Traveling to Cancun In December: Weather, Events, and Things to do
Traveling to Cancun in December? Then you’re in luck! December is one of the absolute best months to visit this Caribbean paradise. The weather in Cancun in December features warm, sunny days, refreshingly cool evenings, and practically zero chance of hurricanes. Plus, you get to experience the festive holiday atmosphere that makes Cancun extra special this time of year.
In this complete guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about Cancun in December—from exact weather stats and what to pack, to budget tips, cultural events, and the best tours to book.
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December in Cancun: Quick Reference
| Weather & Logistics | Details |
|---|---|
| High Temperature | 82°F (28°C) |
| Low Temperature | 68-70°F (20-21°C) |
| Sea Temperature | 80°F (27°C) |
| Rainy Days | 6-8 days (brief showers) |
| Humidity | 76-80% (Moderate) |
| Sunshine Hours | 7-8 hours/day |
| Sunrise/Sunset | ~7:00 AM / ~6:15 PM |
| Crowds | Low (Dec 1-15) → Very High (Dec 21-31) |
| Price Level | Moderate (early Dec) → Peak (late Dec) |
Pros and Cons of Visiting Cancun in December
✅ Pros
- Perfect weather: Warm, sunny days without extreme summer heat
- End of hurricane season: Official end on Nov 30, December is safe
- Festive atmosphere: Christmas markets, holiday events, New Year’s parties
- Clear waters: Great visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Cultural experiences: Authentic Mexican Christmas traditions
❌ Cons
- High prices: Especially Dec 21-31 (peak holiday season)
- Crowded beaches and attractions: Especially during Christmas week
- Advance booking required: Popular tours and hotels sell out 3-6 months ahead
- Higher airfare: December is the peak travel season for flights, too
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Budget Tips for Your Trip
- Book hotels and tours at least 3 months in advance for best rates
- Consider shoulder season (May, November) for 30-50% savings
- Mix downtown accommodations with Hotel Zone visits to save money
- Eat lunch at restaurants (cheaper than dinner) and street food
- Use public buses (R1/R2) for transportation – only $0.70 per ride
- Book tours online in advance – usually 10-20% cheaper
How is the Weather in Cancun in December?
The Cancun weather in December marks the official transition into the dry season. The start of December signals the end of hurricane season, and while it’s extremely rare to see hurricanes even in November, by December, you can breathe easy knowing there’s absolutely zero hurricane risk.
Cancun’s weather in December is characterized by less rainfall, lower humidity, and beautifully sunny days. The heat is tropical but not overwhelming—perfect for spending hours at the beach without feeling like you’re melting. Evenings bring a refreshing coolness, ideal for outdoor dinners or romantic strolls along the shore.
Cancun Temperature in December
The weather in Cancun, Mexico, in December is simply delightful. Daily high temperatures typically range from 78-82°F (26-28°C), with the warmest days occasionally reaching 86°F (30°C). It’s warm enough to work on your tan but not so hot that you’re uncomfortable.
Nighttime temperatures cool to a pleasant 68-76°F (20-24°C). The lowest temperatures rarely drop below 60°F (16°C), making it perfect for evening activities. You might want a light sweater or cardigan for dinner on the beach, but you definitely won’t need a heavy jacket.
Is Cancun Cold In December?
No way! Cancun, Mexico, weather in December is comfortably warm. However, there’s one weather phenomenon to be aware of: “nortes.” These are cold fronts that occasionally blow in from the north, bringing cooler temperatures, wind, and sometimes rain for a day or two.
When a norte arrives, temperatures can drop into the mid-60s°F (around 18°C), and you might see locals bundled up in winter coats (yes, really! 😂). For most visitors from colder climates, this is still mild, but it’s worth packing one light layer just in case.
The good news? Nortes are predictable. Unlike rain forecasts, wind reports are very accurate, and your tour operators can help you plan water activities around them. If you’re in Cancun during a norte, it’s the perfect time to visit inland ruins like Chichen Itza or explore cenotes, where the cooler air makes hiking much more pleasant.
How is the sea in Cancun in December?
The water temperature in Cancun in December is between 78 and 80 degrees. This is a comfortable and refreshing temperature for swimming and snorkeling.
The water near the shore in Cancun never gets too cold to swim.
However, if you are planning to scuba dive, you may want to wear a wetsuit to stay warm.
