Best Time to Visit Cancun, Mexico

ABOUT CANCUN

Cancun is a popular resort city located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It is situated on the northeast coast of the state of Quintana Roo, facing the Caribbean Sea. It is famous for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and beautiful coral reefs, which make it a popular destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. It has over 14 miles of pristine beaches with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.  

It is a beautiful destination, but when is the best time to visit Cancun, Mexico?

If you are looking for lower hotel and airfare prices and fewer crowds, then the tourist low season, September to November, can be the best time to visit Cancun. However, it’s important to know that the weather is unpredictable with a higher chance of rain and hurricanes.

TOURIST SHOULDER SEASON

(The term used to describe the time between high and low tourist seasons)

The shoulder season is from May to August and this can be the best time to visit Cancun if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices. However, just like the tourist low season, this is when the weather can be somewhat unpredictable. Though still warm and sunny, there is a higher chance of rain and humidity.

If you are looking to observe animals like turtles and whale sharks in the wild, the shoulder season could be the best time to visit Cancun. Several tour operators offer snorkeling excursions to see turtles, whale sharks, and other sea life. Due to their migratory patterns, May through September is the ideal period to see them. Check out TripAdvisor to find and book tours.

If you are looking for weather that is dry, sunny, and warm to escape winter in your home country, then December through April may be the best time to visit Cancun. Many people travel to Cancun during the high season to celebrate holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Spring Break. This is the tourist high season with an average temperature of 80°F (27°C). The beaches and attractions can be busy during this time, so it’s advisable to plan your itinerary and book tours and activities in advance.

VISITING CANCUN IN DECEMBER

As mentioned above, many people visit Cancun in December to celebrate the holidays. December is a festive month in Cancun, with many events and celebrations taking place. The city is decorated with lights and holiday decorations, and there are numerous festivals and events, such as the Cancun Jazz Festival and the traditional Posadas celebrations.

WHY DECEMBER MAY OR MAY NOT BE THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CANCUN

1. The weather: The average temperature is around 80°F (27°C).
2. Culture: Festivals and other holiday events.
3. Higher Prices: Higher prices during this peak season and with the holidays.

VISITING CANCUN IN JANUARY

January is a popular time to visit Cancun, as it is during the dry season. This means you can expect sunny and warm weather and around 9 hours of sunshine per day. This makes it a perfect time for outdoor activities and beach time.

1. The weather: Like December, the average temperature in Cancun for January is around 80°F (27°C) during the day, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 70°F (21°C).
2.  January tends to be slightly cooler and less humid than February, which can make it more comfortable for some visitors.
3. Fewer crowds: Because January isn’t as popular as February and March, you can expect fewer crowds at popular tourist spots. This means you’ll have more space and time to enjoy the beaches, restaurants, and attractions without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Cultural events: January is a great time to experience Mexican cultural events like the Day of the Kings (Dia de los Reyes), which celebrates the Epiphany and involves parades, feasts, and gift-giving. This can be a great way to learn more about Mexican culture and traditions.
5. Beach activities: January is a great time to enjoy the beaches in Cancun, as the weather is warm and sunny. You can go swimming, snorkeling, diving, or take part in other water sports like parasailing or jet skiing.

Overall, January can be a great time to visit Cancun if you’re looking for mild weather, lower prices, fewer crowds, and cultural events.

VISITING CANCUN IN FEBRUARY

February is a great time to enjoy the beaches in Cancun, as the weather is warm and sunny. February is also the dry season and has increasing hours of daylight.

WHY FEBRUARY MAY OR MAY NOT BE THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CANCUN

1. The weather: Just like December and January, the average temperature in Cancun in February is 80°F (27°C). There tends to be a bit more humidity in February compared to January.
2. The festive atmosphere and cultural events: February is a popular time to visit Cancun due to special events like Valentine’s Day and Carnival. Often lively parades, festivals, and other celebrations take place, which can make for a fun and festive atmosphere. This also means there are often special events and packages available at resorts and restaurants.
3. Beach activities: Just like January, this is a great time of year to enjoy beach activities such as snorkeling and swimming.

Overall, February is a great time to visit Cancun if you’re looking for warm weather, plenty of sunshine, and lots of things to see and do. Just be prepared for crowds at popular tourist spots, especially during the week of Valentine’s Day.

VISITING CANCUN IN MARCH

March tends to be the busiest of the high season months, as many travelers are looking for a warm destination getaway for Spring Break.  

WHY MARCH MAY OR MAY NOT BE THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CANCUN

1. Warm Weather: Just like the other peak season months, the average temperature is around 80°F (27°C).
2. Lively Atmosphere: The city has a lively atmosphere with lots of young travelers on Spring Break, looking to have fun and enjoy the nightlife. This also means there likely will be long lines and wait times for attractions and restaurants, limited availability of hotels and tours, and noisy nights.
3. Events and Festivals: Cancun hosts various events and festivals in March, such as the Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine and Food Festival and the Cancun Jazz Festival.

Our thoughts on when is the best time to visit Cancun

When we were in Mexico during January and February 2023, we spent most of our time in Playa del Carmen, a smaller city 45 minutes south of Cancun. Only one or two days of rain fell throughout the warm and sunny period. For me, the weather was just right, but on occasion, a little too hot. As I don’t handle the heat well, I decided that I would not be able to withstand the increased heat and humidity during the other hotter and more humid seasons. Therefore, I suggest that if you do not enjoy heat or humidity, January is likely the best month to go for cooler and less humid weather.

CONCLUSION AND SUMMARY:

Cancun is a popular vacation destination that offers something for every type of traveler. When planning a trip to Cancun, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each season to make the most of your trip.

Visiting during the high season offers pleasant weather, a lively atmosphere, and many events and festivals. However, it can also mean crowds, higher prices, and limited availability. Visiting during the shoulder season offers fewer crowds, lower prices, and the opportunity to see unique natural wonders like sea turtles hatching. However, the weather can be hotter and more humid, and there is a higher chance of rain. Visiting during the low season can mean fewer crowds and lower prices. However, much like the shoulder season, the weather is considerably warmer and quite unpredictable.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Cancun depends on your preferences and priorities. Regardless of when you decide to visit, Cancun is sure to offer a memorable and enjoyable vacation experience.