When Is The Best Time to Visit Los Cabos?

Los Cabos enjoys exceptional weather year-round, making it a reliable destination in any season. With over 300 sunny days annually, this stretch of the Baja California peninsula rarely disappoints travelers seeking sunshine and warm temperatures.

While Cabo delivers pleasant weather most of the year, understanding seasonal patterns helps optimize your experience based on priorities. The best time to visit Cabo depends entirely on what you're seeking: whale watching, uncrowded beaches, budget-friendly rates, or ideal swimming conditions.

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Los Cabos Weather Overview

Los Cabos sits at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. This unique geography creates a desert climate with minimal rainfall concentrated in late summer months.

Temperatures remain warm year-round, ranging from the mid-70s°F in winter to the low-90s°F in summer. The Sea of Cortez side tends to be calmer than the Pacific side throughout the year, creating protected swimming conditions at beaches like Chileno Bay and Santa Maria.

Hurricane season technically runs from June through November, but direct hits on Los Cabos are relatively rare. When tropical storms do affect the region, they typically bring rain rather than severe damage.

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Best Time to Visit Cabo by Season

Winter in Los Cabos (December through February)

Winter is the peak season, with ideal weather conditions. Average temperatures hover in the mid-70s to low-80s°F with virtually no rainfall and abundant sunshine.

This period marks the prime whale-watching season, with humpback and gray whales abundant in local waters. Witnessing these magnificent creatures breach and spout creates unforgettable memories. Learn more about whale watching in Los Cabos during this spectacular season.

Winter months bring the highest visitor numbers. Holiday weeks around Christmas, New Year's, and Presidents' Day see maximum crowds and demand. Restaurant reservations and popular activities book well in advance.

This is the best time for travelers who prioritize perfect weather and whale watching, and are comfortable with higher rates and more visitors.

Spring in Los Cabos (March through May)

Spring offers excellent weather with transitional characteristics. Temperatures warm into the mid-80s°F by May while rainfall remains minimal.

March brings spring break crowds, particularly mid-month. Cabo San Lucas becomes especially lively (some say rowdy) as college students descend on the nightlife district. Those seeking quiet should avoid this period.

April and May offer a sweet spot. Crowds thin after spring break while weather remains excellent. These months provide warm temperatures, fewer visitors, and better value as peak season ends. Whale watching continues through mid-March for those visiting early spring.

Summer in Los Cabos (June through August)

Summer months bring heat with increasing humidity. Temperatures reach the low-90s°F, and humidity climbs higher than other seasons.

June typically sees little rain despite hurricane season starting. July and August bring brief afternoon showers and the warmest ocean temperatures of the year, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water activities.

Summer attracts families during school vacation and offers lower rates than winter months. This is a great time for budget-conscious travelers comfortable with heat and willing to monitor weather forecasts.

Fall in Los Cabos (September through November)

Fall transitions from rainy season to dry season with varied conditions.

September represents peak hurricane risk and lowest tourism, offering the most affordable rates but requiring flexible plans. October sees improving conditions as rainfall decreases and weather stabilizes.

November marks the return to ideal conditions: comfortable temperatures around 84°F, low humidity, minimal rain, and the beginning of whale watching season. Thanksgiving brings American visitors, starting the transition to high season.

November ranks among the best months overall, balancing excellent weather with fewer crowds than winter.

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Month-by-Month Guide to Los Cabos

January

Peak season excellence with average highs around 77°F and no rain. Prime whale watching with frequent sightings. High visitor numbers require advance reservations. Excellent for wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures.

February

Continuation of peak conditions with temperatures around 78°F. Valentine's Day and Presidents' Day weekend bring additional visitors. Whale watching remains exceptional. Ideal for romantic getaways and winter escapes.

March

Temperatures reach 80°F with pleasant weather continuing. Spring break (typically mid-March) transforms Cabo San Lucas with a party atmosphere. Whale watching continues through mid-month. Good for those seeking energy, less ideal for tranquility.

April

Shoulder season begins with temperatures around 84°F. Crowds thin dramatically after spring break. Fishing improves as waters warm. Excellent value with good weather. Great time for visitors seeking balance.

