Headed to Cabo San Lucas in December? You're in for a treat. Whether it's whale watching adventures, luxury sunset sailing, or swimming alongside whale sharks, this place knows how to deliver the perfect winter escape. December brings Cabo's most magical season—warm sunny days averaging 79-82°F, pleasantly cool evenings in the low 60s, and virtually no rain to spoil your plans.
This guide gives you the lowdown on what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your trip without overthinking your packing list. Consider it your cheat sheet for showing up ready for whatever Cabo's incredible playground throws your way, from early morning whale watching expeditions to sophisticated sunset dinners overlooking the Sea of Cortez.
What to Expect from December's Weather in Cabo
Average temperatures: Daytime highs in December typically range from the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24-27°C), making beach days and water activities perfectly comfortable. Nights cool down to the mid-to-upper 50s or low 60s°F (13-16°C), especially toward the end of the month, creating ideal sleeping weather and pleasant evening strolls along the marina.
Rainfall: December falls squarely in Cabo's dry season with only about 6mm of rain spread across the entire month—essentially, you can count on sunny skies and clear waters throughout your stay. This makes it one of the most reliable months for outdoor adventures and marine activities.
Humidity: Comfortable humidity levels in the 60–70% range feel surprisingly dry and pleasant, particularly in late December when the air becomes crisp and invigorating. The relatively low humidity means your hair is less likely to frizz and you'll stay comfortable even during active excursions.
Sea temperature: The ocean maintains temperatures ranging from 72°F to 75°F (22–24°C) in December, which is still pleasant for swimming, snorkeling, and whale shark encounters. The Sea of Cortez tends to be slightly warmer than Pacific waters, making it ideal for extended water activities without a wetsuit.
Daylight hours: Expect about 10 hours and 45 minutes of daylight with approximately 9 hours of brilliant sunshine daily. While this is Cabo's shortest daylight period, there's still plenty of time for adventures, with sunsets painting the sky around 5:30 PM—perfect timing for those legendary sunset sailing experiences.
Essential Packing List for Cabo in December
Some things are must-haves in Cabo, no matter the month. But December comes with its own little surprises that any smart traveler would want to plan for—namely those unexpectedly cool evenings that catch many visitors off guard. The goal is to bring exactly what you'll use and nothing more, though let's be honest—perfect packing is more of a dream than a science.
Travel Documents & Money
Passport (valid for 6+ months)
Physical copies of passport/ID
Travel insurance documents
Mexican pesos (cash)
Credit cards (notify bank of travel)
Emergency cash in USD
Electronics & Power
Phone charger + car charger
Portable power bank (high capacity)
Universal power adapter (if traveling from outside North America)
Waterproof phone case
Camera + extra memory cards
Headphones/earbuds
Health & Safety
Prescription medications (extra supply)
Basic first aid kit
Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Sun-protective clothing
After-sun care/aloe vera
Practical Items
Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothes
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Quick-dry towel
Reusable water bottle
Clothing and Accessories
Multiple swimsuits (2-3 recommended)
Lightweight, breathable t-shirts/tank tops
Shorts and swim shorts
Underwear (quick-dry recommended)
Sleepwear/pajamas
Beach cover-ups or sarongs
Light layers for air-conditioned spaces
Dressy outfits for upscale restaurants/nightlife
Sun hat with a chin strap
Sunglasses with a strap
Footwear
Flip-flops or comfortable sandals for beach and pool
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring marina boardwalks
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for December
December's warm days and cool evenings call for strategic layering that transitions seamlessly from beach time to sophisticated dining.
Daytime Essentials
Lightweight cotton or linen t-shirts, breathable shorts, quick-dry swimwear, wide-brimmed sun hat
Evening Comfort
Light cardigan or wrap, long pants or maxi dress, closed-toe shoes, lightweight windbreaker for ocean breezes
Adventure Ready
Rash guard for water activities, sturdy sandals with back straps, moisture-wicking fabrics, sun protective long sleeves
Cabo Nightlife Considerations for December
Cabo's nightlife spans beach clubs, rooftops, and local bars, so pack versatile pieces that go from casual to dressy. Bring two breathable dressy outfits, comfortable stylish shoes, and a light layer for A/C. A small crossbody bag is perfect for essentials while dancing.
