatingly sizzling and showers are sparse.
Snorkeling is nice throughout November too as water visibility is sort of clear.
The actual draw to Cancun in November is Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, celebrated on the first and 2nd of November. This distinctive vacation is when Mexicans pay their respects to those that have handed away.
It’s celebrated with sugar skulls, choices, and adorning household altars to information spirits residence, with conventional experiences placed on in numerous parks round city. Of course, it’s adopted by loads of events within the Hotel Zone in typical Cancun style.
Cancun in December
Weather in Cancun in December: 69° – 80° F
Highlights: Christmas on the seashore | Christmas & New Years’ Eve | Cancun Marathon
Welcome again to Cancun’s excessive season! While the start of December is fairly chilled out in Cancun, hoards of vacationers make their means again in the midst of the month for the vacations.
If you’re dreaming of Christmas on the seashore in Cancun, make sure to e book your flights and lodging means upfront, as there are millions of others who’ve the identical concept.
Expect crowded seashores, eating places, and resorts, in addition to a lot hotter climate if you happen to’re coming from up north.
Aside from Christmas and wild New Years’ Eve celebrations, December can be when the Cancun Marathon is held, also called the Most Beautiful Marathon within the World. It runs alongside the seashore and finishes downtown with loads of festivities to rejoice the runners.
FAQ on the Best Time to Visit Cancun
The finest time to go to Cancun is between December and April. During these months, you’ll be able to anticipate comparatively constant good climate. Do make be aware that December to March is taken into account peak season in Cancun which implies airfare and inns are pricier. We advocate planning your go to across the finish of April as the vacation crowds have already thinned out.
If you’re searching for a discount, inns in Cancun are usually cheaper through the months of June via October as this falls on Cancun’s monsoon season. During this time, you’ll be able to anticipate finding good lodge deals-but do take the climate into consideration. However, regardless of it being the wet season, it’s not pouring on a regular basis. Rain sometimes is available in brief bursts throughout these months, adopted by sunny skies.
Unknown to most, Cancun is usually hit by hurricanes. While hurricane season formally begins from June till the tip of November, the best occurrences occur from September to October. Large storms are uncommon occurrences however throughout this time, temperatures are additionally extraordinarily HOT so if you happen to resolve to go, ensure you come ready.
Lots of people use Cancun as their base as they do day journeys across the Yucatan Peninsula. We advocate no less than 5-7 days to take pleasure in all the things that this area has to supply.
As tempting because it sounds to remain in your all-inclusive resort all day, there are tons of different attention-grabbing cultural experiences across the space. From Cancun, you’ll be able to simply go to hotspots like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and extra.
Unfortunately, sargassum or seaweed within the seashore has been a difficulty in Cancun and different close by seashore locations. Sargassum seaweed season in Mexico is mostly between June and October every year. However, with that being mentioned, a whole lot of the massive resorts in Cancun do an ideal job at cleansing their beachfront to ensure it’s nonetheless usable for company.
Sargassum is a kind of seaweed that’s normally brown in coloration. It isn’t hooked up to the seafloor which is why massive quantities of it will get washed up within the Mexican Caribbean.
Cancun Transportation
If you’re questioning what the very best methods to get round Cancun is, we’ve put collectively as tremendous complete checklist of various methods to get round. If you’re , take a look at the articles under:
Where to Stay in Cancun
There are a great deal of lodging choices in Cancun, and the Hotel Zone in Cancun is especially widespread with vacationers.
If you favor a extra impartial keep, we advise trying out Airbnb choices in Cancun. There are some nice, fashionable choices that supply nice worth for cash.
Cancun could make for an unforgettable trip vacation spot, as long as you select the very best time to go to.
While there’s no really excellent time of yr, you’ll have the ability to decide when the very best time to go to Cancun is predicated on the kind of climate you’re hoping for, the variety of vacationers, and the costs within the space.
Check out Mexico Travel Tips for extra on touring Mexico!
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