Visiting Mexico in December: Weather Info, The Best Places to Travel & More

decorations at christmas in mexico in december
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Planning a trip to Mexico in December?

You’re in the right place because I live in Mexico, and I’m going to share everything I know about traveling to Mexico in December with you!

A year-round destination, you can visit Mexico anytime, but December is ideal for certain places more than others — which you’ll soon discover.

In this article, you’ll learn about the 10 best places to visit in Mexico in December, including Cancun, Mexico City, Tulum and Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos).

You’ll also learn about the weather in Mexico in December, and the Mexico Christmas holiday at the end of the month.

Ready to learn all about visiting Mexico in December? Let’s get to it!

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Mexico in December Weather

Typical Mexico December Weather

large pink gothic style church in san miguel de allende mexico in front of a well manicured park/garden with trees cut into topiary style circles and colorful buildings in colonial architecture styles surrounding the town square
Not sure where to travel in December in Mexico? San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful, historic colonial city, and one of the most unique places in Mexico. (Photo: San Miguel de Allende in December trip via Canva)

You’re likely wondering, What is the weather like in Mexico in December? — so you can plan the best trip possible.

You’re in luck because Mexico’s weather in December is amazing! It’s one of the dry season months, and the weather is much cooler than the weather in Mexico in November.

When is the rainy season in Mexico?

The rainy season Mexico months include May through October.

You have a slim chance of rain in Mexico in December, but there’s always at least some chance of rain on the coast.

Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ends November 30, so you likely won’t see any bad storms in December.

When is the Mexico busy season?

The busy season in Mexico runs from November to April. While the high season is perfect weather-wise, if you want cheap Mexico travel deals, you’re not likely to find those in December, or the entire high season.

Average temperatures in Mexico in December

Want to know, How hot is Mexico in December?

There is no set average daily temperature in Mexico in December, as it fluctuates in different parts of the country. In general, expect mild temperatures and low precipitation — but know Mexico is still on the warmer side, even in December.

The beaches in Mexico on the coast will be much warmer than the cities in Central Mexico, like Mexico City, Guadalajara and San Miguel de Allende.

In fact, the cities are on the colder side, and if you’re visiting the Central or North Mexican cities, pack a light jacket and layers🧣

No matter where you’re headed, check the Mexico December weather for that destination.

There are plenty of weather apps and sites out there, like weather.com from The Weather Channel, Accuweather and Weather Spark, so you can check Mexico temperatures in December.

Mexico December Holidays

Christmas in Mexico: December 25

decorations at christmas in mexico in december
Wondering, How is the weather in Mexico in December during Christmas? You should have cool temperatures, blue skies and sunny days — but Mexico is not the place for a snowy, white Christmas ❄️

Like everywhere else in the world, Mexico Christmas is on December 25.

However, for Mexicans and many Latins, the actual Christmas celebration takes place on December 24 (Christmas Eve in the United States, Canada, Europe and beyond), known as Noche Buena.

Noche Buena: December 24

Traditionally, Mexicans eat the main Christmas dinner on December 24, known as Noche Buena, which means “Good Night.”

While some families open presents at midnight, others only eat the meal on this day, and don’t open presents until Three Kings Day on January 6.

Some of the Mexican Christmas dinner foods include roast turkey, tamales and romeritos con mole, among other traditional Mexican foods.

The exact spread will vary from family to family, but many serve a Mexican drink called ponche, and hojarascas, Mexican Christmas cookies similar to shortbread.

Mexico December Holidays

Las Posadas in Mexico

Mexican Posadas (holiday parties) take place throughout December.

The Posadas symbolize the Biblical story in which Joseph and Mary made the month-long journey from the city of Nazareth to the city of Bethlehem, in search of a place to give birth to their baby.

This is one of the oldest Mexican Christmas traditions.

It happens everywhere from private homes to rented halls, to citywide public celebrations and pastorela performances which represent the journey of the shepherds to go worship Jesus.

At a private party, you may end up joining in with the pedir posadas (posada songs). This means “asking for shelter,” as in the Biblical journey when Joseph and Mary sought shelter at the inn.