You may experience cold currents, called thermoclines, while diving in the winter months. You lose body heat faster in the water than in the air, so you want to make sure you stay warm while scuba diving.
Every person is different, but a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit should be enough to keep you comfortable.
The cenote water does not change temperature much during the year. You can expect the water in the cenotes to be around 75 degrees.
If you plan to dive in a cenote, use a thicker wetsuit than you would in the ocean.
The crystal clear waters of Cancun are great for scuba diving and snorkeling all year round. Visibility depends on rainfall and sunshine.
Since it does not rain very much in December, you can expect great visibility while diving.
Does it Rain in Cancun in December?
One of the best things about the weather in Cancun for December is that it’s significantly drier than the rainy season. December marks the beginning of the dry season, though you can still expect about 6-8 rainy days throughout the month, with a total precipitation of around 2.5-3 inches.
But here’s the key: rain in Cancun is different from what you might be used to. It’s typically a quick, tropical shower that passes in an hour or less. The sun often comes out immediately afterward. It’s extremely rare to have entire days that are gray and gloomy.
If you check the weather forecast before your trip and see “chance of rain,” don’t panic! In the tropics, there’s always a chance of a brief shower, but it rarely affects your vacation plans for long.
How is the humidity in Cancun in December?
Cancun is always humid—it’s a tropical destination surrounded by ocean and jungle. But the Mexico Cancun weather in December brings more manageable humidity levels compared to the summer months.
December humidity averages around 76-80%, which is noticeably more comfortable than the 90%+ humidity you’d experience in August. What does this mean practically? You might still get a bit of frizz in your hair, but you won’t feel that sticky, uncomfortable sensation the moment you step outside.
The ocean breeze and cooler evening temperatures help make the humidity feel even lighter. It’s one of the reasons December is considered one of the most comfortable months to visit.
Will Cancun be Sunny in December?
Absolutely! December brings an average of 7-8 hours of direct sunshine per day. The sun rises around 7:00 AM and sets just after 6:15 PM, giving you about 10.5 hours of daylight.
While that’s shorter than summer days, it’s still plenty of time to enjoy the beach, explore attractions, and soak up the sun. And because December falls during the dry season, you can expect mostly clear or partly cloudy skies for the majority of your trip.
Important: The Caribbean sun is strong year-round, with a UV index of around 6 (high) in December. Make sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen and reapply frequently!
Is Cancun Windy in December?
Yes, December can be windy. It’s actually one of the windiest months in Cancun, with average wind speeds just under 8 mph. The gentle breeze is generally pleasant and welcome in the tropical climate—many people come specifically for wind-dependent sports like kitesurfing.
The main wind consideration is those “nortes” I mentioned earlier. These cold fronts from the north bring stronger winds and can make the seas rough. When a norte blows in, the port captain may close the harbor to water activities if conditions are deemed dangerous.
Port closures are more common in December-February than other times of year. If you’ve booked snorkeling or diving excursions, check the wind forecast and work with your tour operators to reschedule if needed. The good news: nortes typically pass within 1-2 days, and they’re very predictable
Is There Seaweed in December?
You should expect seaweed-free beaches in Cancun in December! Sargassum is a type of brown algae that floats on the ocean’s surface and has washed up on Quintana Roo beaches in large quantities in recent years due to changing ocean temperatures and currents.
The official sargassum season runs from May to October, with peak months being June-August. By December, it’s extremely rare to see any significant seaweed on the beaches. You should enjoy pristine, white-sandy shores perfect for those Instagram-worthy beach photos!
While sargassum isn’t harmful to humans (though it can irritate sensitive skin and smells unpleasant when it decomposes), it isn’t very reassuring for visitors expecting picture-perfect beaches. Fortunately, December is one of the clearest months.
Early December vs. Late December: Which Should You Choose?
This is one of the most important decisions for planning your Cancun trip! The experience—and cost—can vary dramatically depending on which part of December you visit.
Early December (December 1-15)
Pros:
- Much lower prices: Hotels can be 30-50% cheaper than late December
- Fewer crowds: Beaches, restaurants, and attractions are manageable
- Better availability: Easier to book popular tours and restaurants
- Still festive: Christmas decorations are up, but without the chaos
Cons:
- You’ll miss the peak holiday celebrations (Christmas and New Year’s)
- Slightly higher chance of a norte early in the month
Best for: Budget travelers, couples seeking romance without crowds, families wanting a more relaxed pace
Mid-December (December 16-20)
This is the transition period. Las Posadas celebrations begin on December 16th, bringing cultural authenticity. Prices start climbing, and crowds increase, but it’s not yet at peak levels.
