Planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas in December? Weather plays a bigger role than you might think. It determines what you pack, which tours make sense, and how you'll spend your days. Some months bring perfect beach weather; others favor jungle adventures or whale watching.
This guide breaks down exactly what to expect from Cabo's weather in December. We'll cover temperatures, rain patterns, ocean conditions, and how they affect your plans. By the end, you'll know if December fits what you're looking for and how to make the most of it.
What's the Average Temperature in Cabo During December?
December brings some of Cabo's most comfortable weather of the year. Daytime highs typically range from 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F), creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The overall temperature averages around 20°C (68°F), making it ideal for visitors escaping colder winter climates elsewhere.
How Hot Does It Get in Cabo in December?
Peak heat in December is pleasantly manageable, with the warmest parts of the day reaching 28°C (82°F). Unlike summer months, you won't face oppressive heat or high humidity that makes outdoor activities uncomfortable. The moderate humidity of 60-85% means the temperature feels exactly as it reads—no sticky, overwhelming heat that characterizes tropical summer destinations.
Is It Cold in Cabo in December?
Cold weather isn't a concern during December days in Cabo. While evenings can feel surprisingly cool, with temperatures dropping to 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F), you'll get pleasant coolness rather than actual cold.
Late December nights tend to feel the coolest, but nothing that requires heavy winter clothing—just a light sweater or jacket for comfort.
What's the Temperature Like at Night in Cabo in December?
Nighttime temperatures drop significantly from daytime highs, ranging from 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F). Evening outdoor dining or sunset activities can feel chilly without layers, especially near the coast where ocean breezes add to the cooling effect. A light sweater, cardigan, or jacket is essential for comfortable evenings, especially in late December when the chill is more pronounced.
Is the Water Warm Enough to Swim in December?
The Sea of Cortez maintains comfortable swimming temperatures in December, averaging 22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F). While slightly cooler than peak summer months when water reaches 28°C (82°F), it's still perfectly swimmable for most visitors. The water feels refreshing rather than bath-like, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
For extended scuba diving sessions or those sensitive to cooler water, a wetsuit might be preferred, though many find the temperature comfortable without one.
Does It Rain in Cabo in December?
Rain is extremely rare in December. Cabo experiences only about 6mm of rainfall over the entire month, with a mere 2% chance of rain on any given day. Most visitors go through their entire December vacation without encountering a single rainy day. When rain does occur, it's typically brief and light, rarely disrupting outdoor plans or activities.
How Much Rain Should You Expect in Cabo in December?
Expect virtually no rain during your December visit. The month typically sees only 6-16mm of total precipitation, usually occurring over just one day or less. December falls squarely in Cabo's dry season, with some years experiencing no measurable rainfall at all. Any showers that do occur are brief afternoon events rather than all-day rain patterns.
Is December Part of the Rainy Season in Cabo?
December is not part of Cabo's rainy season —quite the opposite. December marks the heart of the dry season, which extends roughly from November through June. The wettest month, September, sees 18% daily rain chances and up to 116mm of precipitation, making December's near-zero rainfall a stark contrast. This positioning makes December one of the most reliable months for sunny, dry weather.
Should You Worry About Storms in December in Cabo?
Severe weather is extremely unlikely in December. Cabo is well outside hurricane season, which runs from June through November. December weather patterns are remarkably stable, with no tropical storms or severe weather systems affecting the region. The biggest weather "concern" might be occasional stronger ocean breezes, but nothing that poses safety risks or significantly disrupts activities.
Is It Windy in Cabo in December?
December brings moderate ocean breezes averaging around 3.8 m/s (13-14 km/h, 8 mph). These winds are generally pleasant, providing cooling relief during warm afternoons and creating ideal conditions for sailing and windsurfing.
The breezes rarely become strong enough to create uncomfortable beach conditions or rough seas that would impact water activities. Instead, they contribute to the comfortable, tropical atmosphere that makes December so appealing.
What Wildlife Shows Up in Cabo in December?
December opens Cabo's premier wildlife season. Humpback and gray whales arrive to mate and give birth in the warmer waters of the Sea of Cortez, and by December 15th, the official whale-watching season in Cabo is in full swing, with breaches and tail slaps visible right off the coast.
Just north in La Paz, whale sharks reach peak visibility, feeding near the surface and creating one of the year's most unforgettable moments for anyone swimming with whale sharks. Sea lions stay active at their Land's End colony, sardine bait balls draw in predators for dynamic underwater spectacles, and Munk's devil rays often gather in schools of hundreds that leap dramatically from the water in late November and early December.
Does the Weather Affect Tours in Cabo During December?
