good time to travel to cancun

A Month by Month Guide – Best Time to Go To Cancun Mexico

The best time to visit Cancun depends on what you’re looking to do on vacation there.

Cancun is a classic Caribbean getaway destination because this long stretch of coastline in the south of Mexico has everything you could want from a tropical vacation. 

Cancun has beaches, resorts, and bars, but there’s also world-class Scuba diving, adventures awaiting in the jungles of Quintana Roo and plenty of Mayan ruins too. 

If you’re after sun and clear skies then peak season is the best time to go to Cancun, in the dry season between December and May.

If you’re looking for great deals on resorts and flights or if you want to see the whale sharks off the coast, then the wet season, between June and November, is a good option – you’ll just have to brave a few rain showers each day. 

To help you decide when’s the best time to visit Cancun, here’s our month by month guide to exploring the Caribbean coastline of Mexico .

Best Time to Visit Cancun: Month by Month Breakdown

Table of Contents

January in Cancun

January is high season in Mexico, and it’s definitely not the best time if you’re to travel to Cancun if you’re looking for cheap prices and a quiet getaway.

This is peak season, but it is the best time to visit Cancun if you’re looking for some of the best weather.

The weather in January is absolutely glorious because it’s neither too hot nor too cold.

This is winter, but temperatures still average around 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) and the Caribbean water is still marvelously warm. 

This is the dry season too, and the skies will be clear and there’s little chance of any rain.

It’s a good time for snorkeling and diving as the water is clear, and there’s little run off to make things murky.

On land, take advantage of the cool weather to get out and explore the Mayan sites in the usually humid jungles of Quintana Roo. 

February in Cancun

Temperatures rise slightly in February, but not on a huge scale, making this a great month weather-wise to be in Cancun. 

Again, this is still high season, however, it’s much, much quieter compared to January.

Hotel prices won’t be much cheaper but you’ll have more space to yourself at tourist attractions after the holiday rush is left behind in January.

There are clear skies and little rain, so February makes for a great time to get out to the Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza or Tulum , which will be pleasant to stroll around for most of the day given the lack of humidity. 

Jump into the water for some great snorkeling or diving. If you’re feeling adventurous, then this is Bull Shark breeding season and you can get up and close with these beautiful sharks in the waters off the coast of Cancun throughout February. 

March in Cancun

March is the beginning of the end of the high season, and while it can be a good time to visit many of the historic and cultural sites where the crowds will be thinner, Cancun itself can be raucous at certain times. 

That’s because it’s Spring Break and Cancun is one of the most popular getaways.

Avoid the Spring Break hot spots though and you’ll find plenty of quiet places to visit still.

The weather is excellent in March, with clear skies, and temperatures averaging just under 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).

It’s the driest month of the year, so take advantage of this and hit the coast to scuba dive or snorkel in clear waters, especially as this is the last month when you can see the Bull Shark breeding frenzies. 

April in Cancun

April is the last month of the high season, and you can expect the crowds to thin out in lots of places – although avoid the Easter break if that falls in April and again, watch out for Spring Break too. 

Temperatures are on the rise in April, and this is the last month where you’re guaranteed dry weather, so take advantage of this and get diving or exploring the cenotes and Mayan ruins. After April, things begin to not only get hotter but more humid too. 

Enjoy the last of the excellent weather and enjoy potentially lower prices and quieter beaches too with a visit to Cancun in April. 

May in Cancun

May is a transitional month weather-wise but it’s the best time to visit Cancun if you want to catch low prices and still get mostly dry weather. 

The temperatures are on the rise now as summer approaches and you can expect it to be at least 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) especially towards the end of the month.

Be prepared for a few showers though and pack a raincoat when you’re out exploring. Any storms though won’t last too long in May. 

You can get great end of season resort and flight deals so if you’re on a budget this is a fantastic time to plan a holiday and to escape the crowds too. 

June in Cancun

June is when the rainy season begins in Cancun, however, it’s not the worst month for rain, and it’s still a good time to visit. 

It tends to be quieter this time of year and you can get low season prices and beat the crowds too. 

Remember though, that temperatures are rising and that it’s starting to get more and more humid too.

While the Mayan sites might be quieter you’ll also need to get there early to avoid the worst of the heat, and walking around all day in the tropics will be a sweaty affair, to say the least.

July in Cancun

July is also a rainy month, and weather-wise, it’s much more humid in July than in June. 

It’s a great time to spend swimming though, because the water in the Caribbean is outrageously warm through July, although visibility if you’re planning on snorkeling or diving declines due to run-off from the land.

It’s also a good time to visit the cenotes as they offer a wonderfully cooling experience with cold clear water to enjoy. 

August in Cancun

August is again hot and humid so you’ll want to spend most of your time at the beach if you can.

Luckily this is low season so prices for hotels and resorts can be a steal, making this the best time to visit Cancun if you’re on a budget. 

Importantly, this is prime time for whale sharks along the coast, as they are here in huge numbers feeding in the Caribbean waters.

You can snorkel or dive with these beautiful fish in warm waters, and they are so large that the lower visibility won’t stop you from seeing them.

August is technically hurricane season in the Caribbean, although these are rare in Cancun. Just stay informed of the weather when you are in the area and keep safe. 

September in Cancun

September is still low season in Cancun, and it’s also still hurricane season, so keep safe and keep informed. 

Temperatures are cooling down though as the height of summer is over and things will start to get slightly drier, just be prepared for a few big storms. 

September is the last month to catch whale sharks along the coast, so head to Isla Mujeres for the best chance to see these huge fish in their natural environment. 

As this is low season, you can get excellent deals on flights and resorts, and you’ll still be able to enjoy the mostly great weather, just pack a raincoat. 

October in Cancun

October sees falling temperatures and Lower levels of humidity, and it can be the best time to visit Cancun before the high season starts again.

You might see the odd large storm and this is the last month of the hurricane season, but it’s worth the risks for the lower costs.

Things are quiet in October and the whale sharks have left, but it’s a great month for just relaxing on the beaches and enjoying the warm weather.

At the end of October, you can even experience the Day of the Dead festival, which begins on Halloween.

November in Cancun

November is the transitional month before the dry season and peak season truly begins in December.

If you’re looking for some autumnal sunshine and to escape colder weather elsewhere then this is the best time to visit Cancun.

Temperatures are falling, of course, compared to summer but it’s still hot, with highs in the late twenties.

Things are quiet compared to the rush that’s about to begin in December and over the festive period. 

December in Cancun

December is one of the busiest times to be in Mexico, and if you want a quiet holiday or getaway then this is not the best time to visit Cancun.

If, however, you are searching for winter sunshine and a hot destination where you can spend Christmas on the beach, then this is the time to visit.

Prices are not cheap in December though, as this is peak season, and many resorts and hotels can be booked out.

Prepare to pay a premium for the luxury of spending Christmas and New Year in Cancun, but if budget isn’t an issue, then you’ll be treated to glorious weather.

More on Mexico:

• 12 Best Day Trips from Mexico City worth Taking
• The Amazing Mexico City Pyramids of Teotihuacan
• Manzanillo Mexico Travel Guide: A Cancun Alternative
• 30 Things to Do in the Riviera Maya for an Epic Vacation
• 30 Awesome Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 29 Amazing Things to do in Cancun
• 28 Incredible Things to do in Cozumel
• Celebrating 15 Years of Travel with Barcelo Maya Grand Resort
• Finding Eco Adventure in Cancun
• Swimming with Whale Sharks in Cancun

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Cancun   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Cancun

The best time to visit Cancún is from December to April during the peak season. Even though the crowds are heavier, you'll experience near-perfect weather and find some of the cheapest flight and room rates for a winter getaway at the beach. Just try to avoid traveling from mid-March to early April – that's when spring breakers descend on the Yucatán's shores. There are also significant discounts in late spring, summer and fall, but Cancún summers are sweltering and the fall months are prone to storms.

Weather in Cancun

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Cancun

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Cancun?

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Once you decide that it is going to be your next destination, you may want to know when it’s the best time to visit Cancun, in order to make the most of it.

Here in this post, we’ll help you find out when it’s the best time to travel to Cancun for weather, budget, and other factors.

The Mexican Caribbean city is known for its spectacular beaches, resorts, and nightlife, but every month or every season is different than others and you can enjoy different things depending on when you travel.

You might be looking for near-perfect weather, no crowds, or better hotel deals, Cancun has it all and more.

But I’ll cover all of the things that comprise Cancun’s best-of to help you decide the timing of your tour.

So without any further ado. Let’s dive in!

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Best time to visit cancun, when is the best time to visit cancun, best time to visit cancun for the best deals.

Cancun hotel zone is built on one of the best beaches in Mexico , lined with world-class all-inclusive resorts, but pricey.

Although these beautiful luxury properties are amazing places to stay, you can still find very cost-effective rates on these if you visit them at the right time.

So, if you want to do that, visiting during the low season months of September to early December, and from May to June is precisely the time you should be planning your trip in.

You can find discount deals of up to 50% off during the summers, making it the ideal time to visit if you’re on a budget.

Check out my favorite hotels in Cancun to find the best deals!

Best time to visit Cancun for good weather

Cancun’s weather is wonderful throughout the year, but summers are hotter and more humid, with more rain and hurricanes, though these are uncommon.

Winter is the high season for a reason: there are fewer rainstorms and no hurricanes, and the nights and mornings are much colder, though the average temperature remains around 83°F/28°C. While the water temperature is cooler, it is still swimmable.

Typically, the best, near-perfect weather in Cancun is between December and April when you can best enjoy the spectacular Cancun beaches .

Best time to swim with the whale sharks in Cancun

Cancun is one of the best places for swimming with whale sharks , which I found an unmissable thrilling experience.

If you’re an adventure-seeker, it’s the thing for you. In case you want to get yourself one of these tours, you would have to visit between June and September, as they’re only passing through during this time of the year.

However, the best time to see whale sharks in Cancun is from mid-July through mid-August.

Keep in mind that Cancun in August is quite hot and humid but definitely worth it.

If you want to swim with whale sharks in winter from December through April you might want to consider checking out La Paz in Baja California Sur , Mexico.

Best time to visit Cancun for avoiding crowds

Visiting during the shoulder season doesn’t only have the advantage of low rates on stays, but the added benefit of thin crowds, and agreeable weather.

Even though the rates are slightly higher as compared to the low season, the weather and serene atmosphere more than justify that.

There will also be plenty of places to stay in Cancun for any budget (though booking ahead is always recommended), and you should be able to find a good deal on flights.

So, visit Cancun during the months of April, May, November, and the beginning of December if you want to enjoy the beach in relative peace and try the most popular Cancun restaurants without having to wait an hour for your turn.

➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using   Safety Wing , and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER . Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.

Best time to go to Cancun for avoiding hurricanes

Even though the hurricane season is from June to October, the chances of encountering one are slim. The months of August through October are the most at risk.

But, to put it in perspective, there have only been two major hurricanes in the last 30 years. The rest were merely tropical storms that caused little or no damage.

Best time to visit Cancun for families and kids

The months of May to November are ideal for families traveling with children in Cancun. It’s the off-season, so prices are lower and there are a lot of families offers to be had. In addition, there are fewer people at all of the attractions and beaches.

The weather is hot, and the water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling with the kids. June to September is also a good time to visit Cancun if you’re going with your family and kids.

Whale sharks and sea turtles can also be seen during this time of the year. The only time to avoid this is during Thanksgiving week, which is normally very busy.

Best time to visit Cancun for honeymoon

Cancun is at its most stunning from December to May, with ideal beach conditions and clear skies, making it the ideal honeymoon destination.

For honeymooners on a budget, early December, April, and May offer the best combination of good weather, low-ish crowds, and reasonable room rates.

The best weather, with the sunniest days and near-perfect beach conditions, is from January to March, but rates are higher and crowds are heavier.

Best time to visit Cancun for swimming snorkeling and diving

While Cancun is not ideal for snorkeling, several boat tours take you to the nearby Musa (an underwater museum in Isla Mujeres), and Punta Nizuc, where the waters are calmer.

The drier months of November through May provide the best visibility, especially in January and March.

Though it’s possible to snorkel with whale sharks from June to September, the visibility is best in June.

Here are some available snorkeling tours

Best time to visit cancun for sea turtle hatching.

Sea turtles love to lay their eggs on the beaches of Cancun.

Many hotels have their own programs to shield them from predators and aid the entire process from spawning to hatching and the final rush of the newly born to the sea.

It’s a fascinating experience if you happen to be on the beach late at night when they release them. The sea turtle nesting season runs from the end of May to the end of October.

The hatching season runs from the end of July to the end of December.

Best time for exploring the jungles and Mayan ruins of Cancun

Chichen Itza , Valladolid, and the archeological sites are best visited between December and April. From mid-December to the end of April, the weather is ideal, with sunny days, little rain, mild temperatures, and low humidity.

However, the peak travel season is from January to March, so attractions will be extremely crowded during that period.

Traveling in December or April, at the beginning or end of the best weather, provides perfect conditions for exploring everything that Cancun has to offer.

Traveling to Valladolid and Merida in the summer, it’s extremely hot, like you-can’t-even-move-hot! Don’t say I haven’t warned you. 🙂

Best time in Cancun for the nightlife and to avoid spring break

Cancun, as previously said, is always ready to welcome, including its fantastic nightlife, which is available all year.

The most famous nightclubs are located in the downtown area around Plaza de Toros and in the hotel zone, in the Punta Cancun area.

You’ll see a variety of people depending on the time of year you visit.

In March, spring breakers will take over the entire city, but this is also when the craziest shows and 24/7 parties with foreign DJs and top entertainment will take place.

If you don’t want to go all out with the partying, you can visit between December and February to find a more moderate form of nightlife.

Cancun weather and events month-by-month

Cancun in january.

Cancun in January is a gorgeous time of year. The weather is cool (for Cancun!), with highs of 81°F (27°C), little rain, and many clear sunny days. It’s a great time to explore the jungles and Mayan ruins . 

In January, you’ll also enjoy brisk temperatures in the evening, night, and early morning. It can feel refreshing after the heat of the day. Take some light sweaters so you don’t get chilly when you’re out on the town!

At 78°F (25°C), the water temperature is still nice for swimming in January. However, if you plan to dive for long periods of time, you might want a wetsuit.

In early January, you can celebrate the traditional Mexican Holiday: Día de los Reyes (Day of Kings). Bring a unique toy to donate to a toy drive, give gifts to friends, and drink delicious Mexican hot chocolate. Yum!

Another fun event in late January is the Annual Handline Barracuda Tournament. This event is held on the nearby Isla Mujeres, just off the Cancun coast.

If you’re an angler, you can have fun fishing and help raise money for local charities. Win-win!

Cancun in February

Just like January, February has amazing dry, sunny, and warm temperatures. The weather ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 82°F (28°C) during this month.

February in Cancun involves many great events, ranging from cultural celebrations to Mandala Night Pool Parties.

During this month, Mexicans celebrate Candlemas Day (Día de Candelaria), Constitution Day, Valentine’s Day, and the OHL classic for golfers! 

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance in Mexico, but about friendship as well.

Hang out with friends or your significant other at a beach, bar, or restaurant. Just make sure you book well in advance because reservations fill up fast! 

Or keep things chill with a sunset picnic on the beach, complete with sangrias, candles, and the wash of the surf.

Another amazing intimate option is to book a private Old Galleon Dinner Cruise while a saxophonist serenades you.

Constitution Day is especially fun, with parades, concerts, fairs, and picnics.

You can also enjoy popping nightlife in Cancun as things start to rev up for the spring break season.

Cancun in March

March is one of the driest months in Cancun, with only three rainy days on average. The water is balmy at 79°F (26°C) and daytime temperatures range between 72°F (22°C) and 84°F (29°C).

March is spring break season in Cancun, so the nightlife can get pretty wild. Enjoy boat parties with open bars, DJs, and the chance to leap off the deck into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Then there are shows with flying acrobats, world-class artists and musicians, tropical drinks, and any number of live acts.

Check out Feels Summer for the Cancun spring break calendar, and/or pick up a Cancun Club Pass .

On March 19 or 20, the Spring Equinox takes place. This is the perfect moment for a day trip to Chichén Itzá !

You can watch the play of light on the pyramid of Kukulcan. I’m sure it will be unforgettable!

This month isn’t a good time to visit Cancun if you don’t like crowds. Keep that in mind if you’re planning to travel to Cancun in March, as we are still in the peak season just like the winter months.

Cancun in April

April is probably the driest month of the year in Cancun, with only two rainy days in the entire month. You’ll enjoy nine hours of blissful sunshine!

This is a great month to spend swimming! Take an edge off the heat with Mexican cocktails (such as a Paloma) or a refreshing natural drink (such as Rosa de Jamaica or Horchata).

You’ll see less of the spring-break crowd in April, but more of the Holy week vacationers who flock to Cancun from other parts of Mexico to enjoy Semana Santa festivities.

Holy week is the busiest week of the year and the real peak season but it also marks the end of the high season in Cancun.

This is a good opportunity to enjoy a spectacular night show at Coco Bongo.

Mexicans celebrate Children’s Day on April 30th in Cancun. If you’re traveling with kids, you can enjoy special events for children on this day. Some of the activities include parades and kid-friendly parties.

Cancun in May

May is a great month to find great deals! Although May is considered the start of the wet season, it still only has an average of four rainy days during the entire month.

The water temperature is nice and warm at 82°F (28°C). The daytime temperature ranges between 77°F (25°C) and 88°F (31°C).

If you are in Cancun in May, this is a wonderful time to find nesting sea turtles!

Whale sharks also start to come into the area in May. But it’s not yet time to see them as the whale sharks season officially starts in mid-June.

On May 10th, people in Mexico celebrate Mother’s Day. This is a big deal for Mexicans and usually involves giving their mother vibrant flower bouquets.

Many people also gather outside their mother’s home to serenade her in the morning, sometimes with a full mariachi band!

Cancun in June

June is another great month for cheap rates in Cancun! The city isn’t as crowded, so you can often find nice offers for hotels and events.

There are six rainy days on average in June. The temperature can get up to a smoking 90°F (32°C)! As long as there aren’t storms in the area, this is a fantastic time to go snorkeling or scuba diving.

June is one of the best months for underwater visibility. It is also the start of whale shark season.

Going on a whale shark tour i s an amazing experience.

► Learn all about it in my post on swimming with whale sharks !

High-school graduates come to Cancun to celebrate finishing high school, so there will be many parties in Cancun during this time.

On a more somber note, June 1st is Día de la Marina. Keep an eye out for floating wreaths of flowers, which are laid on the waves to honor sailors lost at sea.

Another great June activity is to visit the Mayan ruins in Cancun and participate in the summer solstice celebrations.

Cancun in July

July is a perfect month for snorkeling with whale sharks. Sea turtles also start to hatch in Cancun in July, which you won’t want to miss.

The weather in July is pretty hot, with temperatures ranging between 79°F (26°C)  and 90°F (32°C). The ocean is a balmy 84°F (29°C). On average, there are only four rainy days in July, although hurricanes can come through occasionally.

This is the perfect time to explore all the different beaches in Cancun, take surf lessons , go on a scuba diving adventure in Cancun, or visit Isla Mujeres.

You can also celebrate the rebirth of the Mayan calendar in Cancun. Their year started fresh every 26th of July.

Cancun in August

Ever gone to a beach party that stretches for seven miles and lasts for three whole days? On August 12-14, natives and visitors to Cancun celebrate the “Fiesta de la Playa.” 

During the event, turquoise waters, palm trees, and white sand beaches become the backdrop for surfing competitions, frisbee tosses, soccer tournaments, live music, and DJ and runway shows.

This is the world’s biggest beach party!

The weather in August in Cancun is pretty hot and humid, with temperatures up to 90ºF (32ºC) and only four rainy days on average.

Isla de Mujeres celebrates Founding Day on August 17th, with music, parades, and fun festivities. Take the boat over to keep the party going.

August is still a good month to see baby sea turtles hatch or to go snorkeling with whale sharks.

► Read more about visiting Cancun in August

Cancun in September

If you are traveling to Cancún in September, you’re likely to get discounted hotel rates during this month. Hurray!

September is often rainy and cloudy, but the daily highs still reach 90°F (32°C). September is considered hurricane season, so it’s possible a storm may hit while you’re there.

However, there are only seven rainy days on average. Still, it’s a good idea to have a few rainy-day backup plans. 

On a rainy day, you could visit the subterranean river caves at Xplor Park.

Another option is to explore the Mayan Museum or the old car museum ( Museo del Automovil Antiguo ).

At night, you could do a food-tasting and mixology tour , or watch a Cirque du Soleil show .

Events you can enjoy in Cancun in September include the Latin America Foodshow (a gourmet event), the Fiestas Patrias (independence day festivities with music, dancing, traditional food, and parades), and the Autumn Equinox.

The equinox was of great importance to the Maya. To celebrate, visit some Mayan ruins, or watch a ceremonial re-enactment.

Cancun in October

October in Cancun is another great month for discounts. The weather is the rainiest at the beginning of the month (with an average of eight rainy days).

However, the climate gets sunnier and more clear as the month goes on.

The weather is a bit cooler in October, ranging from 73°F (23°C) and 86°F (30°C). The water is still a nice temperature for swimming, at 84°F (29°C).

October is a great time to take a cooking class or shop in some of Cancun’s famous shopping centers, such as Mercado 23 or Mercado 28 . You can also see sea turtles hatching.

In mid-October, join in the celebrations for Día de la Raza. Watch the processions, and then have some fun at a street party.

Cancun in November

November is the perfect shoulder season in Cancun, with a nice mix of good prices and few crowds. (although there is an influx of visitors during American Thanksgiving).

Hop right into the cultural events in Cancun in November with a celebration of the Día de los Muertos. This major Mexican holiday occurs on the first of the month.

Dress up like La Catrina, the most iconic of the day of the dead symbols , visit a cemetery, eat sugar skulls, or have a Coco movie night with your kids.

Other cool events in Cancun in November include colorful parades on the Día de la Revolución and a food festival called Taste of the Playa.

Head to Mamitas Beach in late November in Playa del Carmen for the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival. Claim a spot on the sand and enjoy amazing music during this free cultural event.

November is also a wonderful month to go diving. You might get to see female bull sharks! They come to the area at the end of the year to have their babies.

Cancun in December

December is a beautiful month to enjoy Cancun. The weather is perfect, with only six rainy days, and temperatures of 70°F (21°C) to 82°F (28°C). Why not go kayaking, take a Captain Hook tour, or visit the interactive aquarium?

Prices are still pretty good up until mid-December, although things pick up as the month goes on.

Early in the month, Mexicans re-enact the birth of Jesus during “Posadas”. They walk around in groups, searching for a place to stay, asking for lodging, and singing. Once they make it to the host’s house, they enjoy food and drink.

The Day of Innocents is another interesting celebration. It occurs on December 28. On this day, you can join many Mexicans in a bit of mischief! Pull a prank to join in the spirit of Mexico’s April Fool’s.

New Year’s Eve is also an awesome time to be in Cancun. There are parties throughout the entire city, giving you plenty of places to ring in the new year!

Frequently Asked Questions about when to visit Cancun

Is it safe to visit cancun.

Cancun is a reasonably safe place to visit. It’s a tourist destination where visitors are always warmly welcomed and the people are hospitable.