Late December (December 21-31)
Pros:
- Peak festive atmosphere: Christmas Eve celebrations, New Year’s parties
- Guaranteed events: All resorts host special dinners, shows, fireworks
- Cultural immersion: Experience authentic Mexican Christmas traditions
Cons:
- Highest prices of the year: Hotels can charge 2x-3x their normal rates
- Maximum crowds: Beaches are packed, popular spots have long waits
- Must book 6+ months ahead: Many hotels report 100% occupancy
Best for: Those who want the full holiday experience, aren’t on a tight budget, and planned well in advance
Pro Tip: If you want a compromise, consider December 17-23. You’ll catch Las Posadas and Christmas Eve festivities while avoiding the absolute peak pricing of December 25-31.
Budget & Prices: How Much Does Cancun Cost in December?
December is peak season in Cancun, which means higher prices across the board. However, strategic planning can help you manage costs, especially if you visit early in the month.
Accommodation Costs
Hotel Zone (All-Inclusive Resorts):
- Budget/3-Star: $150-$200/night (early Dec) → $250-$350/night (Dec 21-31)
- Mid-Range/4-Star: $250-$400/night → $400-$600/night
- Luxury/5-Star: $450-$700/night → $700-$1,200+/night
Downtown Cancun: Staying downtown can save you 200-300% compared to the Hotel Zone:
- Budget Hotels: 600-950 MXN/night ($35-$55 USD)
- Hostels (dorm beds): 280-450 MXN/night ($16-$26 USD)
- Hostels (private rooms): 1,000-1,500 MXN/night ($58-$87 USD)
- Airbnb (private room): 500-1,200 MXN/night ($29-$70 USD)
- Airbnb (entire apartment): 800-2,000 MXN/night ($46-$115 USD)
Peak Pricing Alert: Around December 21st, prices spike significantly. Christmas week (Dec 23-27) and New Year’s week (Dec 28-Jan 2) command the highest rates of the entire year.
Food & Dining
- Hotel Zone restaurants: $15-$40 per meal
- Downtown local restaurants: $5-$12 per meal
- Street food: $2-$5 per meal
- Mercado 23 & Mercado 28: $3-$8 per meal (authentic and delicious!)
Transportation
- R1/R2 Public Buses: 12 MXN ($0.70 USD) – runs between Hotel Zone and Downtown
- Taxis: $10-$25 depending on distance (always negotiate or use meter)
- Private Airport Transfer: $50-$80 (pre-book for best rates)
- Rental Car: $25-$50/day (good for day trips to Tulum, Playa del Carmen)
Budget-Saving Tips
- Stay Downtown: Areas near Parque de las Palapas, Avenida Yaxchilán, or the ADO bus station offer great value
- Book 3-6 months ahead: Especially crucial for December travel
- Visit Dec 1-20: Avoid peak holiday pricing
- Use public buses: R1 and R2 routes connect everything
- Eat where locals eat: Mercado 23 and Mercado 28 have incredible food at a fraction of tourist prices
Best Time to Visit Cancun
While December is fantastic, it’s not the only great month! The best time to visit Cancun really depends on what you prioritize:
- Best weather: December-April (dry season)
- Best value: May, September-November (shoulder season)
- Fewest crowds: May, September-October
- Holiday celebrations: December, Easter week
December specifically offers the best combination of great weather and festive atmosphere—if you can handle the crowds and prices. December is a great month to visit Cancun. The weather is consistently beautiful.
Whenever you travel to the Caribbean, you risk a quick shower, but it is rare for it to be pouring in December.
You will have hot weather, but not uncomfortably scorching, with beautiful sunny days.
December is the start of the high season. If you come at the beginning of the month, you will find tourists, but not huge spring break crowds.
The beginning of December has the advantage of the high season’s great weather. It is your last opportunity to visit the area before it gets crowded with high-season travelers.
If you decide to come to celebrate Christmas and New Year, expect crowds! Christmas and New Year’s are peak seasons, with Mexican nationals and foreign tourists flocking to the beach resorts to celebrate.
