Cancun in December: Weather Info & Travel Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

Wondering, What’s the best time to visit Cancun?

You’ve landed on the right article, as I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018, and I live in Mérida, about a four-hour drive from Cancun.

Having spent many winters in the Yucatán Peninsula, I can say December is one of the best times to visit, and I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about visiting Cancun in December. As one of the most popular months to visit, you’re sure to have a great vacation in Cancun Mexico in December.

December is dry, sunny and warm in Cancun, which makes it one of the busiest months.

Book early if you’re traveling over Christmas or New Year’s.

From the weather in Cancun in December, to the best things to do in Cancun in December and even some Cancun travel tips for December — it’s all here. Ready to discover everything you need to know for your Cancun December trip? Let’s get to it!

Weather in Cancun in December

You’re likely wondering, How is the weather in Cancun in December? — so you can plan your trip. Cancun weather in December is usually sunny and warm, with low humidity. In short, December is one of the best months to visit Cancun, Mexico.

🚐💨 Not sure how to get from Cancun Airport to your hotel in Cancun? The easiest, safest, and best way is to book a private shuttle with Cancun Airport Transportation.

December is outside the rainy season, and outside of Hurricane Season, which ends November 30. However, there’s always some chance of rain in the tropics. Remember that just because December is outside of the Cancun wet season, doesn’t mean it can’t rain a bit.

Average Temperatures in Cancun in December

You can expect days in the low to mid-80s°F (28–29°C) while visiting Cancun in December.

When the sun goes down, it gets pleasantly cool, with nighttime temperatures averaging about 69°F (21°C), and the humidity usually isn’t as bad as during the day.

• Average high temperature in Cancun in December: 84°F (28.6°C)
• Average low temperature in Cancun in December: 69°F (20.5°C) — The perfect holiday weather temperature!
• What are the hottest months in Cancun Mexico? May-October
• What are the coldest months in Cancun Mexico? December-March, the winter months

Is there rain in Cancun in December?

When is the rainy season in Cancun? is a question on anyone’s mind when traveling to Cancun, Mexico. The rainy season Cancun months go from about May to October, so there’s very little chance of rain in Cancun in December.

• What’s the average rainfall in Cancun in December? About 86 mm (3.4 in)
• How many days does it rain in Cancun in December? About 10 days, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have sunny days ☀️ because it rarely rains for longer than one hour.

Now, no one can predict the weather with 100% accuracy, so if you don’t mind taking a risk, May to early-November is also the slow season in Cancun — which means lower price tags and smaller crowds. Remember that even in the Cancun rain season, there are always sunny days.

Does it rain all day in Cancun in December?

If you do get some rain on your trip to Cancun — Don’t panic! Tropical storms tend to come in short bursts and pass quickly. In fact, some people end up enjoying watching them roll by. Usually after the rain, the air temperature and humidity drop a bit, so rain in Cancun isn’t all bad.

Best Things to Do in Cancun When it Rains

When it rains in Cancun, you still have options. One obvious indoor activity is shopping, and the best mall in Cancun is La Isla Shopping Village, which also has a movie theater and restaurants. There’s also Forum By the Sea, where you’ll find the Cancun Hard Rock.

There are a few museums in Cancun you can check out, like the Museo Maya de Cancun (Cancun Mayan Museum) — known as the best museum in Cancun. There’s also the Cancun Wax Museum, Ripleys Believe it Or Not!, and Cancun Vintage Car Museum.

Is it hot in Cancun in December?

When traveling to Cancun, you’ll need to know is Cancun cold in December, or is it hot? Well — it’s hot. In fact, it’s hot all year-long as you can see from weather.com. There will be some cooler days in December to February, but overall, the weather in Cancun ranges from hot to very hot!

🏖 Cancun Travel Tips: To avoid the heat, head indoors and soak up the air conditioning during the hottest parts of the day, from 11am-2pm. Also, plan water activities like snorkeling at the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) and swimming in the Cancun cenotes at these times.

You might also be wondering, Is it too hot to go to Cancun in December? This answer is a matter of preference, but in short: expect to sweat a bit! For cooler temperatures, consider Cancun in January or February. These months are known for clear skies, pleasant weather and many hours of sunshine.

Average Humidity in Cancun in December

Cancun humidity is a fact of life, as it’s located in the Caribbean. This part of the world is basically a jungle that’s also surrounded by water. Being right on the Caribbean Sea, as you are in Cancun, does provide a nice breeze and a respite from the humidity.

