Best Time to Visit Cabo: Month-by-Month Breakdown

No place epitomizes endless sunshine, stunning beaches, and spectacular sea life quite like Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. With long white-sand beaches, warm and clear waters perfect for surfing and snorkeling, and an abundance of marine life, it truly is the ‘aquarium of the world’. ^[1] Throw in a vibrant downtown area with delicious cocktails and seafood, plus plenty of outdoor adventures like ATV excursions and zip lining, and it’s easy to see why knowing the best time to visit Cabo is so important. ^[1] ^[2]

While the weather in Cabo is excellent all year round, making any time a good time to visit, there are still ideal months for certain activities and avoiding peak crowds. ^[1] ^[3] This guide breaks down the pros and cons of visiting Cabo San Lucas month-by-month, factoring in weather conditions, peak tourist seasons, water activities, outdoor adventures, and pricing to help you plan your perfect Cabo vacation. ^[3] ^[4]

Ideal Weather Conditions

Cabo San Lucas enjoys an arid Sonoro Gulf Coast Desert climate, averaging over 350 days a year of sunshine. ^[6] If you’re wondering what the weather will be like during your vacation, the answer is sunny. ^[6] Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 61°F to 91°F and is rarely below 56°F or above 96°F. ^[5] ^[7]

The climate of Cabo San Lucas is tropical desert, with a pleasantly warm winter from December to March, and a hot summer from May to October, within which there is a relatively rainy period from July to September. ^[8] On the hottest days of the year, which can occur from May to October, the temperature generally reaches 38/39°C (100/102°F). ^[8] In summer, the temperature is slightly lower than in the neighboring city of San José del Cabo, and the muggiest month is September due to gradually increasing humidity. ^[8]

The Hottest Months: July to October

The hot season lasts for 4.3 months, from June 16 to October 25, with an average daily high temperature above 89°F. ^[5] ^[7] The hottest months are July to October, with average highs ranging from 94°F to 96°F. ^[6] ^[9]

The Coolest Months: December to February

The coolest months are December to February, with average highs of 74°F to 81°F. ^[6] ^[9] The coldest month is January, with an average low of 61°F and high of 79°F. ^[5] ^[7]

Periods with The most Pleasant Weather:

The most pleasant weather is typically from June to mid-July and mid-October to mid-December, with average highs in the 80s and 90s and lows in the 60s and 70s. ^[6] Based on the beach/pool score, the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas for hot-weather activities is from mid-May to late June. ^[5] ^[7] Based on the tourism score, the best time for general outdoor tourist activities is from early November to mid-June, with a peak in the second week of March. ^[5] ^[7] For a beach holiday, you may prefer May (when the sea is still a little cool) and the first half of November (when the sea is warmer). ^[8]

Water Activities and Conditions

Cabo San Lucas is a prime destination for water enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities and ideal conditions throughout the year. ^[15] ^[16] ^[11]

Cabo’s Appeal for Water Enthusiasts

The pristine waters of the Sea of Cortez and the landscape of the Baja Peninsula provide an unsurpassed playground for fun, from kayaking and para-sailing to hiking and off-road adventures. ^[12] With a passion for the abundant natural riches of Los Cabos, experienced teams take participants to some of the region’s best surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking destinations. ^[12]

The Best Times for Surfing, Snorkeling, and Diving Based on Wave Conditions and Marine Life

The best times for surfing, snorkeling, and diving in Cabo are typically during the summer months when the water is warmest and the marine life is most active. ^[15] ^[11] The best time for surfing in Cabo is typically during the summer months when the Pacific swells are at their peak, providing excellent waves for both beginners and experienced surfers. ^[16] Snorkeling and diving are also popular activities, with the best conditions often found during the winter months when the water is calmer and the marine life is more abundant. ^[16]

Best Cabo Tour Options for Surfing Lessons, Paddle-Boarding Tours, and Snorkeling Excursions

Visitors can enjoy surfing lessons, paddle-boarding tours, and snorkeling excursions to explore the vibrant underwater world and take advantage of the region’s natural beauty. ^[15] ^[11] They can enjoy a range of water-based tours and activities, including surfing lessons, paddle-boarding excursions, and snorkeling trips to explore the vibrant underwater world around Cabo. ^[16]

Cabo San Lucas boasts a variety of surf spots suitable for surfers of different skill levels, such as Zippers, The Rock, Pescadito, Playa Monumento, and La Roca. ^[13] The best time for surfing in Cabo San Jose largely depends on skill level and preferences, but generally, the optimal time is during the summer and early fall months from June to September when the swells and offshore winds create ideal conditions. ^[13]

Avoiding Peak Tourist Seasons

One of the best ways to avoid peak tourist crowds and high prices in Cabo San Lucas is to plan your visit during the off-peak or low season. ^[21] ^[17] This typically falls between July and September, which coincides with the rainy season in Cabo. ^[21] ^[17] While you may encounter occasional rain showers, the benefits of visiting during this time can outweigh the risks.