May

Warm and pleasant at 88°F with low humidity. Excellent value with minimal crowds. Popular for destination weddings due to reliable weather. One of the best shoulder season months for overall experience.

June

Summer heat arrives with temperatures around 91°F. Hurricane season technically begins, but rainfall remains minimal. Warm ocean temperatures are perfect for swimming. Good for summer travelers comfortable with heat.

July

Hot conditions reach 93°F with brief afternoon showers possible. Warmest ocean temperatures of the year, ideal for extended water activities. Family travelers arrive for school vacation. Good for water sports enthusiasts.

August

Wettest month with continued temperatures around 93°F. Rain typically falls as brief afternoon storms that pass quickly. Lowest rates and fewest crowds of the year. Most affordable time for budget-conscious travelers, accepting weather variability.

September

Peak hurricane risk with warm, humid conditions. Fewest tourists and lowest rates. Weather uncertainty requires flexible planning and travel insurance. Best for those prioritizing savings above all else.

October

Transitional month with temperatures around 89°F. Rainfall decreases throughout October. Whale shark season begins near La Paz for those interested in marine encounters. Good value with improving conditions.

November

Return to ideal weather at 84°F. Hurricane season ends officially. Whale watching season begins with gray whales arriving. Thanksgiving brings visitors but crowds remain manageable. Excellent overall month combining weather, value, and atmosphere.

December

Peak season begins with temperatures around 79°F. Abundant sunshine and minimal rain. Whale watching is underway with increasing sightings. Holiday weeks bring maximum crowds and rates. Perfect time for celebrations in the sun.

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Best Time for Specific Activities

Best Time for Whale Watching

Whale watching season runs mid-December through mid-April, with January and February offering peak sightings. Humpback whales and gray whales migrate to the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez during these months, creating world-class wildlife encounters.

Best Time for Fishing

Los Cabos offers year-round fishing with different species in different seasons. Marlin fishing peaks May through November, when the famous Bisbee fishing tournaments draw anglers from around the world. Striped marlin runs January through April. Dorado (mahi-mahi) are abundant May through October.

Best Time for Golf

November through May provides ideal golf conditions with comfortable temperatures and no rain. World-class courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and other legends play beautifully during these months. Summer golf requires early morning tee times to avoid peak heat.

Best Time for Swimming and Snorkeling

Swimming and snorkeling are enjoyable year-round, but water temperatures reach their warmest May through October. Summer offers the most comfortable extended water time at beaches throughout the region. Explore the best Cabo beaches for swimming and snorkeling.

Best Time for Nightlife and Events

Winter months and spring break represent the liveliest periods for Cabo San Lucas nightlife. The Los Cabos Open tennis tournament (typically October), Los Cabos International Film Festival (November), and various wine festivals draw visitors throughout the year.

Cultural events, including Mexican Independence Day (September 16) and Day of the Dead (November 1-2), offer authentic Mexican experiences for those timing their visits accordingly.

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High Season vs. Low Season

High Season (December through April)

High season delivers the best weather, prime whale watching, and the most reliable conditions. Trade-offs include highest rates, most crowds, and the need to book accommodations, restaurants, and activities well in advance.

Top restaurants throughout Los Cabos require reservations, especially during holiday weeks. Discover the best restaurants in Cabo and plan dining accordingly.

High season suits travelers prioritizing perfect weather and willing to pay premium rates.

Shoulder Season (May-June, October-November)

Shoulder season offers good weather with fewer crowds and better value. November and May particularly stand out as excellent months combining pleasant weather, manageable visitor numbers, and reasonable rates.

This period suits travelers seeking a balance between conditions and cost.

Low Season (July through September)

Low season brings the hottest temperatures, highest humidity, most rainfall, hurricane risk, lowest rates, and fewest crowds. September typically offers the most significant savings.

Low season suits budget-conscious travelers comfortable with weather variability and heat. Understanding Cabo weather by month helps plan accordingly.

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Cheapest Time to Visit Cabo

September typically offers the cheapest rates, followed by August and October. These months fall during hurricane season when demand drops significantly, and accommodations discount to attract visitors.

May and June also offer good value as shoulder season transitions to summer. Rates haven't yet dropped to low-season levels, but neither have they climbed to peak-season heights.