But, as with anywhere else in the world, including your hometown, a healthy dose of common sense is advised. You can check out my detailed post on safety in Cancun where I explain more in detail how to stay safe in Cancun .

What are the hottest months in Cancun?

From June to November, the hot season (also known as the rainy season) occurs, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 88°F (31°C).

At this time of year, there is a greater risk of heavy rains, and hurricanes are a possibility but extremely rare.

The cool and dry season runs from December to March, with regular high temperatures averaging below 81°F/27°C, cooler nights, and less rain.

Don’t think about feeling “cold” during the day because of the humidity, which will make it feel like it’s already 88°F/31°C.

What is the best all-inclusive Cancun resort?

Cancun offers a wide range of lodging options, with the Hotel Zone in Cancun being especially popular. My top choice would be the Le Blanc Spa Resort , followed by the two Hyatt hotels, Hyatt Ziva (family resort) and Hyatt Zilara (Adult Only), depending on whom you are traveling with.

If you want a more independent stay, I recommend looking into Cancun’s vacation rental options.

There is a range of excellent, luxurious options available at reasonable prices.

Read also my post on the best All inclusive adult-only resorts in Cancun.

Which side of Cancun is better?

While it is always recommended to go out and explore, the best way to enjoy Cancun is without a doubt to remain in the beach zone.

The best way to start the day is to wake up on the beach. Cancun beach, though, is about 20 kilometers long and not all of it is the same. Some parts of the sea are rougher than others, making swimming more difficult.

The areas around Punta Cancun, the beach stretch from Krystal Resort to the Hard Rock Cafe Beach Club, and the area around Presidente Intercontinental are the best for swimming.

In addition, the Puerto Juarez neighborhood has become a popular hangout spot. It’s less pricey (in some places) and less glamorous, but it’s still by the sea.

What should I avoid in Cancun?

There are plenty of things that you can do in Cancun, but there are also a few that you should avoid . Not to worry, though. They’re very easily avoidable, and make your stay in Cancun a better experience. So, do avoid the following.

🔴 Exchanging money at the airport or at your hotel. It’s best to do it in a bank or Caja de Cambio, a currency exchange service in Cancun.

🔴 Using a cab to get to the airport. Pre-booking a transportation service is much more convenient.

🔴 Drinking tap water. The tap water in Cancun isn’t what you would call filtered and clean, so never drink tap water there.

🔴 Throwing toilet paper into the toilet. It’s advised to avoid doing that if you don’t want your toilet to get stuck and cause flooding, not a nice experience.

🔴 Booking tours on the beach or on the street. It’s not a good idea and it’s more likely that you’ll be conned.

🔴 Visiting during Spring Break. Spring Break is not a good time to visit. March, June, and July are the months when you’ll find throngs of inebriated teens screaming and shouting all day.

🔴 Spending a lot of time in your hotel. Not that is a bad thing, of course, especially if you are in one of the amazing hotels in Cancun. But it would be a shame not to enjoy all the things that you can do in Cancun.

The city is surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders and interesting cultural sites. You should rent a car and get out to explore. I have even shared a Yucatan Itinerary where you can get some inspiration. Make sure you check out El Cuyo as well, my favorite place in Yucatan.

The best time to Visit Cancun: final thoughts

Cancun can be an unforgettable holiday destination if you come at the right time of the year. Although there is no truly ideal time of year to visit Cancun, you can decide the best time based on the type of weather you like, the number of visitors, and the cost of living in the city.

I hope this guide will help you do that. You can also visit Isla Mujeres , a nearby island with just as much to offer, while you’re in the area.

There are beaches in Isla Mujeres, snorkeling, diving, all-inclusive resorts, and much more. In fact, a visit to Cancun is incomplete without a trip to Isla Mujeres .

You can book a tour, or you can just take one of the ferries to Isla Mujeres from Cancun and do the touring on your own. Happy vacations!

For further reading

Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun: which one is better? Cancun vs. Tulum: which one to choose? Cancun vs Playa del Carmen: where should you go?

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

• Last Updated On
• July 1, 2023

Best Time to Visit Cancun for Good Weather and a Great Trip!

Endless days spent bathing in Cancun’s radiant sun, your toes sinking into golden sands, and your gaze fixed on the captivating blue waters. 

That’s the quintessential beach paradise experience, isn’t it? 

Cancun, a Mexican paradise, has a knack for charming travelers with its stunning beaches, comfortably luxurious resorts, and electrifying parties.

Whether you’re craving a dive into the heart of Mexican culture in El Centro or yearning for sun-drenched martinis in Zona Hotelera, Cancun checks all the boxes.

But there’s a secret ingredient to the ultimate Cancun experience: timing. 

Like any other destination, timing your trip can make or break your experience. 

That sweet spot—when you can grab the best resort deals, enjoy perfect weather, or party amidst the city’s pulsating nightlife without throngs of tourists—is key.

So, you’re curious about the best time to visit Cancun, Mexico?

Having explored this paradise myself, I’ve got insider insights that I can’t wait to share with you. 

Discover the best seasons for your Cancun adventure by checking out my tips below. 

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cancun?

Average Temperature (°F)

Average Precipitation (in)

For Good Weather

Though Cancun weather is near-perfect throughout the year, any time between December to April is a great time to visit Cancun — the weather’s on its best behavior, perfectly combining golden skies and light showers and giving you the best of both worlds!

The best weather can be experienced in the months of April and December but if you’re a wildlife buff, you may want to visit in May when the sea turtles nest and the whale sharks make their yearly appearance! 

January to March is also a fantastic time to visit for great weather; you can expect the lowest annual humidity and rain, most summery sunshine and gentlest temperatures during this period, with perfect beach conditions almost daily and more pleasant conditions that let you explore the jungles and ruins further inland without collapsing from heat exhaustion!

The warm Caribbean waters turn deliciously cool (cooler than the summer months) during this time, making for a refreshing swim.

The temperatures pre-sunrise and post-sunset are still generally warm in these months but get cooler from December through February, so packing a light jacket or sweater is recommended during the winter months.

For Great Deals

Who doesn’t love a good deal, right? As is, Cancun is a fabulous place to visit and spectacular deals and discounts are the very delicious cherry on top of this delicious cake! 

Getting a great deal means visiting Cancun in the rainy summer season (between July and October), with even better deals and discounts in September, October and November, as these 3 months coincide with the hurricane season.

That said, know that hurricanes have only made an appearance in Cancun twice in the past three decades, so the odds of being hit by one while you’re there are, quite frankly, very low. 

However, be prepared for days that are humid, hot, dry and rainy all at once. If you’re the kind of traveler who thrives in the heat and occasional burst of rain, there’s no better time to visit Cancun.

The extremely cheap hotel, flight and excursion fares during this period mean that you’ll be saving hundreds or even thousands of hard-earned dollars, further sweetening the deal. 

For Families and Kids 

When traveling internationally with the tykes and tots , you need to ensure that there’s enough fun to keep them engaged to prevent restlessness and its consequences!

April through June and the month of November are the ideal time for families to visit Cancun.

During these periods, fares are lower on hotels, flights and activities than the peak season, there are far fewer crowds to deal with and the weather is great for outdoor activities, whether you want to go sightseeing with the kids, spend a thrilling day in an adventure park, or a have more learning-oriented day visiting the Mayan ruins. 

The temperature of the water is also perfectly suited for snorkeling and swimming during these months, and as mentioned earlier, all of you may even encounter sea turtles and whale sharks during May and June. 

That being said, try to avoid traveling during Thanksgiving, as that’s the time every American family seems to end up in Cancun, as well as the Holy Week (Semana Santa) that leads up to Easter, which is a busy week for Mexican families (though it is a holiday week). 

For Avoiding Crowds 

Dealing with large, noisy crowds that seem to land up everywhere you go can really suck the fun out of a vacation for some of us!

For those who prefer seeing places with relative quiet and peace around, the rainy season is the ideal time to visit.

June through October, especially September and October, coincide with the hurricane season, as mentioned earlier; the storms are rare and thankfully, the crowds will be too during this season!

However, the fewer number of travelers during this time also means that several tour operators and restaurants may change their hours of operation, especially during October.

Before rejoicing at the fact that your tour will almost be private now, ensure you check ahead to see if the tour is even operating! 

For Sightseeing, Visiting Jungles and/or Ruins 

To get the best out of sites like Valladolid, Chichen Itza and the jungle adventure parks, visiting during December and April is highly recommended.

You can be assured of sunny days, balmy temperatures, comparatively low humidity and minimal rain on most days and traveling either at the beginning or end of this period means you can explore all of Cancun under excellent conditions.

Rest assured, there are many things to do in Cancun. However, this is also the peak time in Cancun, so be prepared for crowded attractions, beaches and hotels. 

Unless you are planning to stay in a hotel in downtown Cancun and mostly explore nearby attractions, having a rental car is the optimal way to navigate the vibrant city.

Keep in mind that most downtown hotels in Cancun may require a parking fee.

Moreover, having a car gives you the freedom to embark on exciting day trips from Cancun to various destinations within the Yucatan Peninsula.

Out of all the various car rental companies in Cancun, we recommend going with Discover Cars .

We’ve always found them to offer the best deals, transparent pricing, and great customer service.

Which we appreciate because it has allowed us to explore and fully enjoy our vacations in Cancun without having to stress about transportation.

No having to worry about all the little things that can come with renting a car through other companies, especially in a foreign country – like hidden fees, non-english speaking reps, etc.

For Swimming, Snorkeling and Diving 

It’s no secret that Cancun has some of the world’s best marine life; the reefs, oceans and cenotes are fabulous throughout the year, despite any fluctuations in the weather and overall conditions. 

The water is at its coldest in February and March and its warmest between July and October.

Considering that September and October also bring with them more rainy days, July and August are the ideal months for swimming. 

However, if your vacation is all about diving and snorkeling, Cancun may not be your best bet.

Though it does have beautiful marine flora and fauna, the water is choppy and rough, reducing visibility.

Additionally, the increasing bane of pollution has reached many reefs, with the corals near the main Zona Hotelera being mostly dead. 

So, if you’re in it for the snorkeling and diving, you’ll most probably be taken to nearby areas such as Punta Nizac (the southern end of the Zona Hotelera), the Museum of Underwater Art (MUSA) or the Isla Mujeres.

These areas abound in marine life activity and the calmer, clearer water will let you catch this activity with more ease, especially during the drier months (November through May) when visibility is at its best. 

For the unique experience of snorkeling with whale sharks, good visibility, the arrival of the first whale sharks and the warm, calm waters of the January-to-March period is ideal.

For Whale Sharks and Sea Turtles 

Experiencing nature up close can be a truly awe-inspiring, breathtaking and humbling experience, and there are few places better for this than Cancun; you can rely on the waters here to encounter two of the world’s endangered species — sea turtles and whale sharks. 

Whale sharks start trickling in during May and are at their highest numbers in the area by June.

July through August promises almost a 100% chance of locating whale sharks, mostly in pods, and come September, these magnificent animals take their leave, almost completely disappearing by the month’s end. 

To catch sea turtles nesting, the end of May is a great time, with the laying almost done by the end of October. You can catch cute baby sea turtles hatching and taking their first steps into the sea in July, with continuous visits to the shore till the end of December.

Several hotels and local bodies also run volunteering programs where volunteers relocate the eggs to save them from predators or help baby turtles find their way to the water once they’ve hatched (depending on the period). 

To catch whale sharks, nesting turtles and baby turtles, July and August are the best months. Ensure that you abide by all conservation guidelines and rules, though.

The first time I visited Cancun, I was swept away by its pristine beaches. 

I remember being completely in awe of the crystal-clear waters while diving in Punta Nizuc, an experience unparalleled to this day. 

And the MUSA? 

It’s as intriguing underwater as it looks in the photos. 

There’s also a time I decided to wander in El Centro, immersing myself in the local culture and feasting on the most delicious street tacos. 

But what continues to be etched in my mind is witnessing the nesting of sea turtles – a humbling spectacle that brings you close to nature’s miracles.

For Nightlife

It’s a well-known fact that Cancun nightlife is very active, where dusk-to-dawn parties are as common as tacos!

There are a ton of great nightclubs and bars near Zona Hotelera’s Punta Cancun that guarantee a night of fun, drinks and dancing (in any order!). 

A particularly popular party time in Cancun is spring break, with legendary parties running 24/7, famous DJs and bikini contests throughout the entire month of March, catering to the hordes of student crowds that descend upon the city.

You’ll also catch a ton of parties from June to mid-July where newly-graduated high school students celebrate their last few days of freedom before starting college!

For a “grown-up” version of partying, December through February is a great time; the clubs and bars will still be raving and crowded, but this time around, the average age will be over 25. 

Having experienced the nightlife in places like Playa del Carmen and Tulum, I can safely say that Cancun’s scene is incredibly vibrant. 

While Playa del Carmen has a hip, bohemian vibe, and Tulum is more about the beachfront parties, Cancun is a total powerhouse. 

Its nightclubs in the Zona Hotelera are a spectacle in themselves. 

From EDM-fueled mega clubs to trendy rooftop lounges, Cancun boasts variety and energy that’s hard to match. 

It’s a carnival that lasts till dawn. That’s not to say the others don’t know how to party, but Cancun’s nightlife is just one heck of an experience.

For the Cheapest Flights and Hotels

Cheap airfare is always appreciated; it means more money to blow on your actual vacation!

There is a whole range of tips and tricks out there to get the best airfare deal and while some people resort to apps and algorithms, we have a few pointers that are more general in nature!

Booking a ticket in advance will get you a cheap ticket; however, if you book too much ahead of your trip, you may just end up getting a worse deal than if you’d held on a little longer.

Of course, booking a ticket 3 days before your trip will obviously mean paying the highest price!

Considering all this, it would seem that 3-4 months in advance is a great time to book your tickets, with airfare being particularly low off-season (early to mid-fall and late spring).

When it comes to reservation, the earlier the better; hotels offer a fixed number of rooms at a given price and this price increases as the rooms get booked. Reserving your room as soon as you’ve bought your flight ticket is a great idea. 

There are kid-friendly hotels in Cancun that have baby-sitting facilities, outdoor playground, themed water parks, and much more that your kids will definitely enjoy.

If you’re looking for an all inclusive Cancun family vacation, you’ll be spending some more for its worth it amenities such as world-class spa, unique pools, scuba center, and top restaurants.

Quick Tips 

• How to Avoid Spring Break Crowds: If at all you must visit Cancun during the spring break, staying away from the party zones, not entering clubs at later hours and staying from student-oriented hotels will let you avoid the large, loud spring-break crowds. If you want to party, you can jump right in, but if you want a more relaxed and peaceful environment, you can still find that too, during these months. 
• Is It Safe to Go to Cancun?: You’ve probably watched enough movies and headlines to know that Mexico is no stranger to substantial levels of crime. However, most of these (movies and news) are gross exaggerations; Cancun doesn’t even feature on Mexico’s list of top 10 dangerous cities! Cancun is a threat level 2, as per the US State Department; for context, that’s the same league as France, Italy and the United Kingdom! However, some areas are safer than the others in Cancun. Tourist hubs, particularly, are highly guarded by the government and police, with regular helicopter and car patrols. Gang violence and cartels rarely affect these areas; however, do take the necessary precautions that you would anywhere, such as locking up valuables in your hotel safe, keeping a close eye on your belongings and not forgetting them anywhere and avoiding free roaming after dark, especially on the beaches.

Cancun Travel Seasons 

What month is hurricane season in cancun .

As mentioned earlier, hurricane season hits Cancun at the beginning of June and continues till the end of October and sometimes, November, with storms more likely to occur from August to October (the chances are higher in September and October than August). This is the same as the Atlantic season.

However, again as mentioned earlier, hurricanes are extremely rare in Cancun, with only two hitting the area in the last three decades. 

What Is the Rainy Season in Cancun? 

The rainy season in Cancun runs from May to October, with humidity naturally being at its highest (80%). This period is also relatively warmer than the other months.

Though Cancun can experience heavy downpour, this downpour happens in bursts and is generally followed by clear skies and bright sunshine after a while.

Generally, the coastal areas receive more rainfall than the interiors, with rain mostly occurring in the evenings (post 4 or 5 pm).

High Season (Mid-December through March)

Though the best time to go to Cancun varies, the city experiences peak season during winter and early spring. In these months (mid-December through March), flights and hotels are at their most expensive and crowds at their largest.

Given that Christmas, New Year’s and spring break occur in these months, there’s a continuous flow of tourists; however, you can still find relatively low rates and the occasional deal on accommodation and flights by booking in advance. 

The areas of Isla Mujeres, Playa Mujeres and Riviera Cancun are generally less crowded than the main Zona Hotelera, so booking a hotel in these areas is a great option to avoid most of the tourist influx.  

Low Season (June through October)

June through October is when the Cancun summer is in full bloom, with its rains, high humidity and hurricane season. Therefore, summer is the low season, where you can find the best prices and deals on flights, activities and accommodation.

Attractions and restaurants are sure to be less crowded; however, be prepared to experience hot, lengthy days and frequent rain if you’re prioritizing budget friendliness. 

The great thing is that though the rains and the occasional storm are heavy, they’re brief and clear up within a few hours. July and the end of October experience the driest and least cloudy days in this period. 

Shoulder Season (April, May and November through mid-December)

April, May and November through mid-December are not just the best months to visit Cancun but the best time to visit Mexico itself!

Sunny days? Check!

Lower probability of rain? Check!

Relatively fewer crowds? Double check! 

Though you may not get a deal as you would in the low season, when looking for places to stay in Cancun , the rates are still reasonable, especially if you book in advance or have a long vacation planned (longer than 5 nights).

Thanksgiving Week and Holy Week, as mentioned earlier, are the two exceptions to this; the latter is a busy time for Mexican families while the latter is a popular time for travel for American families. 

Cancun Weather by Month 

Cancun in january.

Warm, dry and sunny, January in Cancun experiences average daily highs around 28°C, with temperatures dropping to a much more comfortable 20°C at night.

Due to its location on a tropical jungle’s edge, Cancun is always humid; however, this humidity is the least in January, especially toward the month’s end, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the jungles and ruins.

It’s also a great time to spend beautiful days on the beach or exploring downtown Cancun. 

Though there is the occasional shower (average rainfall is at 46 mm), it’s light and clears up within an hour or so.

The water is relatively cooler (an average of 27°C) than it is in other seasons but this makes for a deliciously cold, refreshing swim that’s still comfortable.

During this month, the visibility is also at its highest, making it the best period for diving and snorkeling. 

Cancun in February

The beautiful, balmy weather of January carries over into the following month, with February being slightly warmer, drier and less prone to rainfall.

The humidity also slightly increases but is still comfortable for inland exploration.

The visibility is still great this month and the water temperature remains more or less the same as January, so snorkeling, swimming and diving are still a “go”!

Cancun in March

With daily average temperature highs of 29°C, cool and comfortable nights and 37 mm of rainfall, March is Cancun’s second-driest month, with light, quick showers that only hit once a week and clear, bright skies all around.

Though humidity increases from February, it’s still comfortable enough for outdoor activities and exploring the ruins and jungles; the water is still around 26°C and the visibility remains great till the end of February.

Cancun in April

Come April, Cancun experiences light, quick showers and only 3 out of 31 days in the month, making it the city’s driest month.

The days get warmer, with average highs hitting 31°C, as does the ocean, especially towards the end of the month.

Humidity is also high in this period but still comfortable enough to get out and explore the jungles and ruins.

Beach bums are sure to rejoice this month, with plenty of near-perfect beach-condition days that are gloriously sunny yet kept comfortably cool by the ocean breeze. 

Cancun in May

The third-driest month brings with it the likelihood of short storms, especially towards the month’s end.

Heavy cloud coverage and high humidity mark the days, though there are still plenty of clear skies, hot, languid afternoons and warm mornings and evenings (daily average temperature high of 32°C and an average rainfall of 52 mm).

Thanks to the beach breeze, you may just end up not noticing the humidity; however, the morning (and the first few days of the month) is the recommended time for activities such as visiting Chichen Itza or hitting the adventure parks.

The ocean heats up to 28°C during this month and the whale sharks and nesting sea turtles start making an appearance. 

Cancun in June

Come June, the average daily temperature hits 32°C and the average rainfall nearly doubles from the previous month to 115 mm; it is, after all, the onset of the rainy season, with the highest rainfall being during this month.

Again, tropical storms have only a one out of four chance of hitting and are brief and quick when they do.

Cloud coverage increases from the previous months, with June also marking the onset of the hurricane season.

Beaches are comfortable with a constant ocean breeze keeping them cool.

Venturing inland may not be a wise option; if you do, carry sufficient water, and then some, and visit a cenote so you can cool down if required!

Cancun in July

With fewer rainy days but heavier storms, July is hot and muggy, with the hottest weeks of the summer spread across the latter half of July and the first half of August.

Swimming in a cenote or the ocean is the ideal way to cool off in this month; though the average daily high hits 32°C and there’s 103 mm of rain, the water remains at a constant 28°C. 

Inland exploration mandates plenty of water, though staying on the beach may be a better option; the first baby turtles break out of their shells and make their way to the water, the whale sharks have almost fully arrived, and the nesting turtles are also on the beaches. 

Cancun in August

Cancun in August is hot and suffocatingly humid, at least for the first 2 weeks, post which the temperatures go down.

The daily high hits 33°C, while rainfall is at 136 mm and the ocean has risen by a degree to 29°C.

The days are a mix of sunshine and gloomy skies and the rain and temperatures increase and decrease, respectively, as the end of the month nears.

Rains, as usual, last only for a couple of hours. 

During this month, visiting cenotes and lounging on the beach is highly recommended to beat the heat and humidity. For the wildlife buffs, this month presents the last chance to catch whale sharks, baby turtles and nesting turtles in one shot.  

Cancun in September

September is Cancun’s rainiest month, with 10 out of 30 days given to rainfall and the rest given to overcast skies.

Rainfall, at an average of 185 mm, is heavy and frequent, but as always, clears up quickly.

The chances of hurricanes hitting are high this month and the next, though they are a rare occurrence. 

The days are less hot (average high of 32°C) and humid than the previous month, but still muggy.

The water temperature rises slightly and the beach is the most comfortable relaxation spot this month.

Whale sharks start bidding adieu and are almost completely gone by the month’s end. 

Cancun in October

Though the average rainfall comes down to around 157 mm in October, the number of expected rainy days increases.

The beginning of the months sees humid, cloudy days with rain, but the weather improves with the passing of the weeks, with the month ending on a note of gentle temperatures, spotless skies and beautiful beach conditions.

The ocean temperature goes down to an average of 28°C, and the last of the hurricanes, if at all any, appear this month.

The last few nesting turtles also lay their eggs in October before making their way back to their watery homes.  

Cancun in November

The average daily temperature hits 29°C, the skies become clearer and rainy days infrequent.

Any rain (average rainfall goes down to 95 mm) and humidity are experienced at the beginning of the month and as the month progresses, the temperature keeps decreasing, with days becoming perfect for spending time on the beach or exploring the ruins and jungles. 

Ocean temperature remains the same as the previous month and the sea turtles have all left by the end of the month. 

Cancun in December

The month of Christmas is the best time to go to Mexico, and if possible, an even better time to be in Cancun!

This month is absolutely fantastic, with warm days, cool nights, gloriously sunny and clear skies and brief rains that disappear as suddenly as they appear!