🥵 What’s the average relative humidity in Cancun in December? Between 70% and 80% — so don’t forget to bring your Water-To-Go Bottle which helps to keep you hydrated and filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick in Cancun.

What month has the worst weather in Cancun? is really a better question to ask here. The good news? It’s not December. The worst months in Cancun, weather-wise, are May to September. May tends to be the hottest month in the Yucatan Peninsula, and even Cancun locals dread it.

Are there hurricanes in Cancun in December?

Want to know if there are Cancun hurricanes in December? While there’s always a chance of rain storms and cloud cover year round, the Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ends on November 30, so December is outside of the season.

Do keep in mind that hurricanes are rare in Cancun. Direct hits are rare, but Cancun has been hit by three hurricanes in recent decades: Hurricane Gilbert (September 1988), Hurricane Wilma (October 2005) and Hurricane Delta (October 2020).

• What’s the average wind speed in Cancun in December? 10.4 mph (16.8 km/h)
• What’s the windiest month in Cancun Mexico? March

When is Hurricane Season in Cancun?

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1-November 30. Based on historical data, the highest likelihood of storms is from August to October. Again, hurricanes are rare, but they are always something to be aware of when planning a Cancun trip in December, or anytime.

• When is Mexico hurricane season? On the Caribbean and Gulf coasts, including Cancun, it’s the Atlantic season, June 1–November 30. Mexico’s Pacific coast has its own season, from May 15 to November 30.

Is Cancun safe during hurricane season?

For the most part, yes. For a hurricane to completely devastate Cancun, the city would have to take a direct hit — which is rare. Hurricanes are usually quite large in physical size, and usually only the area close to the center (AKA the eye) causes large-scale damage.

Traveling to Cancun in December after Hurricane Season

December falls just outside of the season, which ends November 30. However, don’t skip Cancun in December just because it’s right outside Hurricane Season. The reality is that no one can predict the weather accurately, and as mentioned, hurricanes are rare.

In fact, many people actually prefer to visit Cancun during Hurricane Season in the Summer and Fall months. The #1 reason you’d want to do this is because prices are low, but will increase by a lot in December. ▶︎Check Cancun hotel prices here.

How warm is the water in Cancun in December?

Want to know about the water temperature in Cancun in December? The Caribbean Sea is warm all year long, so you can comfortably swim, snorkel and go scuba diving in Cancun in December. Note: Water temperatures between 77°F (25°C) and 84°F (29°C) are regarded as warm.

• What’s the average water temperature in Cancun in December? 80°F (26.5°C)

Best Tours in Cancun in December

If those warm water temperatures sound enticing, you’ll want to book some Cancun tours to take advantage of all this Mexico beach town has to offer. Below, you’ll find some of the best tours in Cancun Mexico which you’ll want to book ASAP so you don’t miss out on anything.

Unique Things Do to in Cancun in December

Explore Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins

As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and most recognizable landmarks in Mexico, does Chichen Itza even need an introduction?! This ancient Mayan city is about 2.5 hours from Cancun (one way), so it requires a full day on your Cancun itinerary — but for many, it’s worth it.

You can go by rental car, on a Chichen Itza tour, or by ADO bus. The bus is the cheapest way to visit Chichen Itza from Cancun, but you’ll be adding another 2-3 hours total to the travel time. Personally, I always recommend a tour guide for this important place, so you understand what you’re looking at.

Best Cancun Mayan Ruins

There are other Mayan Ruins in Cancun, which are located much closer than Chichen Itza, though they may not wow you the same as Chichen Itza will. However, if you have limited time, or don’t want to commit a full day to visiting Chichen Itza, head to these ancient ruins instead:

• El Rey Ruins
• Yamil Lu’um Ruins
• El Meco Ruins
• San Miguelito Ruins at the Cancun Maya Museum

Laze on the Cancun Beaches

Cancun sits right on the bright blue Caribbean Sea, and has some of the best beaches in Mexico. You really can’t go wrong with any beaches in Cancun, but don’t miss these visitor favorites: Playa Delfines, Playa Mujeres, Playa Chacmool, Playa Langosta, Playa Marlín and Playa Punta Nizuc.

Cancun to Isla Mujeres Day Trip

Located only about 20 minutes away by fast ferry boat, you’ll be in Isla Mujeres, Mexico. This is one of the best islands in the Mexican Caribbean, and makes for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Cancun. 🏝 Love islands? There’s also Isla Contoy, a Mexico National Park.