Benefits of Visiting During Off-Peak Periods

Locals in Los Cabos embrace the rainy season, and you can too: ^[21]

Take advantage of lower prices on resorts, tours, and at restaurants. By booking a vacation during the Los Cabos rainy season, the money you’ll save on flights and your stay can easily be used to pack your vacation full of unique adventures. ^[21]
You’ll find fewer crowds on tours, at restaurants, and lounging on the beach, which means you’ll have more room to spread out and less lines to wait in throughout your vacation. ^[21]
One of the main advantages of visiting during the low season is that it is much quieter and less crowded than during the high season, allowing you to enjoy the town’s attractions without dealing with large crowds or long lines. ^[17]
Prices for accommodations and activities are also much lower during the low season, making it a great time to visit if you’re on a budget. ^[17] ^[18]

Avoiding Spring Break and Winter Holidays for Fewer Crowds

While the low season offers many benefits, it’s generally advisable to avoid visiting Cabo San Lucas during peak travel periods like Spring Break (typically March-April) and winter holidays, when crowds and prices tend to be at their highest. ^[19]

Visiting During the Rainy Season (September) for Quieter Beaches and Lower Prices

If you’re willing to take a chance on the occasional rain shower, visiting Cabo San Lucas during the rainy season, particularly in September, can be an excellent time to enjoy quieter beaches, fewer crowds, and significantly lower prices on accommodations, tours, and activities. ^[17] ^[18] ^[19]

The rainy season is from July to October, and the temperature of the Sea of Cortez averages around 22°C (72°F) during the summer months but can reach up to 29°C (84°F). ^[17] Despite the potential for rain, many visitors find the trade-off worthwhile for the reduced crowds and costs.

Outdoor Cabo Adventures and Hiking

Cabo San Lucas offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and hiking opportunities for nature enthusiasts, showcasing the region’s unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes. ^[23] ^[25]

Cabo’s Most Popular Natural Attractions: Cabo Pulmo National Park and Fox Canyon

One of the area’s most renowned natural attractions is Cabo Pulmo National Park, a protected marine area located on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. ^[27] ^[28] It is home to one of the oldest living coral reef systems in North America and is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant underwater world. ^[27] ^[28]

Another must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts is Fox Canyon, a scenic hiking spot near Cabo San Lucas. ^[27] ^[28] Its trails wind through dramatic rock formations and desert landscapes, offering hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the region’s unique flora and fauna. ^[27] ^[28] ^[26]

Cooler Months for Comfortable Hiking Conditions

The winter and spring months, with their milder temperatures and lower humidity, are generally considered the most comfortable times for hiking in the Cabo area. ^[27] ^[28] During these seasons, visitors can enjoy pleasant temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for exploring the desert and canyon trails without excessive heat or discomfort. ^[24]

Guided Hiking Tours as a Way to Explore the Area’s Unique Biodiversity

Many tour operators in Cabo offer guided hiking excursions that allow visitors to explore the area’s unique biodiversity with the assistance of knowledgeable local guides. ^[28] These guided tours not only provide a safe and enjoyable hiking experience but also offer insights into the region’s natural wonders, including the diverse plant and animal life found in the desert and canyon environments. ^[23]

Finding the Best Cabo Deals

One of the best ways to find great deals and save money on your Cabo vacation is to plan your trip during the low season, which typically falls between July and September. ^[29] ^[30] This period coincides with the rainy season in Cabo, but don’t let that deter you – the benefits of visiting during this time can outweigh the risks.

Pro Tip: Visiting During the Low Season (Rainy Season)

Visiting Cabo during the low season offers several advantages, including:

Lower prices on resorts, tours, and dining, allowing you to pack your vacation with unique adventures without breaking the bank. ^[21] ^[29]
Fewer crowds at popular attractions, restaurants, and beaches, meaning more space to spread out and less time waiting in lines. ^[21] ^[29]
A quieter, less crowded atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy the town’s attractions without dealing with large crowds or long lines. ^[17] ^[29]

The Potential for Lower Accommodation Rates and Discounted Activities

One of the main advantages of visiting Cabo during the low season is the significant reduction in prices for accommodations and activities. ^[29] ^[30] With fewer tourists, hotels and tour operators often offer discounted rates and special offers, allowing you to stretch your budget further.

For example, you may find all-inclusive resort packages at a fraction of their peak season prices, making it an excellent option for those seeking a hassle-free vacation experience. ^[32] Additionally, travel sites like Hotels.com, Expedia, Airbnb, and VRBO can help you find great deals on accommodations, from hotels to rental condos and apartments. ^[32]

Pro Tip: Weather and Activities Are Still Enjoyable During This Period

While the rainy season in Cabo may bring occasional showers, the weather is still generally warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 85°F (29°C). ^[17] ^[29] Many visitors find the trade-off of slightly higher chances of rain worthwhile for the reduced crowds and costs.