The dry season restarts in the month’s latter half, continuing on till March.

The daily high is a comfortable 28°C and the rainfall is at 70 mm, while the ocean is at a deliciously cool 27°C. 

During this month, make the best of Cancun’s incredible beaches, with great visibility reappearing for diving and snorkeling and the last few baby turtles getting out of their shells and going back into the ocean.

So, there you have it – your personal guide to navigating Cancun.

It features all the important insights on the city’s weather, accommodation, flights, crowd dynamics, family appeal, and water activities. 

With this cheat sheet in your back pocket, crafting your Cancun itinerary should feel like a breeze. 

In all its charm and versatility, Cancun never ceases to amaze, catering to diverse traveler personalities and preferences. 

While this city remains a year-round delight, knowing the best time to visit Cancun can truly elevate your vacation experience.

Remember, every great adventure starts with good planning. 

So, take these tips, put them to good use, and embark on your Cancun journey. 

Here’s to a memorable trip. 

Feliz Viaje!

Weather & Climate

Best All-Inclusive Hotels

Driving in Cancun

Cancun Airport Guide

Top Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Cancun's Best Spas

Top Beaches to Visit

Shopping in Cancun

Where to Go Snorkeling

Day Trips From Cancun

Top Restaurants

Best Bars and Clubs

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Cancun

 BrettCharlton / Getty Images

The best time to visit Cancun is from December through March when the weather is generally clear and warm, but not too hot. This is high season, so if you travel at this time of year, there will be plenty of other people there enjoying the delightful weather along with you. If you prefer to avoid crowds (and find better deals), consider visiting during a different time of year. Summer and fall are generally more humid and rainy, and have greater potential for tropical storms and hurricanes, but can be the best time for travelers on a budget to score some great deals. Spring is, for the most part, pleasant, but you’ll want to be aware of the risk of running into crowds of spring breakers (this can be a good or bad thing depending on your point of view!).

Cancun's Best Weather

The main appeal of a Cancun vacation is beach time , and you’ll find ideal beach weather during the winter months, with clear, sunny days and temps between 75 F and 90 F, although the occasional cold front can bring some chillier temps for a few days at a time. The main weather concern in Cancun is hurricanes, so when planning your trip, keep in mind that Mexico’s hurricane season falls between June and November. Chances of a hurricane hitting during your vacation are slim, but even if there isn’t a direct hit, there can be several days in a row of overcast, rainy weather. If you do travel during this time, consider purchasing travel insurance that will reimburse your expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to a tropical storm or hurricane.

High Season in Cancun

When it’s cold up north, many folks head south looking for sunny weather and warmth — savvy northerners know the best way to survive a long winter is by taking a week's break when it's coldest and darkest. Wintertime is the most popular time to visit: this is peak season, so the number of visitors remains high and steady from the end of November through the beginning of March. It quiets down for a little while in March, but then spring break crowds become evident. The summer months and early fall are the quietest in terms of crowds, and are a good time to find great deals.  

Sargassum Season

The seaweed that's been washing up on beaches in the Caribbean (in Mexico as well as other destinations in the Caribbean) has been garnering a lot of consternation among visitors. Although this type of seaweed is a natural phenomenon that has been occurring for centuries, the influx in recent years has been greater, thicker and more widespread. It is thought to be due to rising temperatures in the ocean and larger quantities of trash. Think of it like the ocean's self-cleaning system. Unfortunately, it is unpleasant to look at beaches lined with seaweed and swim in water that is full of it. Hotels and other beach properties make an effort to clean it up as quickly as they can, but sometimes it unpredictably appears from one day to the next before it can be cleaned up properly. Although sargasso can appear at any time of year, it seems to be more prevalent in the summer months, when the water is warmer. You can check the official website of the Sargassum Early Advisory System (SEAS) for up-to-date information.

Here’s a look at the different seasons and the pros and cons of visiting Cancun during each of them:

Spring can be a great time to visit, with lovely weather, but it can be very crowded, particularly during spring break season (mainly from mid-March through April). Some people love the party atmosphere and wild nightlife that you’ll find at this time of year, but if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxing vacay, it is possible to avoid spring break crowds . If you visit during the spring, you could time your stay so that you can visit Chichen Itza on the spring equinox (March 20 or 21) in order to see the famous light and shadow effect that looks like the serpent of Kukulcan descending the steps of El Castillo Pyramid at sunset on the day of the Spring Equinox (it’s also visible the day before and after the equinox, if it’s not too cloudy). Some other festivals and events to enjoy in the spring include Carnival and Holy Week observances.

Summertime in Cancun tends to be rainier than other seasons. There are still lots of things to do when it rains in Cancun , so don’t despair. You should be able to find good deals on flights and hotels if you travel during the summertime, and another plus is that you can go swimming with whale sharks this time of year (from mid-May through September).

Rainy weather in Cancun often continues through the autumn season, and the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes is still a factor through November. If the rain doesn't bother you, there are other advantages to traveling this time of year. There are interesting holidays you can experience, such as Mexican Independence Day in September, and Day of the Dead at the end of October to the beginning of November. There's also the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival that's held in November in Playa del Carmen, that offers free concerts at the Mamita's Beach Club.

Winter weather is usually very pleasant, clear and warm, with average daily high temperatures below 83 F, but there can be the occasional cold front that comes through, so pack a sweater just in case. Ocean temperatures are cooler than during the summer months, but still very comfortable for swimming. Visiting archaeological sites and other attractions away from the beach can be more pleasant this time of year, because it isn't so hot. Cancun can be a great place to celebrate the Christmas and New Year holidays — a white sand Christmas can be much more enjoyable than a snowy one!

The best time to visit Cancun is in the winter (December through March), when the weather is clear and warm, but not too hot. This is also high season, so expect tourist crowds and higher airfare and lodging rates.

Cancun's rainy season is May through October. During this time of year, it is also hot and humid, with daytime high temperatures hovering around 90 degrees F (32 degrees C).

The village of Puerto Morelos delivers both cultural and traditional Mexican charm. Here, you can enjoy white sand beaches and crystal blue water without fighting tourist crowds.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Cancun, Mexico Year Round." Retrieved March 8, 2021.

The Washington Post. "The Seaweed Invasion." August 15, 2019.

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When is the best time to visit Cancun? If you are planning to go to Cancun and you want to know the best time to travel, you have landed in the right place.

I lived in Cancun for more than 7 years and I keep going back to the city that welcomed me with open arms and where I had the time of my life.

So I am sure this post will help you plan your trip according to the best time to visit Cancun for the type of vacation you are looking for.

Considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, it’s always a great time to visit Cancun.

However, each month is different in weather and events, things to do, and even hotel rates. In this post, I will try to give you an idea of the best time to go to Cancun, for great deals, fewer crowds, the best weather, and events.

You will also find a session about Cancun month by month. This way you can plan your trip accordingly.

In a hurry? When is the best time to go to Cancun? In a nutshell!

• When is Cancun’s hottest month? June
• When is Cancun’s driest month of the year? April
• The most humid month in Cancun: September
• The most popular time to travel to Cancun: Holy Week  
• The least crowded month to go to Cancun: shoulder season (May to June, and September – November )
• When is the best time to visit Cancun for the weather? January through March
• When is the cheapest month to go to Cancun? September through November and after Easter
• When is the coolest month to travel to Cancun? February
• The perfect time to visit Cancun : April – June
• The best month to travel to Cancun Mexico: May

BEST TIME TO VISIT CANCUN

When is the best time to go to cancun.

There is the best time to visit Cancun for different situations and here I am listing each and every one of them.

Best time to visit Cancun for the best deals

Let’s start with the most popular question. When is the cheapest time to go to Cancun?

In Cancun, you can find hotels for any budget, from simple hostels to gorgeous luxury properties. But there are months when you can find even better deals.

Moreover, if you love luxury, but don’t like to spend your travel budget on hotel expenses, the cheapest time to go to Cancun’s all-inclusive resorts is from September through November up to early December and May to June.

In these months, hotels usually experience a low occupancy and therefore are keener on lowering their rates. So you can really find good deals and discounts of up to 50%.

This is the time of year when it’s hotter and more humid and with more risk of hurricanes and rainy days. And this is why you will usually find lower prices than in June.

Also, you will find warm waters, which makes it ideal for swimming and scuba diving in Cancun.

The best time to visit Cancun for the weather

If you wander when there is good weather in Cancun, you should know that Cancun weather is great all year round, with warm temperatures and many sunny days.

However, summer months are hotter and more humid, with more rain and the risk of hurricanes , even though these are rare.

In fact, the months from July through the end of October are also called the rainy season or wet season, for this reason.

The low season is also considered the worst time to visit Cancun for the weather because it’s very humid and unbearably hot.

On the contrary, winters, the time from December through Easter holidays, is the dry season and the weather is supposedly spectacular with long sunny days and blue sky.

Nights are cooler, especially in February, which is also the dryest month of the year, and just a little rain is expected (but not guaranteed).

Winter is also considered a high season when there is the least chance of rain and no hurricanes, while nights and mornings are much cooler, but the average temperature is still around 83ºF/ 28ºC.

The water temperature is lower but very much swimmable (for some people, I would add, because I am always cold in the water).

These are the months with sunny days and clear skies. And the best time to go visit archeological sites such as Chichen Itza, thanks to the lower temperature and level of humidity.

So all in all the best weather in Cancun is definitely in the winter months from December through March/early April.

Normally the Holy week, which, together with New Year is considered peak season, marks the end of winter and the perfect weather.

TOP TIP: Having said that, keep in mind that these are not rules set in stone as you can never be sure about the weather. In other words, it can rain during winter, although less likely, and you can find spectacular sunny skies in Summer, which is very likely to happen.

I just wanted to clarify that, because I don’t want to be responsible if you come to Cancun in January and you will find a week of rain. That would be really unfortunate, but not impossible. 😵‍💫

When is the cheapest time to go to Cancun?

The cheapest time to travel to Cancun is between seasons which in my opinion is also the best time to visit for many other reasons. That is when you have also the lowest crowds, which is why it’s cheaper to travel in Cancun and all of Mexico.

In fact, right after Easter and before the schools end, the prices will drop significantly and you have the best weather, the lowest rates, and the beach all to yourself. What else can you ask?

The only downside is if you travel solo , in which case it may be difficult to find the minimum number to create tours, but this is a minor issue as there is so much to do in Cancun, and places that you can visit on your own.

From September through November, it’s also the best time to go to Cancun on the cheap. However, at this time of the year, the humidity level is higher and you have more chances to find rain and even hurricanes or tropical storms.

If you don’t mind though, it’s also a great time to find hotel deals in Cancun.

Disclaimer : please keep in mind that there has never been a time when the weather in Cancun was so unpredictable, so the information included in this post reflects a general trend, but it’s not set in stone. For example one time I was in Cancun at the end of May through the beginning of June and it poured with rain for 10 days in a row, which was unexpected. It can also rain in January which is usually dry season.

Best time to travel to Cancun to swim with the whale sharks

Cancun is one of the best places to find tours to swim with whale sharks . It’s an amazing experience that I always recommend.

However, these gentle giant of the sea only travels across the Caribbean Sea right in front of Cancun in the summer from June through September.

So something to keep in mind when planning.

The best time to visit Cancun to avoid crowds

The shoulder season is not only the best time of the year in Cancun to find hotel deals but also to avoid tourist crowds . September through early December (excluding Thanksgiving) and May through June are the months with less tourism.

You can enjoy archeological sites, cenotes, and other beautiful sites without lines and almost empty, especially during weekdays.

However, keep in mind that September is the rainiest month, and from September through early November you will find high temperatures.

When is the Best time to go to Cancun to avoid hurricanes?

Hurricane season is officially from June through October. The end of November marks the end of Hurricane Season officially. However, August through October are more at risk.

It’s worth mentioning that in the past 30 years, there have been only 2 major hurricanes to keep things in perspective.

All the others were just tropical storms with little to no damage but a whole lot of rain and wind.

Keep in mind that the hurricane season hits at the same time of the year in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the entire Riviera Maya as much as on the pacific coast.

When it hits the costs even the areas in Central Mexico, including Mexico City, are affected by bad weather too.

B est time to visit Cancun with family

The best time in Cancun for families traveling with children is from May through November.

It is the low season when rates are lower, and you can find lots of family deals. Also, all the attractions and beaches are less crowded.

The weather is really hot, and the water temperatures, are perfect for swimming and snorkeling with the kids.

June through September is also the time of the year when you can see whale sharks and sea turtles. The only time to avoid is the week of Thanksgiving, which is usually very crowded.

▶︎ Check out the best All -inclusive family resorts with waterparks

The best time to visit Cancun for swimming snorkeling and diving

Although there are not many places in Cancun where you can snorkel from the shore, there are many boat tours that take you to the nearby MUSA , Isla Mujeres, and Punta Nizuc, where the water is calmer.

Visibility is best from November through May, the drier months, especially in January through March.

Snorkeling with whale sharks is available from June through September, but June is better for visibility.

The best time to visit Cancun for sea turtle hatching

Did you know that the Mexican Caribbean is an important nesting area for the green (Chelonia mydas), loggerhead (Caretta caretta), and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) turtles and sometimes also the rear leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), shows up.

They laid their eggs on the beach and they are protected by Mexican law which means that it’s considered a criminal offense to persecute and hunt them, steal their eggs, consume their meat, or purchase tortoiseshell products.

Every year, female sea turtles emerge from the sea at night to lay their eggs on the beaches of Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Cozumel , Isla Mujeres, and other parts of the Mexican Caribbean.

Many hotels have their own program to protect them and make sure they are kept safe from predators assisting the whole process from nesting to hatching and the final rush to the newly born sea.

If you happen to be on the beach at night when they set them free, it’s a beautiful experience to see those little creatures running toward their forever home, the sea.

Sea turtle nesting starts at the end of May and finishes in October. The hatching starts at the end of July and through December.

3 hotel brands with turtle conservations program in Cancun

Palace resorts group.

Palace Resorts has a fully-fledged team of biologists and volunteers who mark nesting areas by scouring approximately six miles of the beach surrounding  Moon Palace Cancun  and other sections where  Beach Palace  and  Sun Palace are located.

Royal Resorts

From May to October, Royal Resorts have security guards patrolling the shoreline at night on the lookout for female sea turtles emerging from the waves and they watch over them as they dig their nests.

The eggs are picked up and protected in turtle nurseries at The Royal Sands , The Royal Uno and The Royal Islander in Cancún.

Then May through October, guests may witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles, baby turtles scuttling down the beach towards the sea.

Sandos Cancun also works with veterinarians and biologists to make sure the human impact on this engendered species’ life cycle is minimal.

They also involve the wildlife protection organization known as Balam Ka’an Wild, which provides them with experts who stay at the resort from May through October to protect and monitor the nests.

Best time in Cancun for the nightlife and to avoid spring break

As I mentioned before Cancun is always open for business, including Cancun nightlife which is always great all year round.

The nightlife mainly revolves around the Punta Cancun area in the hotel zone, where you will find the most popular nightclubs, such as Mandala, and Coco Bongo , among others.

Depending on which time of the year you go, you will see different kinds of people.

Spring breakers will take over the entire area between March and April, but this time of the year also attracts the craziest shows and 24hrs parties with international DJs and top entertainment.

If you are not up for it and prefer a more moderate kind of party, you should avoid March and June through mid-July and opt for more uptight nightlife in December through February when the average age is over 30.

It is also true that if you are not into parties and nightlife, you won’t be bothered as long as you avoid the hotels that are more frequented by spring breakers.

Best time to visit Cancun for kite surfing

The best season for kitesurfing in Cancun is primarily from November to June, which is when the north winds blow and make it the best condition for kite surfing.

The best place for kitesurfing in Cancun is Isla Blanca an unspoiled beach located at only 20 km north of Cancun. read my post linked above for more info.

Best time to go to Cancun without seaweed (sargassum)

Usually, the best time to go to Cancun without seaweed is winter as seaweed usually appears from May through October.

It’s impossible to predict which beaches are most affected by Sargassum because it changes depending on the currents.

However, I can almost assure you that in case you happen to be in Cancun when there is a lot of Sargassum, you can check out Isla Mujeres beach (at 30 30-minute ferry ride), Isla Blanca (20 minutes drive north of Cancun) and Playa Mujeres (right before Isla Blanca) and you can be assured that you will be sargasso free.

The Best Time to Go Cancun for Partying

The best time to go to Cancun for partying is during the spring break season , which typically falls between late February and early April. This is when the city is bustling with young travelers looking to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and beach parties that Cancun is known for.

Keep in mind that this period can be very crowded, so if you prefer a slightly quieter party scene, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when the weather is still warm but the crowds are thinner.

If you choose one of the amazing party resorts in Cancun you can definitely party all year round.

Cancun weather by season

☀️ high season in cancun – december through april (winter).

The high season in Cancun is also called the dry season because it’s when it rains the least.

That is when temperatures get bearable, the sun shines in the blue sky most of the time and the rainy season is just a memory. The water temperature is cooler and it’s less likely to rain (But not impossible).

This is also called “high season”, because of the beautiful weather. It’s when you find the highest prices and the biggest crowds.

The dry season is also spring break season from the end of March through early April, something to keep in mind if you want to avoid this kind of tourism.

😎 Shoulder season in Cancun (May – June):

From after Easter through the beginning of June, we have what is called the shoulder season when we enjoy the best of both worlds, the cool weather, and low prices.

The sea water temperature starts to get warmer but there is still no sargasso at the horizon (hopefully).

We can still get showers more frequently.

💦 Cancun wet season (summer) – from June through October

This is also called rainy and hurricane season for the high risks of those. The wet season starts approximately in June and lasts until mid-September – October.

It’s characterized by higher temperatures and a high rate of humidity, sometimes unbearable.

Also, there is a high chance that Sargasso will make its appearance on the majority of Cancun beaches.

On the bright side, the sea is warmer and prices go slightly down.

⛈ Shoulder season (Late October – Early December)

This is the worst time to travel to Cancun weather-wise.

The temperatures are at their highest until the end of October when it starts to cool down and it’s the most humid season.

Sea temperatures are the warmest of the year and very pleasant. Sargasso is going away (🥳) and the dry season is approaching with more sunny days and blue skies.

Rates are still low and you can find great deals, and fewer people are around.

The best time to visit Cancun: a Month-by-Month guide

January is a great time of year to visit Cancun. The maximum temperatures get around the 81°F (27°C) and you will enjoy little rain and blue sky.

In January, evenings can be cool, especially at night and early morning, which is nice, but remember to pack some light sweaters in case you get chilly.

The water temperature is around 78°F (25°C), still nice for swimming in January unless you are like me and get cold easily, in which case remember to pack a wetsuit if you plan to go snorkeling or scuba diving.

Festivities and Events in January in Cancun

☑️ Día de los Reyes (Day of Kings) January 6th –

Another occasion to exchange gifts with your friends and family, but also eat the Rosca de Reyes a typical delicious sweet bread.

FUN FACT – A local tradition says that you must share a Rosca de Reyes with your colleagues or friends and the person that finds a figurine representing baby Jesus inside their piece has to throw a fiesta and prepare Tamales the day of Candelaria which falls on February 2nd. 

☑️ Annual Handline Barracuda Tournament

Another fun event in late January is the Annual Handline Barracuda Tournament. This event is held on the nearby Isla Mujeres , just off the Cancun coast. If you’re an angler, you can have fun fishing and help raise money for local charities. Win-win!

Cancun in February

February is another amazing dry and sunny month with warm temperatures but with the lowest water temperatures. The weather ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 82°F (28°C) during this month.

Party lovers can enjoy pool party nights at Mandala and many other events.

Festivities and Events in February in Cancun

• Día de Candelaria (February 2nd)
• Constitution Day – with parades, concerts, fairs, and picnics.
• Valentine’s Day – celebrating love like any other place in the world.
• OHL classic for golfers! 

Suggested Tours on February

↳ Book a private Old Galleon Dinner Cruise while a saxophonist serenades you.

↳ Go visit Chichen Itza , a nearby cenote, and the colonial town of Valladolid on this 5-star tour, rated by more than 8000 travelers.

Cancun in March

Cancun’s driest month, March brings only 3 rainy days on average.

The water is around 79°F (26°C) and daytime temperatures range between 72°F (22°C) and 84°F (29°C).

March is spring break season in Cancun, so the nightlife can get pretty wild. You can choose among a variety of events including boat parties with open bars, DJs, and enjoy the Caribbean Sea under the stars.

Therefore, this month isn’t a good time to visit Cancun if you don’t like crowds. Keep that in mind if you’re planning to travel to Cancun in March, as we are still in the peak season just like the winter months.

Check out Feels Summer for the Cancun spring break calendar, and/or pick up a Cancun Club Pass .

Suggested tours in March

↳ Spring Equinox Ceremony in Chichén Itza on March 19 or 20. – 5⭐️ 1 Review Book it here

↳ 3-in-1 Discovery Combo Tour : Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling Plus Cenote and Caves – 5⭐️ 2800 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Hip Hop Sessions Boat Party Cancun (Adults only) – 4.5⭐️ 389 Reviews Book it here

Cancun in April

Just like March, April is probably the driest month of the year in Cancun, when you can expect just two rainy days in the entire month.

The spring-break crowd is fading away but Cancun is getting ready for the Easter crowds.

You should know that Holy Week is the busiest week of the year in Mexico because not only tourists flock to enjoy the holiday season off work but also the locals. In fact, Holy Week is even more important than Christmas in Mexico.

The Holy Week also officially marks the end of the high season. So if you want to save some bucks, make sure you travel the week after Christmas.

Festivities and Events in April in Cancun

Children’s Day (April 30th)

If you’re traveling with kids, you can enjoy special events for children on this day. Some of the activities include parades and kid-friendly parties.

Suggested tours in April

↳ Best ATV Tour , Ziplines, and Cenote Swim with Lunch and Transport Included- Better to do it in March while it’s not so muddy for the rain. 4 ⭐️ 1439 Reviews Book it here

↳ Priority Access: Xcaret Day Trip+ Night Show+ Transportation – A full day in Xcaret pack with activities – 4.5⭐️ 1021 Reviews Book it here

↳ Horseback riding in Cancun, ATV, zip lines, cenote, lunch, drinks, and transfer – 4.5⭐️ 47 Reviews Book it here

Cancun in May

May is a good month to enjoy the best of both seasons, the good weather of the dry months, and the hotel deals of the low season.

May is considered the start of the wet season, but historically, you don’t get much rain.

The water temperature is 82°F (28°C) while during the daytime, temperatures range between 77°F (25°C) and 88°F (31°C).

If you are in Cancun in May, this is a wonderful time to find nesting sea turtles!

Whale sharks also start to come into the area in May. But it’s not yet time to see them as the whale sharks season officially starts in mid-June. Something to keep in mind if you really want to see them (I suggest you do that, it’s a memorable experience)

Mexican Festivities and Events in May in Cancun

☑️ Mother’s Day

On May 10th, people in Mexico celebrate Mother’s Day. This is a big deal for Mexicans and usually involves giving their mother vibrant flower bouquets.

☑️ Cinco de Mayo  

Don’t expect parties and celebrations for Cinco de Mayo. It’s actually a date that is celebrated more in the US than in Mexico. So in Cancun, it’s just a day like any other. Just wanted to include it here so you know what not to expect.

