Weather in Cancun in July + Events & Things To Do
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So, it’s summer vacation and you’re eyeing a trip to Cancun in July. Confused about how and when to start the planning process? Overwhelmed with recommendations for tours and all-inclusive resorts? You’ve come to the right blog.
As a leading international destination, Cancun is brimming with activities that are perfect for solo travelers and families alike. From pristine beaches and culinary wonders, to one-of-a-kind excursions and lively nightlife, Cancun is truly unforgettable.
If you’re looking to plan the perfect tropical getaway, read below to explore whether Cancun, Mexico is the right destination for you!
Weather in Cancun In July – At a Glance
July is a great month to travel to Cancun. This is especially true for travelers who wish to experience everything the island has to offer at a more affordable price. However, it’s more affordable for a reason!
Rates for a hotel room are at their lowest, but average temperatures are at their peak. In fact, the temperatures in July are often the hottest of the entire year.
In spite of the heat, the upside is that there are only five total rainy days on average in July, which means less rainfall than the other summer months. Sea water temperatures also begin to reach peak temperatures, and most beaches will have a nice breeze.
If you aren’t sensitive to heat and don’t mind temperamental rain showers due to the hurricane seasons, visiting Cancun in July will be the perfect time to snag a great deal.
What’s the average temperature in Cancun in July?
The average temperature in Cancun in July is hot to put it lightly. Average high temperatures range from 89 to 91 degrees, and the lowest temperatures typically hover around 80, rarely dropping below 77 degrees. For those that are sensitive to heat, this could make inland outdoor activities unbearable.
In July, temperatures increase throughout the month. The last two weeks of the month bring the hottest temperatures of the entire year. Pair this with a high humidity factor and it will feel even hotter. Slightly cooler evenings may bring some relief, but barely.
Does it rain in Cancun in July?
July may be the middle of Cancun’s wet season, but believe it or not, it’s not the wettest month. July sees an average of five days of rain (115mm total), so experiencing all day downpours for consecutive days or long periods is unlikely.
However, weather patterns in Cancun can change without warning regardless of daily forecasts. It’s best to plan accordingly and pack appropriate attire for time you may spend outdoors. This includes waterproof shoes, an umbrella, ponchos, and waterproof luggage.
Does it rain all day in Cancun in July
It is very unlikely you will experience long term downpours or severe storms in July.
Hurricane season may be well underway during this time, but don’t let that rain on your Cancun plans! Rain showers will typically come in short bursts and give way to scorching sun.
Best things to do in Cancun when it rains
On the days you experience unpredictable weather, there are plenty of activities to enjoy indoors.
One of the most popular indoor activities is a Mayan cooking class. Using traditional techniques, you’ll craft a multi-course Mexican meal using ingredients from a local market.
Visiting an area museum is another popular indoor activity on a rainy day. The Mayan Museum of Cancun houses hundreds of Mayan artifacts and is an architectural wonder of the Yucatan Region.
If shopping is more your love language, Cancun has numerous markets and malls including the Las Americas Outlet Cancun and La Isla as some of the top shopping centers.
If experiencing Cancun’s nightlife is on your bucket list, catch a show at Coco Bongo Nightclub. You’ll witness flying acrobats, live music, and a lively party atmosphere!
Is it hot in Cancun in July?
I won’t sugar coat it. Yes, Cancun is hot in July!
Average daily temperatures reach between 89 and 91 degrees, while average low temperatures rarely drop below 80 degrees. Most days in July see 13 or more hours of sun, and they sure are scorchers.
There are fewer rainy days to cool things down compared to the months before and after it. Due to this, it’s best to prioritize water activities close to the coastline where there is a breeze.
This is one of the only ways you’re likely to find some relief from the heat, either through swimming in the ocean or in a cenote.
Is it Humid in Cancun in July?
The short and direct answer: yes.
You will notice much more humidity in July compared to other months. Average humidity ranges from 60 to 97 percent (and can sometimes even reach 100 percent!). On cooler days, it could fall below 50 percent, but this is rare.
Cancun’s humidity can feel very sticky and uncomfortable, especially after a rain shower. Don’t let this prevent you from visiting Cancun in July, however! There are some things you can do to be as comfortable as possible:.
- Book a hotel room that has air conditioning;
- Schedule land excursions that depart early in the morning and return by early afternoon;
- Utilize your hotel or resort’s swimming pool or book a cenote tour if you’re outside during the hottest times of the day.