These songs can be sung at the party, or by going from door to door like Christmas carolers.

Mexico December Holidays

Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Mexico

You’ll love the Mexico City Christmas decorations in downtown, with the Metropolitan Cathedral as a backdrop.

Christmas in Mexico City

Mexico City, the largest city in the country, is the best place to see Christmas decorations in Mexico. In fact, some might call it the best Mexican Christmas celebration in the whole country.

The entire Zocalo (Main Square) in Centro Historico Mexico City (downtown) has large-scale decorations, an impressive lights display and large Christmas tree.

Christmas on Mexico beaches

The beaches of Mexico might have a decorated palm tree here and there, but the beaches themselves are the main draw.

Popular with Mexican and international travelers, expect large crowds on Mexico beaches during Christmas week in Mexico, and the week after New Year’s Eve.

Visiting Mexico in December

10 Best Places to Visit in Mexico in December

Wondering where to go in Mexico in December?

While there’s no definitive “best place in Mexico to visit in December,” you have plenty of options to choose from. In reality, you can go anywhere you’d like, as the weather in Mexico in December is near-perfect.

Below, you’ll find the Top 10 most popular places to travel in Mexico in December, with some info about what to expect and things to do.

After reading through the list, you’ll be able to determine your own best place to go in Mexico in December.

1. Cancun in December

blue water in the caribbean sea in cancun mexico

For more information on visiting Cancun Mexico, check out this Cancun Travel Guide.

Cancun is the top travel destination in Mexico all year.

The difference between Cancun in December vs November is that December is much busier. If you want to enjoy a calmer Cancun with smaller crowds, plan for early-November, late-January or February.

Looking for the best things to do in Cancun in December?

Don’t miss swimming in the Cancun cenotes, and the Mayan Ruins in Cancun. If you want to stay at one of the best Cancun all inclusive resorts, book ASAP because December is the busiest month in Cancun, Mexico.

What’s the average humidity in Cancun in December?

The Cancun humidity in December averages about 75% — so put clothing that doesn’t show sweat on your Mexico packing list!

It will be much less muggy when traveling to Cancun in December vs November, but to really escape the heat, plan for water activities in the afternoons.

Wondering, What’s the average temperature in Cancun in December?

You can expect about 85°F (29°C) during the day, and 70°F (21°C). In short: It’s still somewhat hot! Don’t forget to stay hydrated with this Water-To-Go bottle, and even this misting fan to cool your skin.

Does it rain all day in Cancun in December?

Usually, no. If it rains at all, it’s typically for an hour in the afternoon, and then the sun will come back out. It rarely rains in December, but if it does, it should pass quickly.

If you happen to be visiting during a storm, then there is a chance it rains all day.

RELATED ARTICLE 🏖️ Cancun in December: Weather Info and Travel Tips

Atlantic Hurricane Season officially ends on November 30 (it runs June 1-November 30), so there’s virtually no chance of a hurricane in Mexico in December.

By no means is December the wettest month in Cancun, but there’s always a chance of rain anywhere on the Mexican coast.

Cancun Weather in December

weather in cancun mexico in December
Weather Cancun Mexico in December (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

2. Mexico City in December

Colorful domes in churches of downtown Mexico City

For more information on visiting Mexico City, check out this Mexico City Travel Guide.

Considering a Mexico City December trip?

Not many know this, but the winters in Mexico City are on the colder side. If you don’t like the cold, November is a great month to visit Mexico City because it’s technically still Fall, and won’t be as cold as December, January or February.

December is part of the dry season in Mexico City, which runs from November to April.

There is still a chance of the occasional afternoon shower, but as one of the world’s biggest cities, right up there with New York City, there are plenty of indoor things to do in Mexico City when it rains.

After breakfast, head to the museums in Mexico City in the afternoon. Afterwards, enjoy some tacos at the best restaurants in Mexico City, and by then, the rains should have passed.

Looking for the best things to do in Mexico City at night?! You must see a Lucha Libre wrestling match!

What’s the best time to visit Mexico City?