Cancun in June

If you are hunting for hotel deals, June is still a good month for that. We are sliding into the wet season so you can expect more rain.

The temperature can get up to 90°F (32°C)! This makes it a great time for snorkeling and scuba diving if there are no storms coming. In fact, you have great underwater visibility.

It’s also whale shark season so get ready for underwater adventures.

Events in June in Cancun

☑️ Dia De La Marina

June 1st is Día de la Marina where sea workers send out floating wreaths of flowers on the water, to honor sailors lost at sea.

Suggested Tours from Cancun in June

↳ Swim with whale sharks with this eco-friendly tour – do not miss this memorable experience of swimming with whale sharks – 4.5⭐️ 589 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Catamaran cruise and snorkeling to Isla Mujeres – half a day on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres with a snorkeling stop – 4.5⭐️ 1891 Reviews Book it here

↳ Swim with turtles, reefs, Musa, a shipwreck, and cenote : 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour – A full day of adventure in the water – 4.5⭐️ 797 Reviews Book it here

Cancun in July

Cancun weather in July is quite hot with temperatures ranging between 79°F (26°C)  and 90°F (32°C). The water temperature is perfect for swimming and although we are in the middle of the rainy season, you shouldn’t get many rainy days.

Also, July is when you have the best chance to snorkel with whale sharks.

Sea turtles also start to hatch on the Cancun beaches, which you won’t want to miss. Check out the hotels that have a turtle conservation program.

This is the perfect time to enjoy watersport activities, go on a scuba diving adventure in Cancun, or visit Isla Mujeres or take some surf lessons .

Cancun in August

The weather in August in Cancun is pretty hot and humid, with temperatures up to 90ºF (32ºC) and only four rainy days on average. The water temperature is warm, great for swimming and watersport activities.

Events in Cancun in August

There are many events in Cancun in August except for the religious festivity  Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María but there are no related activities to my knowledge.

Founding Day in Isla Mujeres

Isla de Mujeres celebrates Founding Day on August 17th, with music, parades, and fun festivities. It may be worth taking the ferry ove r and checking it out.

Suggested tours in Cancun in August

↳ Snorkeling with whale sharks with this eco-friendly tour – do not miss this memorable experience of swimming with whale sharks – 4.5⭐️ 589 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret from Cancún – check out the most amazing cenotes with a guide. 5⭐️ 561 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Isla Mujeres private tour in a catamaran with an open bar – 5⭐️ 264 Reviews – Book it here

Cancun in September

September is often rainy and cloudy, as we are approaching the real hurricane season.

It is in fact more likely to catch a storm and hopefully just a lot of rain without any serious damage. The daily highs still reach 90°F (32°C).

So prepare for a lot of heat and humidity. 🥵🥵🥵

On the bright side, you will be able to take advantage of great hotel deals. So make sure you stay on the lookout for those.

Suggested tours and things to do in September if it rains

↳ Visit the subterranean river caves at Xplor Park.

↳Explore the Mayan Museum or the old car museum ( Museo del Automovil Antiguo ).

↳Watch the Cirque du Soleil show.

Festivities and events in September in Cancun

☑️ Independence day

On September 15th, Mexico celebrates Independence Day with the famous El Grito with festivities with music, dancing, traditional food, and fireworks.

☑️ Autumn Equinox (September 21st)

The equinox was of great importance to the Mayan civilization. If you want to honor this prehispanic celebration you can go to Chichen Itza and watch the “serpiente plumada” feathered snakes sneaking down the stairs of El Castillo.

It’s actually during the day of the Equinox in fall and spring that the light on the Castillo stairs creates this special effect looking like a snake coming down the stairs.

It attracts thousands of people to participate in this event. If you don’t like crowds you should stay away as Chichen Itza will be packed on this day.

Cancun in October

In October Cancun weather is a bit cooler ranging from 73°F (23°C) and 86°F (30°C), but still very humid. However, the water is still great for swimming, at 84°F (29°C).

It’s the month with the highest chance of rain and hurricanes, especially in early October and it gets sunnier as the month goes on.

In October you can still get great discounts on Hotels and flights. The best way is to check out packages on Expedia . They always have the best deals.

Cancun in November

Cancun in November is the perfect month to get the best of both worlds, the good weather of the upcoming dry season, and the good hotel deals of the low season, with the exception of Thanksgiving.

Temperatures in November range from 70 °F to  85°F  

“For reference, on August 1, the hottest day of the year, temperatures in Cancún typically range from 76°F to 90°F, while on January 26, the coldest day of the year, they range from 67°F to 81°F. ” Weatherspark

Events and festivities in November in Cancun

☑️ Day of the Dead (November 1st – 2nd)

The Day of the Dead is a huge festivity in Mexico and it’s usually celebrated with parades, decorated altars in private homes and cemeteries, and music. In Cancun is not that much of an event, but you may want to check out Parque de las Palapas in Cancun Downtown.

☑️ Jazz festival

Every year in November usually around the 10th you can enjoy the great music of the Jazz Festival. Check out the official Facebook page for details.

Suggested tours in November

↳ Go Diving Diving in Cancun in November will give you the chance to see female bull sharks as they come to the area at the end of the year to have their babies. 5⭐️ 230 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Chichen Itza + Cenote tour 4.5⭐️ 285 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos 5⭐️ 278 Reviews – Book it here

Cancun in December

December marks the beginning of the high season. The weather is perfect, with only six rainy days, and temperatures of 70°F (21°C) to 82°F (28°C).

Prices start to go up but you may find some deals if you travel before December

December festivities and events in Cancun

Electric zoo adventures: cancùn edition 2022.

Fans of electronic music can check out this music festival. In addition to electronic DJs there will be beach volleyball tournaments and water sports! You can find your tickets here

Christmas in Cancun

While everybody dreams about a white Christmas , there is nothing more exotic than Christmas on one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, Cancun beaches. You can treat yourself to one of the upscale hotels in Cancun and celebrate like a star.

Many hotels will serve special meals. For the traditional experience, make sure to eat some tamales with a big glass of punch- a sometimes alcoholic fruit punch. 

Some smaller businesses may close early on the 24th or be closed on the 25h; however, you will have plenty of dining and entertainment options on those days. 

Celebrating the New Year in Cancun

If you love to party, Cancun is the place to in for New Year’s celebrations. Hotels organize large banquet dinners with live music. And you can watch fireworks over the lagoon to welcome the New Year and start with a bang.

Is Cancun safe to visit?

Cancun is relatively safe to visit, even as a solo female traveler, but you still need to be cautious and know where you are going.

It’s a tourist city where tourists are well looked after. A good dose of common sense is due, though, just like anywhere you go, even your hometown.

If you are wondering, yes crime is a thing in Cancun but it normally affects drug-related and cartel issues.

Stay away from it and you will be ok.

Check out some safety tips for traveling to Cancun in my dedicated post. They apply all year around, but statistics say that pickpocketers activity is higher before Christmas and Easter festivities.

What to pack for Cancun in any season

Keep in mind that Cancun sits in a tropical climate which means that there is generally hot weather all year round with the variations I mentioned above.

Here are some hot weather clothing ideas.

But don’t forget to pack a sweater if you get to Cancun in the dry weather from January through March.

Beach Cover-up

Cute dresses

Sandals and flip flops

When to visit Cancun: FAQ

💡what are the hottest months in cancun.

The hot season, which is also the wet season, is from June to November, with an average daily high temperature above 88°F 31ºC.

There is more chance of rain at this time of the year, and hurricanes are a possibility but very rare.

The cool and dry season starts in December and ends in March, with an average daily high temperature below 81°F/27ºC, cooler nights, and less chance of rain.

The high humidity level will make you feel as if there were still 88°F 31ºC, so don’t worry about feeling “cold” during the day.

💡Which side of Cancun is better?

The best way to enjoy Cancun is by staying in the beach zone without a doubt. Although I always suggest going out and exploring, waking up on the beach is the best way to start your day.

However, Cancun Beach is about 20km long, and it’s not the same everywhere.

There are some areas where the sea is rougher, and swimming becomes a bit challenging.

The parts where it’s best for swimming are, around Punta Cancun, the beach stretch from Krystal Resort to the Hard Rock Cafe Beach Club, and the area around Presidente Intercontinental Hotel , right before Punta Cancun.

From km 9 onwards the beach is spectacular but the sea is quite rough with bad currents, but it’s great for surfing.

Also, the area in Puerto Juarez has become a favorite one. It’s less expensive and less glamorous but still by the sea.

💡When is the worst time to visit Cancun?

The worst time to visit Cancun doesn’t exist. It depends on what you are looking for and when you have time off.

Whenever time you decide to travel to Cancun there is always a way to make the most of it. Also, keep in mind that even in the wet season you can find a full week of sunny days or in the dry season you can find rain. 🤷🏽‍♀️

💡How many days should I spend in Cancun

It depends on how many days you have and how many things you want to see. I have just planned to book a 15-day stay in one of my favorite hotels in Cancun, the Krystal Altitude for my parents to come and visit me and I am sure we are going to be entertained for the entire time as we will alternate days of exploring with beach time.

But if you can also decide to stay only 2 days, and then rent a car and explore around on an itinerary. That is also a great option.

💡 Is there Uber in Cancun?

Uber is not available at the Cancun airport . It may be available in the city but the UBER drivers are afraid of the taxi drivers who are not happy with this “intrusion” into their business.

Therefore if an Uber driver accepts your call they will tell you to make sure there are no taxis around and to sit in front. To be honest, I don’t think all this stress is worth it. But it’s up to you.

💡What is better Cancun or Cabo?

They are both top destinations for beach time and nightlife, but very different. In this post, you can check out my detailed post on Cancun vs Cabo . I am sure it will be helpful.

Best time to visit Cancun: final thoughts

If you have read the entire post, congratulations!

That was a very huge piece! I hope by now you know that there is not the absolute best time to visit Cancun, it all depends on what you want to do.

If you are more confused than before, ouch! I am sorry about it. Go back to the best time to visit Cancun, in a nutshell, to get some clear answers and read it over again. 🙂

Whenever you decide to visit Cancun, I am sure you will have a blast, especially if you read this blog for the best Cancun travel tips ! 😜

Hey there! This is Isabella, the founder and author of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 13 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun's spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!

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• Destinations

I've Been Visiting Cancun for Nearly 15 Years — Here's My Guide to the Mexican City

Beautiful all-inclusive resorts, white-sand beaches, and an underwater museum await in Cancun.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best shopping, best nightlife, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, cities, neighborhoods, and islands to visit, how to get around.

Ben Girardi / Aurora Photos/Getty Images

Most of us know Mexico is one of the top travel destinations in the world. But do you know why? The answer is Cancun. Arguably one of the most iconic beach destinations in the world, Cancun as a city is what put Mexico on the radar for international tourism 50 years ago.

Before the 1970s, Cancun was little more than a stretch of sun-bleached beaches, thick mangrove jungles, lagoons, and tiny, remote fishing villages. The region we now know as Cancun's Hotel Zone was developed in the 1970s specifically for tourism. Today, the area is one of the most-visited beach destinations in the world.

I have been visiting Cancun regularly for nearly 15 years, which is baby steps in its lifespan, and yet I have seen the destination transform tremendously. Not only does it have the most photogenic beaches in Mexico , but it also has world-class entertainment, dining, natural attractions, and fabulous food. I also love that visitors are now venturing beyond the confines of their all-inclusive resorts to discover the more local side of Cancun, whether that's in its thriving Downtown or off the beaten path in the smaller surrounding beach villages.

And I'm not alone in my appreciation for Cancun. "The connectivity, entertainment and culinary options, and most of all, the Caribbean Sea and ultra-fine white-sand beaches are what I love about Cancun," said Zach Rabinor, founder and CEO of Journey Mexico and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor. 

He added, "My clients pick Cancun for the same reasons: easy accessibility from the U.S., Canada, Europe, Central and South America, Russia — just about everywhere in the world — and, of course, the Caribbean Sea and beaches, as well as the Mexican hospitality, food, culture, and history."

While travelers these days are branching out of their comfort zones and seeking far-flung, more remote destinations around the world, it is always nice to return to a place like Cancun that consistently delivers year after year.

"Cancun is the perfect destination to relax by the Caribbean Sea, be in touch with nature, learn history by connecting with Mayan culture, experience the best spa treatments you can find around the world, and delight your senses with incredible culinary options. Cancun really has it all," said Jimena Fernández, cluster director of marketing at Waldorf Astoria Cancun.

Dive deeper into this Mexico beach hot spot with our Cancun destination guide.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Indulge in the quiet, impeccably chic luxury at Nizuc Resort & Spa, one of the finest hotels in Cancun.
• Cruise in style aboard a private boat to Isla Mujeres for an afternoon of snorkeling or relaxing at one of the many laid-back beach clubs.
• Dance until the early morning hours at Coco Bongo.
• Stroll Huayacán Avenue for local-approved restaurants and bars like El Doctorcito Cancun.
• Dip down to the quiet village of Puerto Morelos for some local shopping or a beautiful alfresco meal complete with live music.

Meet the Expert

• Zach Rabinor is the founder and CEO of Journey Mexico and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor.
• Jimena Fernández is the cluster director of marketing at Waldorf Astoria Cancun.

Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Cancun

Best Hotels & Resorts

Nizuc resort & spa.

Close enough to the airport, while still feeling a world away, Nizuc Resort & Spa is all about quiet, low-key luxury and stunning design. "This is a great five-star property on the southern end of Cancun, close to the airport, but not to the overcrowded Hotel Zone. It features multiple restaurants and excellent service," said Rabinor.

Waldorf Astoria Cancun

When the Waldorf Astoria Cancun opened in 2022, it turned quite a few heads. So much so that it was listed on T+L's 2023 It List . Perched on 100 acres of powdery soft beachfront, the 173-key hotel evokes that classic art deco Waldorf Astoria elegance, with a decidedly Caribbean coastal energy. The spa, as well as Malpeque, the property's restaurant, are two signature standouts. 

InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort, an IHG Hotel

Travelers looking for an exceptional hotel option should consider the InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort . Rabinor recommends it for its spectacular beachfront access. The King Signature Suite Ocean Front rooms are an absolute dream, with stunning terraces overlooking the sugary white sand.

Live Aqua Cancun

Cancun is practically overflowing with fabulous all-inclusive resorts . But my personal favorite is Live Aqua Cancun. This oceanfront, adults-only all-inclusive overlooks one of the best beaches in Cancun, with a wide selection of excellent restaurants, sparkling pools, and gorgeous ocean-view rooms. Select accommodations on the higher floors for upgraded perks like access to the Aqua Club Lounge. Tip: Be sure to book a table at Sea Corner for its toes-in-the-sand tacos and ceviches.

Excellence Riviera Cancun

What I love about Excellence Riviera Cancun is that it hits every note just right: gorgeous suites, meandering pools, a prime Caribbean beachfront location, and a sprawling spa. Be sure to experience one of the best hydrotherapy circuits in the region, and book a table at the chic, alfresco Lobster House for a memorable romantic dinner.

Grant Ordelheide / Aurora Photos/Getty Images

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

With a location at the northern end of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, Cancun is one of the best places in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving. Not only are the waters surrounding Cancun home to a brilliant array of beautiful coral and marine life, they are also home to MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art, featuring 500 submerged sculptures used to promote the growth of coral life. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you may have the opportunity to swim alongside majestic whale sharks.

Archaeological Sites

Within driving distance from Cancun are some of the most impressive archaeological ruins in Mexico . Chichén Itzá is a three-hour drive away, while Tulum and Coba are approximately two hours by car. You can also explore Ek Balam, a lesser-visited Mayan archaeological site just outside of Valladolid.

Isla Mujeres

A quick 20-minute ferry ride from the mainland will put you on the sun-bleached beaches of Isla Mujeres . This gorgeous, laid-back island is known for its shimmery, translucent water, some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, and a low-key energy that is completely different from Cancun's frenetic Hotel Zone. Pick a beach club and lounge for the day on Playa Norte, or rent a golf cart to circumnavigate the island and discover its breathtaking vistas.

Downtown Cancun

While most tourists stick to the Hotel Zone, locals will tell you that Downtown Cancun is where the real treasures are unearthed. Hop on a bus or take an authorized taxi from your hotel to discover the brilliant street art, the food trucks at Parque Las Palapas, or the Hotel Zone skyline views from Malecón Tajamar.

Unique to the Yucatan Peninsula is the network of underground rivers and caves. These natural sinkholes, known as cenotes , are sacred spots in the Mayan world, believed to be entrances to the underworld. Today, they continue to be protected sites, and visitors can swim, snorkel, and explore these subterranean secrets. 

Elliot Jonch Garcia/Travel + Leisure

Luxury Avenue

Cancun is a paradise for luxury labels and internationally recognized brands. Luxury Avenue is one of the higher-end shopping malls within the Hotel Zone, home to shops like Cartier, Hermes, Patek Philippe, and Carolina Herrera.

Another affluent shopping center, La Isla is a hot spot for international brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Armani Exchange, Sephora, and Pull & Bear. La Isla is also an entertainment hub with the Sky Wheel, the third-largest panoramic Ferris wheel in Latin America, and an outpost of Ripley's Believe It or Not!

For local Mexican handicrafts and handmade souvenirs that are of a higher quality than what you might find in the Hotel Zone, Mercado 28 is one of the oldest flea markets in Cancun. Discover everything from T-shirts and tequila to food stalls and colorful gifts.

Jonathan Ross/Getty Images

There’s a reason Coco Bongo has been around for nearly 30 years. The legendary nightclub is by far the most famous in Cancun's Hotel Zone and the one that brings the most energy with nightly acrobatics, large-scale video projections, and nonstop music. Rabinor said, "Coco Bongo is a must-visit, but be forewarned — serious nightlife enthusiasts only."

Every night of the week is an epic party at Mandala, a nightclub with over-the-top, themed nights like Carnival Mondays and Gone Wild Saturdays. Brace yourself for neon lights, strong cocktails, and nonstop pulsing music from open until close. 

Recreate the energy and colorful kaleidoscope of the Xochimilco canals in Mexico City. The Xoximilco Cruise Cultural Mexican Fiesta is a tour package party that takes visitors aboard a traditional trajinera boat with all the trimmings: live music, folk dancers, and, of course, unlimited food, tequila, and beer. It's one of the most fun theme parks in the Cancun area, and a party you won't forget.

The City Nightclub

One of the most famous nightclubs in Cancun, The City has a reputation for a stellar set list and dazzling light show to match. It features multiple floors, including an open-air terrace, an indoor dance floor, and a live music stage.

One of the most popular LGBTQ+ bars in Cancun, 11:11 is a staple in the nightlife scene. Here, cocktails are strong, performances are elaborate, and DJs spin everything from hip hop and Latin tunes to EDM.

Sarah8000/Getty Images

Puerto Santo

Rabinor recommends Puerto Santo for its laid-back, open-air seafood dining directly on the beach. Fresh fish, oysters, strong cocktails, and a toes-in-the-sand setting make this one of the standouts for a relaxed and scenic dining experience in the heart of Cancun.

El Doctorcito

Along Cancun's Huayacán Avenue, El Doctorcito serves up exceedingly fresh Sonoran-style seafood. Crunchy tostadas topped with shrimp and local catch of the day, aguachiles , fish tacos, and even sashimi — you cannot order incorrectly at this local seafood joint. "Avenida Huayacán is the new area that most tourists do not know," said Fernández. "It's residential and very trendy, where many restaurants and bars are opening. It's definitely the place to be."

Siete Cielos Pizzeria by Frontoni

It's never a bad time for a classic Neapolitan pizza. So, if you're (understandably) craving one in Cancun, Rabinor recommends heading to Siete Cielos Pizzeria by Frontoni. Located near Puerto Cancun, the funky alfresco joint serves wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, calzones, and sweet treats.

If you still haven't quite satisfied that Italian craving, Rabinor says Cenacolo serves the best Italian food in the city. The elegant restaurant has an impeccable wine list, gorgeous cocktails, and a menu of handmade pasta that may have you Googling the next flight deal to Rome. 

Marbella Fish Market & Raw Bar

A personal favorite of mine in Cancun, Marbella Fish Market & Raw Bar is much more than a fresh seafood restaurant; it's also an experience. Make your way through the aisles of a small grocery store to be rewarded with a gorgeous restaurant terrace. Choose your own freshly caught seafood from the display case and the chef will whip it up to perfection.

Gerard Puigmal/Getty Images

The best time to visit Cancun is from November to March. Expect hot days and cool evenings, with minimal rainfall. Rabinor recommends November, in particular, for the slightly cooler, drier weather and absence of winter cold fronts.

That said, you'll find the best deals in Cancun over the rainy season, which begins in June. Hurricanes and tropical storms most likely occur from September to October, but this is when hotel and flight prices are at their lowest. 

The summer months are best for diving and snorkeling, particularly if you want the chance to swim beside the elusive whale sharks. Keep in mind summer will mean much hotter temperatures coupled with high humidity. 

Cancun is one of the easiest destinations to reach in Mexico. The Cancun International Airport is the second busiest in the country, with direct international flights from more than 30 cities in the U.S.

Once on the ground in Cancun, most hotels offer transportation services for a fee. You can also book taxis, shuttles, and private transfers ahead of time. One thing you cannot take in Cancun is Uber. It exists, but because of tensions between the taxi companies and Uber, it is not recommended to use the ride-share app. Uber is also not permitted to pick up at the airport.

pixelrgb/Getty Images

Hotel Zone : By far the most popular neighborhood for tourists in Cancun, the Hotel Zone is the skinny, Caribbean Sea-facing stretch of beach that is lined with the majority of resorts in the city. Here, you'll find restaurants, nightclubs, beach clubs, and most of the city's tourist attractions.

Downtown : If you're looking for a neighborhood where the locals hang out, Downtown Cancun (El Centro) is it. Packed with restaurants, bars, food trucks, public art, and shopping, this area is just as full of life as the Hotel Zone, except you'll be hanging out with locals rather than other tourists.

Isla Mujeres : Just a quick ferry ride away, Isla Mujeres is the laid-back sibling to the pulsing Cancun scene. Chill beach bars, open-air restaurants, and spectacular beaches make this one of the prettiest and low-key areas to explore in Cancun.

Puerto Morelos : For something low-key on the mainland, Puerto Morelos is a small village just 20 minutes south of Cancun International Airport. Today, it's seeing an increase in hotels opening around it, but the beachfront town itself is known for its sleepy vibe, small boutiques, charming restaurants, and sliver of shockingly white sand.

Taxi : This is the easiest way to get around in Cancun, albeit one of the most expensive. Companies like Uber are difficult to use in Cancun, due to hostility between taxi companies and the apps. It is much more acceptable to take a cab from a licensed taxi stand. Taxi rates are high in Cancun, but they're based on distance, so you can easily confirm the price before accepting the ride.

Bus : Cancun has a reliable and safe public bus system that travels up and down the Hotel Zone and throughout Downtown. The most popular routes are the R1 and R2. Buses run every five minutes and a one-way ride is roughly 10 pesos. 

Car Rental: Cancun has almost every car rental company you can think of, whether at the airport, in the Hotel Zone, or Downtown. If you'd rather have your own car, there are many opportunities to rent one. Parking facilities are widely available, though they usually come at a cost.

