When to Visit Los Cabos: A Seasonal Guide
Picture-perfect Los Cabos offers a stunning desert-meets-sea aesthetic, with gorgeous golden rock formations that tumble down to the wide-open Pacific Ocean.
Located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Los Cabos is home to the anchor cities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, both of which are filled with top-tier hotels and a wide array of all-inclusive resorts. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Los Cabos has rapidly become one of Mexico’s leading tourist destinations.
However, there is much more to this region than sprawling beach resorts. Known for its world-class water sports, diving, yachting, and cultural events, Cabo has distinct factors to consider for visit timing. The winter and spring high season typically provide mild and dry weather, but it coincides with the highest prices. Conversely, summer’s low season often features the lowest prices but requires caution due to potential extreme weather.
To help you decide the best time for your Los Cabos trip, here’s a detailed season-by-season, month-by-month guide.
December to April: High Season for Perfect Weather
Most tourists consider this high season the best time to visit Cabo, with average temperatures between 77 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Thanks to cool breezes from the Pacific, visitors can expect sunny days and cooler desert nights. With less than 1.5 inches (or under 3.5cm) of rain during these months, the risk of rain is minimal.
During this period, outdoor adventures like ATV riding and hiking are optimal. Moreover, winter is the prime time for whale watching, where you can spot gray whales, humpback whales, and even whale sharks enjoying the warm ocean waters.
However, with the influx of visitors, expect large crowds and higher prices during the winter holidays (Christmas and New Year’s) and spring break (March and April).
May to June: Spring Shoulder Season for a Quieter Atmosphere
Los Cabos’ late spring shoulder season offers a secret gem for travelers. The pleasant temperatures paired with fewer crowds lead to lower prices. Visitors who prefer a calmer atmosphere will find tranquility as the spring break crowds dissipate. Additionally, the sea warms to the mid-70s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for swimming.
For the best swimming beaches, consider Medano Beach near Cabo San Lucas Marina, Lovers Beach at Land’s End, or Santa Maria Beach along the Tourist Corridor. With generally dry weather, this period is perfect for beach enjoyment and relaxation.
July to September: Rainy Season with the Lowest Prices
As summer rolls into early fall, temperatures climb into the 90s Fahrenheit during the day, accompanied by high humidity and occasional rain. While the rain may deter sunbathing, it transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise.
During this peak of hurricane season, monitoring the weather forecasts is crucial due to the potential for storms. However, this rainy season also means thinner crowds and lower hotel rates, making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
October to November: Fall Shoulder Season for Good Weather and Deals
By October, the Pacific hurricane season begins to wind down. With lower but rising temperatures and significantly reduced rainfall compared to the summer months, this shoulder season is appealing. November sees excellent weather, making it ideal for activities in and around Los Cabos as well.
With rising prices ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, travelers looking for discounted rates should consider visiting in October for the lowest prices before the peak season resumes.
Month-by-Month Overview
January
January is the coolest month in Los Cabos, with daytime highs exceeding 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect significant crowds and elevated hotel prices due to New Year’s celebrations.
Key events: El Día de los Reyes Magos, Todos Santos Tropic of Cancer Music & Arts Festival.
February
February offers plenty of sunny days with thinner crowds, creating a pleasant atmosphere before the spring break rush. Temperatures remain comfortable.
Key events: Todos Santos Art Festival, Los Cabos Half Marathon.
March
March sees a rise in temperatures with the start of spring break, attracting families and younger travelers. The atmosphere becomes vibrant with festivities.
Key events: Cheese & Wine Festival.
April
April marks the wind-down of spring break, with Semana Santa festivities increasing crowds. Expect lively beach scenes and high room rates.
Key events: Spring Break, Semana Santa.
May
May brings warm weather and vibrant energy, especially for boating and surfing enthusiasts. Surf season typically runs from May through October, making it a popular time for aquatic activities.
Key events: Cabo Marine Show.
June
June retains the heat and closeness to summer, with minimal rainfall but numerous events. Visitors can enjoy surf competitions, music festivals, and golf tournaments.
Key events: Los Cabos Open of Surf, Fiesta de la Música.
July
July brings peak summer heat and starts turtle-nesting season. Expect beddings of tourists enjoying beach vacations, leading to crowded beaches.
Key events: East Cape Dorado Shootout.
August
August continues with high temperatures and increased humidity, as thunderstorms occasionally roll through. Fishing remains highly popular.
Key events: East Cape Bisbee Tournament, Festival del Mango Todos Santos.
September
September typically experiences heavy rains and the strongest storms of the hurricane season. Be prepared for possible prolonged rain.
Key events: Mexican Independence Day.
October
By October, storm frequency decreases, and hotel rates begin to rise in anticipation of peak season. It’s a time of preparation for the busy holiday months ahead.
Key events: Los Cabos Billfish Tournament.
November
As November arrives, temperatures drop slightly, signaling the onset of peak season. It’s advisable to book hotels early due to increasing prices.
Key events: Day of the Dead, Los Cabos International Film Festival.
December
The holiday season begins in December, attracting swathes of visitors. Expectations for crowds are high, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, along with increasing hotel costs.
Key events: Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival, Sabor a Cabo Festival, New Year’s Eve Fireworks.
