The Best Time to Visit Cancun 2023: The ultimate guide

If you are planning a trip to Mexico and wondering when it is the best time to visit Cancun, you have landed in the right place.

This post will help you decide when to travel to Cancun and when it is the best month for what you are looking for.

I lived in Cancun for more than 7 years and I keep going back to the city that welcomed me with open arms and where I had the time of my life.

So I hope that sharing my experience will help you plan your trip according to the best time to visit Cancun for the type of vacation you are looking for.

Considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, it’s always a great time to visit Cancun.

However each month is different in weather and events, things to do, and even hotel rates. In this post, I will try to give you an idea of the best time to go to Cancun, for great deals, fewer crowds, the best weather, and events.

You will also find a session about Cancun month by month. This way you can plan your trip accordingly.

The best time to visit Cancun in a nutshell

When is the best time to visit Cancun?

There is the best time to visit Cancun for different situations and here I am listing each and every one of them.

Best time to visit Cancun for the best deals

Let’s start with the most popular question. When can I find good deals for Cancun Hotels?

In Cancun, you can find hotels for any budget, from simple hostels to gorgeous luxury properties. But there are months when you can find even better deals.

Moreover, if you love luxury, but you don’t like to spend your travel budget on hotel expenses, the best months to travel are from September through November up to early December and May to June.

In these months, hotels usually experience a low occupancy and therefore are keener on lowering their rates. So you can really find good deals and discounts of up to 50%.

This is the time of year when it’s hotter and more humid and with more risk of hurricanes and rainy days.

On the other hand, you will find warm waters, which makes it ideal for swimming and scuba diving in Cancun.

Best time to visit Cancun for good weather

Cancun weather is great all year round, with warm temperatures and many sunny days.

However, summer months are hotter and more humid, with more rain and the risk of hurricanes, even though these are rare.

In fact, the months from July through the end of October are also called the rainy season or wet season, for this reason.

The low season is also considered the worst time to visit Cancun for the weather because it’s very humid and unbearably hot.

On the contrary, winters, the time from December through Easter holidays, is the dry season and the weather is supposedly spectacular with long sunny days and blue sky.

Nights are cooler, especially in February, which is also the dryest month of the year, and just a little rain is expected (but not guaranteed).

Winter is also considered a high season when there is the least chance of rain and no hurricanes, while nights and mornings are much cooler, but the average temperature is still around 83ºF/ 28ºC.

The water temperature is lower but very much swimmable (for some people, I would add, because I am always cold in the water).

These are the months with sunny days and clear skies. And the best time to go visit archeological sites such as Chichen Itza, thanks to the lower temperature and level of humidity.

So all in all the best weather in Cancun is definitely in the winter months from December through March/early April.

Normally the Holy week, which, together with New Year is considered peak season, marks the end of winter and the perfect weather.

TOP TIP: Having said that, keep in mind that these are not rules set in stone as you can never be sure about the weather. In other words, it can rain during winter, although less likely, and you can find spectacular sunny days in Summer, which is very likely to happen.

I just wanted to clarify that, because I don’t want to be responsible if you come to Cancun in January and you will find a week of rain. That would be really unfortunate, but not impossible. 😵‍💫

When is the cheapest time to visit Cancun?

The cheapest time to visit Cancun is between seasons. And, in my opinion, it is also the best time to visit. That is when you have also the lowest crowds, which is why it’s cheaper to travel in Cancun and all of Mexico.

In fact, right after Easter and before the schools end, the prices will drop significantly and you have the best weather, the lowest rates, and the beach all to yourself. What else can you ask?

The only downside is if you travel solo, in which case it may be difficult to find the minimum number to create tours, but this is a minor issue as there is so much to do in Cancun, and places that you can visit on your own.

From September through November, it’s also one of the cheapest times to visit Cancun. However, at this time of the year, the humidity level ls higher and you have more chances to find rain and even hurricanes or tropical storms.

If you don’t mind though, it’s also a great time to find hotel deals in Cancun.

Best time to travel to Cancun for swimming with the whale sharks

Cancun is one of the best places to find tours to swim with whale sharks. It’s an amazing experience that I always recommend.

However, these gentle giant of the sea only travels across the Caribbean sea right in front of Cancun in the summer from June through September.