If you want to celebrate the holidays in the heat, you can expect beautiful holiday decorations and special meals at the hotels.
The weather is comfortable for a variety of activities. It is still hot enough that you will be comfortable swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
But the air is not too hot to enjoy a day hiking to visit ruins.
In December, you can make the most of your vacation and spend all your time outside, enjoying the ocean breeze. It is not so hot that you will want to hide in an air-conditioned room during the day.
Evenings are slightly cooler than during the day, and you can enjoy open-air dining.
Another great thing about December is that there are way fewer mosquitoes than during the rainy months!
Packing List for Cancun in December
It is never easy to pack for a trip. Follow this guide to make sure you do not forget any essential items when you come to Cancun!
☑️ Swimsuit and beach clothes. This will be the staple of your Cancun wardrobe.
☑️ Water bottle. No one drinks the unfiltered tap water in Cancun, but many hotels offer water bottle filling stations. Some hotels even have filtered water. Check with your hotel and try to fill your reusable water bottle as much as possible to avoid using single-use plastic water bottles.
OR you can get the Water-to-go Bottle, which lets you use tap water and purify it with their magic filter, which can clean up to 99.99% of bacteria! This incredible invention allows you to save money and the planet simultaneously and have drinkable water anywhere you go.
☑️ Reef Safe Sunscreen. Protect your skin with reef-safe sunscreen. Look for sunscreens that are labeled reef safe and use zinc oxide. Avoid any sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate. You are not allowed to use sunscreen in the cenotes so pack protective clothing. ↳BUY IT ON AMAZON
☑️ Hat and sun-protective clothing. As mentioned, you will sometimes need to protect yourself from the sun without using sunscreen. Bring a hat and a long-sleeved shirt to cover yourself.
☑️ Dry bag and waterproof phone case. If you are planning any water excursions, a dry bag and a waterproof phone case are a great idea to protect your belongings.
☑️ Beach bag and towel – Always a must, practical and fancy – check out some cute suggestions below. Click on the image to go to Amazon ⤵️
☑️ Flip Flops – comfortable and multipurpose footwear
☑️ Mosquito Repellent. The mosquitos are not bad in December, but it never hurts to pack eco-friendly bug repellent just in case.
☑️ Sunglasses – the sun is very strong, make sure you pack a pair of sunglasses with you.
☑️ Raincoat – A lightweight raincoat is great to carry with you in case you get stuck in a rain shower. It also doubles as a light jacket if you are here for a norte.
☑️ Party Clothing – If you plan to celebrate Christmas and New Years, it will be your chance to dress to impress. Many travelers will use the holidays as an excuse to get out of their beach clothes and put on something fancy! Here below some suggestions. Just click on the image to go to AMAZON. ⤵️
☑️ Sense of Adventure! Remember to come with an open mind and be ready for adventure. Sometimes things do not go exactly as planned on vacation, but that opens the door for new, unexpected adventures. Cancun is a great spot to go outside your comfort zone, try a new activity, sample a new food, and meet new people!
What to Wear in Cancun in December
Do you ever get the feeling that you always pack wrong for vacations? It can be hard to anticipate what clothing you will want on vacation. Here is a quick guide to help you pack the right stuff.
☑️ Comfortable beachwear – You will probably spend a lot of time at the beach, pool, or on excursions. Pack comfortable swimwear and clothes to go over the top. This can be board shorts and t-shirts, or fun cover-up dresses. Don’t forget to pack sun protection clothing!
☑️ Light raincoat – A lightweight raincoat is always a good idea in the tropics. You can easily carry it around and pull it out if you find yourself in an unexpected rain shower. It also doubles as a windbreaker on a windy, fabulous day.
☑️ Warm weather clothing – Yes, December is winter in Cancun, but it is still hot! Pack a variety of clothes that you will be comfortable wearing in the heat. Think tank tops, shorts, and dresses.
☑️Fancy outfit – If you plan on celebrating Christmas and New Year’s in Cancun, be prepared to see some people dressed up. Cancun is usually a casual place, but some visitors and locals will use the holidays as a fun excuse to dress up.
Many Cancun hotels will organize fun dinners for the holidays. Feel free to join in the fun with a beach formal outfit!
☑️ Comfortable shoes – If you plan to go visit any ruins you will want a pair of comfortable sandals or tennis shoes. It can be easy to only pack flip-flops when planning a tropical vacation. Flip-flops can be slippery when wet and are not the ideal choice for jungle excursions.