Swim in the Cenotes in Cancun

No visit to Cancun is complete without swimming in the best Cancun cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays). Cenotes are swimmable sinkholes filled with fresh water from the Yucatán’s huge network of underground rivers and caves, including Sac Actun, one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world.

🤿 Not sure what to bring to the cenotes? Check out this Cancun cenotes packing list so you’re prepared to swim in the cenotes in Mexico.

There are about 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan, and some of the best cenotes in Mexico are outside of Cancun. Located near Puerto Morelos on Highway 307, there’s the Ruta de Cenotes, where you’ll find Cenote Sol y Luna, Cenote Verde Lucero, Cenote Zapote and Cenote La Noria.

Xcaret park

Zip line through the jungle at Xcaret Park, enjoy the famed nighttime dance show, and much more. Among the best things to do in Yucatan Mexico, Xcaret is a water park that uses the beautiful native environment instead of swimming pools. ▶︎ Buy your Xcaret tickets here

Laguna Nichupte, Cancun Lagoon

While most know Cancun as a Mexican beach town, that’s only half the story. Just across from the beaches, there’s Nichupte Lagoon, a natural area with more than 7,400-acres (30 km²) and seven lakes. Laguna Nichupte is perfect for water-sports, swimming, snorkeling and more.

🐳 Looking to swim with the whale sharks in Cancun? The Cancun whale shark season, and best time to see whale sharks in Cancun, is from about mid-May to mid-September.

Best Day Trips from Cancun

You have so many options for Cancun day trips if you’re renting a car. Just head one hour south and you’ll be in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya; go one hour further south to check out Tulum. There are also pueblos magicos (magic towns) nearby, like Valladolid and Izamal.

Holidays & Festivals in Cancun in December

Christmas in Cancun

Christmas in Mexico is a long season, running from December 12 to January 6.

From December 16 to 24, you may see processions in the streets, Las Posadas parties, and elaborate Masses at local Catholic churches. Some people go door to door singing the Pedir Posada, which is similar to Christmas Carols.

For most Mexicans, the most important day in the Christmas Season isn’t Christmas Day on December 25. Rather, it’s Nochebuena (meaning “Good Night”). On the night of December 24, Christmas Eve, families often gather for a large dinner, then attend the Midnight Mass afterwards.

New Year’s in Cancun

New Year’s Eve on December 31 is one of the biggest party holidays, and as one of the biggest party towns in the world, Cancun goes all out. You can expect beachfront fireworks and festivities, much like what you’d find at most coastal cities in the United States.

If you want a New York City Times Square kind of vibe, hit up the best clubs in Cancun for their all-night dance parties. These include Coco Bongo, Mandala Cancún, The City Nightclub Cancun and La Vaquita Cancun — but do book your tickets in advance, as they will all sell out.

Cancun in December: Ultimate Travel Guide

Is Cancun safe to travel to?

For the most part, yes. I say for the most part because no place on Earth is 100% safe. Cancun is safe for those who visit and simply enjoy their trip. However, make no mistake — this is a tourist town, and things like petty theft aren’t uncommon in these types of destinations in any country.

For a deep dive into the topic of Cancun safety, check out Is Cancun Safe to Travel to Right Now? If you’re traveling alone, this Cancun solo travel guide should help you plan the best, safest trip to Cancun.

While Mexico is portrayed as a totally unsafe country in the mainstream U.S. media, know that millions visit Cancun each year — with most coming from the U.S. and Canada. If Mexico were as unsafe as it’s portrayed, people would just stop coming, wouldn’t they!?

Well, they aren’t, so that tells you something. According to Mexico’s Tourism Ministry (SECTUR), Mexico received 98.2 million international visitors in 2025. Even with all the sinister news reports, millions still flock to Mexico and its #1 destination — Cancun.

Where is Cancun Mexico?

Wondering, What state is Cancun in? Cancun is located in Quintana Roo State. This is one of the three states in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, along with Yucatan State and Campeche State. Of the three, Quintana Roo is the most visited, and Campeche is the least.

Quintana Roo is a long, thin state, stretching the entire length of coastline along the Caribbean Sea. Because of this, you may also hear this part of the Yucatan Peninsula called the Mexican Caribbean, where so many popular Mexico beach towns are located.

