So rain showed up in your Cabo forecast. Don’t panic—pack your waterproof pouch. While most travelers worry a few clouds will ruin their vacation, seasoned adventurers know better: Cabo’s rainy season is short, dramatic, and often brings out the best the Sea of Cortez has to offer. Think glassy seas, fewer crowds, and some of the clearest water you’ll see all year.
We’ve spent over 20 years on these waters, and time and again, the most magical marine encounters happen when others head indoors. This guide answers all your biggest rain-related questions—so you can plan smart, stay safe, and discover why rain doesn’t cancel the fun in Cabo. It just changes the lighting.
When is Cabo's Rainy Season?
The Sea of Cortez weather patterns and rainfall window are predictable: July through October brings the only meaningful precipitation you'll see all year. July starts gently with rain spread across just a few afternoons, perfect for breaking the desert heat.
The real action builds through August and peaks in September when ocean conditions and some of the year's best underwater visibility are created by crystal-clear waters moving in from the south.
You'll see rain on just three to five days per month during peak season, leaving most of your diving and snorkeling days completely clear. From November through June, the desert returns to its bone-dry routine, with virtually zero rainfall.
The Sea of Cortez side stays warmer and calmer during weather systems while the Pacific side picks up more chop and cloud cover. Reading these patterns matters when you're choosing dive sites or planning marine adventures. Real weather knowledge helps you work with the ocean, not against it.
How Much Does It Actually Rain?
The Sea of Cortez doesn’t shut down when rain hits; it gets better. July kicks off the season with light, scattered showers, just enough to rinse the salt from your mask between dives. August adds a little drama, and by September, tropical downpours make their grand entrance.
But here’s the twist: even in peak season, Cabo only sees rain on about three to five days a month, leaving more than 25 days wide open for diving, snorkeling, and boating.
Daily patterns work in your favor. Mornings start clear and calm, perfect for early launches. Humidity holds steady around 72 to 75 percent, ideal for sea lion swims, while clouds build during lunch and short evening storms roll in like a nature documentary. They're usually over in time for your night exploration.
From November to June, it’s practically bone-dry, with six straight months of reliable dive conditions. But some of the most stunning underwater moments come just after a storm. Rain clears out suspended particles, visibility can exceed 100 feet, and cooler water temperatures draw playful sea lions closer. Seasoned divers know that when the skies open up, a whole new side of the sea comes to life.
Hurricanes & Tropical Storms: Should I Worry?
Pacific hurricane season runs June through November, overlapping your Sea of Cortez diving window. Here's the marine reality: major hurricanes impact Los Cabos roughly once per decade, but true direct strikes are rarer. Hurricane Odile in 2014 was the last major hit—a Category 4 that taught every marina, dive operator, and harbor master new lessons about storm preparation.
Since Odile, the entire marine infrastructure has been upgraded. Marinas installed reinforced mooring systems, dive shops built storm-rated equipment storage, and marine operators like us developed real-time weather monitoring protocols.
Our captains monitor marine conditions constantly, and when ocean conditions deteriorate, we know hours before storms reach shore. We'll reschedule your dive, move to protected waters, or shift to shore-based activities without charging extra fees. Most tropical systems pass 100+ miles offshore, creating nothing more than dramatic surf and brief downpours.
What to Pack for Rain in Cabo
You'll spend most of your trip in board shorts or sundresses—the brief showers don't change that. What those squalls do demand is a few smart additions to your bag so you can keep moving from reef to taco stand without pausing for puddles.
- Light waterproof jacket or poncho becomes your best friend when afternoon downpours hit. These tropical bursts are fast but fierce, and a jacket that packs into its own pocket stows easily on the boat without taking up precious gear space.
- Compact umbrella for the walk between your hotel lobby and the marina, though stiff winds sometimes make umbrellas less useful on open decks where you'll be loading onto dive boats.
- Waterproof phone pouch to protect your electronics—tropical bursts can drench cameras in seconds
- Quick-dry layers like nylon shorts, rash guards, and moisture-wicking tees will dry on your balcony before your next dive briefing.
- Grip-ready footwear for wet pier boards and slick boat decks. Waterproof sandals or lightweight deck shoes keep you stable when conditions turn slippery, avoid flip-flops with smooth soles that turn treacherous on wet surfaces.
- Dry bag or water-resistant daypack is essential for ferry rides to Land's End, where salt spray and rain compete to soak passports and camera lenses.
- Small comforts: extra socks, a microfiber towel, and zip-top bags for when rain catches you between tours.
- Mosquito repellent. Rain showers leave pockets of standing water, and the bugs know it.