So something to keep in mind when planning.

Best time to visit Cancun for avoiding crowds

The shoulder season is not only the best time of the year in Cancun to find hotel deals but also to avoid crowds. September through early December (excluding Thanksgiving) and May through June are the months with less tourism.

You can enjoy archeological sites, cenotes, and other beautiful sites without lines and almost empty, especially during weekdays.

However, keep in mind that September is the rainiest month, and from September through early November you will find high temperatures.

Best time to go to Cancun for avoiding hurricanes

Hurricane season is officially from June through October. The end of November marks the end of Hurricane Season officially. However, August through October are more at risk.

It’s worth mentioning that in the past 30 years, there have been only 2 major hurricanes to keep things in perspective.

All the others were just tropical storms with little to no damage but a whole lot of rain and wind.

Keep in mind that the hurricane season hits at the same time of the year in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the entire Riviera Maya as much as on the pacific coast.

When it hits the costs even the areas in Central Mexico, including Mexico City, are affected by bad weather too.

Best time to visit Cancun for families and kids

The best time in Cancun for families traveling with children is from May through November.

It is the low season when rates are lower, and you can find lots of family deals. Also, all the attractions and beaches are less crowded.

The weather is really hot, and the water temperatures, are perfect for swimming and snorkeling with the kids.

June through September is also the time of the year when you can see whale sharks and sea turtles. The only time to avoid is the week of Thanksgiving, which is usually very crowded.

Best hotels in Cancun for Families

In Cancun, you will find many hotels that are Adults only, where kids are not accepted but they don’t even have the right facilities.

At the same time, other hotels are made for entertaining kids while the Adults can also have the time of their life. Here I am going to share the best hotels for families.

👉 Nizuc Resort and Spa | $$$$$ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I had the pleasure to stay in this spectacular resort and I have to say they outdo themselves in terms of service, food, location, and facilities.

They have an adult area where kids cannot go and a general area with kids’ facilities as well to keep them entertained.

Kids’ menus are available in all the restaurants and the sea is very swimmable from the hotel-protected bay. The Restaurants are out of this world so much that I have included three of them in my guide to the Cancun Restaurants. Nizuc Resort and Spa is really special.

👉 Hyatt Ziva Cancun All Inclusive | $$$$ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hyatt Ziva is my favorite resort for families in Cancun especially because of its incredible location right before Punta Cancun, in a protected bay, where the water access is very easy and the water is very swimmable for kids and adults alike.

Kids and adults can enjoy the children’s pool, free children’s club, playground, and babysitting service (surcharge).

👉 Krystal Altitude Cancun | $$$ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Also in Punta Cancun at the beginning of the long stretch of beach where it curves and forms a nice protected bay great for swimming with no currents.

The hotel is stunning yet accessible. They have family rooms and offer a lot of facilities for kids including kids’ pool, game room, kids club, and babysitting services at an extra charge.

👉 Casa Turquesa – Near Luxury Avenue Shopping Mall | $$ ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Budget and family-friendly hotel right on the spectacular Cancun beach close to luxury avenue mall.

Hands down this is one of the most beautiful parts of Cancun beach, although not very much swimmable. The hotel has a pool and a playground for kids though. And kids stay free!

Best time to visit Cancun for swimming snorkeling and diving

Although there are not many places in Cancun where you can snorkel from the shore, there are many boat tours that take you to the nearby MUSA, Isla Mujeres, and Punta Nizuc, where the water is calmer.

Visibility is best from November through May, the drier months, especially in January through March.

Snorkeling with whale sharks is available from June through September, but June is better for visibility.

Best time to visit Cancun for sea turtle hatching

Did you know that the Mexican Caribbean is an important nesting area for the green (Chelonia mydas), loggerhead (Caretta caretta), and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) turtles and sometimes also the rear leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), shows up.

They laid their eggs on the beach and they are protected by Mexican law which means that it’s considered a criminal offense to persecute and hunt them, steal their eggs, consume their meat, or purchase tortoiseshell products.

Every year, female sea turtles emerge from the sea at night to lay their eggs on the
beaches of Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and other parts of the
Mexican Caribbean.