Are there hurricanes in Cancun in July?
The Yucatan region has only seen two hurricanes in the past 40 years (and they were nearly two decades apart from each other), so the chance of one is very low. However, the possibility of a hurricane making landfall still exists.
If planning a vacation to Cancun during hurricane season, pay attention to weather reports leading up to your vacation.
Educate yourself and any people traveling with you on the varying hurricane alert levels and what to do to stay safe.
When is Hurricane Season in Cancun?
The Atlantic Hurricane season begins in June and ends in November. The most severe weather usually occurs during the months of September and October.
The likelihood of a hurricane making landfall is very minimal, especially in July. Planning a trip to Cancun in July will still be safe and enjoyable. If you don’t mind occasional rain and high humidity, you will have the best time regardless of the month.
Is Cancun safe during hurricane season?
Even though July falls directly in the middle of hurricane season, Cancun is still a very safe destination in the summer months.
There is always a slight chance for a hurricane to make landfall during this time, but thankfully, most hotels in the Cancun Hotel Zone are prepared for a potential disaster.
Many hotels in Cancun are built to withstand a hurricane’s strong winds and heavy rainfall. Many properties also have built-in shelters to house tourists in the unlikely event of a hurricane.
Even in light of this, it’s always best to monitor storms and use your best judgment when traveling during hurricane season.
Sea Water Temperature in Cancun in July
July brings with it scorching hot temperatures, which makes swimming all the more appealing.
In July, the average water temperature stays between 84 to 85 degrees, while the lowest water temperature is about 82 degrees.
These water temperatures will feel delightfully pleasant due to the extreme heat.
Since outside temperatures are hot, wearing a wetsuit for water activities is not necessary in July. It’s important to stay hydrated even while in the water to not overheat.
How Warm is the Water in Cancun in July?
The water in Cancun begins to warm considerably in June, followed by some of the warmest temperatures in July.
Spending time in the water in July will feel refreshing at a perfect 84 degrees. This temperature is prime for swimming and snorkeling, but be forewarned: there may be excessive amounts of seaweed on the beach and in the water! More about it in the next section.
Sea visibility in Cancun in July
Great sea visibility is necessary for water activities. It is needed to help identify potentially dangerous wildlife, for scuba diving, and for following tour guides below and above water.
In July, visibility ranges from 50 to 115 feet (15-35 meters), and can be even deeper in freshwater. This makes for prime marine life viewing and easier navigating, especially in underwater shipwrecks and reefs.
Sargassum Seaweed In Cancun in July
You’re probably wondering how something as common as seaweed could possibly pose a problem. While it’s nothing extremely dangerous, it is certainly an annoyance to those familiar with it in the Yucatan region.
This species of stinky brown algae is abundant in tropical environments around South America and the Caribbean and July is one of the worst months for it.
Sargassum is an unpleasant sight and smells of rotten eggs which makes swimming nearly impossible.
When it washes up on the beaches, it can trap important marine life that is vital to the Yucatan Peninsula’s ecosystem. It can also cause mild illness and skin irritation if humans are exposed to it for an extended period of time.
Check with your hotel to see if they have sargassum management and removal plans prior to booking or arriving.
Events in Cancun in July
Whale Shark Festival
Whale sharks play an important role in the ecosystem of the Yucatan Peninsula. To celebrate their annual return, the nearby island of Isla Mujeres hosts the Whale Shark Festival, typically during the last week of July.
The festival can be easily reached by taking the ferry, and the total ride takes only 30 minutes for a one-way trip.
At the festival, you’ll learn about the history of the whale shark, eat plenty of local street food, dance, snorkel, and shop handmade goods from local artists.
Destination X
There’s always something lively going on in Cancun, and the month of July is no exception!
If you’re looking for a party scene, look no further than Destination X. This five-day festival in Cancun’s Hotel Zone features popular music, dancing, beach parties, and plenty of drinks to go around.
Current 2023 dates for Destination X are July 6th to July 10th.
Pros of Visiting Cancun in July
July is the height of the wet season in Cancun. While some may view this as a downside, this means there will be fewer tourists and lower prices and hotel deals at all-inclusive resorts.
Popular sites that are typically crowded during the high season will be more quiet with less crowds and smaller group tours.
