Cabo San Lucas Weather Guide: Best Time to Visit Month by Month

Planning a trip to Cabo and wondering when to book? Smart move asking about the weather first. We've visited Cabo countless times and learned the hard way that timing can make or break your vacation.

Here's the real deal on Cabo San Lucas weather. No sugar-coating, no travel brochure fluff. Just honest insights from years of dodging hurricanes, sweating through summer heat, and finding those perfect weather windows.

Understanding Cabo's Climate

Cabo sits at the tip of Baja California, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. This unique location creates a desert climate that's way more pleasant than you'd expect.

The weather here follows two main seasons. Dry season runs October through May. Wet season spans June through September. But calling it "wet season" is a bit dramatic. We're talking about a desert that gets maybe 10 inches of rain all year.

Temperatures stay pretty consistent year-round. You'll see highs in the 80s most months, with winter dips into the 70s and summer spikes into the 90s. The real game-changer? Humidity and rainfall patterns.

Cabo Weather by Month: The Complete Breakdown

January: Peak Perfection

January is why snowbirds flock to Cabo. Temperatures hover between 60-78°F. Zero rain. Low humidity. Perfect beach weather.

Downside? Everyone knows January rocks, so expect crowds and premium prices. Book your luxury villas early if you're planning a January trip.

What to pack: Light layers, sunscreen, maybe a light jacket for evenings.

February: Still Golden

February continues the winter magic. Slightly warmer than January with temps reaching 80°F. Still bone dry with minimal humidity.

This is prime whale watching season. We've seen incredible humpback whale shows during adventures in February waters.

Pack the same as January, but you can probably skip the jacket.

March: Warming Up Nicely

March kicks off the transition to warmer weather. Daytime highs hit the low 80s, nights stay comfortable in the 60s. Rain? What rain.

Spring breakers start arriving, but it's not crazy yet. Hotel prices inch up but stay reasonable compared to peak winter months.

April: Sweet Spot Weather

April might be our favorite month for cabo weather. Temps reach the mid-80s during the day, low 70s at night. Ocean temperatures warm up enough for comfortable swimming.

Pro tip: Book a private yacht charter in April. The weather's perfect, and you'll beat the summer rush.

May: Last Call for Perfect Weather

May is your last chance for guaranteed dry weather. Temperatures climb toward 90°F, but humidity stays manageable. Maybe a random shower, but don't count on it.

Tourist crowds thin out as families wait for summer break. You'll find better deals and shorter lines.

June: Summer Arrives

June officially starts the wet season, but don't panic. We're talking maybe 2-3 rainy days total. Temperatures hit the low 90s with higher humidity.

The cabo rainy season gets overhyped. Most days stay sunny and beautiful. When it does rain, it's usually quick afternoon storms that actually cool things down.

July: Hot and Humid

July cranks up the heat. Temperatures reach the mid-90s with noticeable humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms become more common but rarely last long.

Honestly? If you can handle the heat, July offers great deals. Resorts drop prices, and you'll have beaches more to yourself.

August: Peak Summer Intensity

August is the hottest, most humid month. Temperatures can hit 95°F with sticky air that makes it feel even hotter. Rain chances increase, but we're still talking maybe 5-6 rainy days max.

Fair warning: This is also peak hurricane season. Most storms stay far offshore, but occasionally one threatens the area.

September: Hurricane Season Peak

September requires the most weather watching. It's the peak of hurricane season, though direct hits on Cabo are rare. Still hot and humid with temperatures in the low 90s.

Many travelers skip September entirely. We get it. But brave souls who visit often find incredible deals and empty beaches between weather systems.

October: Welcome Relief

October marks the return to paradise. Temperatures drop back to the 80s, humidity fades, and rain becomes rare again. Hurricane season officially ends October 30th.

This is when locals celebrate. The oppressive summer heat breaks, and that perfect cabo climate returns.

November: Goldilocks Weather Returns

November brings back that "just right" weather. Highs in the low 80s, minimal humidity, virtually no rain. Ocean temperatures stay warm from the summer heat.

Tourist season ramps up again, but prices haven't hit winter peaks yet. Smart travelers target November for the sweet spot of great weather and decent prices.

December: Holiday Paradise

December delivers perfect weather with a holiday premium. Temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s, zero rain, gentle breezes.