December's stable weather rarely affects tour availability. Dry conditions and calm seas mean outdoor activities proceed as scheduled, and tour cancellations are extremely rare. Ocean conditions are typically ideal for whale watching, snorkeling, and diving excursions.
The comfortable temperatures make land-based days equally reliable, whether you're carving through canyons on the Cabo ATV Tour & Desert Adventure or heading out on a coastal hike. December's predictable weather actually makes it easier to book tours in advance, as you can count on favorable conditions for your planned activities.
What to Bring for Cabo in December
Weather determines everything you pack. December's conditions in Cabo mean you'll want lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days and light layers for cooler evenings. Pack swimsuits for the warm sea, sun protection including wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing, and a light sweater or jacket for after-sunset activities. Water shoes help on rocky beaches, while comfortable sandals handle most other situations.
For a complete breakdown of exactly what to bring, check out our detailed guide: What to Pack for Cabo in December.
Best Things to Do in Cabo in December
December brings specific advantages to Cabo. The beginning of whale watching season offers incredible humpback whale encounters, with occasional gray whale sightings. Clear, calm waters provide perfect conditions for snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions.
The comfortable temperatures make it ideal for outdoor adventures like desert ATV tours and hiking. December's dry weather means reliable conditions for sunset sailing and water sports like snorkeling and swimming with marine life.
We've put together a full guide covering the top experiences: Things to Do in Cabo in December.
Our Topic Picks for December: A Slow Beach Day That Feels Like a Reset
Picture a full day where the pace is yours: a slow morning swim, a stretch of sand for lounging, and a shaded spot as the afternoon breeze picks up. December's mild temperatures and dry weather make this kind of unhurried beach day genuinely easy. A quiet escape at Tierra Sagrada Beach & Adventure Park, All Inclusive gives families, couples, and groups the space to move between pool, sand, and light adventure without ever checking a schedule.
Kids can burn energy on a mini zipline, meet the animals at the petting zoo, or chase clues on a treasure hunt, while teens gravitate toward beach soccer, volleyball, and the beach DJ. Adults settle into mezcal and Mexican wine tastings or a hands-on cooking lesson. A Baja-style buffet with beer and soft drinks keeps the day fed, and round-trip transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off means you enjoy December's clear weather without planning a single logistic.
You're Ready for Cabo in December
Now you know what Cabo weather looks like in December. You can plan around the comfortable temperatures, prepare for virtually no rain, and time your activities to match the perfect conditions. Whether you're here for whale watching, water sports, or desert adventures, December offers some of the year's most reliable and pleasant weather.
Ready to make it happen? Browse our full selection of Cabo tours and find the experiences that fit your travel style. The best tours fill up fast, especially during popular December weeks around the holidays, so book ahead and show up ready for perfect weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which activities suit families with different interests?
Families can combine pool time, beach activities, and age-specific entertainment. Tierra Sagrada Beach & Adventure Park, All Inclusive includes Beach Club access, a mini zipline, petting zoo, and a treasure hunt for kids, plus beach soccer, volleyball, and a DJ for teens.
Adults can choose mezcal and Mexican wine tastings or cooking lessons. A Baja-style buffet, beer, soft drinks, and round-trip transportation are included, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed day for families, couples, and groups.
What can I do if I prefer land activities?
Travelers who prefer staying on land can lace up for a hike in Cabo San Lucas or spend the morning driving through canyons, desert vegetation, and mountain scenery at Tierra Sagrada on the Cabo ATV Tour & Desert Adventure, ideal for enjoying December's mild temperatures and dry conditions away from the water.
The day includes protective gear, a Mexican buffet lunch, beer, fruit-infused water, tequila tasting, and round-trip transportation. Bring light layers if you plan to stay out into the cooler evening after the daytime activity ends.
Is December a busy time to visit Cabo?
December ranks among the most popular months to visit Cabo, especially the weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year. Rooms, sought-after restaurants, and beach club spots fill up early, so booking ahead makes a noticeable difference in your options.
Early December still feels calmer, with lighter crowds and shorter waits around town. The closing stretch of the month brings a festive, buzzing energy across the marina and downtown, with live music and decorated plazas defining the atmosphere.
Do I still need sun protection in Cabo in December?
Yes, sun protection matters year-round in Cabo, even when temperatures feel mild and breezy. The desert climate and reflective ocean surface keep UV exposure strong through winter, and a cool breeze can make it easy to underestimate the sun.
Sun-protective clothing works best, including long-sleeve rash guards for the water, wide-brimmed hats for beach days, and lightweight layers for boat outings. Polarized sunglasses help against midday glare, and shade during peak hours keeps your energy steady.