The summer months are also the best time to see sea turtles. Many of Cancun’s beaches are popular nesting sites for four of the eight sea turtle species in the world. The month of July is also when all of the adorable baby sea turtles begin to hatch!
As a whale fan, my main reason for visiting Cancun in July is for swimming with whale sharks. These gentle giants of the sea are swimming between Holbox and Isla Mujeres at an easy reach from Cancun.
Swimming with the something you shouldn’t miss. There are several tours that take you there. I am going to share more in this post.
H2 Cons of Visiting Cancun in July
Although July generally isn’t a horrible time for most people to visit Cancun, it all depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you want to have.
Swimming in the ocean in July may be an effective way to beat the heat, but be prepared for an abundance of seaweed. If you know this will bother you, a cool cenote or a hotel pool will be a great back up plan.
Humidity levels and average temperatures in July are very high. If you are sensitive to heat, it’s best to visit popular outdoor attractions early in the morning or stay indoors with air conditioning.
There is also a slight chance of experiencing a hurricane or unpredictable weather patterns due to hurricane season in the summer months.
Things to Do in Cancun in July
Visit a Water Theme Park
July packs more heat and humidity than other months. Because of this, it’s smarter to partake in more water activities than inland activities, especially if you are sensitive to heat or the sun.
You can always spend a day at a popular beach on Cancun’s North Side or Caribbean Side, though you may encounter more seaweed on certain beaches.
The safest option is to explore a water park along the Caribbean coast. A few favorites for solo travelers and families alike are Xel-Ha, Xplor, and the most popular, Xcaret.
Visit a Cenote
Since July is such a hot month in Cancun, both locals and visitors head to the many freshwater cenotes in the region to cool off. Cenotes offer shade, clear water, and cool temperatures making them a great way to get out and explore.
The visibility in the cenotes is better than that of the ocean in July, and you can see down as far as the light shines. The water temperature is stable at a cool 75 to 80 degrees, and the weather doesn’t impact the cenotes as it does in other outdoor environments.
You can book a small group or private tour with an expert guide, or rent a car and drive around to different cenotes if you want a more flexible schedule.
Swim with Whale Sharks
One of the most special things you can do in Cancun in July is swim with Whale Sharks.
The peak of the whale shark season is during July and August. During the summer months, groups of them hang out and feed in the waters near Cancun and Isla Mujeres. In fact, you might even see groups of more than 40 of them in just one excursion.
Don’t let the name “shark” fool you, though: Whale Sharks are gentle giants, slow-moving, and the largest of the fish species. If swimming with them after dusk, you might also catch a glimpse of bioluminescence in the water on certain summer nights.
Visit Chichen Itza
Visiting Chichen Itza is an absolute must when in Cancun. It’s 120 miles from the city and is one of Mexico’s most important cultural sites.
Reserving a private tour is not required to visit Chichen Itza. Many travelers choose to take to the roads on their own schedule via a rental car and explore the ruins and surrounding sights. However, there are plenty of tour companies that provide small group or private tours if you prefer a more organized experience.
In July, the grounds of the ruins can get extremely hot. Plan accordingly and bring a refillable water bottle, plenty of sunscreens, and breathable clothing.
Go on a day trip to Tulum
The beachside town of Tulum is a popular day trip destination from Cancun.
You can book a private day or half-day tour or rent a car and drive 2 hours down the Mexican Federal Highway 307. It’s a straight drive!
The Tulum Ruins and Archeological Site is the most popular attraction in Tulum, followed by the El Gran Cenote. The limestone caverns and crystal-clear waters are hypnotizing!
If water activities are more your style, there are numerous beaches in and around Tulum. A few top-rated beaches include Playa Ruinas, Playa Paraíso, and Playa Las Palmas.
End your day in Tulum with a cocktail at one of the many popular rooftop bars including Ciel Rose Sunset Bar or Banana Rooftop Tulum.
Try some of the great restaurants
Cancun has no shortage of top-notch restaurants, bars, and unique places to eat. Many of these restaurants are inside of the hotels and resorts inside the Cancun Hotel Zone.
You can find just about anything from traditional Mexican cuisine to popular steakhouses and the freshest seafood.
In July, visitors and locals like to dine at Porfirio’s (for the best Mexican cuisine), La Habichuela (Mayan and Mexican Cuisine), or on outdoor patios after dusk. A couple of favorite al-fresco spots include Place de Paris and Restaurante Marakame.