Many hotels have their own program to protect them and make sure they are kept safe from predators assisting the whole process from nesting to hatching and the final rush to the newly born sea.

If you happen to be on the beach at night when they set them free, it’s a beautiful experience to see those little creatures running toward their forever home, the sea.

Sea turtle nesting starts at the end of May and finishes in October. The hatching starts at the end of July and through December.

3 hotel brands with turtle conservations program in Cancun

Palace Resorts group

Palace Resorts have a fully-fledged team of biologists and volunteers who mark nesting areas by scouring approximately six miles of the beach surrounding Moon Palace Cancun and other sections where Beach Palace and Sun Palace are located.

Royal Resorts

From May to October, Royal Resorts have security guards patrolling the shoreline at night on the lookout for female sea turtles emerging from the waves and they watch over them as they dig their nests.

The eggs are picked up and protected in turtle nurseries at The Royal Sands, The Royal Uno and The Royal Islander in Cancún.

Then May through October, guests may witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles, baby turtles scuttling down the beach towards the sea.

Sandos

Sandos Cancun also works with veterinarians and biologists to make sure the human impact on this engendered species’ life cycle is minimal.

They also involve the wildlife protection organization known as Balam Ka’an Wild, which provides them with experts who stay at the resort from May through October to protect and monitor the nests.

Best time in Cancun for the nightlife and to avoid spring break

As I mentioned before Cancun is always open for business, including Cancun nightlife which is always great all year round.

The nightlife mainly revolves around Punta Cancun area in the hotel zone, where you will find the most popular nightclubs, such as Mandala, and Coco Bongo, among others.

Depending on which time of the year you go, you will see different kinds of people.

Spring breakers will take over the entire area between March and April, but this time of the year also attracts the craziest shows and 24hrs parties with international DJs and top entertainment.

If you are not up for it and prefer a more moderate kind of party, you should avoid March and June through mid-July and opt for more uptight nightlife in December through February when the average age is over 30.

It is also true that if you are not into parties and nightlife, you won’t be bothered as long as you avoid the hotels that are more frequented by spring breakers.

Best time to visit Cancun for kite surfing

The best season for kitesurfing in Cancun is primarily from November to June, which is when the north winds blow and make it the best condition for kite surfing.

The best place for kitesurfing in Cancun is Isla Blanca an unspoiled beach located at only 20 km north of Cancun. read my post linked above for more info.

Best time to go to Cancun without seaweed (sargassum)

Usually, the best time to go to Cancun without seaweed is winter as seaweed usually appears from May through October.

It’s impossible to predict which beaches are most affected by Sargassum because it changes depending on the currents.

However, I can almost assure you that in case you happen to be in Cancun when there is a lot of Sargassum, you can check out Isla Mujeres beach (at 30 minutes ferry ride), Isla Blanca (20 minutes drive north of Cancun) and Playa Mujeres (right before Isla Blanca) and you can be assured that you will be sargasso free.

Cancun weather by season

☀️ High Season in Cancun – December through April (winter)

The high season in Cancun is also called the dry season because it’s when it rains the least.

That is when temperatures get bearable, the sun shines in the blue sky most of the time and the rainy season is just a memory. The water temperature is cooler and it’s less likely to rain (But not impossible).

This is also called “high season”, because of the beautiful weather. It’s when you find the highest prices and the bigger crowds.

The dry season is also spring break season from the end of March through early April, something to keep in mind if you want to avoid this kind of tourism.

😎 Shoulder season in Cancun (May – June):

From after Easter through the beginning of June we have what it’s called the shoulder season when we enjoy the best of both worlds, the cool weather, and low prices.

The sea water temperature starts to get warmer but there is still no sargasso at the horizon (hopefully).

We can still get showers more frequently.

💦 Cancun wet season (summer) – from June through October

This is also called rainy and hurricane season for the high risks of those. The wet season starts approximately in June and lasts until Mid September – October.

It’s characterized by higher temperatures and a high rate of humidity, sometimes unbearable.

Also, there is a high chance that sargasso will make its appearance on the majority of Cancun beaches.

On the bright side, the sea is warmer and prices go slightly down.

⛈ Shoulder season (Late October – Early December)

This is the worst time to travel to Cancun weather-wise.

