Headed to Cabo San Lucas in October? Whether it's diving with playful sea lions at Land's End, soaring through the desert on ziplines, or exploring San José del Cabo's vibrant art scene, this destination knows how to deliver unforgettable experiences. October brings its own special magic—warm seas perfect for underwater adventures, comfortable temperatures ideal for land excursions, and the tail end of hurricane season means clearer skies and calmer conditions.
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 throws your way, from sunrise diving sessions to sunset cultural walks through historic streets.
What to Expect from October's Weather in Cabo San Lucas
Average temperatures: Expect delightfully warm days with highs ranging from 88-95°F (31-35°C) and comfortable evenings that cool to around 70°F (21°C). The desert meets the ocean here, creating perfect conditions for both beach lounging and adventure activities without the oppressive heat of summer months.
Rainfall: October sees minimal precipitation with only about 43mm (1.7 inches) spread across the month. While you might encounter brief, light showers—especially early in October as hurricane season winds down—these are typically short-lived and won't disrupt your plans significantly.
Humidity: Moderate levels around 76% make the warm temperatures feel comfortable rather than sticky. The desert climate keeps humidity more manageable than other tropical destinations, though you'll still want breathable fabrics for active pursuits.
Sea temperature: The waters are absolutely inviting at 81-82°F (27-28°C), among the warmest of the year. Both the Pacific side and the Sea of Cortez offer perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving—like stepping into a perfectly heated pool.
Daylight hours: Enjoy approximately 10 hours of sunshine daily, with daylight gradually shortening from about 11 hours and 55 minutes at the beginning of the month to 11 hours and 18 minutes by month's end. Sunrise occurs around 7:01 AM early in October, shifting to 6:24 AM by month's end.
Essential Packing List for Cabo San Lucas in October
Some things are must-haves in Cabo, no matter the month. But October comes with its own little surprises that any smart traveler would want to plan for—from perfect diving conditions to comfortable evening temperatures that invite outdoor dining. 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
- 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 cobblestone streets and marina boardwalks
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for adventure tours
Top Clothing and Footwear Suggestions for October
October's warm, sunny days and pleasantly cool evenings call for versatile pieces that transition seamlessly from beach adventures to elegant dinner settings.
Desert Heat Essentials
Moisture-wicking tank tops, lightweight linen shirts, breathable cotton t-shirts, UV-protective rash guards
Evening Comfort Layers
Light cardigan or wrap, denim jacket, pashmina or shawl, long-sleeve blouse for sunset dining
Adventure-Ready Pieces
Quick-dry shorts, athletic wear for land excursions, closed-toe hiking shoes, water-resistant clothing for marine activities
Cabo San Lucas Nightlife Considerations for October
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, and don't forget statement jewelry to elevate your evening looks.
October's pleasant weather makes outdoor nightlife irresistible, but indoor venues can be heavily air-conditioned. Pack a lightweight cardigan for temperature transitions and comfortable dress sandals that work on both sandy beach clubs and polished dance floors. A portable phone charger is essential for those long nights capturing sunset views at rooftop bars.
Top October Experiences & What You'll Need
In this section, we'll recommend three tours in Cabo San Lucas in October and related items to participate in the experience, according to the provided tour information.
Land's End & The Arch Diving Adventure
October's crystal-clear waters and calm seas make this the perfect month to explore the underwater wonders where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. This diving tour takes you to iconic sites around Land's End, where you'll encounter playful sea lions, vibrant tropical fish, and unique rock formations like Neptune's Finger. October's warm water temperatures mean extended dive times and exceptional visibility for underwater photography.
What you'll need for this tour:
Swimsuit and towels, light sweater for boat rides, comfortable clothing that dries quickly, underwater camera or GoPro.
Outdoor Adventure Cabo Zipline & UTV Combo
October's comfortable temperatures and lower humidity create ideal conditions for heart-pounding land adventures through Cabo's UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve. This excursion combines Mexico's longest zipline experience with off-road UTV driving, rock climbing, and rappelling—all enhanced by October's pleasant weather that keeps you energized without overheating during these high-adrenaline activities.
What you'll need for this tour:
Long shorts or pants for protection, closed-toe athletic shoes, clothes that can get dusty, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Art & Wine Evenings in San José del Cabo
October's mild evenings provide the perfect backdrop for this sophisticated cultural journey through San José del Cabo's historic downtown. As temperatures cool to comfortable levels, you'll enjoy guided gallery visits, wine tastings, and traditional craft demonstrations while strolling cobblestone streets under clear October skies—a refined way to experience authentic Mexican culture beyond the beaches.
What you'll need for this tour:
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones, lightweight sweater for evening air, camera for historic architecture, comfortable clothes suitable for gallery visits.
Pre-Departure Preparation Timeline
2-3 Weeks Before Departure
Digital Preparation
- Download offline maps
- Create trip playlist for different moods
- Download translation apps to learn basic Spanish phrases
- Research weather patterns for the month
- Book accommodations and activities
- Reserve popular tours
Cultural & Culinary Research
- List of must-try dishes for the season
- Local festivals and events
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for food ordering
Documentation & Backup
- Verify passport expiration date
- Scan and email copies of passport, ID, travel insurance
- Print physical copies of important documents
- Travel insurance verification
- Emergency contact information
24 Hours Before Departure
- Check weather forecast updates
- Confirm offline maps are downloaded
- Charge all electronics
- Pack carry-on essentials
Airport/Travel Day
- Comfortable travel outfit
- Entertainment for flight
- Empty reusable water bottle
- Snacks for travel day
- Important documents in carry-on
You're All Set for Cabo San Lucas in October
Planning ahead for Cabo San Lucas in October means you'll spend less time worrying about what you forgot and more time enjoying everything this incredible destination has to offer. With the right gear packed and your essentials sorted, you're set to make the most of October's perfect diving conditions, comfortable adventure weather, and ideal evening temperatures for cultural exploration.
Ready to dive into Cabo's best experiences? Don't leave your must-do activities to chance – the most popular tours and attractions in October fill up fast! Book your adventures now and secure your spot for an unforgettable trip where desert meets ocean and every day brings new discoveries.