This will depend on your preferences, but the Mexico City rainy season is from about April to October, so many want to avoid that. It doesn’t usually rain much (if at all) in Mexico City in December, but of course, many prefer the dry season.

If you like cooler weather, Fall and Winter might be the best bet for you.

Nighttime temperatures can drop into the high 40°Fs (about 9°C) in December, and continue to fall month by month all winter long. For warmer nights, Spring and Summer work best.

🦋 Monarch Butterfly Season in Mexico: One of the best experiences is visiting the Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary during the annual butterfly migration in Mexico, from late-November to March.

Book a Mexico butterfly tour to see millions of butterflies in the mountains near Mexico City.

Weather in Mexico City in December

weather in mexico city mexico in December
Mexico City weather in December (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

3. Cabo San Lucas in December

For more information on visiting Cabo San Lucas, check out this Cabo Travel Guide.

Cabo San Lucas and nearby San Jose del Cabo are located in the Los Cabos Municipality. In Spanish, los cabos means “the capes,” (as cabo means “cape”). These are the top two destinations in Los Cabos Mexico.

Cabo San Lucas is the more popular of the two Cabos, though the airport you’ll fly into is in San Jose del Cabo, about 40 minutes away.

With a more relaxed vibe, San Jose del Cabo offers a nice alternative to lively Cabo San Lucas, so some travelers stay there.

With warmer weather all year, Mexico is great year-round — and Cabo even more so. It averages 300 days of sunshine each year (though some say it gets 350 days of sunshine!), so you can expect to have a nice trip to Los Cabos in December.

In fact, the Cabo rainy season only runs from about August to September, followed by 8-10 months of sunshine.

December is still warm, and temperatures average about 82°F (27°C), but you can always hop in your Cabo beach resort pool or the ocean for a refreshing swim.

Swim With the Whale sharks in Cabo

woman in long sleeved pink shirt swimming next to a giant spotted whale shark in holbox island, one of the most unique places to visit in mexico
Looking for the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas in December? Join a Cabo whale shark tour to swim with the largest fish in the sea 🐋

Whale sharks are sharks, but they are a docile and harmless variety, similar to a nurse shark. They are also the largest fish in the sea at about 40- to 50-feet-long (12m-15m)!

Cabo Whale Shark Season runs from about November to April, so if you want to experience this bucket list activity, book your Los Cabos Whale Shark tour ASAP because they do sell out.

Cabo Weather in December

weather in cabo san lucas mexico in December
Weather in Cabo in December, which shows what you can also expect from Los Cabos weather in December. (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

4. Tulum in December

For more information on visiting Tulum Mexico, check out this Tulum Travel Guide.

Once a sleepy beach town, Tulum is now one of the most popular and best places to visit in Mexico.

In recent years, it has also become one of the most expensive. Since December is one of the Tulum busy season months, you’ll want to book your Tulum beach resort ASAP!

Weather-wise, it likely won’t rain at all, though a brief afternoon shower isn’t uncommon anywhere on the coast.

Since the Tulum weather in December is so great, this is the busiest month for Tulum travel, so do expect large crowds throughout December in Tulum.

If you were planning to travel to Tulum on a budget, your money will definitely stretch further in the summer months, during the Tulum slow season.

December and January will be pricey, but you can find some good Tulum travel deals in February, and still enjoy the nice weather.

With the money you can save visiting Tulum in November vs December, you may even want to extend your trip beyond Mexico and into Central America.

Just a few hours south of Tulum, you can do a land crossing into Belize near Lake Bacalar, Mexico

Tulum Weather in December

weather in tulum mexico in December
You can use this chart to get a good feel for Yucatan Mexico weather, both for Tulum and the entire Yucatan Peninsula. (Photo via Weather and Climate, Tulum weather in December)
Visiting Mexico in December

5. Oaxaca in December

large agave plant in front of a colonial church

For more information on visiting Oaxaca Mexico, check out this Oaxaca Travel Guide.

🗣 Before we talk about visiting Oaxaca in December, let’s clear up the Oaxaca pronunciation. If you’re wondering, How do you pronounce Oaxaca?, it’s waa-haa-kah.