The temperatures are at their highest until the end of October when it starts to cool down and it’s the most humid season.

Sea temperatures are the warmest of the year and very pleasant. Sargasso is going away (🥳) and the dry season is approaching with more sunny days and blue skies.

Rates are still low and you can find great deals, and fewer people are around.

The best time to visit Cancun: a Month-by-Month guide

January

January is a great time of year to visit Cancun. The maximum temperatures get around the 81°F (27°C) and you will enjoy little rain and blue sky.

In January, evenings can be cool, especially at night and early morning, which is nice, but remember to pack some light sweaters in case you get chilly.

The water temperature is around 78°F (25°C), still nice for swimming in January unless you are like me and get cold easily, in which case remember to pack a wetsuit if you plan to go snorkeling or scuba diving.

Festivities and Events in January in Cancun

☑️ Día de los Reyes (Day of Kings) January 6th –

Another occasion to exchange gifts with your friend and family, but also eat the Rosca de Reyes a typical delicious sweet bread.

FUN FACT – A local tradition says that you must share a Rosca de Reyes with your colleagues or friends and the person that finds a figurine representing baby Jesus inside their piece have to throw a fiesta and prepare Tamales the day of Candelaria which falls on February 2nd. 

☑️ Annual Handline Barracuda Tournament

Another fun event in late January is the Annual Handline Barracuda Tournament. This event is held on the nearby Isla Mujeres, just off the Cancun coast. If you’re an angler, you can have fun fishing and help raise money for local charities. Win-win!

Cancun in February

February is another amazing dry and sunny month with warm temperatures, but with the lowest water temperatures. The weather ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 82°F (28°C) during this month.

Party lovers can enjoy pool party nights at Mandala and many other events.

Festivities and Events in February in Cancun

• Día de Candelaria (February 2nd)
• Constitution Day – with parades, concerts, fairs, and picnics.
• Valentine’s Day – celebrating love like any other place in the world.
• OHL classic for golfers! 

Suggested Tours on February

↳ Book a private Old Galleon Dinner Cruise while a saxophonist serenades you.

↳ Go visit Chichen Itza, a nearby cenote, and the colonial town of Valladolid on this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ tour, rated by more than 8000 travelers.

Cancun in March

Cancun’s driest month March brings only 3 rainy days on average.

The water is around 79°F (26°C) and daytime temperatures range between 72°F (22°C) and 84°F (29°C).

March is spring break season in Cancun, so the nightlife can get pretty wild. You can choose among a variety of events including boat parties with open bars, DJs, and enjoy the Caribbean sea under the stars.

Therefore, this month isn’t a good time to visit Cancun if you don’t like crowds. Keep that in mind if you’re planning to travel to Cancun in March, as we are still in the peak season just like the winter months.

Check out Feels Summer for the Cancun spring break calendar, and/or pick up a Cancun Club Pass.

Suggested tours in March

↳ Spring Equinox Ceremony in Chichén Itza on March 19 or 20. – 5⭐️ 1 Review Book it here

↳ 3-in-1 Discovery Combo Tour: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling Plus Cenote and Caves – 5⭐️ 2800 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Hip Hop Sessions Boat Party Cancun (Adults only) – 4.5⭐️ 389 Reviews Book it here

Cancun in April

Just like March, April is probably the driest month of the year in Cancun, when you can expect just two rainy days in the entire month.

The spring-break crowd is fading away but Cancun is getting ready for the Easter crowds.

You should know that Holy week is the busiest week of the year in Mexico because not only tourists flocks to enjoy the holiday season off work but also the locals. In fact, Holy week is even more important than Christmas in Mexico.

The Holy week also officially marks the end of the high season. So if you want to save some bucks, make sure you travel the week after Christmas.

Festivities and Events in April in Cancun

Children’s day (April 30th)

If you’re traveling with kids, you can enjoy special events for children on this day. Some of the activities include parades and kid-friendly parties.