• Travel Guide

Ultimate Cancún Travel Guide 2024-25: Best time to visit & Month-by-Month Tips

• 5 minute read

• March 26, 2024

Ultimate Cancún Travel Guide 2024-25: Best time to visit & Month-by-Month Tips

Are you dreaming of sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture? Look no further than our Ultimate Cancún Travel Guide 2024-25. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, adventurer, or cultural enthusiast, Cancún has something for everyone.

In this travel guide , we’ll unveil the best times to visit this tropical paradise and provide month-by-month tips to ensure an unforgettable experience. From avoiding crowds to embracing optimal weather, let’s embark on a journey to discover Cancún’s hidden gems and seasonal wonders. Welcome to your ultimate Cancún adventure!

Best Time to Visit Cancún for Smaller Crowds

Best Time to Visit Cancún for Good Weather

Best Times to Visit Cancún for Lower Prices

Worst Times to Visit Cancún

Popular activities and things to do in cancún, mexico.

• Visit the Mayan Ruins: Explore ancient Mayan ruins such as El Rey or Tulum, offering a glimpse into Mexico’s rich history and culture.
• Relax on the Beaches: Spend a day lounging on Cancún’s world-famous beaches, including Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres.
• Water Sports: Enjoy a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
• Isla Mujeres Day Trip: Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres and explore its stunning beaches, snorkeling spots, and attractions like the Punta Sur Sculpture Garden.
• Swim in Cenotes: Discover the natural beauty of cenotes, freshwater sinkholes unique to the Yucatán Peninsula. Popular cenotes near Cancún include Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, and Cenote Ik Kil.
• Experience Nightlife: Explore Cancún’s vibrant nightlife scene with its plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Visit the famous Coco Bongo or explore the clubs in the Hotel Zone.
• Xcaret Park: Spend a day at Xcaret Park, an eco-archaeological park offering cultural performances, snorkeling in underground rivers, and encounters with local wildlife.
• Shopping: Shop for souvenirs, artisan crafts, and designer goods at Cancún’s malls, such as La Isla Shopping Village, Plaza Las Américas, and Kukulcan Plaza.
• Gastronomic Adventures: Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at local eateries or upscale restaurants. Don’t miss trying traditional dishes like ceviche, tacos, and cochinita pibil.
• Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands, go fishing, or enjoy a sunset cruise along the coastline.

These are just a few of the countless activities and attractions awaiting visitors to Cancún, making it an ideal destination for adventurers, beach lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies alike.

Additional Tips for Each Season

High Season (December to April):

• Book accommodations and activities well in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
• Consider visiting less crowded attractions or exploring nature reserves to escape the busiest areas.
• Take advantage of the vibrant nightlife scene, but be prepared for higher prices at bars and clubs.
• Pack sunscreen and protective gear to enjoy outdoor activities under the intense sun.

Shoulder Seasons (Mid-April to May and Mid-October to November):

• Enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds compared to peak seasons.
• Take advantage of discounted rates on accommodations and activities during this transitional period.
• Explore cultural events and festivals happening during these months for a more immersive experience.
• Pack versatile clothing to accommodate fluctuating temperatures and occasional rain showers.

Low Season (June to mid-October):

• Plan outdoor activities in the mornings or evenings to avoid the heat of the day.
• Stay updated on weather forecasts and be prepared for potential rainstorms or hurricanes.
• Take advantage of discounted rates on accommodations, activities, and dining options.
• Explore indoor attractions such as museums, galleries, and shopping malls during inclement weather.

These additional tips provide valuable insights for travelers visiting Cancún during different seasons, helping them make the most of their experience while staying prepared for seasonal challenges.

Cancún offers a diverse range of experiences throughout the year, each season bringing its own unique advantages and challenges. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, or cultural immersion, understanding the nuances of each season can greatly enhance your Cancún vacation. From the bustling high season to the tranquil shoulder and low seasons, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

By carefully considering factors such as weather, crowds, and pricing, you can plan your trip to Cancún with confidence, maximizing enjoyment while minimizing potential pitfalls. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of spring break or the tranquility of a quiet autumn day, Cancún promises unforgettable memories and endless possibilities for exploration.

How much did you like Our detailed Ultimate Cancún Travel Guide 2024-25: Best time to visit & Month-by-Month Tips ?  Review Also, please share these Blogs with your friends on social media.

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Meet David Hoper, a passionate travel Blog writer with 7+ years of experience in travel content. Through his exemplary storytelling and engaging narratives, he shares his experiences and brings destinations to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for exploration, he has cultivated a diverse portfolio of travel blogs that inspire and inform readers worldwide.

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• Monthly weather
• Air temperatures
• Water temperatures
• Rainfall by month

Best and Worst Times to Visit Cancun

The best time to visit Cancun is March and April when temperatures are in the 80s Fahrenheit and high 20s Celsius. Rainfall is the lowest of the year. The worst time is September and October during hurricane season.

Although March and April are usually ideal, travel planners have some other options.

How can you avoid the Cancun hurricane season and the cooler winter weather but also avoid the crowds? Multiple visits and plenty of research provide some useful insights on both the best and worst times to go.

Cancun travel guide | Best beaches | Cancun attractions

Worst Time to Visit Cancun

The worst time to visit Cancun is during the Caribbean hurricane season from June through November. It hits Cancun especially hard with heavy rains in September and October.

Average rainfall spikes in June, drops back down in July and August, then goes up to more than eight inches in September and October. The number of days with rain is an average of 14 in September and 16 in October, according to Mexico’s national weather service.

Cancun’s Hurricane Season

The annual Cancun hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through Nov. 30 along with the rest of the Caribbean. Cancun usually has the highest risk from hurricanes and tropical storms in September and October.

But the season is not as scary as it sounds. The average Caribbean hurricane season has six to eight hurricanes and about 12 to 16 tropical storms, according to the U.S. National Weather Service. But because the region is so large, few Caribbean destinations get directly hit by hurricanes or tropical storms. Still, quite a few of them including Cancun have plenty of rainfall as a result of storms and hurricanes passing through the area.

It is normal for most Caribbean destinations to have about eight to 10 rain days each month and see a climb during the fall months, which is the peak of the Caribbean hurricane season .

For Cancun, 16+ days of rain in October is normal (and one of the highest in the Caribbean region).

Most destinations also average about three or four inches of total rain each month, although it varies by season.

Cancun receives more than eight inches on average in September and October, again among the highest in the region.

But it is not as high as some of the rainforest destinations such as Dominica and Grenada.

One reason to consider going there in September or October is to take advantage of lower prices and smaller crowds. If that’s tempting, try to make it a last-minute vacation and review the long-range weather forecast before buying airline tickets and booking a hotel.

Air and Water Temperatures in Cancun

Average air temperatures are plenty warm during the summer. High temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 32 Celsius from May through September, but winter is another story. High temperatures from December through February average in the low 80s Fahrenheit or high 20s Celsius.

Those temperatures sound comfortable enough, but another factor comes into play. Cold trade winds create a wind chill effect that cools the water and beach to uncomfortable temperatures. This is when resort guests often spend more time in heated pools than on the beach or in the seawater.

Important tip: Anyone who plans to go during the winter should ask the resort or hotel if they heat their pool and how much. As we found out, a heated pool makes a big difference during cool weather and strong trade winds.

Average low temperatures, which take place mainly at night, also have an impact. They lower the seawater temperatures, which tend to hover midway between the high and low of the day’s air temperature.

The best swimming time during the winter is mid to late afternoon -— if it’s possible to swim at all. During the hot summer months, just about any time will do.

Cancun’s Busiest Months and Seasons

Cancun weather by month.

The average high temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit or 28 Celsius may sound good to a vacation planner. But the average low of 69 Fahrenheit or 21 Celsius brings the ocean water temperatures down to an uncomfortable level in January. Rainfall is moderate at nearly four inches.

Cancun temperatures in February increase about 1 degree but leave the ocean still cool for swimming. The dry season has arrived with average rainfall of less than two inches.

Beach lovers will find better temperatures for sunning and swimming. Rainfall still hovers about two inches. It rains only five days on average this month. The weather in March is one of the best of the year.

April is even better than March. It is the best month of the year for low rain and warm temperatures. It also has rain only four days on average.

It’s still the dry season, but average rainfall increases to nearly four inches per month. It also is the first month when average high temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 32 Celsius.

The rainy season arrives in June with an average rainfall above five inches. The number of days with rain increases to 11. Temperatures stay hot.

It’s even hotter with an average high of 92 Fahrenheit or 33 Celsius. Rainfall is usually lighter this month than in June.

The hottest month of the year often has a small increase in rain versus July. It is a good month for people who like their beaches steaming hot.

September Cancun in September has some of the worst weather with as much as 10 inches or more of rain. It also is the last month with temperatures above 90 Fahrenheit. Vacation planners should avoid Cancun in September unless it is a last-minute vacation with a clear weather forecast.

October is only slightly worse than September. Average rainfall still hovers around 10 inches for the month. It has the highest number of days with rain for the year at a total of 16. Like September, vacationers should avoid October unless the short-term forecast looks good.

The rainy season starts to decline in November with average rainfall of more than five inches per month. Average high temperatures are comfortable at 85 Fahrenheit or 29 Celsius.

Cooler with average highs of 83 Fahrenheit or 28 Celsius. Ocean temperatures are uncomfortable at times, especially on days with strong trade winds. Still, people flock to Cancun this month to escape from northern winters.

Caribbean in December will find weather in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit and moderate rainfall for most islands. But some islands do better than others.

Cancun in Winter

A popular time to visit Cancun is December through February because it is a quick and convenient getaway from the northern winter.

But as someone who visited there in late February, I can say from personal experience that the weather was cool enough to keep most people out of the water or from even sunning on the beaches. Strong trade winds made it feel even cooler.

That didn’t stop us from finding other things to do. The best part: far fewer crowds than other months of the year.

Cheapest Time to Visit Cancun

The cheapest time to go to Cancun also is the least popular time— in September and October during the high point of the rainy season, when hotel prices drop and crowded beaches are non-existent.

Why would anyone go in September and October for low prices if it rains too much? The answer lies in last-minute vacations.

Tip: Check the weather forecast for the next seven to 10 days, especially in the east Atlantic, for approaching storms and hurricanes. If the forecast looks good, check major travel sites for last-minute deals.

Best Times to Visit Cancun

13 Top Cancun Tourist Attractions

Cancun Beach Vacation Tips

Chichen Itza Shore Excursion Tips

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Best Time to Go to Cancun: The Months To Visit And Avoid!

Want to visit Cancun but don't know when to go? Everyone has different travel needs and expectations, so the best times to visit are different for everyone. Use this guide to plan your next trip to Cancun, Mexico.

When you think of Cancun, Mexico, you think of the sun, the beach, and a good time. I've been there countless times, at different times of the year and in all kinds of weather. So I like to think I know a thing or two about this vacation hotspot and the best time to visit Cancun.

If you're a seasoned traveler, you know that timing can make or break your trip. So when is the best time to go to Cancun?

There's no direct answer since everyone travels with different goals in mind and varied limitations. Some people are all about saving cash and getting a great tan. Others just want to escape during the only short break they have. Whatever your situation, I've got tips for you about traveling to Cancun!

Don't worry about the scary headlines— Cancun's a safe spot and a great base to also check out Tulum, Mexico . And  I don't think there's a wrong time to go to Mexico, but there are certainly better times than others.

Stay tuned because I've put together this in-depth guide to help you figure out the best time for you to hit Cancun.

When is The Best Time to Go to Cancun?

Lucky for you and everyone who loves Cancun, there is no "bad" time to visit Cancun.

In my opinion, the best time to go to Cancun is what people call the "shoulder season." This season is considered April, May, November, and December in Cancun.

These aren't the months with the best weather, but they have the best balance! Not only is the weather still good, but there are also fewer crowds and more affordable pricing.

I mentioned there isn't a "bad" time to go to Cancun. That said, there are a few months when the weather is not the best, such as hurricane season. But even visiting during these months has its positives—for instance, it's much more affordable for the budget traveler.

So, the ideal time for your Cancun getaway boils down to what you've got going on in your life.

Got limited time off? You'll probably want to maximize your chances of perfect weather to make every moment count.

On the flip side, if your schedule's flexible and you're looking to save some bucks, you could roll the dice on a less predictable season and potentially score a killer deal.

Cheapest Time to Go to Cancun

If you're focused on budget, the off-season—mainly from June to November—is your best bet. These months coincide with hurricane season and hotter weather, but you'll find unbeatable deals on flights and hotels.

Most Value-Worthy Time to Visit Cancun

The shoulder season, which falls in late April to early June and late November to early December, strikes a balance between cost and comfort. You'll find more moderate prices than in high season, and the weather is often still very good.

Best Time to Visit Cancun for Smallest Crowds

The quietest time to experience Cancun is late summer and early fall. You'll avoid the Spring Break rush and the winter holiday crowds, giving you more beach space and tranquility.

Best Months to Visit Cancun for Excellent Weather

Plan your trip between December and April if you're looking for the most ideal weather conditions. These are considered the driest months of the year.

Because of the wonderful weather, this is Cancun's high season. It's characterized by warm, sunny days and low chances of rain. While you'll be sharing the beauty of Cancun with more tourists, the weather conditions are hard to beat during these months.

When's the Most Popular Time to Visit Cancun?

Cancun is a popular place to visit over the holidays and summer. Many people, especially families, and college students, often visit Mexico when they have time off school and work. This makes November, December, and March Cancun's peak travel months.

These time frames coincide with the holiday season and spring break, which is when most people take time off for traveling. These times are especially popular for people from the north as they want to escape the cold and spend some time on the beach.

Summer is another popular time to visit Cancun since kids and students are off school. But the months between June and August are also the hottest months in Cancun. A deterrent for some people, but it still draws in a steady crowd every year.

If your idea of a Mexican getaway is not suntanning on the beach every day, there are many other fun things to do in Cancun that you likely don't know about. There are always new things to explore in Canun at any time of the year.

Summary of Cancun's Weather

I mentioned a little bit about Cancun weather already, but let's get into the details!

Cancun generally has excellent weather all year, but temperatures fluctuate at different times of the year.

Extra sunscreen is necessary during the summer, while a light sweater or jacket is advised for the winter season. Unheated pools are not ideal during the colder months, and nights tend to get a bit chilly.

The best weather in Cancun happens between December and April. You are unlikely to have bad weather, and the weather is hot, hot, HOT. Did someone say it's time to tan?

Due to the good weather, December to March is the peak season in Cancun. These months see heavy tourist crowds. Because of this, I tend to like to avoid these months!

In Cancun, it's not just hurricane season you need to watch out for—that's from June to November. You'll also want to keep an eye on the seaweed situation.

Starting around May and going until October, you might encounter brown, smelly sargassum seaweed cluttering the beaches. Unfortunately, this problem is only getting worse due to climate change and pollution.

You'll find that hurricane season is the most affordable time to go to Cancun, but it's also the riskiest. Book with caution and try to leave some flexibility in your plans in case of bad weather.

Be sure to check the average weather in Cancun during your travel dates ahead of your trip.

Plan Your Cancun Vacation by Month

Cancun in january.

• Average Weather : Highs of 83°F, lows of 68°F
• Best For : Relaxation, warm weather
• Key Events : New Year's celebrations
• Type of Traveler : Winter escapers

January in Cancun offers a warm respite from the winter chill. Since the temps are still balmy and the water is cool and refreshing, it's the perfect month for sipping cocktails on the beach and snorkeling in the clear waters.

Accommodations can be on the pricier side due to the high demand—after all, you'll likely run into the straggling holiday vacationers! That means it's less ideal for budget travelers but perfect for those looking to splurge a little to start the new year right.

If you're traveling during the start of January, you'll get to experience the Day of the Kings or Dia de los Reyes in Spanish. This is a traditional Mexican holiday that celebrates the 3 kings who visited Jesus through gift-giving!

And if you're into fishing, hop over to the island of Isla Mujeres to join Cancun's annual barracuda fishing celebration that raises money for charities.

Cancun in February

• Average Weather : Highs of 85°F, lows of 69°F
• Best For : Couples, romance
• Key Events : Valentine's Day, Carnival
• Type of Traveler : Lovebirds and party-goers

If you're coming with your significant other, the pleasantly warm weather couldn't be more perfect for those long beach walks and romantic dinners overlooking the ocean. Plus, you can coincide it with Valentine's Day!

You'll find that Cancun's dining and hospitality sectors go the extra mile. Think rose petals on your bed, special couple's spa packages, and romantic candle-lit dinners on the beach.

But February isn't just for couples. The city comes alive during the Carnival, a lead-up to the Christian season of Lent. The streets fill with colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and rhythmic music.

I recommend making a stop into Playa del Carmen so that you can see everything Carnival has to offer: dancing, food stalls selling local delights, and an atmosphere of non-stop celebration. Whether you're part of the parade or a spectator, the energy is contagious.

Keep in mind that this month is part of the high season in Cancun, so prices will likely be steep. It's best to book your accommodations and activities in advance to secure the best deals.

So if you're a planner and don't mind splurging a little for quality experiences, February could be your perfect match.

Cancun in March

• Average Weather : Highs of 87°F, lows of 70°F
• Best For : Spring breakers, beach parties
• Key Events : Spring Break
• Type of Traveler : College students and young adults

March is the unofficial party month in Cancun! This month is a magnet for college students and young adults eager to let loose, making it the ultimate playground for anyone with a youthful spirit.

You'll find the beaches and bars teeming with energy, making every day feel like a weekend. Spring Break isn't just about partying though! It's also about community and making new friends. The vibe in Cancun in March is extra open and social, making it easy to meet people from all over the world.

Daytime in March is perfect for water-based adventures. Whether it's jet skiing, parasailing , or simply floating on the turquoise waters, the warm weather ensures you won't want to leave the ocean.

And because it's not sweltering hot yet, you can genuinely enjoy outdoor activities without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.

One thing you should note is that many clubs and resorts offer special Spring Break packages, including all-you-can-drink deals and access to exclusive parties, so it's worth exploring your options in advance.

While this month can be one of the most expensive ones to visit Cancun, you may be able to find an unforgettable Spring Break deal if you search hard enough!

Also, don't be surprised if you see a St. Patrick's Day celebration or two! While it's not a traditional Mexican holiday, the festive spirit of Cancun in March means any reason to celebrate is a good one.

Cancun in April

• Average Weather : Highs of 90°F, lows of 73°F
• Best For : Family vacations, Easter holidays
• Key Events : Semana Santa (Holy Week)
• Type of Traveler : Families and spiritual seekers

April in Cancun offers a reprieve from the non-stop party atmosphere that typically comes with March's Spring Break. If you've been waiting for the college crowd to clear out, now's your chance.

As the Spring Breakers head home, you'll notice a significant drop in both the number of tourists and prices, making April an attractive time for those looking for a more relaxed experience.

But don't mistake "relaxed" for "boring." Cancun in April is anything but dull. The month coincides with Semana Santa, the Holy Week leading up to Easter, which is a significant cultural and spiritual event in Mexico.

During this week, the area sees a second wave of vacationers—mostly families from around Mexico—coming to bask in the natural beauty and rich cultural experiences Cancun offers. Yes, even the bars have a different, more family-friendly vibe during this time.

Families find April to be particularly welcoming. With smaller crowds and delightful weather, it's a fantastic time for exploring.

What are some of the things you should add to your itinerary? Take a journey back in time by visiting the ancient Mayan ruins , venture into the lush jungles on an inland tour, or discover hidden caves that make you feel like you're on a real-life treasure hunt.

You'll also find the beaches are less crowded, and the ocean waters are invitingly warm. This makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling adventures with the kids.

Do be cautious of the Semana Santa week if you're looking to avoid crowds, as many families choose this time for their annual vacation. Despite the influx, the atmosphere remains pleasant and far from the rowdiness of Spring Break.

Cancun in May

• Average Weather : Highs of 92°F, lows of 75°F
• Best For : More affordable pricing, fewer crowds
• Key Events : Cinco de Mayo
• Type of Traveler : Budget travelers and culture enthusiasts

May in Cancun is what I consider part of the shoulder season, making it a treasure trove for budget travelers and those who prefer a bit more elbow room.

The crowds thin out, and the prices of flights and accommodations take a noticeable dip. So if you're keen to experience Cancun without breaking the bank, May is your month.

While Cinco de Mayo is a more significant celebration in other parts of Mexico, Cancun still gets into the spirit. You'll find local bars and eateries offering special deals and themed parties, giving you a chance to join in the festivities even if they're not as grandiose as in other cities.

But the real highlight of May in Cancun is its natural spectacle—and if you're into wildlife, this one's for you! May marks the arrival of magnificent whale sharks and the beginning of sea turtle nesting season.

If you've ever dreamed of swimming alongside the world's largest fish, now's the time to check that off your bucket list. Numerous travel bloggers and experts point to May as the prime month for whale shark encounters, making it an experience you don't want to miss.

Beyond the ocean, the jungles of Cancun beckon for exploration. Spring is in full swing, and it's the perfect time to take an eco-tour into the heart of Cancun's lush landscapes.

Whether it's zip-lining over the canopy , bird-watching, or simply hiking through the forest trails, an eco-adventure in May allows you to connect with nature on a deeper level.

Cancun in June

• Average Weather : Highs of 93°F, lows of 76°F
• Best For : Adventure activities, water sports
• Key Events : Summer Solstice
• Type of Traveler : Adventure seekers

June in Cancun comes with mixed blessings. While it marks the onset of the rainy season, bringing increased chances of tropical storms, it also opens up opportunities for unique experiences.

Tourism takes a dip, so you'll find fewer crowds and more affordable prices, making it an attractive option if you're looking for a budget-friendly yet adventurous vacation.

Water visibility is still good in June, and whale shark sightings continue to be common. If swimming with these gentle ocean giants is on your wish list, this is a golden opportunity. Just make sure to check the daily water conditions!

But it's not just nature that takes center stage in June. The month also celebrates Dia de la Marina, or Mexico's Navy Day, on June 1st. This event is marked by fireworks, parades, and a festive atmosphere, adding a layer of excitement and local culture to your visit.

Though the rainy season is upon Cancun, the weather remains decent for the most part, especially in the first half of the month. Climbing temperatures signal the approaching summer, so it's still a good time for beach lounging, snorkeling, or exploring the Mayan ruins—just be prepared for the occasional rainfall.

Cancun in July

• Average Weather : Highs of 94°F, lows of 77°F
• Best For : Beach relaxation, turtle enthusiasts, and summer vibes
• Key Events : Nothing major, but various local festivities and beach events
• Type of Traveler : Sun-worshippers, marine life enthusiasts, and family vacationers
• Special Note : Middle of the rainy and hurricane season

July is hot, hot, hot, so if you're into summer heat, then Cancun in July is for you! It's the epitome of tropical summer.

While the month falls within the rainy season and the early part of the hurricane season, the occasional showers are often short-lived, quickly replaced by clear skies. These brief bursts of rain showers can even be a welcome reprieve from the summer heat, and often, they enhance the sunset, painting the sky in a medley of vibrant colors.

The beautiful white sand beaches in July are a sun lover's paradise. Warm, clear waters invite endless hours of swimming, snorkeling, and diving. If you’re a marine enthusiast, July is when you. can see baby sea turtles venture back into the water.

Did you know various conservation programs in Cancun allow tourists to witness this magical process and in some cases, even assist in releasing hatchlings back into the sea? Sounds like an unforgettable experience, one I would love to do next time I'm in Cancun!