Furthermore, water activities like snorkeling, diving, and surfing remain enjoyable during this period, with the added benefit of fewer people in the water. ^[15] ^[16] Outdoor adventures like hiking and ATV tours are also available, allowing you to explore Cabo’s unique landscapes and biodiversity without the intense heat of the peak season.

Ultimately, if you’re willing to take a chance on the occasional rain shower, visiting Cabo during the low season, particularly in September, can be an excellent time to enjoy quieter beaches, fewer crowds, and significantly lower prices on accommodations, tours, and activities. ^[17] ^[18] ^[19] ^[29] ^[30]

Practical Tips and Considerations

Simple Advice for Planning a Trip to Cabo San Lucas

When planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas, it’s crucial to consider several practical factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. ^[39] Cabo San Lucas is a popular tourist destination located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula in Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to natural wonders like the Sea of Cortez. ^[37]

Factors Like Flight Availability, Event Schedules, and Personal Preferences

Flight availability and event schedules should be taken into account when planning your trip. ^[39] Flights to Cabo can be more expensive during peak travel seasons, so it’s advisable to book well in advance. ^[39] Additionally, many of Cabo’s top attractions and events have specific schedules, so researching and planning accordingly is important. ^[39]

Personal preferences also play a significant role in determining the best time to visit Cabo. The most popular time to travel is during the winter and early spring, although prices tend to be higher during this period. ^[37] Summer is another peak season, offering a lively and animated ambiance despite the heat. ^[37] Autumn, with fewer crowds and lower prices, may be an ideal option for some, although there is an increased chance of rainfall. ^[37]

Timing Your Trip: Research and Book Activities in Advance

Visitors to Cabo should also be prepared to book activities and excursions in advance, as popular options like snorkeling, diving, and whale watching can sell out quickly, especially during high season. ^[39] By planning ahead, travelers can ensure they experience the activities and attractions most important to them. ^[39]

It’s essential to know where you want to stay in Cabo, as there are two distinct areas: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. ^[37] Cabo San Lucas is the resort town filled with hotels, nightclubs, bars, and a lively marina with restaurants and activities. ^[37] San Jose del Cabo, on the other hand, is an older, more residential town with a more traditional Mexican atmosphere and cultural hotspots. ^[37]

Another crucial consideration is being prepared for water and sun. As a coastal city near the equator, Cabo has an abundance of ocean waters and sunlight. ^[37] Knowing how to swim is essential, and following lifeguard instructions and checking tides and weather reports before swimming is vital for safety. ^[37] Packing ample sunscreen and appropriate clothing for outdoor excursions is also recommended. ^[37]

Managing your money is equally important when traveling to Cabo. Knowing when to exchange U.S. dollars for pesos based on the exchange rate can help you save money. ^[37] While U.S. dollars are widely accepted, it’s advisable to carry a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards, as many places in Cabo do not accept credit or debit cards. ^[37]

Finally, don’t forget your documents. Traveling to and from Mexico requires a Tourist Card (FMT), which can be obtained at the airport with proof of citizenship, such as a passport or other accepted forms of identification. ^[37] Keeping a copy of the Tourist Card is essential, as it will be needed when leaving Mexico. ^[37]

Conclusion: Best Time to Visit Cabo San Lucus

Cabo San Lucas offers an unparalleled vacation experience, with its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and diverse range of activities. Whether you’re seeking an action-packed adventure or a relaxing getaway, this captivating destination has something to offer throughout the year. To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to consider the weather, peak tourist seasons, water conditions, and your personal preferences when deciding the best time to visit.

Each month presents its own unique set of pros and cons for a Cabo vacation. The winter months (December to February) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds but higher prices. Spring (March to May) brings peak tourist season with lively but crowded conditions. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with occasional rain showers but lower prices and fewer tourists. Fall (September to November) presents a sweet spot with milder weather, quieter beaches, and discounted rates, albeit with a higher chance of rain.

FAQs

When is the Optimal Time to Visit Cabo San Lucas?

The prime months for a visit to Cabo San Lucas are May and June. This period follows the departure of the winter crowds and precedes the onset of summer storms, offering a pleasant experience for visitors.

What Months Should I Consider or Avoid When Planning a Trip to Cabo?

For an exceptional visit, aim for the months of April through June, when Cabo San Lucas is at its finest. It’s advisable to steer clear of August and September, as these months may present less favorable weather conditions.

When Does Cabo Experience Its Rainy Season?

Cabo’s rainy season aligns with Mexico’s hurricane season, stretching from July to October. September sees the bulk of this precipitation, although it doesn’t rain daily. The weather is typically hot and humid, with an average of four rainy days in the month, accumulating to about 3.75 inches of rainfall.

What is the Duration of the Hurricane Season in Cabo?

The hurricane season in Cabo spans from May 15 to November 30. Despite its lengthy duration, the majority of storm activity tends to occur in September, often resulting in minimal disruption. Visitors might experience a few days of elevated winds and waves, but significant impacts are uncommon.

References