Go snorkeling
Due to its proximity to the Great Mayan Reef, Cancun is a great place to view marine life.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that seaweed is very prevalent on Cancun beaches in July. Therefore, it may be best to head to a freshwater cenote, or try the Underwater Museum: MUSA if you want to give the reef a break. This unique project contains more than 470 underwater sculptures and an array of sea life.
It’s safe to snorkel off most beaches in Cancun, but for the best experience possible, book an organized tour with experts.
5-in-1 Cancun Snorkeling Tour: Swim with turtles, reef, Musa, shipwreck, and cenote
>866 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews
This top-rated tour on VIATOR will take you snorkeling in some of the best spots in the Caribbean waters right off the coast of Cancun, including a shipwreck and the underwater museum MUSA
Best Tours in Cancun in July
There are many tour companies in and around Cancun that offer unforgettable excursions during any month of the year. Since it can be a little overwhelming to decide which ones to book, I have listed some of the most popular tours in Cancun in July, according to Viator:
1. Swim with Whale Sharks
270 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews
On this full-day, small group tour off the Yucatan Coast, you will snorkel alongside the majestic Mexican whale shark.
The tour includes narration from a professional guide, lunch on the boat, beach time near Isla Mujeres, and complimentary pickup and drop off from most Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, and Tulum hotels.
What guests have to say:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amazing!!!
It was wonderful experience , crew Dorian and Gilberto are cool guys you ever met, help get through this and help you get best pics and video for social media, try book with them and tips those guys too, make your adventures amazing.
Joe_B, Sep 2022
2. Chichen Itza Cenote And Valladolid All Inclusive Tour
10.000 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews
This full-day tour from Cancun or the Riviera Maya takes you to Chichen Itza first (admission not included) at the pyramid of Kukulcan.
After, you will explore Valladolid’s stunning architecture before swimming in the refreshing waters of the Saamal cenote.
You’ll savor a delicious buffet meal before returning to your hotel.
What guests have to say:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great tour of Chichen itza
Luis our tour guide was great and extremely knowledgeable. Booking through Viator was easy and worry free. No problems.
Christopher_B, Jan 2023
3. Tulum Combo Tour
2641 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews
On this full day tour, your transport will pick you up from Cancun or Playa del Carmen hote to explore a popular coral reef. Afterwards, you’ll walk the grounds of the Tulum archeological site, and swim in a nearby cenote.
You will end the day exploring a limestone cave and taking a jungle walk. This tour includes entrance fees, a buffet lunch, and transportation.
What guests have to say:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great trip!
We had a great time on the tour! It was awesome to see ruins, snorkel, and swim in a cenote on the same trip. Diego was a great guide; we learned a lot about each place we visited.
Allison_J, Jan 2023
4. Isla Mujeres Sailing Tour
1919 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews
This half-day sailing adventure on a catamaran will lead you to Islas Mujeres. Once there, you will snorkel, eat a gourmet lunch on the boat, and drink plenty of complimentary beverages on the way back to Cancun.
What guests have to say:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great tour!
This excursion was great. It was as advertised and the crew was friendly and helpful. If I could make any changes, it would be to be able to snorkel for longer instead of having more time on Isla Mujeres to shop. All in all, a great time and good value.
Samantha_H, Jan 2023
5. ATV Tour
1459 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviews
On this small group adventure from Cancun, you’ll spend four hours at the Extreme Adventure Eco Park. Once there, you’ll soar through the jungle on a zipline course, man an ATV, and explore a freshwater cenote. All activities are family-friendly.
What guests have to say:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Had an amazing time
Had an amazing time! Miguel is an awesome guide! Ziplines, ATV, and cenote, then tacos and drinks. Very much enjoyed this excursion
Karen_H, Jan 2023
Tips For Visiting Cancun in July
➡️ I would never travel without travel insurance. If you ask me I have two recommended travel insurance companies, one is SafetyWing, which I find relatively affordable and quite comprehensive.
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The other is not a company but a site aggregator, Travel Insurance master which 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.
➡️ July is the middle of the hurricane season for Cancun tourism. There is a slightly greater chance of unpredictable weather, but this means better deals on hotel rooms.
Booking.com or Expedia are both amazing tools to help you find the best hotel prices. Book your hotel as early as possible to access the best prices.