The summer holidays bring families to Cancun, making it a buzzing hub of activity. Resorts often organize special events and activities catered to families and children, ensuring there's never a dull moment.

One notable aspect of July is the rich foliage, thanks to the sporadic rains. The surrounding jungles are lush, and eco-tours provide a refreshing break from the beach, offering insights into the vibrant flora and fauna of the region.

Cancun in August

• Average Weather : Highs of 95°F, lows of 76°F
• Best For : Last-minute summer trips, snorkeling
• Key Events : None
• Type of Traveler : Procrastinators and water babies

If you've ever wondered what it's like to catch the last waves of summer without the peak-season frenzy, August in Cancun is your answer.

Sure, it's part of the hurricane and rainy season, but let’s focus on the silver lining: fewer families and fewer crowds, meaning you get more of Cancun to yourself.

While July is all about the bustling family holiday vibe, August shifts gears. The atmosphere is a bit more laid-back, making it ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for a quieter, more intimate experience.

If you're the type who likes to make spontaneous travel plans, August's less-crowded resorts and attractions offer the flexibility you crave.

August is similar to July in terms of the weather and the ability to do water sports. That said, you'll find humidity reaching its peak during this month.

Nightlife in August is still vibrant but more relaxed than in July. Think romantic dinners at beachfront restaurants, fewer lines at the popular clubs, and easier access to prime spots at local bars.

Cancun in September

• Best For : Budget travel, less crowded beaches
• Key Events : Mexican Independence Day
• Type of Traveler : Budget travelers and culture lovers

September is one of the cheapest months to visit Cancun. It's the height of the hurricane season, which means you'll find fewer tourists and lower prices on hotels and flights.

Yes, there's a higher chance of encountering rain, especially in the afternoons. But you'll also have stretches of sun and warm temperatures. This makes it a reasonable option for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind taking a bit of a weather risk.

Even this late in the season, you'll find sea turtles still nesting on the beaches, and you can partake in Mexico's Independence Day celebrations on September 16th.

Overall, if you're willing to gamble a bit on the weather, September offers a less crowded and more affordable experience.

Cancun in October

• Average Weather : Highs of 89°F, lows of 74°F
• Best For : Affordable traveling, culture buffs
• Key Events : Mexico's Independence Day (September 16)
• Type of Traveler : Budget-conscious, couples, culture enthusiasts
• Special Note : Peak of the hurricane season

September is a hidden gem for those looking to dodge the crowds and score some deals. It's right in the middle of hurricane season, meaning fewer tourists but lower prices—a win for budget travelers.

What it lacks in perfect weather, September makes up for in cultural richness. Mexico's Independence Day on September 16 brings parades, fireworks, and authentic Mexican fiestas. It's a great time to immerse yourself in local traditions.

Though the beaches might be a bit moody, water activities are still a go. Fewer crowds make exploring popular tourist spots like Mayan ruins a breeze.

So, if you can handle some weather unpredictability, September offers a unique, budget-friendly, and authentically local experience in Cancun.

Cancun in November

• Average Weather : Highs of 86°F, lows of 72°F
• Best For : Water activities, Thanksgiving getaways
• Key Events : Day of the Dead
• Type of Traveler : Families and culture enthusiasts

Another month during the low season, November offers mild weather and the chance to experience the Day of the Dead celebrations.

The Day of the Dead , or Día de los Muertos, is one of the biggest draws to come to Cancun in November. This iconic Mexican tradition is an extraordinary blend of remembrance and festivity, where families honor their deceased loved ones with colorful altars, traditional food, and vibrant parades.

Being part of these celebrations offers a deep dive into Mexican culture that's not to be missed!

Thanksgiving week becomes the highlight towards the end of the month, particularly for American travelers. If you're a family looking to swap the traditional turkey dinner for a beachside feast, November in Cancun is a brilliant choice.

Hotels often offer special Thanksgiving menus and events, making it easy to enjoy the holiday while soaking up the sun.

Cancun in December

• Average Weather : Highs of 84°F, lows of 69°F
• Best For : Holiday escapes, New Yearcelebrations
• Key Events : Christmas and New Year's Eve
• Type of Traveler : Holiday revelers and winter escapees

December in Cancun kicks off the high season with festive energy. It's the perfect escape from winter blues, offering a sun-soaked holiday season.

Christmas and New Year's Eve are big deals here. Imagine celebrating with sand between your toes and fireworks lighting up the beach sky. Hotels and public spaces go all out with decorations, so you'll feel the holiday spirit but with a tropical twist.

Weather-wise, it's cooler than other months but still perfect for outdoor activities. Early December is quieter, but expect crowds as the holidays approach.

Ready to Book Your Flights to Cancun?

If you're still looking for the cheapest flights to Cancun, make sure you look on Skyscanner for the best deals!

SkyScanner helps you find the cheapest flights available so that you don't have to pay more for flight tickets. That means you can spend your money on more important things like seeing top attractions or eating delicious local food.

If you'd like other options as well, check out of review of Skiplagged or Scott's Cheap Flights , two flight deal services that travelers are in love with!

The Worst Months to Go to Cancun

I've talked about when I think the best time to visit Cancun is and even given you a complete guide of visiting Cancun by month. But what about the worst times to go to Cancun?

As I mentioned before, there isn't a bad time to visit Cancun. But I will argue there are a few less favorable times from my experiences.

Hurricane Season in Cancun

Visiting during hurricane season sounds scary. In Cancun, this happens from June to November. But I promise it's not as bad as some people think, especially if you want to save some money.

The most likely time for a hurricane to hit is in September and October—so if you're still a bit worried, I would avoid these months.

Based on my experiences, even after visiting Cancun a few times in October, I still had a delightful trip. I once went just one week after a hurricane hit, and you couldn't even tell. The sun was shining, and everything was still standing.

If you visit during these times, book something you can easily cancel or change. If you're flexible with your dates, it's worth visiting during these riskier months to save some money. Plus, when there isn't a hurricane, the weather is perfect.

But if you happen to be in Cancun when a hurricane hits, the staff at your accommodation will have a plan in place to ensure you stay safe. After all, this probably isn't their first rodeo.

Spring Break in Cancun

Spring Break in Cancun is a rite of passage for many college students and party enthusiasts. The city transforms into a hub of non-stop action, filled with crowded beaches, loud music, and events that last well into the night.

While this might sound like paradise to some, it's not everyone's cup of tea. And I can understand why!

If you prefer a more relaxed vacation experience—think quiet beach days, peaceful dinners, and a laid-back atmosphere—then you should avoid visiting Cancun during Spring Break.

Another downer is that the prices for flights and accommodations skyrocket during this period, making it a less budget-friendly option.

So if you're looking for tranquility, cost-effectiveness, or a more family-oriented experience, it might be wise to consider another time of year for your Cancun getaway.

Staying in Cancun

Resorts aren't the only option for places to stay in a destination like Cancun.

There are hostels all over Mexico that are much more affordable and arguably offer a better experience.

Consider staying at Mayan Monkey Cancun or Nomads Hotel Hostel & Rooftop Pool , both highly rated and affordable accommodation options!

So, When Is the Best Time to Go to Cancun, Mexico?

After everything, I would say that it's important to consider your personal situation and preferences if you're trying to decide when the best time to go to Cancun is.

There is no bad time of year to visit Cancun.

The best time to visit depends on your budget, weather expectations, and your schedule. If you are in school or have a strict work schedule, you can visit in the summer or during the holidays, but you might have to pay a little more.

If you want to save the most money, go during hurricane season in September and October, but book something flexible. Don't be hard set on travel dates in case of a hurricane, and you need to move your trip by a week or so.

You can also save some money by visiting in the winter, outside the holiday season. But the pool might be cold if you are not at a heated one, and nights by the water will be chilly.

Photo by David Emrich on Unsplash

Vamos a Cancún, México!

No matter when you visit Cancun, I promise that with proper planning you'll have the best time! Start organizing your trip right now with Pilot.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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What is the best time to travel to Cancun in 2023?

• Post author: Traveler Magazine
• Post published: February 14, 2021
• Post category: North America

If budget is not a problem, the best time to visit Cancun is from December to April . Find out in this article when it rains in Cancun, when it is cheaper and which season suits you best to visit this city of Quintana Roo .

Located in the north of the Riviera Maya, Cancun enjoys a tropical climate, with two main seasons per year : a very hot and rainy one that goes from May to October , the other cooler and drier that includes the period from November to April . Even during this season, which is the ideal one to visit the city, it is possible that rain arrives, accompanied by clouds and wind, especially between December and January . In general, however, rainfall, which amounts to over 1,300 mm per year, is accentuated between June and October, with a maximum peak in September and minimum in March and April (with only 3 days of rain).

Average temperatures in the popular resort town of southern Mexico, however, are idyllic all year round, with the mercury fluctuating between 24° C in January and 29° C in June and Augus t, and lows that even during the winter hardly fall below 19° C. The sea in Cancun is also always warm, with lows of 26° C in January and highs of nearly 30° C between July and October . So, what are you waiting for? Grab your best backpack with lots of pockets and be ready for your next adventure! To find out more about Cancun’s climate, read on for our travel guide.

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If you prefer the cooler or less hot season, the best time to visit Cancun is between December and April, because the temperature averages between 23 and 26 °C, period with just 55 mm of rain per month, so there is less humidity.

If your priority is not the weather but to spend as little as possible, the best time to visit Cancun is the low season, particularly in September and October, the rainiest months.

Cancun has 3 rainy months: June, September and October. In this quarter almost half of the year’s rainfall occurs, with a monthly average of 166 mm/m2.

In the rest of the calendar the average monthly rainfall varies between 29 mm/m2 (March, the driest month) and 80 mm/m2 (May).

September and October are the rainiest and most humid months to visit Cancun, so the demand for travel, tickets and hotel rates go down.

These months are within the Atlantic hurricane season, which scares people away from traveling to coastal tourist destinations .

The peak season in Cancun begins at the end of November when foreign tourists, especially from the United States, Canada and Europe, travel in search of warmer climates due to the arrival of winter.

This season extends until January, being the best time to go to Cancun city because the weather is milder and there is little rain.

There are 2 seasons that follow in “high season” mainly dictated by domestic tourism: Easter and summer vacation (late June to mid-August).

The winter high season begins at the end of November when international tourists start arriving. The Mexican summer vacation season starts in the last week of June.

September – October is the wettest and rainiest season. It is in the hurricane period, although the probability of a hurricane is low, so it is not the best time to go to Cancun.

From February until before the end of the summer vacations there are also two low seasons in Cancun. During these periods you can also get free nights of lodging with breakfast included and other offers. In addition, the beaches and other places of interest are less congested.

October is the rainiest and wettest month of the year to visit Cancun and is part of the quarter with the highest probability of hurricanes.

The lowest is September – October, the best time for people who want to take a cheaper vacation when traveling to Cancun.

Another relatively low season in Cancun is between February and the beginning of Easter, excluding Carnival. During this period the international tourism wave of December – January has given way to quieter days. The next big swell will be during the national holiday in the main week.

December and January are excellent months to visit Cancun because the weather is pleasant during the day and cool at night. Also, it hardly ever rains and if it does rain, the weather usually improves quickly.

These months are also Cancun’s high season and the period of higher prices and more visitors to the beaches and other places of interest.

Read also: Most Interesting Things To Do In Mexico City

Christmas and New Year’s are great dates to travel to Cancun because besides the joy of the holidays, the weather is the most pleasant of the year. They are also more expensive due to the huge influx of foreign tourists.

Carnival and Easter are other seasons with good weather and very little rain, with a very good influx of domestic tourists.

The best months to go to Cancun are December and January because of the pleasant weather, a season that can be equated with February – April when the temperature is still pleasant and there are more available cozycozy villas in Cancun .

If you want to visit Cancun at the lowest possible cost you should plan it for between August and mid-November.

Cancun’s summer season is the northern hemisphere season which in 2019 starts on June 21 and ends on September 23.

Cancun’s year-round climate is tropical and warm. The month with the highest average temperature is August when the thermometer reads 27.7 °C, while the coolest month is January with the mercury reading an average of 22.7 °C.

Cancun receives 1071 mm/m2 of rainfall, which is 8.4% higher than the average for all of Mexico and 71.3% higher than the average for Mexico City.

Rainfall in the Caribbean city of Quintana Roo is concentrated in the period September – October and, to a lesser extent, in June. The remaining months it rains less.

The source of the above information and of the month-by-month weather for Cancun presented below is climate-data.org .

Cancun weather in January

The first month of the year is the coolest (or least warm) in the Mexican Caribbean city and is part of the best time to go to Cancun.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 76

Minimum temperature (°C): 17.8

Maximum temperature (°C): 27.6

January average temperature (°C): 22.7

Weather in Cancun in February

The weather in Cancun in February is similar to January with a slight increase in temperature.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 51

Minimum temperature (°C): 17.7

Maximum temperature (°C): 28.2

February average temperature (°C): 22.9

Weather in Cancun in March

In March there is a significant increase in the average temperature in Cancun, which is 1.6 °C higher than in February. March is also the driest month of the year with rainfall of only 29 mm which makes it second best time to visit Cancun.

Precipitation (mm/m2): 29

Maximum temperature (°C): 29.9

Minimum temperature (°C): 19.1

March average temperature (°C): 24.5

Cancun weather in April

April sees another good increase in the mercury level, which rises by an average of 1.4 °C compared to March.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 38

Minimum temperature (°C): 20.5

Maximum temperature (°C): 31.4

April average temperature (°C): 25.9

Cancun weather in May

The average temperature in Cancun continues to rise from May onwards, an upward trend that will only reverse between August and September.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 80

Minimum temperature (°C): 21.6

Maximum temperature (°C): 32.0

May average temperature (°C): 26.8

Weather in Cancun in June

The most important change in Cancun’s weather in June is that the rains become more frequent, this being the third month with the most rainfall in the year.

Precipitation (mm/m2): 144

Minimum temperature (°C): 22.7

June average temperature (°C): 27.3

Weather in Cancun in July

As in May and June, the average temperature in July increases slightly with a significant decrease in rainfall.

Precipitation (mm/m2): 71

Minimum temperature (°C): 22.6

Maximum temperature (°C): 32.4

July average temperature (°C): 27.5

Weather in Cancun in August

Although rainfall remains at the same level as in July, August is the warmest month of the year in Cancun.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 72

Maximum temperature (°C): 32.7

August average temperature (°C): 27.7

Cancun weather in September

The end of summer and the imminent arrival of autumn in the northern hemisphere marks a change in the temperature trend, although in Cancun it is not as noticeable as in other places in Mexico and the world.

September is the second rainiest month in the tourist city of Quintana Roo.

Precipitation (mm/m2): 160

Minimum temperature (°C): 22.8

Maximum temperature (°C): 31.8

September average temperature (°C): 27.3

Cancun weather in October

The average temperature drops slightly again in Cancun’s wettest month of the year.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 194

Minimum temperature (°C): 21.8

Maximum temperature (°C): 30.3

October average temperature (°C): 26.0

Cancun weather in November

Cancun November weather improves significantly because it gets a little cooler and rainfall decreases.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 77

Minimum temperature (°C): 19.6

Maximum temperature (°C): 28.9

November average temperature (°C): 24.2

Weather in Cancun in December

The last month of the year is the best time to visit Cancun due to the fantastic weather in the tropical city; warm during the day and at night, cool and not very rainy.

Rainfall (mm/m2): 79

Minimum temperature (°C): 18.2

Maximum temperature (°C): 27.9

December average temperature (°C): 23.0

It will be the one you decide according to your budget and time availability. The Mexican Caribbean will always be waiting for you with its turquoise blue waters, white sands and so many places to have fun, that very soon you will be thinking about making another visit to Cancun.

Between the end of August and November it is usually cheaper time to visit Cancun because the large number of foreign tourists have not yet arrived and the summer vacations in Mexico are over.

You may also like our New Mexico travel guide

The hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean runs from June to November, although most events occur in the August-October quarter.

Hurricanes have a large area to develop and with some exceptions, most of the coastal tourist spots are usually safe from them.

Cancun has only been significantly affected by hurricanes on 2 occasions: 1988 by Gilberto and 2005 by Wilma. There was a 17 year difference between the two.

Hurricane season in Cancun is usually a period when there is somewhat less tourist activity.

The best months to go to Cancun are from December to April.

Europeans and North Americans prefer to visit the Mexican Caribbean from December to April, so the rates for both flights and hotels are higher.

Nevertheless, it is advisable to visit Cancun from December to March because it is from the third month of the year, when the “spring breakers” start to arrive and hotels and restaurants start to be saturated with young tourists coming from the United States, mainly. Fortunately, if you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there is no shortage of all-inclusive resorts in Cancun to choose from.

It is during this season when the humidity increases and temperatures can reach 33°C (90°F). The good news is that in these months you can find very affordable prices for your lodging. But if you are a cigar aficionado you will need the best travel humidor if you want to keep your cigars fresh and in a perfect condition.

While it is true that it rains during these months, you should also know that the all-inclusive hotels will allow you to have an affordable vacation and enjoy the activities offered by these resorts.

It is from late November to mid-May when the weather in Cancun allows you to enjoy favorable weather, with sunny days to fully enjoy the attractions that surround this paradisiacal place.

In these months the temperature oscillates around 25 °C, without discarding the possibility of reaching 33 °C.

In Cancun, as in most of the national territory, on January 6 the Three Kings Day is celebrated; in this same month the Annual Barracuda Fishing Tournament is held.

Labor Day is celebrated on May 1st and the Cancun Jazz Festival is held on that weekend. On May 5th the Battle of Puebla is commemorated and in this same month the Gay Festival is held.

The summer solstice is celebrated – it’s the best time to visit Cancun.

The Mayan New Year is celebrated on July 16.

The patriotic celebrations take place.

On November 2 it is recommended to visit Xcaret Park and enjoy the Day of the Dead celebration.

It is not possible to specify when a hurricane may hit, but it is known that from May to November the rainy season begins, which affects Mexico’s Caribbean coasts.

Although the hurricane season officially begins in May, most of these meteorological phenomena usually occur in September and October.

This season is considered low season and you can find very good prices, fewer tourists and opportunities. With a little luck you will be able to enjoy not entirely bad weather, but the probability of having bad weather is medium to high. It’s not the best time to visit Cancun!

Hurricane Wilma: the worst so far

On October 21, 2005, Hurricane Wilma hit the coasts of Cancun and has been the strongest hurricane to date, leaving destruction and desolation in the state of Quintana Roo.

According to official figures, the hurricane struck with winds that reached 280 kilometers per hour, with a fury that left one million people affected and economic losses valued at 30 billion pesos.

Almost 13 years later, Cancun is fully recovered and ready to receive tourists, who come to enjoy its paradisiacal beaches and delve a little into the Mayan culture.

The budget for visit Cancun depends on the season, the type of transportation, the size of the group of travelers, the type of accommodation preferred, the way of eating and the attractions to be prioritized, among the most important variables. Some of the most popular transportation options are taxis, buses and rental cars but the fact that could surprise you the most is that you can also use Uber in Cancun .

In Cancun there are sumptuous hotels with rates of 300 and 400 USD per night, but there are also accommodations under 70 USD that, although not luxurious, are clean and comfortable.

In any city of mass tourism there are very expensive places to eat, but also, knowing how to look, there are places with reasonable prices.

The night shows and extreme adventure parks in Cancun and the Riviera Maya are fantastic, but they can be unbalanced.

A couple or family looking to save money can maximize the use of the public beaches and other free or low-cost attractions the city has to offer.

Likewise, maximizing the use of public transportation and minimizing the use of cabs will help lower transportation costs.

If you don’t know it and are wondering what Cancun is like, we will tell you that it is a paradise of warm turquoise blue beaches and white sand in the Mexican Caribbean, in the state of Quintana Roo, located in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Cancun is Mexico’s main world tourist center due to its magnificent infrastructure of hotels and other tourist services, in addition to the proximity of prominent archeological sites of the Mayan culture, such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, Ek Balam and Coba.

Very close to Cancun are Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, the two most important island destinations in Mexico for their spectacular beaches, archaeological sites, water parks and some of the world’s best diving sites in the great Mayan reef.

Close to Cancun are extraordinary adventure parks for all kinds of extreme entertainment, such as subway river tours, ATV rides, zip lines and rappelling. Among these parks are Xcaret, Xplor, Xel-Ha and Rio Secreto.

Another attraction of Cancun is the large number of cenotes that exist in this part of the Yucatan Peninsula, bodies of beautiful and crystalline waters in the middle of the tropical jungle and with a whole underwater world to know.

Explore the hidden gems of Grutas de Tolantongo

Cancun offers a large number of bars that make the nightlife a never-ending party and it is in August when the Beach Festival is celebrated, with concerts and activities that guarantee fun for everyone.

Cancun is for its splendid beaches , great ecological and adventure parks, archaeological sites and cenotes, one of those places you have to visit at least once in your life.

If you are thinking of visiting the stunning Caribbean beach destination in the state of Quintana Roo, here’s what you need to know about the best time to visit Cancun.

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When is the Best Time to Travel to Cancun According to the Experts?

When is the best time to visit cancun that depends on what you are looking for, say expert travelers. find out when to visit based on cancun weather averages..

A trip to Cancun will be a wonderful vacation no matter what time of year you visit. But what season is the best time to visit Cancun? Well, it depends on who you ask and what your tastes are. Some people prefer the winter or springtime crowds, while others look for deals during the hot summer.

Winter: December to February

Winter months and early spring are top travel times in Cancun. Weather average temperatures are at their most pleasant, topping out in the low 80s, and many Americans are looking to escape the cold back home with a balmy vacation. Beach conditions are amazing, with calm blue skies, little rain, and a mild sun perfect for tanning without overheating. While the weather will be at its peak comfort, with beautiful sunny days and moderately warm temperatures, expert travelers know that rates for hotels and flights will be the highest. Plus, crowds will be at their heaviest, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.

During these months, repeat Cancun travelers report little humidity, balmy temperatures, and sunny skies. Plan to spend your days walking the beach, taking boat tours, and exploring ancient ruins and jungles without overheating. The ocean water temperatures will be cooler than in the summer months, but will still be perfect for swimming. This is also a great time of year to enjoy a sailing tour . Just know you will be among crowds and likely paying top dollar for lodging and food while you enjoy your beautiful Cancun vacation. The benefit is that the night scene will be great—just be sure to pack a light sweater or jacket for outdoors and sunset boating, say expert travelers—and that more restaurants, spas, and clubs will be open for tourists.

Winter Cancun Weather Averages

December averages.

High: 83 degrees

Low: 63 degrees

Average days of rainfall: 6

January Averages

High: 82 degrees

Low: 67 degrees

Average days of rainfall: 7

February Averages

Average days of rainfall: 2

Spring: March to May

The springtime is also great for families. With smaller crowds and nice weather, families will feel comfortable exploring Mayan ruins , inland jungle tours, caves, and beaches. Families will also enjoy warm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling tours. March can still be a bit crowded, but April and May are great times for sightseeing and visiting the amazing ruins around Cancun. Keep in mind that spring crowds peak during Semana Santa, or Holy Week. This is the week leading up to Easter and is a popular time for families to vacation in Cancun .

