At the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Sur Peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, Cabo San Lucas beckons visitors year-round. Determining the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas depends on what you're after.
Are you seeking perfect weather, smaller crowds, budget-friendly rates, or hoping to spot majestic whales? Each season in Cabo offers something unique. Thanks to its desert climate, sunshine is practically guaranteed, but temperatures, rainfall, crowds, and wildlife vary throughout the year.
Let's explore what makes each season in Cabo San Lucas special so you can plan your perfect getaway.
Winter: December to February
Winter turns Cabo San Lucas into a sunny escape from northern chills, making these months prime tourist season. Days average a comfortable 75-80°F (24-27°C) with cool, pleasant evenings.
The ocean becomes nature's highway as thousands of gray whales migrate here to give birth. From December 15th through April 15th, these giants put on quite a show, with January and February offering the best times for whale watching. The Cabo Whale Watching tour lets you witness one of nature's great migrations up close—an unforgettable experience you won't want to miss.
This spectacular weather comes at a premium. Hotels, flights, and activities reach their highest rates during this period, especially during Christmas and New Year's when booking ahead becomes essential. Yet winter delivers Cabo's most reliable weather—virtually no rain and perfect temperatures for everything from beach days to golf rounds.
The season also features annual events like March's Festival of San José del Cabo, celebrating the town's patron saint with music, dance, and local food.
Winter Cabo San Lucas Weather Averages
December Averages:
- High: 80°F (27°C)
- Low: 64°F (18°C)
- Rainfall: 0.5 inches
January Averages:
- High: 78°F (26°C)
- Low: 62°F (17°C)
- Rainfall: 0.8 inches
February Averages:
- High: 79°F (26°C)
- Low: 63°F (17°C)
- Rainfall: 0.3 inches
Spring: March to May
Spring hits the sweet spot in Cabo San Lucas—perfect spring weather in Cabo, fewer crowds (after Spring Break), and reasonable prices. March does fill up with college students during Spring Break, creating a vibrant scene at beaches and clubs with numerous spring break activities. If you prefer peace and quiet, check university calendars to dodge those weeks.
By April and May, the crowds thin while temperatures stay ideal around 85°F (29°C). The water warms to perfect swimming temperatures, and visibility for snorkeling and diving gets crystal clear.
Spring marks transition time for marine life. Early April gives you a final chance to spot migrating whales, while mid-April welcomes the first sea turtles. The desert briefly blooms after winter's light rain, making this perfect for hiking and discovering the unique Baja California Sur landscape.
As temperatures rise, remember to pack sun protective clothing like lightweight long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses to enjoy the outdoors safely.
Ready to experience Cabo's perfect spring weather? Exploring the desert landscapes and coastal areas offers a perfect way to appreciate the natural beauty of the region during this pleasant season.
Spring Cabo San Lucas Weather Averages
March Averages
- High: 82°F (28°C)
- Low: 64°F (18°C)
- Rainfall: 0.1 inches
April Averages
- High: 85°F (29°C)
- Low: 66°F (19°C)
- Rainfall: 0.1 inches
May Averages
- High: 88°F (31°C)
- Low: 70°F (21°C)
- Rainfall: 0.1 inches
Summer: June to August
Summer brings Cabo's low season, with higher temperatures and rising humidity. Days regularly hit the 90s°F (32-35°C), and evenings stay warmer than the winter months. Despite the heat, summer offers major perks for certain travelers.
The biggest advantage? Much lower prices. Hotels cut rates by 30-50%, tours offer discounts, and you'll have more bargaining power for activities. Even Cabo's most exclusive resorts become more accessible.
The warmer water (up to 84°F/29°C) creates perfect conditions for swimming and water sports. For underwater enthusiasts, the Luxury 2 Bay Snorkel Tour is a must-do. It offers a chance to explore the beautiful marine life of two stunning bays with vibrant coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish. As a bonus, the Cabo Pulmo Snorkel Expedition allows guests to dive into the clear waters of a protected marine park, home to a thriving coral reef and abundant sea life.
During these hot months, sun protective clothing becomes essential. Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved UPF shirts, hats with neck coverage, and quality sunglasses when enjoying outdoor activities.
It's important to note that hurricane season officially runs from June through November, though direct hits on Cabo are relatively rare. According to the National Hurricane Center, the Baja California Sur Peninsula averages just one significant tropical storm every four years. Most summer days are sunny with occasional brief afternoon showers.
Summer Cabo San Lucas Weather Averages
June Averages
- High: 91°F (33°C)
- Low: 74°F (23°C)
- Rainfall: 0.1 inches
July Averages
- High: 94°F (34°C)
- Low: 78°F (26°C)
- Rainfall: 0.9 inches
August Averages
- High: 93°F (34°C)
- Low: 79°F (26°C)
- Rainfall: 2.4 inches
Fall: September to November
Fall is Cabo's best-kept secret, especially for value hunters who don't mind some weather unpredictability. September and October remain within hurricane season, but history shows major storms directly hit Cabo only once every 7-10 years. Most "hurricane season" days offer beautiful weather with occasional dramatic clouds.
This calculated risk rewards you with the year's lowest prices and fewest tourists. Many local spots close briefly for updates during September, but by October, everything reopens to much smaller crowds.
The fall season is ideal for outdoor adventure enthusiasts looking to explore the unique landscape of Baja California Sur. Hiking through the desert terrain, exploring the surrounding mountains, or enjoying ATV adventures through rugged terrain provide exciting alternatives to beach activities.
November bridges low and high seasons perfectly. Temperatures cool to the mid-80s°F (around 29°C), hurricane risk diminishes, and prices stay reasonable until Thanksgiving week when winter season officially kicks in.
Fall Cabo San Lucas Weather Averages
September Averages
- High: 91°F (33°C)
- Low: 77°F (25°C)
- Rainfall: 3.3 inches
October Averages
- High: 89°F (32°C)
- Low: 74°F (23°C)
- Rainfall: 1.1 inches
November Averages
- High: 84°F (29°C)
- Low: 68°F (20°C)
- Rainfall: 0.5 inches
Planning Your Perfect Cabo San Lucas Getaway
Your dream Cabo San Lucas trip depends on what matters most to you. Winter gives perfect weather but premium prices, spring offers great conditions with moderate crowds, summer brings big savings despite the heat, and fall delivers that insider's secret combination of value and peace.
Cabo's desert climate guarantees sunshine almost year-round. Weather perfectionists should aim for winter or spring, budget travelers will love summer and fall, and activity fans can time visits around whale watching, desert exploration, or swimming with whale sharks. Match Cabo’s seasonal personality with your priorities. This sun-drenched paradise awaits, ready to cast its spell.
Want to make the most of your Cabo adventure? Book unforgettable tours, snorkeling trips, whale watching, and more with Cabo Adventures. Let the experts turn your dream getaway into reality!