Oaxaca State is one of the most culturally-rich places in Mexico and all Latin America.

Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca State, is well known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico thanks to its delicious Oaxacan cuisine. There’s also and colorful festivals, like Day of the Dead and the Guelaguetza.

When most people say “Oaxaca,” they are referring to Oaxaca City (AKA Oaxaca de Juarez), in the central part of the state.

The beaches of Oaxaca, like Puerto Escondido, Mazunte, Zipolite and Huatulco, are also popular, but they are located on the Pacific Coast.

Oaxaca City weather is more of a desert-like climate, versus the beaches that are quite tropical. Though a desert, Oaxaca City does have a rainy season which runs from about May to September, so if you visit in December, you’ll have beautiful weather.

Oaxaca Weather in December

weather in oaxaca mexico in December
Oaxaca Mexico weather December (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

6. Riviera Maya in December

tropical beach in riviera maya mexico
Many of the best things to do in Mexico in December involve being in the ocean! (Photo: Caribbean weather in December via Canva)

The Riviera Maya is located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, in the Yucatán Peninsula.

It is the most posh area in Yucatan, where you’ll find many of the best resorts in Mexico and even the nicest Mexico overwater bungalows.

Given its location, you can expect similar weather to Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, which is to say it’s on the hotter side.

Of course, you’ll be right on the Caribbean Sea, so you’ll likely have a nice breeze, but you can also jump in the sea to cool off in the afternoons.

🏝 Costa Maya Mexico Weather in December: Located about 3.5 hours south of Riviera Maya, you’ll be in the beach town of Mahahual, Mexico on the Costa Maya. The weather in Riviera Maya and Coast Maya is similar, but the vibe is much more laid back in Costa Maya.

Besides the Caribbean, there are so many other places to cool off and swim near Riviera Maya.

From the cenotes in Tulum and cenotes near Cancun, both close to Riviera Maya, you also have water parks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha, and underground rivers, like Rio Secreto.

For a truly memorable experience, head about 40 minutes south to the beach town of Akumal.

It’s just south of Tulum, and one of the more up-and-coming Mexico resort towns.

However, the real claim to fame is that you can swim with the turtles in Akumal Beach.

riviera maya weather in December

weather in riviera maya mexico in December
Mayan Riviera weather in December (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

7. Puerto Vallarta in December

For more information on visiting Puerto Vallarta Mexico, check out this Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico, and best beach towns in Mexico.

It appeals to all types of travelers, from solo travelers to honeymooners, families and LGBTQ+ travelers — as Puerto Vallarta is the gay capital of Mexico, AKA the San Francisco of Mexico.

If you’re looking to go on a cruise to Mexico in December, see if there are any to Puerto Vallarta. A top destination for cruises in Mexico, there’s no shortage of things to do in Puerto Vallarta when you venture off-boat.

🏝 Sayulita in December: Located about one hour from Puerto Vallarta, many visit or even take a day trip to Sayulita, Mexico. This bohemian beach town has the same great weather as Puerto Vallarta in December, and it’s absolutely worth checking out.

On one side of the city, there’s Bahía Banderas (Bay of Banderas), a tranquil inlet off the Pacific Ocean great for swimming, snorkeling, and whale watching (winters only). The Sierra Madre mountains are just behind the beach, so you really get the best of all worlds.

As with all Mexico beaches in December, you can expect hotter, somewhat humid weather, but little rain.

If it does rain, the showers usually pass quickly, and then you can go back to enjoying all the Old World charm, beautiful nature, and best beaches Puerto Vallarta has to offer.

Puerto Vallarta Weather in December

weather in puerto vallarta mexico in December
Weather in Puerto Vallarta in December (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

8. Playa del Carmen in December

For more information on visiting Playa del Carmen Mexico, check out this Playa del Carmen Travel Guide.

Though some call Playa del Carmen the mini-Cancun, it’s a destination in its own right. Now, to get there, you do have to travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (or just “Playa,” as the locals call it), but it’s just a one hour drive.

Once you arrive in Playa, it’s much more of a beach town than Cancun, which is a resort town.