Cancun cute Clothing suggestions
Click on the image to view prices and info ⤵️
Hats
Swimsuits
Beach Cover-up
Cute dresses
Sandals and flip flops
Top recommended tours in Cancun in December
👉 2 Tanks Scuba Diving for Beginners in Cancun ~ Personalized Service
4.5 ⭐️ – 797 Reviews
It is always a great time to try scuba diving in Cancun. The beautiful blue waters are home to a coral reef and countless marine species.
The water is always crystal clear and warm in Cancun, making it the perfect spot to try scuba diving. You can experience scuba diving for the first time with a class, and then hop on the dive boat and go out in the ocean.
Divers will visit the underwater museum, MUSA, in Cancun as well as a shallow reef. No prior scuba diving experience is necessary, but you must know how to swim.
👉 Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya with Light Dinner and Open Bar
4.5 ⭐️ – 153 Reviews
Is there any better way to feel like you are on a tropical vacation than a sunset sailing cruise?
Relax after a day of exploring or hanging out at the beach on this tour. You will enjoy the breathtaking sunset while sipping drinks and snacking.
This is a great tour to spend with someone special and relax in the ocean breeze.
👉 Excursión Las Coloradas & Río Lagartos only from Cancún
4.5 ⭐️ – 75 Reviews
If you want to see natural beauty, this day tour to visit Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas is a great option.
Las Coloradas are famous pink lakes in the northern part of the Yucatan Peninsula.
The pink color changes with the sun and is beautiful all day long. You will also take a ride through the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, where you will have the chance to see a variety of animals.
👉 Chichen Itza Unique Entry, Buffet Lunch & Cenote English Tour
4.5 ⭐️ – 2521 Reviews
If you have not visited Chichen Itza, you will not want to miss this! The Chichen Itza archeological site is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
This tour will take you there early in the morning so that you can beat the heat and crowds. You will enjoy a fascinating tour of the ruins.
Next, you will head over to Valladolid, a colonial town, for lunch. After a tour of Valladolid, you will get to swim in a refreshing cenote.
Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ
If you have not been to a Cirque du Soleil show, this is a great option. The show tells the story of an alchemist and his granddaughter who are seeking the secrets of life.
It incorporates Mexican history and heritage. No Cirque du Soleil show would be complete without thrilling acrobatics and music.
What To Do If It Rains
We all hope for great weather when we are on vacation. Unfortunately, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans.
Thankfully, rain and bad weather usually pass quickly over Cancun. If you are in Cancun and have bad luck with bad weather, there are still plenty of fun things to do!
If you enjoy shopping, there are plenty of great places to stroll around. Check out La Isla shopping center or Forum by the Sea.
If shopping is not your thing, check out a museum. You can learn local history at the Museo Maya de Cancun. Also check out the Cancun Wax Museum, in Plaza La Isla in the Hotel Zone or the Cancun Vintage Car Museum.
If a norte blows through and you cannot go out on the water, but it is not raining, head to visit some ruins. You will enjoy hiking through ruins on a cooler day.
Best Hotels in Cancun
Cancun is home to countless hotels. Whether you want luxury or more basic accommodations, you can find it in Cancun. If you are having a hard time deciding where to stay, check out these great spots.
👉Flamingo Cancun Resort
There is a room for everyone at the Flamingo Cancun Resort. It offers seven different types of rooms.
Guests can choose an all-inclusive or European package. You will enjoy all the amenities this resort has to offer, including pools, swim-up bars, jacuzzis, a spa, a kid’s club, and entertainment for everyone.
There are also several different restaurants on the property to choose from.
👉 Secrets The Vine Cancun Resort Spa Adults Only
Secrets the Vine is a great option for adults looking for a luxurious all-inclusive to visit. It has over a dozen different restaurants and great wine options.
You will be able to relax at this adult-only resort. Rooms offer great views of the ocean and lagoon.
Do not miss the incredible spa experiences that Secrets the Vine offers.
👉 Krystal Grand Cancun (Krystal Altitude)
The Krystal Grand Cancun is a four-star all-inclusive hotel. You will not run out of things to do at the Krystal Grand Cancun.
It is located on a pristine white-sand beach and features four pools. If you want to be active, you can enjoy beach sports, including volleyball, and take part in yoga, pilates, and dance classes.