Suggested tours in April

↳ Best ATV Tour, Ziplines and Cenote Swim with Lunch and Transport Included- Better to do it in March while it’s not so muddy for the rain. 4 ⭐️ 1439 Reviews Book it here

↳ Priority Access: Xcaret Day Trip+ Night Show+ Transportation – A full day in Xcaret pack with activities – 4.5⭐️ 1021 Reviews Book it here

↳ Horseback riding in Cancun, ATV, zip lines, cenote, lunch, drinks, and transfer – 4.5⭐️ 47 Reviews Book it here

Cancun in May

May is a good month to enjoy the best of both seasons, the good weather of the dry months, and the hotel deals of the low season.

May is considered the start of the wet season, but historically, you don’t get much rain.

The water temperature is 82°F (28°C) while during the daytime, temperatures range between 77°F (25°C) and 88°F (31°C).

If you are in Cancun in May, this is a wonderful time to find nesting sea turtles!

Whale sharks also start to come into the area in May. But it’s not yet time to see them as the whale sharks season officially starts in mid-June. Something to keep in mind if you really want to see them (I suggest you do that, it’s a memorable experience)

Mexican Festivities and Events in May in Cancun

☑️ Mother’s Day

On May 10th, people in Mexico celebrate Mother’s Day. This is a big deal for Mexicans and usually involves giving their mother vibrant flower bouquets.

☑️ Cinco de Mayo  

Don’t expect parties and celebrations for Cinco de Mayo. It’s actually a date that is celebrated more in the US than in Mexico. So in Cancun, it’s just a day like any others. Just wanted to include it here so you know what not to expect.

Cancun in June

If you are hunting for hotel deals, June is still a good month for that. We are sliding into the wet season so you can expect more rain.

The temperature can get up to 90°F (32°C)! This makes it a great time for snorkeling and scuba diving if there are no storms coming. In fact, you have great underwater visibility.

It’s also whale shark season so get ready for underwater adventures.

Events in June in Cancun

☑️ Dia De La Marina

June 1st is Día de la Marina where sea workers send out floating wreaths of flowers on the water, to honor sailors lost at sea.

Suggested Tours from Cancun in June

↳ Swim with whale sharks with this eco-friendly tour– do not miss this memorable experience of swimming with whale sharks – 4.5⭐️ 589 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Catamaran cruise and snorkeling to Isla Mujeres – half a day on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres with a snorkeling stop – 4.5⭐️ 1891 Reviews Book it here

↳ Swim with turtles, reefs, Musa, a shipwreck, and cenote: 5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour – A full day of adventure in the water – 4.5⭐️ 797 Reviews Book it here

Cancun in July

Cancun weather in July is quite hot with temperatures ranging between 79°F (26°C)  and 90°F (32°C). The water temperature is perfect for swimming and although we are in the middle of the rainy season, you shouldn’t get many rainy days.

Also, July is when you have the best chance to snorkel with whale sharks.

Sea turtles also start to hatch on the Cancun beaches, which you won’t want to miss. Check out the hotels that have a turtle conservation program.

This is the perfect time to enjoy watersport activities, go on a scuba diving adventure in Cancun, or visit Isla Mujeres or take some surf lessons.

Cancun in August

The weather in August in Cancun is pretty hot and humid, with temperatures up to 90ºF (32ºC) and only four rainy days on average. The water temperature is warm, great for swimming and watersport activities.

Events in Cancun in August

Fiesta de la Playa

This is one of the world’s biggest beach parties which makes August the best time to go to Cancun for partying

During the event, located on the seven-mile stretch between Cancun and Punta Nizuc turns into a huge party with surfing competitions, live music, Frisbee contests, and much more. 

With turquoise waters and palm trees, as a backdrop, this event attracts party and beach lovers from all over the world.

Founding Day in Isla Mujeres

Isla de Mujeres celebrates Founding Day on August 17th, with music, parades, and fun festivities. It may be worth taking the ferry over and checking it out.

Suggested tours in Cancun in August

↳ Snorkeling with whale sharks with this eco-friendly tour– do not miss this memorable experience of swimming with whale sharks – 4.5⭐️ 589 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret from Cancún – check out the most amazing cenotes with a guide. 5⭐️ 561 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Isla Mujeres private tour in a catamaran with an open bar – 5⭐️ 264 Reviews – Book it here

Cancun in September

September is often rainy and cloudy, as we are approaching the real hurricane season.

It is in fact more likely to catch a storm and hopefully just a lot of rain without any serious damage. The daily highs still reach 90°F (32°C).