Now, there are some beautiful resorts in Playa del Carmen, but it has a small town feel. It’s much more walkable than Cancun, which is great because there’s no Uber in Playa del Carmen.

What these two cities do share, is their weather.

Much like Cancun, you can expect warmer days and cool, breezy nights. There’s not much humidity in winter, but to avoid it entirely when traveling to Playa del Carmen in December plan to be indoors, or in the water, in the afternoons.

If you want to visit the nearby Mayan Ruins in Mexico, arrive early in the morning when they open, and you’ll be done touring the site by midday when the humidity can roll in.

When in the Yucatan Peninsula, don’t miss Chichen Itza Pyramids — one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Playa del Carmen Weather in December

weather in playa del carmen mexico in December
Playa del Carmen weather Mexico in December (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

9. Puerto Escondido in December

wide sandy area on Playa Zicatela beach in puerto escondido, mexico | Best Oaxaca Beaches

For more information on visiting Puerto Escondido Mexico and all the best beaches of Oaxaca, check out this Oaxaca Beaches Travel Guide.

Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Puerto Escondido is the most famous of all Oaxaca Beaches.

It is popular with surfers, artists, backpackers, and solo travelers in Mexico, but there’s really something for everyone in “Puerto,” as the locals call it.

🏄‍♀️ Want to learn to surf in Puerto Escondido? Book some surfing lessons now so you can learn how to in one of the best places to surf in Mexico.

Some will start in Oaxaca City, then make the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido journey, for a complete Oaxaca state trip. There are so many things to do in Puerto Escondido, however, that you can easily spend your whole trip there.

When in town, you’ll want to visit the best beaches in Puerto Escondido, like Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Zicatela, Playa Bacocho, Playa La Punta and Playa Puerto Angel.

December is part of the Mexico whale season, so you may even see some whales from the shore. You can also take a Puerto Escondido boat tour out to see the dolphins that hang out near Puerto.

When the sun is setting, join the baby turtle release experience to send these adorable creatures into the sea for the first time. At night, head to Laguna Manialtepec Lagoon to see the bioluminescence.

Puerto Escondido Weather in December

weather in puerto escondido mexico in December
Mexico climate and Puerto Escondido December weather (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

10. Cozumel in December

cozumel sign | downtown cozumel mexico | cancun to cozume
Want to visit Yucatan in December for some warm weather? Cozumel is a great choice because it’s located in Yucatan, the hottest part of Mexico in December.

🚢 Planning to take a Mexico cruise in December? Cozumel Island is one of the best Mexico cruise ports, especially for snorkelers and divers.

Cozumel is a Mexican Caribbean island, located about 30 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen. There are also flights to Cozumel, and you can land right on the island at Cozumel International Airport.

It’s also quite easy to travel from Cancun to Cozumel.

Some say Cozumel is the best place for snorkeling in Mexico, and the best place for diving in Mexico as well. Just off-shore, there’s the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.

There are plenty of ways to see the reef, even if you don’t want to swim.

That’s right, the Cozumel Submarine Tour is an unforgettable experience to see these coral reefs in an actual submarine. Cozumel also has beautiful beaches, and Mayan Ruins as well.

You likely won’t get rain when traveling to Cozumel in December.

However, the vast majority of all the best things to do in Cozumel involve being in, on or near the Caribbean Sea, so that makes the (possible) afternoon showers more tolerable.

Cozumel Weather in December

weather in cozumel mexico in December
Cozumel December weather (Photo via Weather and Climate)
Visiting Mexico in December

Weather in Mexico in December: FAQs

humpback whale jumping out of the water |whale watching in cabo san lucas mexico
Not sure what to do in Mexico in December? Head to the beaches and enjoy everything from whale watching and snorkeling, to boat cruises, fine dining and diving.

Does it rain in Mexico in December?

It can, but it’s rare — December weather in Mexico is as close to perfect as it gets.

There is a very slim chance of rain, though Nature does what it wants! If you’re visiting the beaches on the Mexican coast, an afternoon shower is always possible, though it would likely pass quickly.