Take a look at my guides on the best hotels with private pools or party hotels if you love to party! I would recommend staying in the Hotel Zone for the ultimate Cancun experience.
Or you can check out the beautiful map here below where to find different hotels in Cancun.
➡️ Research places to eat and make reservations a couple of weeks in advance. You can do this by emailing or calling the restaurant directly, or through the concierge service at some all-inclusive resorts. Read my guide on the best resorts in Cancun for more tips.
➡️ Don’t pass up popular sights just because it’s hot outside. Book tours in the morning that return mid-day or early afternoon.
➡️ Have an indoor back up plan in case an outdoor tour or activity is canceled due to storms or rain.
➡️ Bring sunscreen and insect repellant! July brings hot temperatures and damp conditions which is the perfect recipe for mosquitos. Re-apply both often.
➡️ Hotter weather also means more insects, so be vigilant of certain insect and reptile species if hiking through jungle terrain. This can include the black widow spider, scorpions, and the green rattler.
Keep mosquitos away!
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Cancun in July FAQs
Is July a good time to visit Cancun?
You won’t regret booking a vacation to Cancun in July. Cancun is a popular destination in July for many reasons. You might experience slightly more rain showers, but enjoy warmer water temperatures and even fewer crowds than in high or shoulder seasons.
July is also one of the best months for wildlife viewing. Whale shark tours through August yield a good possibility for spotting these majestic animals.
Sea turtles will also still be nesting in July and through the summer months. You may even see babies hatching on the beaches and heading to the sea at night.
How hot is Cancun in July?
The average daily high in Cancun in July is 89 degrees, rarely falling below 86 degrees. The heat index can reach 96.8 degrees (or higher) during the day.
July is one of the hottest months of the year when high temperatures and humidity collide. If you are someone who overheats easily or is sensitive to heat, it may be best to plan some indoor activities in between time spent outdoors.
What is the best time of year to go to Cancun?
There’s no truly bad time to visit Cancun. However, it’s important to know that Cancun’s high season runs from December until March. What does that leave? The summer and fall months!
If you enjoy parties and hot weather, visiting in the months of July or August might be best. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, it is best to visit in the winter months or during a quiet shoulder season.
Regardless of why you may be traveling to Cancun, it’s a well-rounded destination anyone looking for a tropical getaway.
How are the beaches in Cancun in July?
The beaches are ideal for swimming in July. During the summer months, the water is a few degrees warmer making popular water activities the most enjoyable. Conversely, humidity is at its peak in July, so cooling off at the beach is a must.
You can book a guided tour to enjoy water activities, or spend a day at the beach at your own leisure lounging in the sand or enjoying a nice massage.
It’s important to be aware of Sargassum seaweed during the summer months. It can be most prevalent in the water and on the shoreline in July and August. Wear plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated to beat the heat!
Is Cancun worth visiting?
Without a doubt, yes! Cancun has been a popular destination since the 1970’s and remains one of Mexico’s most visited resort areas. In 2022, Dubai was the only city to beat Cancun for the title of “most visited destination.” The summer months in particular are the perfect time to travel to Cancun if you can take the heat.
From cuisine to outdoor adventure, to water sports and activities, museums, and culinary experiences, there is truly something for everyone in Cancun.
There are also plenty of affordable flight options from most major cities directly to Cancun. This is a large factor is why it’s such a popular destination for quick weekend getaways and spring breaks.
Is Cancun safe for tourists?
Yes, Cancun is a safe destination. This doesn’t mean you should partake in dangerous behavior or disregard safety recommendations. Make sure you read my article on local safety in Cancun and follow the guide to have the best time possible.
If there’s one thing you absolutely should not do, it’s drinking the tap water. If you do, this could cause serious stomach issues. It’s ok to brush your teeth with it if necessary, but never swallow the tap water.
The extreme heat poses risk for heat exhaustion and sunburns, so it’s important to use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and bring necessary prescription medications and supplies from home.
Cancun is also a safe destination for solo travelers and females. It’s easy to rent a car to explore the city and surrounding areas, or book multiple group tours.
What is the rainiest month in Cancun?
Even though July falls in the middle of the hurricane season, the wettest month in Cancun is actually October since it is the rainiest month of the hurricane season. Total rainfall during October can range from 2.4 to 46.8 inches compared to 0.3 – 9.7 inches in July.
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!