Late summer and early fall can save 30-50% compared to winter peak rates on similar accommodations.

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Best Time to Avoid Crowds in Cabo

September sees the fewest visitors, followed by August and October. These months offer uncrowded beaches, easy restaurant reservations, and a more relaxed atmosphere throughout the Los Cabos area.

May, June, and early November also offer reduced crowds with better weather than peak summer months.

Avoiding specific periods helps: spring break (mid-March), holiday weeks (Christmas, New Year's, Presidents' Day), and peak winter months (January-February) bring maximum visitors.

For travelers seeking tranquility, San Jose del Cabo offers a quieter alternative to Cabo San Lucas year-round, with art walks, boutique shopping, and refined dining without the party atmosphere.

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Day Trips and Regional Exploration

Timing your visit well opens opportunities for day trips throughout the region. Todos Santos, the charming Pueblo Mágico about an hour north, offers artistic community, galleries, and Pacific beaches worth exploring any time of year.

La Paz, the state capital about two hours away, provides access to whale sharks (October through April) and sea lion encounters at Espíritu Santo Island. Combining Los Cabos with these experiences creates a richer Baja California adventure.

Discover more about what to do in Los Cabos throughout the region.

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Practical Considerations

Flights and Deals

Los Cabos International Airport receives direct flights from most major U.S. and Canadian cities year-round. Flights are most frequent during high season, but shoulder season often offers the best fare deals.

Holiday periods see the highest airfare. Booking well in advance for peak season travel secures better rates and availability.

Reservations and Availability

During high season, book accommodations, popular restaurants, and activities (especially whale watching tours) well in advance. Some venues book weeks ahead during peak periods.

Low season offers flexibility for last-minute planning. Restaurants welcome walk-ins, activities have availability, and accommodations often upgrade guests.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best month to visit Cabo?

The best month depends on priorities. November offers excellent weather with fewer crowds. January and February offer prime whale-watching. May delivers value with good weather. September offers the lowest prices. Los Cabos rewards visitors year-round.

What is the rainy season in Cabo?

July through September constitute the rainy season, with August typically seeing the most rainfall. Rain usually falls as brief afternoon showers rather than all-day storms. Total annual rainfall remains modest due to the desert climate.

When is hurricane season in Cabo?

Hurricane season runs from June through November, with peak risk from August through October. Direct hurricane hits on Los Cabos remain relatively rare, but travelers during this period should monitor forecasts and maintain flexible plans.

Is Cabo too hot in summer?

Summer temperatures reach the low 90s°F with higher humidity than other seasons. Heat is manageable with air conditioning, pool time, and water activities. Travelers sensitive to heat may prefer winter or shoulder seasons.

What is the cheapest time to visit Cabo?

September offers the cheapest rates, followed by August and October. These months provide significant savings but carry weather variability. May and June offer good value with more reliable conditions.

When is whale watching season in Cabo?

Whale watching season runs mid-December through mid-April, with peak sightings January through March. Humpback and gray whales migrate to the Sea of Cortez during this period for breeding and calving.

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Plan Your Perfect Cabo Timing

Los Cabos rewards visitors year-round, with each season offering distinct advantages. Whether seeking whale encounters, budget savings, uncrowded beaches, or perfect weather, there's an ideal time for every traveler.

Understanding seasonal patterns helps match travel dates to priorities. The destination's reliable sunshine, warm temperatures, and diverse activities ensure a memorable experience regardless of when you visit.

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Planning Your Los Cabos Getaway?

Choosing the right time to visit is just the beginning. Coordinating activities around optimal conditions, securing reservations at top restaurants, and arranging whale watching during peak sighting times requires local knowledge.

Mita Residential guests in Los Cabos benefit from a dedicated concierge who knows exactly when conditions are best for each activity. They time whale watching excursions for calm seas, book tee times during comfortable morning hours, and secure restaurant reservations even during busy periods.

No weather apps to monitor. No timing to figure out. Just optimal experiences arranged seamlessly throughout your stay.

Contact Mita Residential to explore our collection of distinguished villas in Los Cabos and discover how our concierge team helps you experience the destination at its best.

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