So prepare for a lot of heat and humidity. 🥵🥵🥵

On the bright side, you will be able to take advantage of great hotel deals. So make sure you stay on the lookout for those.

Suggested tours and things to do in September if it rains

↳ Visit the subterranean river caves at Xplor Park.

↳Explore the Mayan Museum or the old car museum (Museo del Automovil Antiguo).

↳Watch the Cirque du Soleil show.

Festivities and events in September in Cancun

☑️ Independence day

On September 15th, Mexico celebrates independence day with the famous El Grito with festivities with music, dancing, traditional food, and fireworks.

☑️ Autumn Equinox (September 21st)

The equinox was of great importance to the Maya Civilization. If you want to honor this prehispanic celebration you can go to Chichen Itza and watch the “serpiente plumada” feathered snakes sneaking down the stairs of El Castillo.

It’s actually during the day of the Equinox in fall and spring that the light on the Castillo stairs creates this special effect looking like a snake coming down the stairs.

It attracts thousands of people to participate in this event. If you don’t like crowds you should stay away as Chichen Itza will be packed on this day.

Cancun in October

In October Cancun weather is a bit cooler ranging from 73°F (23°C) and 86°F (30°C), but still very humid. However, the water is still great for swimming, at 84°F (29°C).

It’s the month with the highest chance of rain and hurricane, especially in early October and it gets sunnier as the month goes on.

In October you can still get great discounts on Hotels and flights. The best way is to check out packages on Expedia. They always have the best deals.

Cancun in November

Cancun in November is the perfect month to get the best of both worlds, the good weather of the upcoming dry season, and the good hotel deals of the low season, with the exception of thanksgiving.

Temperatures in November range from 70°F to 85°F 

“For reference, on August 1, the hottest day of the year, temperatures in Cancún typically range from 76°F to 90°F, while on January 26, the coldest day of the year, they range from 67°F to 81°F.” Weatherspark

Events and festivities in November in Cancun

☑️ Day of the dead (November 1st – 2nd)

The day of the dead is a huge festivity in Mexico and it’s usually celebrated with parades, decorated altars in private homes and cemeteries, and music. In Cancun is not that much of an event, but you may want to check out Parque de las Palapas in Cancun Downtown.

☑️ Jazz festival

Every year in November usually around the 10th you can enjoy the great music of the Jazz Festival. Check out the official Facebook page for details.

Suggested tours in November

↳ Go Diving Diving in Cancun in November will give you the chance to see female bull sharks as they come to the area at the end of the year to have their babies. 5⭐️ 230 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Chichen Itza + Cenote tour 4.5⭐️ 285 Reviews – Book it here

↳ Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos 5⭐️ 278 Reviews – Book it here

Cancun in December

December marks the beginning of the high season. The weather is perfect, with only six rainy days, and temperatures of 70°F (21°C) to 82°F (28°C).

Prices start to go up but you may find some deals if you travel before December

December festivities and events in Cancun

Electric Zoo Adventures: Cancùn Edition 2022

Fans of electronic music can check out this music festival. In addition to electronic DJs there will be beach volleyball tournaments and water sports! You can find your tickets here

Christmas in Cancun

While everybody dreams about a white Christmas, there is nothing more exotic than Christmas on one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, Cancun beaches. You can treat yourself to one of the upscale hotels in Cancun and celebrate like a star.

Many hotels will serve special meals. For the traditional experience, make sure to eat some tamales with a big glass of punch- a sometimes alcoholic fruit punch. 

Some smaller businesses may close early on the 24th or be closed on the 25h; however, you will have plenty of dining and entertainment options on those days. 

Celebrating the New Year in Cancun

If you love to party, Cancun is the place to in for New Year’s celebrations. Hotels organize large banquet dinners with live music. And you can watch fireworks over the lagoon to welcome the New Year and start with a bang.

Is Cancun safe to visit?

Cancun is relatively safe to visit, even as a solo female traveler, but you still need to be cautious and know where you are going.

It’s a tourist city where tourists are well looked after. A good dose of common sense is due, though, just like anywhere you go, even your hometown.

If you are wondering, yes crime is a thing in Cancun but it normally affects drug-related and cartel issues.