What’s the typical Mexico Christmas weather?

Weather is never 100% predictable, but Mexican weather in December is somewhat predictable.

While there’s no set Mexico temperature in December, you can expect warm days and cool nights on the beaches, but cold nights in the cities. It’s the dry season, so rain shouldn’t be an issue.

What’s the best time of year to visit Mexico?

Weather-wise, the best time to travel to Mexico is from November to March.

This is during the dry season, when you’ll see very little (if any) rain, low humidity, and few mosquitoes. This is also the high or busy season in Mexico, when most people visit so they get the best weather.

For travelers who want to escape the crowds, the summer months also give you more bang for your buck.

You can still find cheap flight prices and hotel deals in December, but you have to look! If you want to treat yourself to a fancy resort in Mexico, opt for February over December.

Visiting Mexico in December

When is the shoulder season in Mexico?

colorful buildings along the beach in Mazatlan, one of the Best Mexican Beach Towns
You’ll have near-empty beaches like this in Mazatlan if you visit during the Mexico shoulder season. (Photo: Mazatlan Mexico weather in December via Canva)

The shoulder season is a magical time when the weather is still nice, but the crowds have died down, and the prices have as well. It takes place just as the busy season is about to begin, and right after it ends.

For my money, this is the best time to visit Mexico!

The Mexico shoulder season includes the months of October to November and April to May; though May is the hottest month in Mexico.

You may still find great Mexico travel deals in other months, but you likely won’t find low prices or small crowds anytime during the busy season.

Visiting Mexico in December

How hot is it in Mexico in December?

You might want to know, Is Mexico warm in December?

Yes — It is still quite warm in Mexico, even in December. If you don’t like tropical weather, plan to visit the cities in Mexico in December, not the beaches, which are considerably warmer than the cities.

❄️ Mexico Fun Fact: The coldest city in Mexico is the small pueblo of Ciudad Madera, Chihuahua, located in North Mexico. Ciudad Madera sees a few inches of snow each year.

Many are surprised that December is still one of the warmer months in Mexico, especially if you’re visiting the Mexico beach towns.

Average temperatures in Mexico in December hover around 80°F (26°C) on the beaches, but it can feel a few degrees hotter because of the humidity.

Visiting Mexico in December

Is it sunny in Mexico in December?

Even if it’s cloudy or rainy, the sun’s rays are still strong in Mexico — so don’t forget to pack these best sunscreens for Mexico to keep your skin safe.

Yes — It tends to be sunny in Mexico year-round, even in the Winter season.

Since December is not a Mexico rainy season month, it likely won’t rain at all. In the event it does, just know that even if storms, cloud cover and rainfall rolls in, the sun often comes back in an hour.

What is the average temperature in Mexico in December?

Wondering, Is Mexico hot in December?

It Depends — The average weather in Mexico in December is on the warmer side, but it’s not very humid. If you’re visiting Mexico City and/or Central Mexico, the temperatures cool down considerably at night, but this isn’t the case on Mexican beaches.

For Mexico beaches, you can expect 80°F days (26°C) and 72°F nights (22°C). With the humidity factored in, it might even feel hotter.

Inland, the cities of Mexico are considerably cooler, so plan for 65°F days (18°C) and 45°F nights (7°C).

If you’re debating on when to visit, know it’s usually a bit warmer in November compared to December. For travelers who enjoy the cooler weather, winters in Mexico are perfect, so plan to visit between December to March.

Visiting Mexico in December

When is Mexico Hurricane Season?

Want to travel to the Yucatan Peninsula? The best time to visit Yucatan is December, when you can enjoy places like Merida, Valladolid, Izamal, the Mayan Ruins and Yucatan cenotes with nice weather. (Photo: Cenote Suytun)

Mexico has about 5,800 miles (9330 km) of coastline, so there’s a lot of places susceptible to hurricanes.

Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30, so you’re always better off visiting Mexico beaches in December vs November, just in case!

What are the best beaches in Mexico in December?

I come bearing great news because beaches in Mexico all have great weather in December — sunny, warm (but not hot), with low humidity.