There are a variety of on-site restaurants, and you can enjoy tequila and wine tastings. If all that is not enough, there is daily on-site entertainment.
👉 Selina Cancun Laguna Zona Hotelera
The Selina Cancun Laguna Hotel is a 3-star beach hostel with an on-site restaurant and pools. It is a quick walk to the beach, restaurants, and shopping.
It offers an on-site co-working space, yoga classes, and a spa. You can choose between a variety of rooms depending on your budget.
It offers everything from deluxe private rooms to shared dormitories. It is pet-friendly and has a shared kitchen.
Booking Tip: For December travel, especially Dec 20-31, book as early as possible. Many hotels reach 100% occupancy, and rates increase significantly. Booking 3-6 months in advance is highly recommended.
Cancun Events and Festivals In December
December is one of the most festive months in Cancun, filled with cultural celebrations and holiday events:
🕯️ Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe (December 12th)
This is one of the most important religious celebrations in Mexico, honoring the patron saint of Mexico. While not an official federal holiday, it’s deeply significant spiritually and culturally.
Throughout Cancun, you’ll see processions with people carrying images of the Virgin, altars decorated with roses and candles, and hear traditional songs like “Las Mañanitas.” Many churches hold special masses, and local neighborhoods host fairs (kermés) with traditional food, games, and music.
Where to Experience It: Downtown Cancun, especially around local churches and Parque de las Palapas. Some resorts also acknowledge the day with cultural displays.
This is a beautiful opportunity to witness authentic Mexican culture and faith traditions.
🎄 Las Posadas (December 16-24)
Las Posadas is a series of celebrations reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging before Jesus’s birth. For nine consecutive nights (representing the nine months of pregnancy), communities gather for processions, carrying candles and singing.
After the procession, there’s typically a party with traditional food like tamales, buñuelos (fried pastries), and ponche (warm fruit punch). Children often get to break piñatas filled with candy and fruit.
Where to Experience It: Many all-inclusive resorts participate with their own versions, featuring processions around the property, traditional Mexican food, and piñata-breaking for kids. In downtown Cancun, local neighborhoods hold authentic celebrations that visitors are often welcome to join.
Pro Tip: If you’re staying at a resort, ask the concierge about their Las Posadas schedule. If you’re adventurous, head downtown to experience the real deal!
🎄 Christmas in Cancun (December 24-25)
Celebrating Christmas in Cancun is magical and uniquely Mexican. Unlike many countries where Christmas Day is the main event, in Mexico, the big celebration happens on Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) on December 24th.
Families gather for elaborate dinners featuring traditional dishes like bacalao (cod), romeritos (a green vegetable in mole sauce), turkey, and tamales. At midnight, families open presents and celebrate together. Many attend Misa de Gallo (Rooster’s Mass) at midnight.
In the Hotel Zone:
- Resorts host elaborate gala dinners with special menus
- Live music, mariachi performances, and holiday shows
- Special Christmas buffets and themed cocktails
- Some properties even arrange visits from Santa Claus
In Downtown Cancun:
- Parque de las Palapas features a large Christmas tree and decorations
- Local restaurants offer traditional Mexican Christmas dinners
- Church services and midnight masses
December 25th: Christmas Day is typically quieter, with many local businesses closed as families spend time together. However, tourist areas and hotel restaurants remain open.
🎊 Celebrating the New Year in Cancun (December 31)
Cancun absolutely knows how to throw a New Year’s party! This is one of the most exciting nights of the year in Cancun.
Nightclub Parties: The Hotel Zone nightclubs in Cancun go all out with special events:
- Coco Bongo: Multi-hour spectacular with acrobats, impersonators, and non-stop entertainment
- Mandala: Beach club with live DJs and beachfront countdown
- The City: Massive nightclub hosting world-renowned DJs
- Palazzo: Upscale venue with champagne toast and fireworks views
Tickets sell out weeks in advance, so book early!
Resort Celebrations: Most all-inclusive resorts host special events:
- Gala dinners with premium menus
- Live bands and DJs
- Midnight champagne toast
- Fireworks over the Caribbean at midnight
- Beach parties that last until sunrise
Fireworks: Multiple locations launch fireworks at midnight, with the best views along the Hotel Zone beachfront or from lagoon-side spots.