Families should keep in mind that this season, especially March, is spring break season . While a school break is a good time for families with children to travel, there will be many college students in town for their spring break. Many of them will be partying on the beach and into the night, with parties all day and night, top international DJs, and bikini contests throughout the whole month of March. However, expert travelers report that if you want to avoid the kegs and bikini contests, it is fairly simple to stay away by avoiding hotels and clubs that cater to that crowd.

Spring Cancun Weather Averages

March averages.

High: 84 degrees

Low: 69 degrees

Average days of rainfall: 3

April Averages

High: 87 degrees

Low: 72 degrees

Average days of rainfall: 4

May Averages

High: 89 degrees

Low: 75 degrees

Summer: June to August

If you are looking to find a good deal on Cancun travel and avoid the crowds, summer is the best time to come. It is technically hurricane season in Cancun , and the temperatures run high and hot with frequent rain showers. But the benefit is that beaches, sightseeing attractions, and bars are less crowded. July tends to have some cloudy days, but overall expert Cancun travelers note that the sunny summer months are a great time to soak up the sunshine and cool down with a swim on a boating or snorkeling tour . With warm waters, summer is a great time to focus on swimming, say expert Cancun travelers. There is a higher chance of rain than other times of year, especially in August, so come prepared for the weather and pack a light rain jacket alongside your swimming suit. The rainy days offer cool relief from the hot sun and are great days to grab an umbrella and explore the city or take a tour of ancient ruins .

Summer Cancun Weather Averages

June averages.

Low: 77 degrees

Average days of rainfall: 9

July Averages

High: 90 degrees

Low: 76 degrees

Average days of rainfall: 8

August Averages

High: 91 degrees

Average days of rainfall: 11

Fall: September to November

Hurricane season in Cancun begins in June and ends at the end of November, with most hurricanes occurring between August and October. But luckily, the chances of your vacation being dampened by a hurricane are slim. Cancun has only seen two major hurricanes in the past 30 years: Hurricane Gilbert made landfall on September 15, 1988, and Wilma on October 21, 2005.

Weather in fall months can be hot and rainy, which combined with hurricane season lead to discounted airline tickets and hotel rates. September is the rainiest month of the year in Cancun. But even a rainy day can just mean a passing shower, or it may be rainy at the beach but dry and sunny inland. Beaches and attractions throughout the season will be mostly empty, so this is a great time to come if you are looking for a discount and don’t mind planning around a few rain showers. But also keep in mind that many restaurants and clubs close down during these slower months. Of course, if your goal is to avoid the crowds, this may be a benefit, say Cancun experts.

Weather in Cancun in November starts to mellow out. In fact, some bloggers mention that one of the best kept secrets about Cancun travel is that November is the best month to visit.  It isn’t as rainy as the other fall and summer months, the temperatures are balmy but not scorching, and yet the crowds haven’t quite returned yet for the winter travel season. The great weather in Cancun in November will make for an amazing vacation that isn’t overcrowded with tourists. The exception, however, is Thanksgiving week—many Americans plan Cancun trips for this holiday, causing crowds and prices to reach a peak. But plan around Thanksgiving, say Cancun expert travelers,  and you’ll find deals, thin crowds, and beautiful Cancun weather perfect for the beach, sailing tours, and snorkeling.

September Averages

Average days of rainfall: 13

October Averages

High: 88 degrees

Low: 74 degrees

November Averages

Low: 70 degrees

Whenever you plan your Cancun vacation, you are sure to have a great time exploring the region’s natural and historical beauties. Many people come to relax on the beach and in the resorts, but there is so much more to see and do in this exotic location. So either way, you won't want to forget your sunscreen no matter what time of year you will be feeling that Cancun sun on your skin! To get the most out of your trip, learn more about Cancun Adventures and book your tours today.

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Everything you need to know before visiting Cancún

Jan 24, 2024 • 6 min read

Prepare for your visit to Cancún with our guide to health, safety and etiquette in the Mexican hotspot © Wei Fang / Getty Images

If my frequent travels to Cancún have taught me anything, it's that paradise will throw you a curveball from time to time.

Among the setbacks, I've experienced a costly car break-in, brazen price gouging and a debilitating bout of sickness with dengue fever, an ordeal that still makes my joints ache just thinking about it. But every time I found myself in need of help, the good folks in Cancún have stepped up big-time, and that's no small thing.

While some first-time visitors never leave the touristy, high-gloss hotel zone – which I get, the stunning resort offers pillow-soft Caribbean beaches – you’ll kick yourself later if you overlook the Centro, a bustling downtown.

This is where you can mingle with locals in the neighborhood cantinas and barter at traditional markets. Visit one atmospheric taco joint and you’ll be glad you made the effort. 

With that in mind, here are nine essential tips to make your Cancún trip run as smooth as possible.

1. Stay alert but don't let the clickbait headlines spook you

Despite all the grim news about Mexico 's drug-related violence, Cancún and the wider Yucatán Peninsula are generally considered safe.

Granted, you should never treat the crime problem lightly, but drug gangs rarely target tourists, especially if you avoid illicit activities.

That said, it's important to keep a close watch on your drink in bars and nightclubs. There have been reports of some tourists getting their drinks spiked with so-called date rape drugs. You should also avoid withdrawing money from ATMs at night, and never carry large amounts of cash.

2. Monitor hurricane season and seaweed surges

Cancún's hurricane season runs from June to November, and over the years the city has seen powerful storms cause devastating damage. Always check the latest weather forecast before you board a plane.

Also, keep a close eye on sargassum seaweed surges ( sargazo in Spanish), which can turn Cancún's turquoise waters brown. These blooms leave mounds of smelly, decomposing macroalgae carpeted across otherwise white sands. An influx of seaweed makes swimming and sunbathing downright unpleasant.

If it happens when you're in Cancún, consider doing less beach time and splash around in hotel pools and cenotes (freshwater sinkholes) instead.

The invasive surges occur intermittently, usually from March to August, but they can be unpredictable. The NGO  Red de Monitoreo de Sargazo posts daily updates on beach conditions in Cancún and the nearby Riviera Maya .

3. Tip generously and haggle respectfully

Keep in mind that many Cancún service workers (namely restaurant and hotel employees) depend on tips to supplement miserable wages. In restaurants, leave a 15% gratuity if the service is not already included.

Remember to check the bill carefully, though – some unscrupulous establishments have been known to tack on a "service fee" in the hope that customers unknowingly leave an additional tip.

For airport and hotel porters, tip about M$25 a bag, while for tour guides give an extra 10–20% of the cost of the outing, or perhaps a bit more for full-day excursions. Gas station attendants typically get about M$5 to M$10.

Bartenders, baristas and taxi drivers generally do not expect tips but always welcome them. It's acceptable to haggle with the market and street vendors to a certain degree, but remember that they're just trying to make a living.

4. Don't forget to pack ID, bug spray and casual clothing

To rent a car, you'll need to show a passport, driver's license and credit card. Mexican law requires you to have liability coverage, known in Spanish as daños a terceros .

Citizens from the US, Canada and EU countries, as well as residents from dozens of other nations, do not need visas to enter Mexico as tourists.

To protect yourself from mosquitoes and the sun, pack biodegradable insect repellent, long-sleeve shirts and a pair of pants. You'll definitely need the bug spray when visiting during the muggy wet season from May through October.

Even if you have repellent or sunscreen of the biodegradable variety, do not use them while swimming or snorkeling in fragile ecosystems such as coral reefs and cenotes. Loose-fitting clothes that dry quickly will serve you well for water activities and rainy days.

5. Explore the surrounding countryside

You can usually find plenty of things to do in the hotel zone and downtown Cancún but try to squeeze in at least one trip to see a different side of the Yucatán Peninsula. Seven to 10 days should give you ample time to tour Cancún and beyond.

Venture south to check out ancient ruins, jungle-set swimming holes and small fishing towns along the Riviera Maya, or head east on a day trip to  Valladolid , a colonial city with a rich Maya history.

Alternatively, the nearby islands of  Isla Mujeres and  Isla Holbox provide blissful nature escapes for snorkeling, diving and kayaking adventures.

6. Carry cash and bring a credit and/or debit card

Even though most places in Cancún accept major credit cards, it's always useful to carry some cash, especially in the smaller surrounding towns and islands.

Many hotels, and even some restaurants, accept US dollars, but they normally offer an unfavorable currency exchange rate.

The ubiquitous ATMs accept foreign debit cards but expect to get dinged with international transaction fees for withdrawals.

The same goes for many retail purchases as well. Some major credit cards won't charge such fees, giving you the most bang for your buck. Cancún's ATMs dispense Mexican pesos.

7. All-inclusive resorts are great, but you're missing Cancún's food scene

The hotel zone is home to most of Cancún's all-inclusive hotels, though high-end resorts are also cropping up in Punta Sam and along the sublime  Isla Blanca peninsula, north of downtown.

The all-inclusive experience ranges from luxurious adults-only setups with above-and-beyond service (personal butlers and all) to slightly more affordable family-friendly accommodations.

If you're looking for a safe, self-contained environment with multiple restaurants, bottomless drinks, easy beach access, alluring outdoor pools, and kid-focused activities, book an all-inclusive.

If you prefer the resort experience without the meals and booze, some places offer room-only rates. This pushes you to get out and dive into Cancún's diverse culinary and nightlife scene. Budget travelers will find more options downtown, where hostels and mid-range digs abound.

8. Rideshare services are available in Cancún

The app-based transportation service Uber operates in Cancún, but due to a long-running dispute by taxi union members, drivers and their passengers have faced harassment and, in some cases, attacks.

If you decide to use Uber, do so at your own risk. Do not order a car from the airport, bus station, ferry terminals, or other points where rival taxis may be watching.

For the most affordable transportation from the airport, look for the red ADO bus , which runs frequently from the airport terminals to downtown Cancún's first-class bus terminal. However, if you're staying in the hotel zone, you're better off taking a shuttle or cab.

9. Don't drink the water, and try street food with caution

Cancún's tap water is generally not safe to drink unless you know it's filtered (agua filtrada) . The same goes for drinks prepared with ice; when in doubt go without. Bottled or purified (purificada) water is your best bet to stay hydrated, and you'll need plenty of it to avoid heat exhaustion.

Eating street food can be somewhat dicey in Cancún, but it's a tantalizing risk that many visitors are willing to take.

This article was first published October 2023 and updated January 2024

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Best Time to Go to Cancun: A Comprehensive Guide

Published: September 9, 2021

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Rina Bernardo

• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

With its ancient ruins, irresistible clear waters, and fascinating cenotes, Cancun is a must-visit city in the Yucatán Peninsula. It is surrounded by miles of gorgeous shores and dotted with hip and trendy hotels and bars. On top of the many things to do in Cancun , the city also serves as a gateway to the historic Mayan ruins at Playa del Carmen. Given all that, the next question on every curious traveler’s mind is: when is the best time to go to Cancun? The last thing you would want is to visit Cancun, only for it to rain since it’s the hurricane season. Or worse, being unable to enjoy your stay since there are twice as many people on the beach.

So to get a better understanding here’s an in-depth guide on the best time to visit Cancun! We’ve also included detailed information on the weather in Cancun and tourist seasons which can help you plan your vacation.

Best Time to Go to Cancun

Photo by Gerson Repreza on Unsplash

Firstly, depending on your purpose of travel, you will find that the best time to visit Cancun will be different. For instance, if you want to swim with whale sharks and see baby sea turtles making their way to the sea, July and August are the best months. Meanwhile, sightseeing trips are best done in April or December . Read on to find out when is the best time to go to Cancun for you.

For Great Weather

For great weather, plan your Cancun travel from December to April . The dry season overall offers balmy temperatures and clear skies. Beach conditions are perfect almost every day and you can also explore the jungles and ruins. It can get a bit cool at night, especially from January to February, so it’s best to pack a light jacket or a sweater. Best of all, there are no hurricanes that can ruin what should be a stress-free beach trip!

But for overall good weather, January to March offers the lowest humidity levels and rainfall. These months enjoy sunny days, refreshingly cool water for swimming, and little to no rain showers. Do note that these months fall under Cancun’s high season so expect crowds wanting to enjoy the weather. If you don’t mind crowded beaches and waiting for queues at other tourist attractions, these are the best times to visit.

For Fewer Crowds

Having to deal with huge crowds is a deal-breaker for some travelers. After all, you’re going on a vacation to relax and unwind. If you want to go on a Cancun vacation without the rowdy spring breakers, the best time to go to Cancun is from the summer months of June to October . Most tourists have gone by then due to the incoming hurricane season, although actual hurricanes are very rare. Expect few to almost no tourists at beaches, ruins, and other archeological sites. Moreover, you can swim in the cenotes and visit different points of interest without having to queue for a long time.

But before planning your crowd-less trip to Cancun, make sure that the places you plan on visiting are open or have limited operational hours. Although you can likely find a hotel on the spot, most accommodations also close for the season. So it’s always better to book or inquire in advance to ensure your stay. This also applies to tour operators since these months see the lowest number of tourists. Lastly, make sure that you’re updated with the latest weather advisories and bring weather-appropriate attire with you.

For Sightseeing

Aside from its stunning beaches like Playa Delfines and the nearby beaches of Tulum, Cancun is popular for its sights. From downtown Cancun to the lush jungles and Mayan ruins, there’s plenty of places for sightseeing. If this makes up most of your itinerary, December offers the best conditions for exploring. There are plenty of sunny days, low humidity, and little rain, so nothing can get in the way of your sightseeing adventure. However, crowds tend to thicken around mid-December so make sure to plan wisely.

But if you want to avoid the onslaught of crowds in December, April is the best time to travel to Cancun. The month also falls under Cancun’s shoulder season, perfect if you want to avoid plenty of tourists. That way, there are fewer tourists and less time for queueing in most attractions. April is also one of the driest months so you can still enjoy Cancun’s balmy weather and minimal rain.

For Water Activities

Without a doubt, Cancun has some of the best beaches in the world, with swimming conditions perfect almost all year round. For those who prefer swimming in relatively cooler temperatures, the best time to go to Cancun is February and March . Meanwhile, the water is warmest from July to October, although September and October have their fair share of rainy days. Therefore, July and August are your safest choices for warm waters.

However, if snorkeling and diving make up most of your itinerary, Cancun may not be the best destination for it. The visibility isn’t the best and the water is choppy and rough. In addition, most of the coral reefs in the Hotel Zone are dead because of the pollution. If you still plan on snorkeling and diving, Punta Nizuc, Isla Mujeres, and the Museum of Underwater Art are better options. The water is calmer and clearer so you can view its rich underwater world. November to May offer the best visibility especially from January through March .

For Whale Shark and Sea Turtle Spotting

Cancun is one of the best places for spotting both whale sharks and sea turtles. Tourists wanting to go whale shark diving or swimming with these gentle giants should plan their excursions from June to August. Although whale sharks start arriving in May, these months boast a near 100% chance of spotting whale sharks! They start to leave Cancun by September towards the end of the month.

On the other hand, sea turtles start nesting along the shore in May through October. Then as early as July, eggs will start to hatch until the end of December. If you want to get a deeper appreciation for these marine creatures, watch out for volunteer programs. You can help relocate eggs to a safer place and release baby sea turtles to the water once they’ve hatched. For those who want to see whale sharks, nesting turtles, and baby sea turtles, July and August are the best months to visit Cancun.

For Cheap Deals

Who says you need to break the bank to enjoy a memorable vacation in Cancun? For penny-pinching travelers, the best time to travel to Cancun is between July to October , with more discounted prices coming out from September. From hotel room upgrades, discounted stays at luxury hotels, airfare, and tours, everything is marked down. As compared to traveling during the high season, tourists can save up to hundreds of dollars by availing of these bargain deals. What’s more, there are fewer tourists since these months fall under Cancun’s low tourist season.

But with all these amazing deals, do remember that this also coincides with the rainy season. Days are hot and very humid, and there are high chances of short yet intense tropical storms. That said, hurricanes are rare, so you don’t have to worry about it hitting the city on your visit. If you don’t mind these sudden rain showers, this is the best time to go to Cancun. Besides, you can also get travel insurance if you’re particularly iffy about traveling during the hurricane season.

For Nightlife

It’s no secret that Cancun has a lively nightlife! With parties continuing from dusk to dawn, this is the best destination for those who want to party all night after a day at the beach. From the hip bars of the Punta Cancun area to Downtown Cancun, you’re guaranteed a fun night filled with dancing and booze. If you’re past the legal drinking age in Mexico and you want to experience Cancun’s nightlife, it’s important to know about the different party crowds and when you’re likely to encounter them.

From March to April , the infamous Spring Break crowds head to the bars and pubs. Wild parties, DJ nights, and bikini contests are common events throughout the weeks. By June and mid-July , high school students celebrate graduation and let loose before starting college. If a more mature crowd is what you’re looking for, visit from December to February .

Tourist Seasons in Cancun

Photo by Braden Collum on Unsplash

Aside from your purpose of travel, identifying different tourist seasons is a great way to find out when is the best time to go to Cancun. This is especially helpful for travelers who want to avoid crowded places and pay for overpriced hotel rooms and airfare. Like most destinations, Cancun has its high, low, and shoulder seasons, each with its pros and cons.

High Season

The high tourist season in Cancun is from mid-December through March during the dry season. In December, the holiday crowds escape the harsh winter days in exchange for some sun. The busy season then extends to the new year and February. By March, spring break party-goers flock to the hotels and resorts in Cancun to enjoy the city’s nightlife along the touristy Zona Hotelera. For travelers planning to brave the high season crowds, Riviera Cancun, Isla Mujeres , and Playa Mujeres are great alternatives to the busy Hotel Zone.

As a beach lover’s paradise, it is natural that Cancun’s high tourist season is when the city enjoys its best weather conditions. You can fully enjoy Cancun’s award-winning beaches along the Riviera Maya and its cenotes due to good water conditions. Moreover, the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures and exploring the jungles, Mayan ruins, and other destinations.

On the flip side, this is also the busy season, bringing in plenty of crowds wanting to take advantage of the weather. Furthermore, prices for hotels, airfares, and tours are more expensive. If you plan on visiting during the high season, make sure to book everything in advance. That way, you won’t have to overpay at hotels or cram for accommodation accepting last-minute reservations.

Shoulder Season

April, May, November, and the first weeks of December mark Cancun’s shoulder season. The initial influx of spring break tourists would have calmed by the first weeks of April. November is also the transition month from the wet season to the dry season and there is a gradual improvement in the weather. Take note however that there may still be thick crowds during the Holy Week in April and Thanksgiving in November.

The shoulder season is the best time to go to Cancun if you want to enjoy a few crowds and good weather. It also falls in the transition period from wet to dry season and vice versa. In Cancun, although the weather isn’t as perfect as in the high season, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds. Who wouldn’t want that for their Cancun getaway?

However, take note that not all tourism opportunities are available during the shoulder season. Some tours may not operate or are prone to rescheduling and cancellation. Moreover, you may not be able to score a great deal as prices for hotels aren’t as good of a bargain as in the low season. Nonetheless, booking in advance or for more than five days can help you get a great deal.

In Cancun, the low tourist season is from June to October , which is more than half of the city’s wet season. During your visit, it’s very likely that you’ll encounter intense rain, although these last for an hour or two at most. If you plan on traveling to Cancun during the low season, make sure to pack an umbrella and a raincoat.

Tourists tend to avoid Cancun during the hurricane season particularly since it’s seen as a beach paradise. And few would love to hit a rainy beach. There’s also a high possibility that most tours will be rescheduled or canceled due to inclement weather. Additionally, some hotels, restaurants in Cancun , and other establishments also close during the low season. That being said, prices for hotels, airfare, and tours are affordable given the low number of tourists. Hence for budget travelers, this season is the best time to visit Cancun.

Although you won’t get to go sunbathing or enjoy the tropical Cancun weather, who knows what other hidden gems you’ll discover? You can visit museums, explore underground caves and rivers, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment. Since there aren’t that many tourists, you can visit these places without having to queue for hours. Best of all, you can score great deals like room upgrades, discounted rates, and other perks!

Cancun Seasons at a Glance

Photo by David Vives on Unsplash

The dry season in Cancun runs from November to April , marked by pleasant temperatures and overall good water conditions. Humidity levels can rise during this season, but it shouldn’t hinder your beach getaway or your sightseeing tour.

Without a doubt, this is the best time to go to Cancun in terms of the weather. You can go hiking, explore the Mayan ruins, or take a dip on the beach. Furthermore, the dry season also coincides with the city’s high and shoulder tourist seasons. So whether you want to make the most out of Cancun’s tropical weather or grab cheap deals, plan your visit within these months.

Dry Season Highlights

Aside from its weather, the dry season also offers events and highlights that can make your vacation extra memorable.

The Día de los Muerto s (Day of the Dead) festivities are a great way to immerse yourself in Mexican culture. At the festival, locals honor their deceased relatives with ofrenda (altar) offerings and vigils. Head to the bustling Hotel Zone for parties or downtown Cancun if you want a more traditional experience.

Welcome the new year with exciting parties and New Year’s Eve countdown celebrations! Join parties or sit back and view the colorful fireworks from the comforts of your beachfront hotel.

In January, Cancun celebrates El Día de Los Reyes (Three Kings’ Day). There are lively processions and you can sample a slice of Rosca de Reyes , a sweet, wreath-shaped bread topped with candied fruits.

Similar to one of the festivals in Spain , Carnaval boasts jovial street dance and parades, intricately designed masks, and plenty of booze. The celebration is held before the start of Ash Wednesday which proceeds the more solemn Holy Week celebrations.

Dry Season Weather

May to October is Cancun’s wet season, with higher humidity levels, hotter temperatures, and more chances of rainfall. However, the chances of storms are at their highest from August to October. But if you’re worried about a hurricane hitting during your visit, worry not! Hurricanes are rare, so you can still enjoy your Cancun getaway.

Overall, the wet season in Cancun brings frequent rainfall and a few brief tropical storms, but nothing too intense that will ruin your holiday.

Wet Season Highlights

The wet season may not be the best time to visit Cancun and its beaches, but there are other things worth seeing and discovering.

The Caribbean Culture Festival highlights the best of Mayan, Mexican, and Caribbean food, music, literature, and more. There are various events around downtown Cancun during the eight-day festival.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the wet season is the perfect time to go on a wildlife seeing trip. Get a chance to spot dozens of whale sharks on the beach and catch sea turtles nesting on the shore.

Celebrate one of the city’s biggest and most exciting parties during Mexican Independence Day . Head to the City Hall and witness the El Grito (The Call). Then, a spectacular fireworks celebration follows, accompanied by lively mariachi music, folk dancing, and partying. You can also watch the El Grito from your hotel and join parties along the hip streets of the Hotel Zone.

Held in September, the Autumn Equinox is a fascinating event where you can witness ancient Mayan rituals at different ruins. For the ultimate Autumn Equinox experience, take a day trip to Chichén Itzá for this event.

Wet Season Weather

Cancun weather by month.

Photo by Patrice_Audet on Pixabay

Cancun Weather in January

Cancun welcomes the new year with balmy weather and light rainfall in January, the least humid month of the year. The weather makes it great for exploring the ruins and downtown Cancun. The month is also perfect for those who want to take a dip in cooler waters since the ocean temperature is lower. You will still need to bring an umbrella as occasional rain showers occur during the day. However, this clears up within an hour or two.