In fact, December Mexico weather is perfect in both cities and on beaches, so you’re in for a great trip, regardless of when you’re going.

No matter if you’re headed to the Pacific Coast beaches (Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Escondido and Sayulita), Caribbean beaches (Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum and Playa del Carmen) or Yucatan beaches (Progreso, El Cuyo) — you’re in for a beautiful vacation.

Best time to see whales in Mexico: December to March

Not sure where to travel to Mexico in December? The weather in Ensenada Mexico in December is perfect, both on the beaches and nearby vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe. (Photo: Ensenada Mexico weather in December via Canva)

If you are visiting any of the Mexico Pacific beach towns, you must take a boat tour to see some whales.

Several species of whales migrate past the Pacific coast during Mexico whale watching season, but the best place to see them is off the coast of Baja California.

Baja California is a peninsula on Mexico’s west coast. It’s home to many of the best beach towns in Mexico, like Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos), La Paz, Loreto and Rosarito.

If you’re visiting Cabo San Lucas in December, don’t pass up the chance to take some of these Cabo whale tours.

Visiting Mexico in December

Should I go to Mexico in December?

Yes — Mexico December weather is ideal, and you can expect sunny, cool days.

If you’re traveling at the beginning of December, you will have nice weather and smaller crowds, though the crowd level picks up considerably as it gets closer to Christmas.

Can you go to Mexico in December?

Yes — In fact, it’s the month when the most visitors go to Mexico!

December is a lively month in Mexico, but it’s also an exciting time as cities (especially downtown Mexico City) get decked out for the Christmas holiday season. You might even see some decorations on Mexico’s beaches.

Visiting Mexico in December

Are there any major Mexico holidays in December?

basilica guadalupe church in mexico city
The best way to visit is on a Basilica de Guadalupe tour, as it’s outside of the main tourist zone. Many tours combine the church with a visit to nearby Teotihuacan Ruins.

Yes — December 25th is Christmas in Mexico, though many actually use this as a day of rest. The main Christmas event in Mexico is Noche Buena on December 24, as well as the Christmas Posadas, parties that take place throughout the month.

Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe: December 12

Christmas is the biggest Mexico holiday in December. However, there are others like Hanukkah for Jewish Mexicans (exact dates change every year), the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8, New Year’s Eve on December 31.

There’s also Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe on December 12. One of the central religious figures, images and statues of the Virgen de Guadalupe (Virgin of Guadalupe) can be seen all over Mexico.

For devout Catholics, the Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe (Virgin of Guadalupe Day) on December 12 is one of the most important holidays.

The main place to experience the holiday is the beautiful Basílica de Guadalupe in Mexico City.

On December 12 each year, millions of devout Catholics (yes — millions!) travel from every corner of Mexico to attend this mass; some even make the trek on foot as a form of pilgrimage.

Visiting Mexico in December

Are there mosquitoes in Mexico in December?

Yes — Mosquitoes are a way of life everywhere that has tropical weather, from Mexico and Costa Rica, to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

The mosquitoes are at their worst in the Mexico rainy season, but you can still get bit in the dry season. You’ll want to pack insect repellent when visiting Mexico, and apply it more than once during the day.

I recommend this eco-friendly mosquito spray from Repel, or this combo reef-safe sunscreen/mosquito repellent from Bullfrog.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Mexico in December

If you’re going to Mexico in December, you’ll be in good company — as it’s the busiest month for Mexico travel. The weather is sunny, but cool all over the country, and there’s a festive feeling in the air, particularly the cities in Central Mexico.

What’s the best place to visit in Mexico in December? In my opinion, Mexico City, because it’s so beautiful around Christmas time. All the Mexican beaches have perfect weather in December, but if you want to escape the crowds, check out Zihuatanejo or La Paz.

You will definitely encounter crowds and high price tags in December and January, so if that’s not for you, opt for November or February.

These are shoulder season months, so you’ll have nice weather, smaller crowds and reasonable prices — it just might be the best time to visit Mexico!

If Mexico in December isn’t for you…

After reading this, you might not want to visit Mexico in December after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about visiting Mexico during other months of the year.

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