Can I Still Enjoy Outdoor Adventures in the Rain? Experiences to Try
Rain rarely keeps you off the water here. Cabo averages sunny skies the vast majority of the year. Those few minutes of warm rain actually sharpen your marine adventure.
Out at Land's End the surface glasses over after a squall, giving snorkelers crystal-clear visibility down to 40 feet to watch sergeant majors swarm the coral heads.
Snorkel After a Rain Shower
Rainfall calms the surface of the water, clearing out surface debris and enhancing visibility. After a quick squall, the waters near Land’s End become a snorkeler’s dream, with vibrant coral heads and schooling sergeant majors easily visible from 40 feet below.
Try Luxury Sailing and Snorkeling: Cruise on a luxury sailboat, then dive into pristine waters once the rain lifts
Ride ATVs Through Rain-Cooled Desert Trails
Once the blazing sun gives way to overcast skies and drizzle, Cabo’s desert transforms. Trails cool by 10 degrees or more, and the arroyos come alive with green growth. Riding in the rain adds a splash of adrenaline—literally.
Try an Outback and Camel Ride Safari: Includes an off-road 4x4 desert tour that gets even better with rain-soaked terrain
Rain in the Forecast? This Outdoor Adventure Tour Just Got Better
A little rain only adds to the thrill of this top-rated Cabo adventure. Set inside a UNESCO-protected biosphere, the Outdoor Adventure tour turns Baja’s rugged terrain into your personal playground—even when skies are grey.
You’ll soar through a zipline circuit that includes tandem rides, upside-down flights, and the iconic “Superman,” the longest zipline in Baja. Rain-cooled air makes climbing rock walls and crossing suspension bridges feel more refreshing than exhausting, and the splashy UTV trails? Even more fun when a little mud’s involved.
Between challenges, you’ll warm up with handmade quesadillas, fresh salsa, and a crisp salad bar. Safety gear’s included, and round-trip transportation from most Los Cabos hotels keeps it simple.
Best Indoor Things to Do
When a tropical downpour rolls through Cabo, the adventure simply moves inside. Local cooking classes offer a fun, flavorful way to spend a rainy afternoon—learn how to make Mexican food like fish tacos and taste tequilas that locals actually drink, all to the soothing rhythm of rain on clay tile roofs.
If relaxation is your goal, Cabo’s spas are at their coziest during a storm, with steam rooms, deep-tissue massages, and hydrotherapy pools that help you recharge between beach days. For a dose of culture, explore the galleries in San José del Cabo’s Art District, or head to Puerto Paraíso Mall for shopping, arcades, and movies—all under one roof. Need more retail inspiration? Don’t miss our guide to shopping in Cabo San Lucas.
Will My Tours Get Canceled?
Good news: even during the wettest months, showers in Cabo rarely linger. Most dump their water in an hour and move on. We track those quick downpours minute by minute, cross-checking port notices with our own spotters on the water.
When a squall pops up on radar we don't automatically pull the plug. Our captains read the Sea of Cortez conditions, including wind patterns, swell direction, and changes in underwater visibility.
If that happens, you'll know immediately. We text your booking number or alert your hotel concierge. If we cancel due to weather conditions, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule for the next clear window.
Off-Season Perks: Savings & Smaller Crowds
When storm clouds drift over the Sea of Cortez, most resort guests head for cover. But for those chasing real ocean conditions, July through October delivers. This is when the water clears after rain, marine life moves closer to shore, and prices drop.
Sea lions become more active, visibility often hits 80 feet, and the nutrient-rich water kicks off feeding frenzies you won’t see in peak season. September storms clear out particulates, letting you spot rays cruising deep below the surface. While tourist boats stay docked, experienced crews keep watch on ocean conditions and head out when the timing’s right.
Smaller groups mean more time in the water, more space on the rail, and more freedom to follow what shows up. A little rain goes a long way out here, and most visitors never find this version of Cabo.
Explore Cabo Rain or Shine with Cabo Adventures
A little rain doesn’t stop adventure at the Sea of Cortez—it makes it even more interesting. While most people head back to their rooms, we’re out exploring quiet reefs, spotting sea lions, and diving in water that’s often clearer after a squall.
Our guides keep a close eye on conditions, reading wind patterns and timing snorkel trips when the water’s calm and marine life is active. Some of the best moments happen between storms, when the ocean feels like it’s all yours.
We only pause when lightning shows up—otherwise, we’re out there finding the best spots that day. No crowds, no guesswork, just smart planning and great experiences.
Rain or shine, there’s always something incredible to see. Book with Cabo Adventures and make the most of every moment out here.