Cancun Weather in February

The pleasant weather from January extends to February, with warmer temperatures and less rainfall. Humidity levels increase very slightly, but it still is comfortable enough for sightseeing and hiking. There is good visibility for snorkeling and warm ocean waters for swimming and other water activities.

Cancun Weather in March

March is Cancun’s second-driest month, so this is the best time to go to Cancun for good weather. The average rainfall is at its lowest, although you may experience quick rain showers once a week. Ocean temperatures rise so this is also a great month for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Since the weather isn’t too hot or dry, you can go on an adventure in the jungles and ruins or lounge under the warm sun at the beach.

Cancun Weather in April

April is the driest month of the year and is the best time to visit Cancun if you want to avoid rainy days. The days enjoy warm and sunny skies with mild humidity so you can still go on excursions. Beach lovers will love this month since the warm days are complemented by the cool ocean breeze. Towards the end of the month, the days get hotter and ocean temperatures rise.

Cancun Weather in May

From the sunny days of April, expect more humid days in May and higher chances of storms towards the end of the month. The month brings heavy clouds and high humidity levels, yet mornings and evenings remain warm. If you plan on visiting the Mayan ruins in Cancun , do so in the morning since it tends to get very hot in the afternoon. Expect the occasional rain shower which can be heavy, but these don’t last for more than an hour.

Cancun Weather in June

June marks the start of the Cancun hurricane season, with a sudden spike of rainfall. Although infrequent, rain showers are extremely heavy so it’s best to bring an umbrella whenever you go out. In addition, hurricanes are rare in Cancun, so there’s no need to worry about catching one if you visit in June. During the month, beaches and cenotes are the best places to visit to escape the high humidity levels.

Cancun Weather in July

In July, it’s best to escape the hot and stuffy days by cooling off at a beach or a cenote. Compared to June, there are fewer rainy days, but sporadic rain and humid days can affect your trip. If you plan on visiting the ruins or jungles, make sure to bring plenty of water as muggy temperatures can be uncomfortable. Despite the weather, this is the best time to go to Cancun to see the sea turtles and whale sharks.

Cancun Weather in August

By August, rainy days increase but humidity levels can rise to a staggering 80%, and you can expect a couple of hours of rain now and then. This is also the hottest month of the year, marked by both days of sunshine and cloudy skies. The first couple of weeks are humid but they eventually cool down as September approaches. Similar to July, beaches and cenotes are the best places to spend the day at.

Cancun Weather in September

September is the rainiest month of the year with plenty of intense and frequent rainfall and overall muggy weather. Rain showers last for about two or three hours. As for the humidity, it is relatively lower than in August and you can still hit the beach and enjoy the warm water temperature.

Cancun Weather in October

By October, the weather gradually improves, with balmy temperatures and clear skies towards the end of the month. Although the average rainfall starts to decrease, you can still expect more rainy days. There are no drastic changes in humidity levels between September and October, although mornings are the most humid.

Cancun Weather in November

November signals the end of Cancun’s hurricane season although there may be few instances of rainfall. Days are still humid but as the month progresses, it becomes more ideal to head back to the ruins and jungles. The ocean temperature remains the same as in the previous month, so you can still enjoy the calm waters of Cancun’s beaches.

Cancun Weather in December

By December, the weather is perfect for swimming and exploring the thick jungles and breathtaking ruins. The last month of the year boasts amazing weather from morning to evening with even less rainfall. Moreover, the weather in Cancun in December makes it perfect to go swimming and snorkeling at one of the nearby islands.

Visit Cancun Now!

Overall, the best time to visit Cancun depends on your reason for travel. Do you want to visit the Mayan ruins or take a day trip to see Chichén Itzá or Las Coloradas? Are you okay with traveling during the rainy season? Or are you particular with traveling with crowds? Before booking that plane ticket, it’s important to ask yourself these questions.

Now that you’ve gained enough knowledge on Cancun’s weather and travel seasons, planning your dream getaway is now easier. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your swimwear and sunscreen and get ready for a vacation to remember in Cancun!

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Best Time to Visit Cancun

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Were November in the Playacar district a week.1 day of rain otherwise best weather.

Weather Rating: 5 stars – Excellent

On the first evening a little shower, otherwise always bright and sunny. Temperatures at 25-30 °C and sea water pleasantly warm.

Weather Rating: 4 stars – Good

Best travel weather At night from time to time light rain showers also times a thunderstorm which was very spectacular

We’ve been in Cancun for 10 days. The weather was mostly good. Warm, sunny and pleasant. However, the waves were constantly very strong and the red flag waved every day.

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The Ultimate Guide of Things to Do in Cancun, Mexico

• Destinations

Welcome, amigos, to the ultimate guide on all things to do in Cancun! If visiting this awesome city is on your bucket list, then you’re in the right place. Cancun is so much more than just a typical beach vacation spot or a cruise port––it’s a whole experience waiting to be explored.

And trust me, this is one adventure you won’t want to miss out on. 

Whether you’re seeking ultimate relaxation on the white sand beaches of Cancun’s all-inclusive resorts or channeling your inner Indiana Jones zip-lining through the jungle, this guide has got you covered. Whatever your travel style, there really is something for everyone in Cancun Mexico.

Drawing from personal experience, we’ll provide an insider’s look at the diverse range of activities awaiting you on your vacation to Cancun, Mexico. From snapping a selfie at the iconic colorful Cancun sign to exploring local culture in Mexico City’s ancient ruins, there’s something for every type of traveler.

So grab your sunscreen, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to dive headfirst into the magic of Cancun Mexico. With our guide in hand, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Trust us, this is one journey you won’t want to miss!

12 Things to Do in Cancun, Mexico

Of all the places to visit in Mexico , Cancun stands out as one of the most popular––and for a very good reason. When you visit Cancun, you might just assume it’s all about the spring break party life, live music, or maybe just the beaches. But believe it or not, there’s so much more!

We’ve collected a range of things to do in the vibrant atmosphere of Cancun to suit every type of traveler. Let’s get to it!

1. Explore Downtown Cancun

Whether you’re taking a cruise to Cancun or flying in, downtown Cancun is the spot to hit if you’re trying to get away from the beachfront resorts and explore the local culture. Stroll through bustling streets lined with colorful markets, lively street performers, and bustling crowds. 

Don’t forget to try all the street food you can eat! Tacos, tamales, and empanadas–yum! Afterwards, wash it down with some Mexico City spirit by taking part in a tequila tasting. Not only can you sample a variety of tequilas, but you can also learn about the distillation process from experts. 

You can even watch traditional music and dance performances, a great opportunity to hang out with the locals if you’re craving the opportunity to really dip your feet into Cancun’s heritage.

2. Go Scuba Diving

If you’re seeking the sea life, then Cancun is the place for you. There’s a whole underwater world right off the shore. The area’s warm waters make it an ideal spot for scuba divers seeking to explore the Mexican coast and the Caribbean ocean. 

Off the coast of Cancun and extending along the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll find the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. This spot is the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making it one of the best to spot tropical fish and sea turtles.

If you’re nervous about water sports, don’t worry. Guided dives can take you to underwater caves, coral gardens, and ancient shipwrecks. Whether you’re an experienced diver or slippin’ on those fins for the first time, this is the spot for you!

3. Visit Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a small island located just off the coast of Cancun, in the Caribbean Sea. You can take a ferry from Cancun in about 20 minutes. So what do you do there? A LOT!

Oh, the beaches! 

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Playa Norte (North Beach) is super popular for its calm, shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. And on that note!

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Isla Mujeres are full of marine life and gorgeous coral reefs. This is one of the top spots for snorkeling and scuba diving, so if you’re ready to dive beneath the surface, add this spot to your list. 

Golf Cart Rentals

However, if you’re the kind of traveler who would prefer to stay on land, don’t worry, Isla Mujeres is still for you. Explore Isla Mujeres by renting a golf cart and cruising around at your own pace. Definitely check out Punta Sur, where cliffs jut out over the Caribbean on the southernmost point of the island. 

Isla Mujeres Turtle Farm

If you’re eager to see a cute little seat turtle up close and personal, then make sure you visit the Isla Mujeres turtle farm! Here you can learn about these fascinating creatures and how to help keep them safe! 

Swim with Whale Sharks

Yep! You read that right! Swimming with whale sharks is a popular attraction here. The waters near Isla Mujeres are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System and every year from May to September, these gentle giants migrate to the warm waters to feed on plankton.

If swimming with whale sharks has always been on your bucket list, then this is the spot to do it. Just make sure you book your guided tour with a reputable tour company to ensure not only your safety, but the safety of the whale sharks! 

4.Visit Puerto Morelos

Take a day trip about twenty miles south of Cancun to Puerto Morelos, an awesome destination if you’re a nature lover or adventure seeker. The quaint little seaside town lines the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, making it great for snorkeling or diving.

It’s also known for its cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear freshwater. You can even take a guided tour to swim in these unique geological formations. Puerto Morelos has a long history as a fishing village, making it great if you want to test out your skills. 

5. Take a Trip to Cancun’s Hotel Zone

Cancun Hotel Zone is a long, narrow strip of land full of all-inclusive resorts . It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches and world-class resorts. You can also explore outdoor shopping malls, dine at waterfront restaurants, and party at nightclubs.

Here’s a list of just a few things you can do around the Cancun Hotel Zone. 

Playa Delfines (Delfines Beach)

Playa Delfines is an exceptional spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Even better, it’s one of the few public beaches in the Hotel Zone, offering free access for visitors.

Cancun Interactive Aquarium

This family-friendly spot lets guests get up close with marine life. Feed stingrays, swim with dolphins, and even snorkel in the aquarium’s tanks. The aquarium offers an interactive approach to marine conservation.

La Isla Shopping Village

La Isla shopping village is a sprawling outdoor complex with a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots. Stroll along the canals, shop for souvenirs, dine at waterfront restaurants, or even take a boat tour of the lagoon.

Cancun Wax Museum

Check out this unique museum and get close to lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and pop culture icons. Take selfies with your favorite stars and learn about their contributions to art, culture, and history.

Coco Bongo is a world-famous nightclub and entertainment venue, making it the spot to be if you want to hear live music, DJ sets, or even acrobatic performances. It’s a lively atmosphere, making it the place to stop if you’re ready to dance the night away.

Maya Cancun Museum

Another awesome museum, make sure you swing by if you want to learn all about the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilization. See exhibits of artifacts, artworks, and archaeological findings and learn how the ancient Mayan civilization contributed to Mesoamerican culture.

Parasailing

A must for any beach vacation, try your hand at parasailing, a popular activity in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Soar high above the turquoise waters and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

El Rey Ruins

The El Rey Ruins are a smaller archaeological site located within the Cancun Hotel Zone and offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient Mayan ruins in a more accessible location than other ruins like Chichen Itza. 

6. Explore Ancient Maya Ruins

Who needs adventure parks when you have ancient Mayan ruins to explore? There are several nearby archaeological spots that are listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Among them is the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, located several hours west of Cancun. 

Chichen Itza is known for its well-preserved ruins and is close enough that you can make it a day trip to see all the sights. El Rey ruins is also a famous archaeological site, making it one of those Mayan ruins you won’t want to miss. 

7. Visit the Underwater Museum

The underwater museum, known as the Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA), is located near Cancun, Mexico off the coast of Isla Mujeres and Punta Nizuc. It’s one of the world’s most unique attractions, featuring a collection of over 500 sculptures submerged in the crystal-clear waters.

You can visit the museum by snorkeling, diving, or even taking glass-bottom boat tours. The sculptures, made from specialized materials designed to promote coral growth, serve as artificial reefs and provide habitats for marine life. 

8. Take a trip to the Riviera Maya

So what’s the difference between the Riviera Maya and Cancun? The Riviera Maya is a stunning stretch of coastline along the Yucatan Peninsula stretching from Cancun to the town of Tulum. The coastline is popular for swimming and diving, but is also home to many Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza.

If visiting an archaeological site is already crossed off your list, then check out the eco-parks for zip-lining, river tubing, and jungle treks. Visit traditional Mayan villages, attend cultural festivals, and eat some of that yummy Mexican food.

9. Make it a Beach Vacation

While most tourists are hitting Cancun for the beaches, it’s important to note that not all are the same. Playa del Carmen and Playa Norte are top choices if you’re seeking to relax along the Yucatan Peninsula in the Riviera Maya.

Playa del Carmen is an awesome public beach if you want to test your skills at water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

On the northern tip of Isla Mujeres you’ll find Playa Norte, a picture-perfect public beach, ideal for a day trip by the sea. For those seeking a quieter and more secluded beach experience, check out Chac Mool in the Hotel Zone of Cancun.

10. Visit a National Park

Who needs theme parks when you’re surrounded by so much nature? There are several remarkable natural reserves and protected areas in the surrounding area around Cancun that are definitely worth exploring:

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Located south of Tulum, Sian Ka’an is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest protected areas in Mexico. This vast biosphere reserve includes wetlands, mangroves, forests, and coral reefs. Take a guided boat tour through the wetlands and go bird-watching! 

Isla Contoy National Park

Situated off the Caribbean waters of Cancun, Isla Contoy is a small uninhabited island that serves as a crucial nesting site for seabirds and marine turtles. This is one of the best spots if you want to observe wildlife in its natural environment.

Rio Secreto Natural Reserve

If you want to spend time in nature, then definitely check this spot out. Rio Secreto is a unique underground river system where you can explore subterranean cave networks on guided tours. 

11. Take Part in a Temazcal Ceremony

If you’re hoping to spend time in Cancun learning about culture, then there’s no better experience than a Temazcal Ceremony. This traditional Mayan ritual dates back thousands of years and is better known as a sweat lodge ceremony.

The experience, conducted by a shaman, involves a spiritual cleansing and purification process where participants gather inside a small, dome-shaped structure made of stone or clay. The shaman leads you through a series of rituals, prayers, and chants, all with the goal of spiritual and physical healing.

The shaman pours water infused with medicinal herbs onto heated volcanic stones, creating steam, a sweat lodge, where you’re encouraged to reflect, meditate, and connect with yourself and the natural world by detoxifying your body.

12. Go to a Mexican Wrestling Event

Mexican wrestling, also known as Lucha Libre, is a type of professional wrestling that has deep cultural roots in Mexico. Lucha Libre features high-flying acrobatics, colorful masks, and theatrical performances that captivate audiences of all ages.

Of all the fun activities in Cancun, this is one of the more unique. These matches are popular in Mexican Caribbean culture and offer an entertaining glimpse into Mexican culture and tradition. 

So there you have it! Proof that Cancun is so much more than a party town. From scuba diving with tropical fish and sea turtles in the natural beauty of the Caribbean sea to exploring Chichen Itza, there’s something for everyone. 

Visit Cancun for a day trip or spend time to make this a fun experience you won’t soon forget.

Best Cancun Airport Shuttle (2024)

Are you looking for the best Cancun airport shuttle? I’m here to help!

I lived in Cancun and have flown in and out of the airport several times. Getting out of the airport and to your hotel can be tedious. You just want to start your vacation and not hassle with people trying to sell you stuff.

Don’t worry. I have the answer you’re looking for: Cancun Airport Transportation . Yep, that’s their name. And what they do! I’ve used them many times and they’re the only Cancun shuttle I recommend.

Cancun Airport Transportation

• Flat rate for up to 8 passengers
• Reliable service
• Transfers to Cancun and Riviera Maya

Best Cancun Airport Shuttle

Why do I consider Cancun Airport Transportation to be the best shuttle in Cancun? For several reasons. Let’s take a look at all their features. I’ll also list some of their cons so you can be sure this is the right shuttle for you.

Cancun Airport Transportation Features

1. flat rate for up to 8 people.

Imagine landing in Cancun and knowing your ride to the Hotel Zone is sorted for as little as $5.50 per person, assuming you’re rolling with a crew of eight.

It’s a deal that takes the hassle out of haggling for fares or worrying about hidden charges. This feature is especially appealing for families or groups aiming to keep travel costs low without sacrificing comfort and convenience.

2. Transportation Options Throughout Riviera Maya

Whether your itinerary calls for the ruins of Tulum, the island vibes of Cozumel , or the tranquil shores of Puerto Morelos, Cancun Airport Transportation has got your back.

Their coverage across Riviera Maya ensures that your dream destination is never out of reach. It’s about offering you the freedom to explore this beautiful region with ease.

3. Great Rates

We’re talking competitive pricing that fits neatly into your travel budget. Whether your stay is long or short, and no matter how far off the beaten path you’re headed, Cancun Airport Transportation offers some of the best rates out there.

It’s about maximizing your vacation dollars, so you have more to spend on experiences and adventures that matter.

4. Private Shuttles

Say goodbye to cramped, shared rides where you’re stopping every other block. With Cancun Airport Transportation, your shuttle is yours and yours alone.

This means direct service to your destination without any unwanted detours. It’s not just about privacy; it’s about ensuring a smooth, stress-free start to your vacation.

5. Easy to Book

Cancun Airport Transportation’s booking process is straightforward, ensuring that securing your ride is as breezy as a Caribbean beach. A few clicks and you’re all set, leaving you more time to daydream about the warm sands and turquoise waters waiting for you.

Cons of Cancun Airport Transportation

While I love their service, there are some downsides to Cancun Airport Transportation. Let’s take a look.

• Higher Cost for Solo Travelers: If you’re adventuring solo, the appeal of a private shuttle might dim a bit when you consider the cost. Since you’re not splitting the fare with others, the price per ride is significantly higher compared to shared shuttle services or public transportation. It’s a premium convenience that comes at a price, which might not fit into every solo traveler’s budget.
• Less Interaction with Fellow Travelers: One of the hidden joys of shared transportation is meeting people from all walks of life. With a private shuttle, you miss out on the chance to exchange stories or tips, or even make new friends on your way to the hotel. For some, this social aspect of travel is a cherished part of the experience.
• Limited Spontaneity: Booking a private shuttle often requires planning and reservations in advance. This might limit your flexibility if you’re the type to make spur-of-the-moment decisions or if your travel plans change at the last minute. While it ensures a smooth ride to your destination, it does mean you’re a bit locked into your schedule.

My Experience With Cancun Airport Transportation

My experiences with Cancun Airport Transportation have been nothing short of fantastic.

After a long day of flights and layovers, then getting through customs , the sight of my driver holding up a sign with my name on it was a beacon of comfort.

There’s something incredibly reassuring about knowing someone is there specifically for you, ready to whisk you away to your destination without a hitch. The convenience and ease of this service were worth every penny. It was as if the vacation vibe started the moment I met my driver, setting the tone for a stress-free stay.

There was no hassle of negotiating fares, no stress of finding a reputable taxi, and certainly no confusion about where to go. It was seamless, from finding my driver to stepping out at my destination.

Who is Cancun Airport Transportation Best For?

Cancun Airport Transportation caters to a diverse array of travelers seeking seamless and reliable transport in Cancun. Here’s a quick look at who will benefit most from their services:

• Families and Groups: Their flat-rate deals for up to 8 people make it a cost-effective and convenient option, ensuring everyone sticks together from the get-go.
• Solo Travelers and Couples: For those valuing privacy, safety, and convenience, the service offers a stress-free start to your vacation, albeit at a higher cost.
• Business Travelers: With punctual and efficient service, it’s ideal for professionals who need a reliable ride without wasting any time.
• First-Time Visitors: Navigating a new place can be daunting. Having a driver ready upon arrival eases travel anxiety, offering a warm welcome to Cancun.

In short, Cancun Airport Transportation is perfect for anyone looking for comfort, ease, and a worry-free journey to their destination in Cancun and Riviera Maya.

Cancun Airport Transportation Vehicles and Pricing

Cancun Airport Transportation offers a variety of vehicle types to meet the diverse needs and preferences of travelers. Whether you’re looking for affordability, luxury, or the capacity to transport a large group, they have options tailored to every requirement.

Here’s a breakdown of their pricing and vehicle types:

Private Transportation

• Vehicle: VW Transporter
• Capacity: Up to 8 passengers (including kids/infants)
• Pricing: Starting from $44 USD
• Overview: This service is perfect for families or small groups seeking a private and comfortable ride directly to their destination.

Luxury Transportation SUV

• Vehicle: Suburban or Similar
• Capacity: Up to 6 passengers (including kids/infants)
• Pricing: Starting from $79 USD
• Overview: Opt for a touch of luxury with spacious and upscale SUVs, ideal for smaller groups or families looking for a bit more comfort and style.

Premium Transportation SUV

• Vehicle: Cadillac
• Capacity: Up to 5 passengers (including kids/infants)
• Pricing: Starting from $146 USD
• Overview: This premium option offers the ultimate luxury experience, with top-of-the-line vehicles for those who demand the best in comfort and elegance.

Group Transportation Semi-Bus

• Vehicle: VW Crafter, Transit, or similar
• Capacity: Up to 16 people (including kids/infants)
• Overview: Designed for larger groups, this option ensures everyone stays together, making it perfect for big family gatherings or groups of friends.

Limo Transportation

• Vehicle: Chrysler 300 or Suburban
• Capacity: 11 – 14 people)
• Pricing: Starting from $249 USD
• Overview: For those special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself, the limo service adds a layer of luxury and exclusivity to your arrival or departure.

Each service is tailored to provide convenience, comfort, and style, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every traveler’s needs. Whether you prioritize budget, luxury, or the capacity to accommodate a large party, Cancun Airport Transportation has you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Cancun Airport Shuttle

What is the cost of a cancun airport shuttle to the hotel zone.

Starting from $44 USD for a private VW Transporter that accommodates up to 8 passengers.

Can I book a shuttle from Cancun Airport to Tulum?

Yes, transportation is available to all destinations, including Tulum, with various vehicle options to suit your needs.

Are children counted as passengers in the shuttle?

Yes, kids and infants are considered passengers in vehicle capacity counts.

How do I find my shuttle at Cancun Airport?

Your driver will be waiting for you with a sign displaying your name outside the arrivals terminal.

What if my flight is delayed?

The shuttle service monitors flight statuses and adjusts pickup times accordingly, ensuring your driver is there when you arrive.

Do I need to tip my shuttle driver?

Tipping is not included in the fare, so it’s appreciated for good service but at your discretion.

Wrap-Up: Is Cancun Airport Transportation Worth It?

For me, Cancun Airport Transportation is the best choice for getting out of the airport. They have the best prices I’ve found and are super reliable.

Whether you’re looking for an economical ride for a large group, a luxurious SUV for a special vacation, or a sleek limo to start your trip in style, there’s an option available for you.

With competitive pricing, a range of vehicle types to choose from, and the convenience of having a driver waiting upon your arrival, the stress of airport transfers becomes a thing of the past.

Related Posts

• Guide to Getting Through Cancun Customs Quickly and Easily
• 7-Day Cancun Itinerary: Best Things to See and Do
• Cancun or Cozumel: Which is Better for Your Vacation?
• Best Time to Visit Xcaret in Mexico
• Best Tours For Scuba Diving in Cancun
• How to Get to Cozumel From Cancun – and Back Again
• Is Cozumel Safer Than Cancun?
• Adventurous Things to Do in Cancun
• 25 Amazing Cenotes for Mexico Cave Diving
• How to Get From Cancun to Tulum

Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips

Do i need travel insurance.

YES . No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing . They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company . They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe  — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.

You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels,  Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels,  check out Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to  check VRBO , which is often cheaper with more options.

What do I pack for Mexico?

  My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.

What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Probably Not . U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa  check the Mexican Consulate’s website.

For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa .

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