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Best time to visit Mexico

Find out the best time to head to Mexico, including when to visit for the country’s top events.
The best time to visit Mexico is between December and April – the country’s at its driest and toastiest during these months. This time of year is also the most popular time to go, so if it’s a chilled-out getaway you’re after, you might want to pencil in a trip during May and June. Holidays to Mexico have loads to offer – one day you could be exploring ancient Mayan ruins and swimming in a cenote, then the next partying with spring breakers on one of Cancun’s white-sand beaches. Fancy it? Before you hit book, check out our round up of the best time to go, including when to avoid hurricane season.

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When’s Mexico’s dry season?

If you’re after non-stop sunshine, head to Mexico between December and April. Temperatures average at 24°C during these months, and you can expect cloud-free all day long. Like to party? Visit between March and April to make the most of Spring Break in party central Cancun. Pick a hotel in the Hotel Zone and you’ll be steps from all the biggest events. Our top tip? Go on a night out to Coco Bongos.
View of Akumal Bay, Rivera Maya.

When’s Mexico’s rainy season?

Rainy season in Mexico runs from May to September, but don’t let that put you off. Showers tend to take place in late afternoon in short, sharp bursts, which means you’ll still have hours of glorious sunshine to enjoy for most of the day. Hurricane season runs from June until November, but there’s a much higher chance of a hurricane from September and October.
Aerial view of beach shack's on Punta Venado bay.

When’s it quietest in Mexico?

If you want to skip the crowds on your trip, avoid Cancun from mid-February to April when Spring Break takes place. The start and end of rainy season – in May and November – are two of Mexico’s quietest months. So, whether you’re after a secluded beach escape in Playa del Carmen, or want to explore the jungle in Riviera Maya, things will be a lot quieter at these times of year.
Couple laying down in the sand on an empty beach.

When’s the best time to spot whale sharks in Mexico?

Visit Mexico’s Caribbean Coast from June to September and you could be in with a good chance of spotting some of the biggest sharks on the planet. Choose from our a range of whale shark spotting trips on offer, including ones that also drop anchor at some of the coastline’s prettiest stretches of sand. Plus, they come with expert guides, which gives you a better chance of spotting a shark on your trip.

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When's best for seeing sea turtles?

Los Cabos is home to five types of sea turtle – hawksbill, green, western ridley, loggerhead and leatherback. Turtle season in Los Cabos runs from August to December. During this period, sea turtles make their way to shore to lay their eggs – after around 45 days the baby turtles emerge. Keep an eye out for hatchling release events put on by local turtle protection programmes for a guaranteed sighting.
Turtle and fish in the ocean.

When’s the best time for surfing in Mexico?

April to October is the best time to surf on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast, but if you really want to show off your surfing skills you’ll want to be in town between June and July when the biggest waves hit. On the Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta’s surf scene ramps up between November and March, and there are lots of surf schools offering lessons for everyone from beginners to semi-pros.
Couple on surfboards in the ocean.

Events to add to your calendar

Cinco De Mayo
When: 5th May
Cinco De Mayo commemorates the Mexican victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla, which took place in Mexico City in 1862. The biggest celebrations take place in the capital – Mexico Town – but you can still get involved if you’re staying on the coast. Cancun often hosts smaller events, featuring dancers in brightly coloured costumes and food stalls dishing up Mexican classics like tacos and burritos.

Day of the Dead
When: 2nd November
Day of the Dead celebrations take place each November. The holiday, which honours departed loved ones, is marked by dressing up in traditional costumes and face paint. Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places to be on Día de los Muertos, with mariachi and ballet performances followed by firework displays.

Spring Break
When: Mid-February to April
It’s fair to say Cancun knows how to party at any time of the year, but things step up a notch or [five] two during Spring Break. Events take place from mid-February to April, but the main action is mid-March. Pool parties and beach clubs set the scene for lively days, while bars and clubs keep you covered for parties until the sun’s up.

Man dressed in traditional costume with face paint.

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Reasons to book with TUI

Price-Match Promise.
Hotels, flights, transfers and more all packed up.
Trusted by families, loved by kids.
Book and pay, your way.
Start local. Go global.
24/7 support
Life's memories, made on holiday.
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Find out more about holidays to Mexico.

Or, take a look at the best hotels in Mexico, best things to do in Mexico and the best places to visit in Mexico.

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Author: Karl Taylor

Last updated: 09.10.2024

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