Pricing Note: New Year’s Eve is often the most expensive night of the year. Expect cover charges, minimum spending requirements, and premium pricing everywhere.
Cancun Travel Tips for December
- Book early: Reserve hotels, popular tours, and flights 3-6 months ahead, especially for Dec 20-31
- Timing: Visit Dec 1-15 for better prices and fewer crowds, or Dec 20-31 for full holiday experience
- Be patient and kind: Hotel staff work long hours during the holidays while away from their families. Generous tips are appreciated!
- Pack layers: Bring at least one light sweater for evenings and possible nortes
- Pre-book airport transfers: Avoid long taxi lines during peak season
- Check wind forecasts: If planning water activities, monitor for nortes
- Respect cultural events: If attending Las Posadas or other religious celebrations, dress modestly and ask before taking photos
Cancun in December: Frequently Asked Questions
When is the most popular time to visit Cancun?
The high season runs from December to April. The peak weeks are the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, as well as Semana Santa (Easter week). The winter months have great weather and attract a lot of spring breakers.
When is the best time to visit Cancun for good weather?
The dry months of December to April have consistently good weather. You can expect hot, sunny days and refreshing and comfortable evenings.
When is the worst time to visit Cancun?
For many people, the hot, wet months of June, July, and August are the worst months to visit Cancun. These months are hot and humid, and many people find the midday heat to be uncomfortable. However, these months offer great prices!
When is the best time to visit Cancun?
Thankfully, there is no bad time to visit Cancun. The best time to visit Cancun depends on the person, but many people love the comfortably hot weather of the dry season from December to April.
Other people are willing to endure the wet-season heat and humidity from May to November to avoid large crowds and save money.
Is it too cold to go to Cancun in December?
No! Although it is technically winter, the daily high temperature will still be in the low 80s°F (around 28°C). Unless a norte (cold front) blows through, you can expect hot days and refreshing nights. Even during a norte, temperatures are mild by most standards.
Can you swim in Cancun in December?
Yes! The Caribbean water rarely dips below 78°F (26°C). This makes it comfortable to swim all year round.
If you are planning to spend extended amounts of time in the water either snorkeling or scuba diving in Cancun, you may be more comfortable with a 3mm wetsuit.
How crowded is Cancun in December?
It depends on when you go in December. The beginning of the month (Dec 1-15) will have fewer tourists than the peak holiday weeks (Dec 20-31).
Many hotels report 100% occupancy during the Christmas holidays. If you plan to go to Cancun to celebrate Christmas or New Year, make sure to make your reservations 3-6 months in advance!
How much does Cancun cost in December?
December is peak season, so prices are higher than off-season months. Hotels range from budget options around $35/night downtown to luxury resorts $700+/night in the Hotel Zone.
The most expensive period is December 21-31, when prices can double or triple. Visiting Dec 1-20 offers much better value while still enjoying great weather.
Is it safe to arrive in Cancun at night?
Yes. You can arrange a secure transfer from the airport to your hotel before arriving in Cancun. I always recommend Cancun Airport Transportation company for a private transfer. They are reliable and professional, speak English and have a super clean fleet of SUVs and MiniVans.
If you are concerned about whether it’s safe to travel to Cancun, I have got you covered as well.
On what body of water is Cancun located?
Cancun is located on the northeastern coast of the state of Quintana Roo, on the Caribbean Sea.
Are there sharks on Cancun beaches?
There are sharks in the waters off the Cancun beaches. Scuba divers and snorkelers often see them.
The most common shark in this area is the nurse shark, which is docile and not dangerous to humans. You do not have to worry about sharks while swimming on the beaches of Cancun.
Traveling to Cancun in December: Final Thoughts
So, is December a good time to visit Cancun? Absolutely! The weather in Cancun in December is nearly perfect—warm, sunny days with comfortable evenings, minimal rain, and zero hurricane risk. The festive atmosphere adds magic to your trip, with authentic Mexican Christmas traditions and spectacular New Year’s celebrations.
Yes, December is peak season with higher prices and bigger crowds, especially after December 20th. But if you plan strategically—booking early, considering early December dates, or staying downtown to save money—you can have an incredible vacation without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re escaping winter cold, celebrating the holidays in paradise, or just looking for perfect beach weather, Cancun in December delivers. The combination of ideal weather, cultural experiences, and holiday festivities makes it one of the best times to visit this Caribbean gem.