December's cool evenings mean your night plans need extra consideration. Pack a stylish sweater or wrap for outdoor terraces, hair ties for ocean breezes, and backup flats for long nights exploring the marina district. Don't forget a portable phone charger and a light jacket for those romantic sunset-to-nightlife transitions.
Top December Experiences & What You'll Need
December in Cabo means prime whale watching season, perfect water temperatures for marine encounters, and ideal sailing conditions—making it the ultimate month for ocean adventures.
Whale Watching in Cabo
December marks the beginning of humpback and gray whale migration season in Cabo, offering some of the year's most spectacular marine encounters. The cooler morning temperatures and calm seas create perfect conditions for spotting these gentle giants, while state-of-the-art hydrophones let you actually hear their haunting songs.
This custom rigid inflatable boat experience combines the thrill of marine wildlife with breathtaking views of the iconic Arch and playful sea lion colonies.
What you'll need for this tour: Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap, light windbreaker for ocean spray, camera with waterproof case, comfortable non-slip shoes, light sweater for early morning departures.
Whale Shark Encounter
Swimming alongside the world's largest fish becomes an unforgettable December adventure in the crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Cortez near La Paz. December's excellent visibility and calm seas provide optimal conditions for these gentle giant encounters, while the comfortable water temperature makes extended snorkeling sessions purely magical.
This full-day expedition includes scenic van rides through Baja's dramatic desert landscapes, making it a complete land-and-sea adventure.
What you'll need for this tour: Multiple swimsuits for quick changes, non-slip water shoes, quick-dry towel, change of clothes, light jacket for air-conditioned transportation.
Book Your Whale Shark Encounter
Luxury Sunset Sailing
December's early sunsets create the perfect timing for romantic sailing adventures on the Sea of Cortez, with cool evening breezes and dramatic desert backdrops painting the sky in brilliant colors.
The comfortable daytime temperatures transition to refreshingly cool evenings, making this luxury catamaran experience ideal for couples and families seeking sophisticated ocean adventures with gourmet appetizers and handcrafted beverages.
What you'll need for this tour: Light jacket or elegant wrap, camera for golden hour shots, comfortable flat shoes for deck safety, stylish layers for temperature changes, small evening bag for essentials.
Book a Sunset Sailing Experience
Pre-Departure Preparation Timeline
2-3 Weeks Before Departure
Digital Preparation
- Download offline maps of Cabo San Lucas and Los Cabos corridor
- Create trip playlist mixing beach vibes with adventure energy
- Download translation apps to learn basic Spanish phrases
- Research December weather patterns and whale migration updates
- Book popular whale watching and adventure tours early
- Reserve sunset sailing experiences, which fill up quickly in December
Cultural & Culinary Research
- List of must-try seasonal dishes
- Local festivals and events, including Las Posadas celebrations
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for food ordering and interactions
Documentation & Backup
- Verify passport expiration date (6+ months recommended)
- Scan and email copies of passport, ID, travel insurance, and tour confirmations
- Print physical copies of important documents
- Travel insurance verification for adventure activities
- Emergency contact information
24 Hours Before Departure
- Check the updated weather forecast
- Confirm that offline maps are downloaded
- Charge all electronics, including underwater cameras and power banks
- Pack carry-on essentials, including a light sweater for the airplane and arrival
Airport/Travel Day
- Comfortable layered travel outfit accounting for Cabo's warm arrival temperatures
- Entertainment for flight
- Empty reusable water bottle for staying hydrated upon arrival
- Light snacks for travel day energy
- Important documents in carry-on
You're All Set for Cabo in December
Planning ahead for Cabo San Lucas in December means you'll spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying everything this incredible paradise has to offer. With the right gear packed and your essentials sorted, you're set to make the most of December's unique advantages—from whale migration season to perfect sailing conditions—and create memories that'll last long after you're back home.
Ready to dive into Cabo's best December experiences? Don't leave your must-do adventures to chance – whale watching tours and sunset sailing experiences fill up fast during peak season! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip to where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez.