Expect holiday crowds and matching prices. Book everything early, especially if you want our concierge team to secure reservations at top restaurants.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cabo?

Okay, so when should you actually go? Depends what matters most to you.

Best overall weather: November through April. This is the best time visit cabo if weather is your top priority.

Best value: May through October. Yes, it's hotter and more humid, but deals are incredible.

Best for activities: December through March for whale watching. April through October for fishing.

Best for avoiding crowds: May, June, September, October.

What About Hurricane Season?

Let's address the elephant in the room. Hurricane season runs June 1st through November 30th, with peak activity August through October.

Real talk: Cabo rarely gets direct hits. The geography and ocean currents usually steer storms north toward mainland Mexico or out to sea. In 20+ years of visiting, we've dealt with maybe three storm-related travel disruptions.

That said, when storms do threaten, they can mess up travel plans. Flight cancellations, resort closures, rough seas that cancel boat trips.

Our advice? Don't let hurricane season scare you away entirely, but buy travel insurance and stay flexible with plans.

Packing for Different Seasons

Winter (November-April): Light layers, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes, maybe one light sweater for evenings.

Summer (May-October): Lightweight, breathable clothes, extra sunscreen, hat, umbrella or light rain jacket, lots of water bottles.

Year-round essentials: High SPF sunscreen (seriously, the sun is intense), sunglasses, comfortable sandals, and a good hat.

Ocean Conditions by Season

The Pacific side stays rougher with bigger waves and stronger currents. Great for surfing, less ideal for calm swimming.

The Sea of Cortez side offers calmer, warmer water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Water temperatures range from the low 70s in winter to mid-80s in late summer.

Best swimming conditions: April through October when water temperatures peak.

Seasonal Activities and Events

Winter months bring whale watching season. Humpbacks migrate through Cabo waters December through April.

Spring offers perfect weather for hiking, ATV tours, and zip-lining before summer heat kicks in.

Summer is prime fishing season. Marlin, tuna, and dorado fishing peak during warmer months.

Fall sees the return of pleasant weather for all outdoor activities as hurricane season winds down.

Money-Saving Weather Tips

Book shoulder season trips (May-June, October-November) for 30-40% savings on hotels.

Monitor hurricane season deals, but always buy travel insurance. Seriously.

Consider summer visits if you handle heat well. Pool and beach time still rocks, and you'll save serious money.

Avoid major holidays (Christmas, New Year, Spring Break) when prices spike regardless of weather.

FAQ About Cabo San Lucas Weather

Does it really rain much during Cabo's rainy season?

Not really. Even in the wettest months, you might see 5-7 rainy days total. Most rain comes as quick afternoon thunderstorms that clear up fast. The desert climate means very little annual rainfall.

How bad is hurricane season in Cabo?

Direct hurricane hits are rare due to Cabo's location. Most storms either head north toward mainland Mexico or curve out to sea. However, nearby storms can still cause flight delays and rough ocean conditions.

What's the hottest month in Cabo?

August typically sees the highest temperatures, often reaching the mid-90s with high humidity. July and September run close seconds for heat and muggy conditions.

When is the best weather for outdoor activities?

November through April offers ideal conditions for hiking, zip-lining, and ATV tours. Temperatures stay comfortable, humidity is low, and rain is virtually nonexistent.

Is winter weather actually good for swimming?

Air temperatures are perfect, but ocean water is coolest in winter (low 70s). Many people find it refreshing, but if you prefer bath-warm water, visit April through October when water temperatures peak in the 80s.

Bottom Line on Cabo Weather

Look, here's the thing about cabo san lucas weather. It's pretty forgiving year-round compared to most beach destinations. Even the "worst" months offer plenty of sunshine and beach time.

Choose your dates based on your priorities. Want guaranteed perfect weather? Go November through April and pay premium prices. Looking for deals and don't mind some heat? Summer months deliver serious value.

Either way, you're headed to one of Mexico's most reliable beach destinations. Pack the sunscreen, book your flights, and get ready for some serious vitamin sea therapy.

Ready to start planning your Cabo adventure? Our team can help you navigate the best travel dates, find amazing accommodations, and plan activities that work with the weather. Let's make your Cabo dreams happen.