Stay away from it and you will be ok.

Here below are some safety tips for traveling to Cancun that I am sure you are already familiar with, but a good reminder never hurts. They apply all year round.

❌ Never drink tap water

It’s not life-threatening but it’s not good for your stomach and you risk spending your vacation in the bathroom instead of the beach. (yes, ice and salad are safe to eat, in case you were wondering)

❌ Don’t get wasted, especially if you are on your own

Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and stay alert.

❌ Never lose sight of your drink

If you go clubbing, it’s ok but make sure you keep your drinks on site. (so that nobody can put any drug in it)

❌ Keep your belonging in the hotel safe

If you have a safe box in your hotel, make sure you leave your documents and valuables in it. You can take a picture of your passport or make a copy to take with you.

If you rent a car, though you will need your original driving license and passport to pick it up and your driving license to drive around.

❌ Don’t flaunt your wealth

You don’t need your fancy watch and jewelry on a vacation in Mexico. I would leave them at home.

❌ Don’t walk on the beach at night

The beach at night is dark. If you want to go for a walk stay in the proximities of your hotel when the guard is on duty and can see you.

❌ Don’t buy tours from street vendors

Some of them may be legit others may not. Since we don’t know it’s better to stay safe than sorry and book your tours either with well-known online companies like viators or with your hotel concierge.

❌ Keep some Mexican pesos with you go out

Although credit cards are widely accepted and so US $, it’s advisable to have some cash in Mexican pesos with you for small shops, tips, or highways if you drive.

The exchange rate that you will get in shops is definitely not in your favor.

❌ Don’t use ATMs at night

At night there are always fewer people around and it’s easier to get robbed. Let’s avoid being easy prays.

❌ Don’t drive at night

Roads are not well lit and you may not see people walking or crossing on the roads. But if something happens and you get strained in the middle of nowhere it’s difficult to find help.

❌ Be kind and friendly but not naive

When I travel I love to talk to people and learn about the local culture and chat away. However, Cancun is not the place to do that. If somebody approaches you is because they want something.

So, be kind always, but try to understand what’s going on, and don’t feel bad about leaving the conversation if you don’t feel comfortable. Trust your instinct.

✅ Make sure you buy travel insurance before you travel

If you ask me, I would never travel without travel insurance. You never know what can happen even if you are careful. Certain things don’t depend on us.

I have two recommended sites, one is SafetyWings, which I find relatively affordable and quite comprehensive.

The other one is Travel Insurance master site that will help you find the perfect insurance for you.

You fill out the form with the information about your profile and requirements and they select the insurance company that is a good fit.

What to pack for Cancun

Keep in mind that Cancun sits in a tropical climate which means that there is generally hot weather all year round with the variations I mentioned above.

Here are some hot weather clothing ideas.

But don’t forget to pack a sweater if you get to Cancun in the dry weather from January through March.

Hats

Swimsuits

Beach Cover-up

Cute dresses

Sandals and flip flops

When to visit Cancun: FAQ

💡What are the hottest months in Cancun?

The hot season, which is also the wet season, is from June to November, with an average daily high temperature above 88°F 31ºC.

There is more chance of rain at this time of the year, and hurricanes are a possibility but very rare.

The cool and dry season starts in December and ends in March, with an average daily high temperature below 81°F/27ºC, cooler nights, and less chance of rain.

The high humidity level will make you feel as if there were still 88°F 31ºC, so don’t worry about feeling “cold” during the day.

💡What is the best all-inclusive Cancun resort?

There are so many options. Here are my top hotel of any category. Here I am going to share a few options for each category.