Quintana Roo has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, including Playa Maroma which has the best overwater bungalows in Mexico. Also in the state, you’ll find Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Holbox Island, Puerto Morelos and Laguna Bacalar, AKA the “Maldives of Mexico.”

Cancun Map

How to Get to Cancun Mexico

There’s an airport to Cancun called Cancun International Airport (code: CUN), located not far from the beaches. As one of the busiest airports in Mexico, there are many direct flight options from most major cities in the U.S., Canada and Europe. ▶︎ Search for Cancun flights now ✈️

📍 How far is Cancun Airport from Cancun Beach? The distance from Cancun Airport to the Cancun Hotel Zone is about 14 miles (23 km), and about 30 minutes of drive time.

Need to get from Cancun Airport to your Cancun hotel? The easiest, safest, and best way is to book a private shuttle with Cancun Airport Transportation.

Best Places to Stay in Cancun in December

Zona Hotelera: Cancun Hotel Zone (Cancun Beach)

Cancun Beach is the part of Cancun you’ve seen on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. This is where you’ll find all the best Cancun resorts and boutique hotels, lively bars and clubs, chic restaurants, spas and holistic healing centers, and of course, the Cancun beaches, are located.

📍 How far is Cancun Airport from Cancun Beach? The distance from Cancun Airport to the Cancun Hotel Zone is about 14 miles (23 km), and about 30 minutes of drive time.

Cancun Centro (Downtown Cancun)

For those who have a smaller budget, you’ll want to stay in Downtown Cancun, where you’ll find the best cheap hotels in Cancun, and best hostels in Cancun. Besides the hotels, everything costs a bit less in downtown compared to the beach, including restaurants, bars and shops.

Is there Uber in Cancun?

Sort Of — Uber works in Cancun, but many locals and visitors still use taxis instead. Note: Uber drivers can drop you off at Cancun Airport, but they still aren’t allowed to pick up passengers there, which is why I recommend this private shuttle.

Uber has won several court rulings in Quintana Roo since 2019, most recently in early 2026, but to say Cancun taxi drivers weren’t thrilled would be an understatement. In fact, there are sometimes clashes between the two groups, which is why many visitors still skip Uber in Cancun.

🚗💨 Cancun Rental Cars: If you’re considering a Cancun rental car instead, head to Renting a Car in Cancun: Everything You Need to Know. It will explain the whole process for you so that you don’t get scammed, which sadly isn’t uncommon when renting in Cancun or anywhere else.

Cancun in December: Frequently Asked Questions

Packing for Cancun in December: What to Bring?

Right off the bat, you can pack light because it will be hot when you visit! We’ll get to what to wear in Cancun below, but just know you can get away with only a few outfits if you’re strategic about it. To help you, these Space Saver Packing Cubes are everything.

Besides clothing and the basics, you’ll want water shoes if you’re visiting the cenotes and an AKASO underwater camera (it’s basically a GoPro, but much cheaper). If you’re visiting the Mayan Ruins and pyramids in Mexico, pack a sporty outfit, good sneakers and a hat.

To shield yourself from the sun, definitely bring a cute sun hat, but also consider a long sleeve bathing suit (AKA rash guard). You’ll likely use sunscreen each day, and I love this sunscreen/bug repellent combo from Bullfrog, one of the best natural sunscreen brands.

You can not drink unfiltered tap water in Cancun, or anywhere in Mexico, but you will need to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. As single-use plastics are horrible for the planet, these Water-To-Go bottles have a three-stage filter that makes Cancun tap water safe to drink.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Cancun in December

I hope this article answered all of your Is December a good month to visit Cancun? questions. As you now know, Cancun in December is usually on the sunny side, though there’s always a chance of rain. Located in the tropics, rain in Cancun usually passes quickly.

🚨 Cancun Travel Tips: Don’t forget to purchase Travel Insurance for Cancun so you’re protected for whatever happens when you’re on vacation in Cancun in December.

Also, no one can predict weather in the tropics with 100% certainty. I grew up in South Florida, and learned not to give much credence to weather reports, because they rarely pan out as reported. However, there’s usually perfect weather in Cancun Mexico in December, so you’ll likely have a great trip.

If Cancun in December isn’t for you…

After reading this, you might not want to visit Cancun in December after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about visiting Cancun during another month of the year — and know the weather in Cancun Mexico in January is often a bit cooler, if you can hold off for a month.