Best Cancun Luxury hotel in Downtown – Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina
Best Cancun Mid-range hotel Downtown – Oh! Cancun The Urban Oasis
Best Cancun Budget hotel in Downtown – Hotel Kavia Plus

Best Cancun All Inclusive luxury hotel in the Hotel Zone – Live Aqua Beach Resort All Inclusive Adult only
Best Cancun All-Inclusive mid-range hotel in the Hotel Zone – Riu Cancun Caribe
Best Cancun All-Inclusive budget hotel in the Hotel Zone – Mayafair Design Hotel

Best Cancun Vacation Rental Property – Luxury – Ocean View Three Bedroom, Three Story Penthouse by the Beach
Best Cancun Vacation Rental Property – Midrange – (downtown) – Stay Tropical Downtown Studios
Best Cancun Vacation Rental Property – Budget (downtown) – Villa Sofia

Best hotel for solo travelers in Cancun – Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa – Adults Only – All Inclusive
Best hotel for families in Cancun– Hyatt Ziva Cancun All Inclusive
Best Cancun hotel for couples – Turquoize at Hyatt Ziva Cancun – Adults Only – All Inclusive
Best Luxury Hotel in Cancun – Nizuc Resort and Spa

💡Which side of Cancun is better?

The best way to enjoy Cancun is by staying in the beach zone without a doubt. Although I always suggest going out and exploring, waking up on the beach is the best way to start your day.

However, Cancun beach is about 20km long, and it’s not the same everywhere.

There are some areas where the sea is rougher, and swimming becomes a bit challenging.

The parts where it’s best for swimming are, around Punta Cancun, the beach stretch from Krystal Resort to the Hard rock cafe beach club, and the area around Presidente Intercontinental Hotel, right before Punta Cancun.

From km 9 onwards the beach is spectacular but the sea is quite rough with bad currents, but it’s great for surfing.

Also, the area in Puerto Juarez has become a favorite one. It’s less expensive and less glamorous but still by the sea.

💡 What should I avoid in Cancun?

👎 Exchanging money at the airport or your hotel. Always do it in banks or “Caja de Cambio.”

👎 Taking a taxi to or from the airport. It’s much more convenient if you prebook a transport service. Check out my article on how to get from Cancun Airport to Hotel Zone

👎Throw toilet paper into the toilet.

👎Booking tours on the beach or the street. It’s more likely to get scammed.

👎 Visiting Cancun during Spring Break. March, June, and July, is when you will find crowds of drunk teenagers screaming and shouting all day long. If you are anything like me, you will want to avoid those months.

👎 Never leave your hotel. Cancun is surrounded by amazing places of unimaginable beauty. It would be a shame to spend all your time there shut in your hotel. Follow the below guides to find out more.

💡Is Cancun on the Caribbean sea?

Yes, Cancun is definitely on the Caribbean sea, as much as the coast from Isla Blanca all the way to Chetumal and beyond the border in Belize. These coasts are blessed with the Caribbean sea and weather.

💡When is the worst time to visit Cancun?

The worst time to visit Cancun doesn’t exist. It depends on what you are looking for and when you have time off.

Whenever time you decide to travel to Cancun there is always a way to make the most of it. Also, keep in mind that even in the wet season you can find a full week of sunny days or in the dry season you can find rain. 🤷🏽‍♀️

💡How many days should I spend in Cancun

It depends on how many days you have and how many things you want to see. I have just planned to book a 15-day stay in one of my favorite hotels in Cancun, the Krystal altitude for my parents to come and visit me and I am sure we are going to be entertained for the entire time as we will alternate days of exploring with beach time.

But if you can also decide to stay only 2 days, and then rent a car and explore around on an itinerary. That is also a great option.

💡 Is there Uber in Cancun?

Uber is not available at the Cancun airport. It may be available in the city but the UBER drivers are afraid of the taxi drivers that are not happy with this “intrusion” into their business.

Therefore if a uber driver will accept your call they will tell you to make sure there are no taxis around and to sit in front. To be honest, I don’t think all this stress is worth it. But it’s up to you.

💡What is better Cancun or Cabo?

They are both top destinations for beach time and nightlife, but very different. In this post, you can check out my detailed post on Cancun vs Cabo. I am sure it will be helpful.

Best time to visit Cancun: final thoughts

If you have read the entire post, congratulations!

That was a very huge piece! I hope by now you know that there is not the absolute best time to visit Cancun, it all depends on what you want to do.

If you are more confused than before, ouch! I am sorry about it. Go back to the best time to visit Cancun, in a nutshell, to get some clear answer and read it over again. 🙂

Whenever you decide to visit Cancun, I am sure you will have a blast, especially if you read this blog for the best Cancun travel tips! 😜

About the Author

Hey there! This is Isabella, the owner, and writer of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 12 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun’s spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!